20 November 2014: PR, social and experiential agency, Red Agency, is expanding its operations in Queensland with Graymedia merging into its Brisbane office. The move is part of a strategic investment plan to increase its profile and footprint in the Sunshine State.
Founded in 2009 Graymedia is well respected on the Brisbane PR scene and brings key strengths in healthcare, mining and resources, travel and tourism, education, sport, technology and finance. Owner and founder Yasmine Gray is a former President of the PRIA in Queensland and will become Principal, Red Agency Brisbane, reporting into James Wright, Managing Director of Red Agency Australia and Havas PR Asia-Pacific.
Wright said: "This is part of a strategic investment to develop the Red Agency business in Queensland. Our Brisbane office has always been a very tidy operation but the introduction of Graymedia will help scale up and increase our footprint. I believe the timing for growth is right and the qualities both teams bring will make for an increasing compelling offer to clients."
Gray said: "We are extremely pleased to be joining such an award winning team as Red Agency. We have always been very proud to be a Queensland born and bred company that has focused on quality and results. Now, together with Red Agency, we have a fantastic opportunity to grow and develop. The future for us all is very bright."
Wright added: "From the outset there has been an alignment of ideas and approach from both agencies, we are forward thinking companies with a strong creative slant, a focus on attention to detail and a commitment to evolving the role PR can play for our clients. It is great to bring in someone of the quality of Yasmine, who is a well respected industry leader known for her strategic approach, energy and dedication, into Red Agency."
Red Agency (www.redagency.com.au) has offices in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. It offers strategic public relations and communications for clients across consumer, corporate, technology and government practice areas, as well as specialist teams in experiential and activation, Red Guerilla, and social strategy and community management, #RedSocial.
Ends
For more information please contact James Wright on 0423 606 403 or email james.wright@redagency.com.au
Thursday, November 20, 2014
Monday, November 10, 2014
Parmia strengthens its hold on the association and industry group market
Parmia Insurance is moving to cement its presence in the sector that made it the success it is today, following its recent acquisition by Arthur J. Gallagher, the world's fourth largest insurance broking and risk management company.
The Queensland based insurance brokerage was established by highly esteemed broker Danny Gumm in 2002. It will keep its focus very much on providing tailored insurance to associations and industry groups following the buyout.
Mr Gumm, who will remain in his role as Branch Manager, says partnerships with organisations such as the Australian Graphic Design Association (AGDA), where it has been able to develop unique and award winning cover for members, are Parmia’s bread and butter.
“Parmia was established to provide tailored insurance and risk management solutions to Australian associations and industry groups so that their members could better protect themselves and their businesses,” he said. “That founding focus will become even stronger as we now have the global strength of Arthur J. Gallagher behind us.”
Speaking ahead of AGDA’s highly anticipated Australian Design Biennale at Hobart’s Museum of Old and New Art on 14 November, of which Parmia is a key sponsor, Mr Gumm says he’s looking forward to the greater capability that comes from the backing of an organisation such as Arthur J. Gallagher.
“We’re very proud of the policies and coverage that we’ve secured for our clients through working with world leading underwriter, Lloyd’s of London,” he explained. “In many cases, the price in relation to the value of protection is unrivalled, and AGDA is just prime example of this. So we’re looking forward to being able to now extend that unique service offering out to more industries and associations.”
Despite the expansion of resources, Mr Gumm is quick to stress that the personalised and tailored service that clients have come to know and expect from Parmia will continue to be upheld.
“We pride ourselves on ensuring that each of our clients have their own dedicated account manager that really works with them to assess their risks and to develop a policy that meets their own individual needs,” he said. “That won’t change. We are not a one size fits all firm and we never will be.”
For more information on Parmia, please visit www.parmiainsurance.com.au.
Media Enquiries: Suzanne Ross at Graymedia on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au.
The Queensland based insurance brokerage was established by highly esteemed broker Danny Gumm in 2002. It will keep its focus very much on providing tailored insurance to associations and industry groups following the buyout.
Mr Gumm, who will remain in his role as Branch Manager, says partnerships with organisations such as the Australian Graphic Design Association (AGDA), where it has been able to develop unique and award winning cover for members, are Parmia’s bread and butter.
“Parmia was established to provide tailored insurance and risk management solutions to Australian associations and industry groups so that their members could better protect themselves and their businesses,” he said. “That founding focus will become even stronger as we now have the global strength of Arthur J. Gallagher behind us.”
Speaking ahead of AGDA’s highly anticipated Australian Design Biennale at Hobart’s Museum of Old and New Art on 14 November, of which Parmia is a key sponsor, Mr Gumm says he’s looking forward to the greater capability that comes from the backing of an organisation such as Arthur J. Gallagher.
“We’re very proud of the policies and coverage that we’ve secured for our clients through working with world leading underwriter, Lloyd’s of London,” he explained. “In many cases, the price in relation to the value of protection is unrivalled, and AGDA is just prime example of this. So we’re looking forward to being able to now extend that unique service offering out to more industries and associations.”
Despite the expansion of resources, Mr Gumm is quick to stress that the personalised and tailored service that clients have come to know and expect from Parmia will continue to be upheld.
“We pride ourselves on ensuring that each of our clients have their own dedicated account manager that really works with them to assess their risks and to develop a policy that meets their own individual needs,” he said. “That won’t change. We are not a one size fits all firm and we never will be.”
For more information on Parmia, please visit www.parmiainsurance.com.au.
Media Enquiries: Suzanne Ross at Graymedia on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au.
Wednesday, August 20, 2014
Pharmacy brand raises over $160,000 to help those in need
From sponsoring three Assistance Dogs puppies, to going on mission trips to child refuge homes in Kolkata and competing in countless fun runs and bike rides, over the past four years Discount Drug Stores has raised over $160,000 to help those in need.
For the national pharmacy brand that prides itself on giving back to the community and helping to improve the health of Australians wherever it can, it’s a significant milestone, one that it hopes to build on over the coming years.
“Supporting charities and community programmes is a big focus for Discount Drug Stores,” said Volunteer Charities Coordinator Sharyn Clark. “We’re very proud of how much we’ve been able to raise for our two partner charities Assistance Dogs Australia and Free To Be over the past four years and hope to continue to grow both of those relationships as well as form new ones moving forwards.”
Since 2012, Discount Drug Stores has fully sponsored two Assistance Dogs, Dee Dee and Sunny, and recently announced at its National Conference that it would be sponsoring a third - one of Dee Dee’s puppies, Bella.
“Discount Drug Stores has been an amazing supporter of Assistance Dogs Australia, donating over $50,000 to help provide Australians living with disabilities with life changing Assistance Dogs,” said Top Dog at Assistance Dogs Australia Richard Lord. “Each dog costs approximately $27,000 to train, which is obviously quite a financial commitment. Having organisations like Discount Drug Stores behind us ensures that we can continue on our mission to help Australians in need.”
Along with financial support, Discount Drug Stores also makes it a point to provide physical help wherever it can, a most recent example being its mission trip to Free To Be’s Kolkata home for disadvantaged children.
An organisation that helps to rescue impoverished children living in Kolkata from devastating circumstances such as child labour and trafficking, a team of Discount Drug Stores staff travelled to Free To Be’s Kolkata home in August 2013, bringing a range of medical and educational supplies.
“We’re so thankful to Discount Drug Stores for all they’ve contributed and continue to give to Free To Be,” said Project Manager of Free To Be Jeanette Thompson.
“We rely on donations and support from people and organisations to keep our shelters running and Discount Drug Stores has proven absolutely invaluable to our cause over the past four years.”
In addition to its two main partners, Discount Drug Stores also provides regular support to fundraising events for multiple sclerosis, cystic fibrosis, and cerebral palsy research, with Mrs Clark stating the brand is now looking at widening its community outreach endeavours.
“We’re now working together with our stores to increase our fundraising activities and to support key charities and not-for-profit groups within each of the areas where we operate,” she said. “Community is an essential part of everything that we do at Discount Drug Stores but we want to do even more to help those in need.”
For more information on Discount Drug Stores and its supported charities, please visit http://www.discountdrugstores.com.au/charity.
Media Enquiries: Suzanne Ross at Graymedia on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au.
For the national pharmacy brand that prides itself on giving back to the community and helping to improve the health of Australians wherever it can, it’s a significant milestone, one that it hopes to build on over the coming years.
“Supporting charities and community programmes is a big focus for Discount Drug Stores,” said Volunteer Charities Coordinator Sharyn Clark. “We’re very proud of how much we’ve been able to raise for our two partner charities Assistance Dogs Australia and Free To Be over the past four years and hope to continue to grow both of those relationships as well as form new ones moving forwards.”
Since 2012, Discount Drug Stores has fully sponsored two Assistance Dogs, Dee Dee and Sunny, and recently announced at its National Conference that it would be sponsoring a third - one of Dee Dee’s puppies, Bella.
“Discount Drug Stores has been an amazing supporter of Assistance Dogs Australia, donating over $50,000 to help provide Australians living with disabilities with life changing Assistance Dogs,” said Top Dog at Assistance Dogs Australia Richard Lord. “Each dog costs approximately $27,000 to train, which is obviously quite a financial commitment. Having organisations like Discount Drug Stores behind us ensures that we can continue on our mission to help Australians in need.”
Along with financial support, Discount Drug Stores also makes it a point to provide physical help wherever it can, a most recent example being its mission trip to Free To Be’s Kolkata home for disadvantaged children.
An organisation that helps to rescue impoverished children living in Kolkata from devastating circumstances such as child labour and trafficking, a team of Discount Drug Stores staff travelled to Free To Be’s Kolkata home in August 2013, bringing a range of medical and educational supplies.
“We’re so thankful to Discount Drug Stores for all they’ve contributed and continue to give to Free To Be,” said Project Manager of Free To Be Jeanette Thompson.
“We rely on donations and support from people and organisations to keep our shelters running and Discount Drug Stores has proven absolutely invaluable to our cause over the past four years.”
In addition to its two main partners, Discount Drug Stores also provides regular support to fundraising events for multiple sclerosis, cystic fibrosis, and cerebral palsy research, with Mrs Clark stating the brand is now looking at widening its community outreach endeavours.
“We’re now working together with our stores to increase our fundraising activities and to support key charities and not-for-profit groups within each of the areas where we operate,” she said. “Community is an essential part of everything that we do at Discount Drug Stores but we want to do even more to help those in need.”
For more information on Discount Drug Stores and its supported charities, please visit http://www.discountdrugstores.com.au/charity.
Media Enquiries: Suzanne Ross at Graymedia on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au.
Monday, August 18, 2014
Discount Drug Stores launches bone density testing clinics again in 2014
Discount Drug Stores is striving to help Australians to pick up on the early warning signs of osteoporosis, a serious condition that affects more than one million people, by running bone density clinics again in 110 of its stores.
It follows the success of its inaugural clinics in 2013, which proved highly successful in catching the warning signs of osteoporosis and bone disease, testing more than 2,000 participants and referring more than half to their local doctor for further investigation.
The clinics are also timely following new findings from the Australian Bureau of Statistics showing one in four Australians are vitamin D deficient.
“We want to help people to take real preventative action against the disease by helping them to make positive lifestyle changes before it’s too late,” said Professional Services Manager at Discount Drug Stores Casey Clark. "You can’t see or feel your bones getting thinner so these tests are important in determining if an individual is at risk before their bones become so brittle that even a small bump or minor fall can cause a fracture.”
At the clinic each participant will receive information about the benefits of calcium, vitamin D and exercise, fill out a simple questionnaire so their specific risk factors can be determined, and perform a quick and simple ultrasonic bone density test. Participants will then sit with a clinician who will go over their results and personal risk factors, discussing the best preventative measures and treatments.
“The bone density test is quick and painless and allows customers to gain their results instantly,” said Ms Clark. “Participants will also receive completely tailored advice on their risks of osteoporosis and how to prevent the disease to assist in the maintenance of healthy bones.”
With bone density testing highly recommended for anyone over the age of 50, Discount Drug Stores is strongly encouraging Australians to book any family members or loved ones that are at risk of osteoporosis into the clinics.
“To reduce the number of Australians affected by osteoporosis we need to break the silence surrounding the disease,” said Ms Clark. “We hope our clinics get more people talking about bone health and taking preventative action against osteoporosis.”
Discount Drug Stores’ bone density testing clinics will run throughout September and cost $29.99. Each customer will receive a gift bag valued at $20 containing a resistance band, a pack of Ostelin 30 and a recipe booklet. Bookings are recommended. For more information, please visit www.discountdrugstores.com.au.
Media enquiries: Suzanne Ross on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au
It follows the success of its inaugural clinics in 2013, which proved highly successful in catching the warning signs of osteoporosis and bone disease, testing more than 2,000 participants and referring more than half to their local doctor for further investigation.
The clinics are also timely following new findings from the Australian Bureau of Statistics showing one in four Australians are vitamin D deficient.
“We want to help people to take real preventative action against the disease by helping them to make positive lifestyle changes before it’s too late,” said Professional Services Manager at Discount Drug Stores Casey Clark. "You can’t see or feel your bones getting thinner so these tests are important in determining if an individual is at risk before their bones become so brittle that even a small bump or minor fall can cause a fracture.”
At the clinic each participant will receive information about the benefits of calcium, vitamin D and exercise, fill out a simple questionnaire so their specific risk factors can be determined, and perform a quick and simple ultrasonic bone density test. Participants will then sit with a clinician who will go over their results and personal risk factors, discussing the best preventative measures and treatments.
“The bone density test is quick and painless and allows customers to gain their results instantly,” said Ms Clark. “Participants will also receive completely tailored advice on their risks of osteoporosis and how to prevent the disease to assist in the maintenance of healthy bones.”
With bone density testing highly recommended for anyone over the age of 50, Discount Drug Stores is strongly encouraging Australians to book any family members or loved ones that are at risk of osteoporosis into the clinics.
“To reduce the number of Australians affected by osteoporosis we need to break the silence surrounding the disease,” said Ms Clark. “We hope our clinics get more people talking about bone health and taking preventative action against osteoporosis.”
Discount Drug Stores’ bone density testing clinics will run throughout September and cost $29.99. Each customer will receive a gift bag valued at $20 containing a resistance band, a pack of Ostelin 30 and a recipe booklet. Bookings are recommended. For more information, please visit www.discountdrugstores.com.au.
Media enquiries: Suzanne Ross on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au
Monday, July 28, 2014
Ipswich community set to benefit from Campaign for Change 2014
The Ipswich community will benefit from a new youth program aimed at mentoring disadvantaged youth after Ipswich residents Andrew and Leona Walker won Wesley Mission Brisbane’s (WMB) Campaign for Change competition.
The former professional rugby league and union player and his wife overcame tough competition from more than 60 fellow entrants to make it through to the finals and win the coveted $30,000 grant to kick-start their idea.
WMB’s Executive Director, Geoff Batkin said it was a challenge to choose a winner with five outstanding finalists pitching a range of worthwhile ideas from home makeovers for seniors to an online counselling portal.
“Andrew and Leona’s Rise Above program for local disadvantaged youth meets a real need in the local Ipswich community and we are looking forward to working with them to expand this program,” he said. “Not only does it teach youth the life-skills they need to be successful and break the cycle of self-harm and addictions, it gives them a positive place to be themselves and engage with healthy role models.”
Aimed at breaking negative behaviours, the Walker’s Rise Above program will build on their already popular free weekly touch footy games in a local Ipswich park. The Walkers will use the grant funds to secure regular premises for the games and begin a 16 week workshop that will counsel and teach youths a range of life skills from self-acceptance to forming positive, nurturing relationships and establishing healthy lifestyles.
A part of the couple’s Break the Cycle charity, Andrew Walker says it looks to break the cycle of self-harm, self-abuse and addictions among young people and encourage self-love and healthy living.
“Our idea is to create a base where young people can come to learn the life-skills that many of us take for granted,” explained Mr Walker. “We want to inspire disadvantaged youths to rise above their circumstances and empower them to break the cycle of negative behaviours.”
An inspirational mentor having represented Australia in both rugby league and union during his 16 year professional sporting career, Andrew and his wife Leona have already achieved significant success through their Break the Cycle initiative but say that winning Campaign for Change will take the charity to the next level.
“We have been voluntarily running a weekly touch footy game and free BBQ for the past six months which has received a huge response,” said Mr Walker. “Winning Campaign for Change will allow us to expand on this by securing a regular premises for the game, setting up a gym and implementing the Rise Above program to help young people in need.”
The Walkers aren’t the only Campaign for Change entrants celebrating though with runners up Rebecca Sheehan’s ethical fashion line and Geoff Wilson’s aquaponics program also receiving a $5,000 kick start in grant funds from campaign partners.
The winners and runners up will also receive enrolment into a short course focusing on starting a social enterprise, sponsored by Foresters Community Finance.
WMB’s Geoff Batkin says he’s thrilled with both the response and results of this year’s Campaign for Change competition which saw the local community come together to make a real difference in their local areas.
“Wesley Mission Brisbane has long been committed to improving the wellbeing of the community and the success of this latest campaign highlights the capability of the not for profit sector to instigate social change and encourage people to discuss community needs at a local level,” he said.
For more information on Wesley Mission Brisbane’s Campaign for Change, please visit www.wmb.org.au
Media Enquiries: please contact Suzanne Ross at Graymedia on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au.
Notes to Editors:
About Wesley Mission Brisbane
Wesley Mission Brisbane (WMB) is a not for profit organisation that has been helping Queenslanders for over 100 years. WMB is a leading provider of innovative and responsive aged care, child care and community service programs that support those in need.
As part of WMB’s ongoing commitment to assisting and improving the Brisbane community, WMB has developed the Campaign for Change initiative, which for the first time, gives Brisbane residents the funding and support services they need to get their programs for improving their local community off the ground.
The former professional rugby league and union player and his wife overcame tough competition from more than 60 fellow entrants to make it through to the finals and win the coveted $30,000 grant to kick-start their idea.
WMB’s Executive Director, Geoff Batkin said it was a challenge to choose a winner with five outstanding finalists pitching a range of worthwhile ideas from home makeovers for seniors to an online counselling portal.
“Andrew and Leona’s Rise Above program for local disadvantaged youth meets a real need in the local Ipswich community and we are looking forward to working with them to expand this program,” he said. “Not only does it teach youth the life-skills they need to be successful and break the cycle of self-harm and addictions, it gives them a positive place to be themselves and engage with healthy role models.”
Aimed at breaking negative behaviours, the Walker’s Rise Above program will build on their already popular free weekly touch footy games in a local Ipswich park. The Walkers will use the grant funds to secure regular premises for the games and begin a 16 week workshop that will counsel and teach youths a range of life skills from self-acceptance to forming positive, nurturing relationships and establishing healthy lifestyles.
A part of the couple’s Break the Cycle charity, Andrew Walker says it looks to break the cycle of self-harm, self-abuse and addictions among young people and encourage self-love and healthy living.
“Our idea is to create a base where young people can come to learn the life-skills that many of us take for granted,” explained Mr Walker. “We want to inspire disadvantaged youths to rise above their circumstances and empower them to break the cycle of negative behaviours.”
An inspirational mentor having represented Australia in both rugby league and union during his 16 year professional sporting career, Andrew and his wife Leona have already achieved significant success through their Break the Cycle initiative but say that winning Campaign for Change will take the charity to the next level.
“We have been voluntarily running a weekly touch footy game and free BBQ for the past six months which has received a huge response,” said Mr Walker. “Winning Campaign for Change will allow us to expand on this by securing a regular premises for the game, setting up a gym and implementing the Rise Above program to help young people in need.”
The Walkers aren’t the only Campaign for Change entrants celebrating though with runners up Rebecca Sheehan’s ethical fashion line and Geoff Wilson’s aquaponics program also receiving a $5,000 kick start in grant funds from campaign partners.
The winners and runners up will also receive enrolment into a short course focusing on starting a social enterprise, sponsored by Foresters Community Finance.
WMB’s Geoff Batkin says he’s thrilled with both the response and results of this year’s Campaign for Change competition which saw the local community come together to make a real difference in their local areas.
“Wesley Mission Brisbane has long been committed to improving the wellbeing of the community and the success of this latest campaign highlights the capability of the not for profit sector to instigate social change and encourage people to discuss community needs at a local level,” he said.
For more information on Wesley Mission Brisbane’s Campaign for Change, please visit www.wmb.org.au
Media Enquiries: please contact Suzanne Ross at Graymedia on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au.
Notes to Editors:
About Wesley Mission Brisbane
Wesley Mission Brisbane (WMB) is a not for profit organisation that has been helping Queenslanders for over 100 years. WMB is a leading provider of innovative and responsive aged care, child care and community service programs that support those in need.
As part of WMB’s ongoing commitment to assisting and improving the Brisbane community, WMB has developed the Campaign for Change initiative, which for the first time, gives Brisbane residents the funding and support services they need to get their programs for improving their local community off the ground.
Wednesday, July 9, 2014
Parmia Insurance streamlines its new wholesale service offering for brokers
Leading Australian niche insurance broking firm Parmia Insurance is continuing to refine and improve its new wholesale service offering, making it easier for fellow brokers to leverage off its award winning policies for the beauty and tattoo sectors.
Implementing a resource portal on its website, brokers can now download documents for Parmia’s products and policies for the beauty and tattoo industry online, ensuring an even faster and more efficient service for clients.
Still a relatively new market for the firm, Parmia launched into wholesale in late 2013 to help ensure that all beauty and tattoo professionals had access to comprehensive, market leading protection.
“We worked incredibly hard with Lloyd’s of London to devise cover for the beauty and tattoo industry that would increase their level of protection, which previously had been virtually non-existent,” said Director of Parmia and the National Insurance Broker Association’s 2013 Broker of the Year, Danny Gumm. “The end result is a series of unique products that give brokers a highly competitive solution to offer their clients.”
Parmia's insurance solution for the tattoo industry is one of only a few to provide practitioners with full medical malpractice policy coverage, while its risk management and insurance solution for the beauty industry is one of the broadest material damage and business interruption policies available to aestheticians in the world.
Its move to extend the policies as well as its tailored insurance solution for tattoo property owners, has been met with open arms from Parmia’s industry peers, with Mr Gumm stating that many brokers are now taking advantage of the service.
“The response that we’ve had has been incredibly positive with many brokers saying that through our products they’ve been able to provide cover to their clients facing complex risks,” he said. “It’s prompted us to now consider extending our wholesale services and products further.”
Established in Queensland in 2002 by Mr Gumm, Parmia, which was recently named a finalist for Small Broker of the Year in the ANZIIF Australian Industry Insurance Awards, has fast made a name for itself for delivering Australian businesses personal and tailored insurance protection.
It currently represents over 3,000 professionals and 15 associations and industry groups. For more information, please visit www.parmiainsurance.com.au.
Media Enquiries: Suzanne Ross at Graymedia on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au.
Implementing a resource portal on its website, brokers can now download documents for Parmia’s products and policies for the beauty and tattoo industry online, ensuring an even faster and more efficient service for clients.
Still a relatively new market for the firm, Parmia launched into wholesale in late 2013 to help ensure that all beauty and tattoo professionals had access to comprehensive, market leading protection.
“We worked incredibly hard with Lloyd’s of London to devise cover for the beauty and tattoo industry that would increase their level of protection, which previously had been virtually non-existent,” said Director of Parmia and the National Insurance Broker Association’s 2013 Broker of the Year, Danny Gumm. “The end result is a series of unique products that give brokers a highly competitive solution to offer their clients.”
Parmia's insurance solution for the tattoo industry is one of only a few to provide practitioners with full medical malpractice policy coverage, while its risk management and insurance solution for the beauty industry is one of the broadest material damage and business interruption policies available to aestheticians in the world.
Its move to extend the policies as well as its tailored insurance solution for tattoo property owners, has been met with open arms from Parmia’s industry peers, with Mr Gumm stating that many brokers are now taking advantage of the service.
“The response that we’ve had has been incredibly positive with many brokers saying that through our products they’ve been able to provide cover to their clients facing complex risks,” he said. “It’s prompted us to now consider extending our wholesale services and products further.”
Established in Queensland in 2002 by Mr Gumm, Parmia, which was recently named a finalist for Small Broker of the Year in the ANZIIF Australian Industry Insurance Awards, has fast made a name for itself for delivering Australian businesses personal and tailored insurance protection.
It currently represents over 3,000 professionals and 15 associations and industry groups. For more information, please visit www.parmiainsurance.com.au.
Media Enquiries: Suzanne Ross at Graymedia on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au.
Monday, July 7, 2014
Innovation and personal service the key to success for Queensland businessman
When Queensland insurance broker Danny Gumm made the risky decision to leave his job as a divisional state manager for a leading international firm to set up his own business in 2002, he never dreamed of the success he would achieve.
Now 12 years on and with countless awards to his name, Mr Gumm is directing one of Australia’s most competitive niche insurance firms, working with internationally leading syndicates in Lloyd’s of London to secure cover for more than 3,000 professionals.
Based in Brisbane, Queensland, Parmia Insurance is continuing to go from strength to strength, with the firm recently nominated, for the third consecutive year, for the ANZIIF Australian Industry Insurance Awards’ Small Broker of the Year, along with a string of other industry accolades.
It’s due in large part to Mr Gumm’s innovation and strategic approach to establishing an insurance broking firm that would deliver Australian businesses tailored insurance protection.
“Point of difference was a vital factor to me in making the decision to break out on my own and form Parmia,” said Mr Gumm. “I knew that in order to be successful, I had to not just be providing Australian professionals with a competitive solution but also be filling a need or a gap in the market place.”
Recently named the National Insurance Broker Association’s 2013 Broker of the Year, an award which saw him fly to the United States in May to attend the PGA Zurich Classic golf tournament and rub shoulders with George W. Bush and Bruce Springsteen, Mr Gumm continued stating he felt the industry was lacking when it came to providing professionals with tailored insurance cover.
“I saw a lot of professionals falling victim to standard ‘off-the-shelf’ insurance packages and felt there was a real need for a service that would actually assess their needs and provide maximum protection,” he said. “Ultimately, Parmia’s core focus is to ensure all upstanding Australian professionals are given a fair go and are equipped with the tools and cover they need to be profitable and successful.”
It’s an important focus that Mr Gumm says should be at the forefront of all service based businesses looking to succeed.
“Having a strong and loyal customer or client base is pivotal to all Australian businesses,” he said. “You can provide the best and most innovative product on the market but without the back up of personal and tailored service that brings customers and clients on board, it will most likely fail.”
Currently Parmia represents over 15 associations and industry bodies covering areas from allied health to graphic design, finance and fitness. However, its Parmia’s work in the beauty and tattoo sectors that has really set it apart from its competitors, with the firm now known for helping professionals gain cover where none is available.
“We look to work with industries where there are gaps in cover that are resulting in professionals being exposed to significant risks or potential damages,” explained Mr Gumm. “We find success in helping industries to fill these shortfalls so that they have maximum protection should anything go wrong.”
Having built a successful business from the ground up, Mr Gumm says he finds immense personal satisfaction in seeing how far Parmia has come and encourages others seeking to make their mark in the business world to take the next step.
“Going into business for yourself is always a risk but it’s incredibly rewarding when it pays off, which it will if you’ve carefully analysed the market and established a clear point of difference that will set you apart from your competitors,” he said.
For more information on Danny Gumm or Parmia Insurance, please visit www.parmiainsurance.com.au.
Media Enquiries: Suzanne Ross at Graymedia on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au.
Now 12 years on and with countless awards to his name, Mr Gumm is directing one of Australia’s most competitive niche insurance firms, working with internationally leading syndicates in Lloyd’s of London to secure cover for more than 3,000 professionals.
Based in Brisbane, Queensland, Parmia Insurance is continuing to go from strength to strength, with the firm recently nominated, for the third consecutive year, for the ANZIIF Australian Industry Insurance Awards’ Small Broker of the Year, along with a string of other industry accolades.
It’s due in large part to Mr Gumm’s innovation and strategic approach to establishing an insurance broking firm that would deliver Australian businesses tailored insurance protection.
“Point of difference was a vital factor to me in making the decision to break out on my own and form Parmia,” said Mr Gumm. “I knew that in order to be successful, I had to not just be providing Australian professionals with a competitive solution but also be filling a need or a gap in the market place.”
Recently named the National Insurance Broker Association’s 2013 Broker of the Year, an award which saw him fly to the United States in May to attend the PGA Zurich Classic golf tournament and rub shoulders with George W. Bush and Bruce Springsteen, Mr Gumm continued stating he felt the industry was lacking when it came to providing professionals with tailored insurance cover.
“I saw a lot of professionals falling victim to standard ‘off-the-shelf’ insurance packages and felt there was a real need for a service that would actually assess their needs and provide maximum protection,” he said. “Ultimately, Parmia’s core focus is to ensure all upstanding Australian professionals are given a fair go and are equipped with the tools and cover they need to be profitable and successful.”
It’s an important focus that Mr Gumm says should be at the forefront of all service based businesses looking to succeed.
“Having a strong and loyal customer or client base is pivotal to all Australian businesses,” he said. “You can provide the best and most innovative product on the market but without the back up of personal and tailored service that brings customers and clients on board, it will most likely fail.”
Currently Parmia represents over 15 associations and industry bodies covering areas from allied health to graphic design, finance and fitness. However, its Parmia’s work in the beauty and tattoo sectors that has really set it apart from its competitors, with the firm now known for helping professionals gain cover where none is available.
“We look to work with industries where there are gaps in cover that are resulting in professionals being exposed to significant risks or potential damages,” explained Mr Gumm. “We find success in helping industries to fill these shortfalls so that they have maximum protection should anything go wrong.”
Having built a successful business from the ground up, Mr Gumm says he finds immense personal satisfaction in seeing how far Parmia has come and encourages others seeking to make their mark in the business world to take the next step.
“Going into business for yourself is always a risk but it’s incredibly rewarding when it pays off, which it will if you’ve carefully analysed the market and established a clear point of difference that will set you apart from your competitors,” he said.
For more information on Danny Gumm or Parmia Insurance, please visit www.parmiainsurance.com.au.
Media Enquiries: Suzanne Ross at Graymedia on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au.
Friday, June 27, 2014
Pharmacy brand strives to improve men’s health by launching industry first clinics
Looking to encourage Australian men to be more stringent in having key aspects of their health checked regularly, Discount Drug Stores is launching ‘Men’s Health Tune Up’ clinics in over 100 of its stores throughout July.
In an industry first, the Australian pharmacy brand is striving to improve health & wellbeing in men by providing a more convenient way for them to have a quick and non-invasive check-up of their blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure.
“We wanted to provide another avenue for Australian men to have all of their key vitals checked without it seeming too confronting or too much of a hassle,” explained Professional Services Manager at Discount Drug Stores, Casey Clark. “Our ‘Men’s Health Tune Up’ clinics will only take 15 minutes but in that time, patients will have their BMI, blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol tested with instant results, as well as receive a lifestyle assessment and the opportunity to discuss other health concerns.”
While they may seem non-urgent, these small health checks are actually vital to picking up more serious health conditions before they become too far progressed, with Ms Clark continuing stating the clinics are aimed at encouraging men to be proactive rather than reactive with their health.
“Research has found that men visit their doctor less frequently than women and generally only when their illness is serious,” she said. “It’s this behaviour that needs to change in order to improve overall health in Australian men and to ensure they’re living longer lives.”
The pharmacy brand has a strong track record of picking up potentially serious conditions during its health clinics with close to 50% of patients tested during its bone, bowel and sun awareness clinics being referred onto their GPs or the pharmacist for further treatment or advice.
Acknowledging that many men don’t like talking about or seeking help when it comes to their health, Ms Clark states DDS’ ‘Men’s Health Tune Up’ clinics have been designed to make this process easier but that partners will play a pivotal role in keeping their loved ones healthy.
“Men’s health is always a challenging topic because we often find that men don’t generally make their health a priority,” she said. “This is where partners and family members can play a really valuable role.
“We strongly encourage anyone whose husband, boyfriend, son etc. hasn’t had a health check up in a while to book them into one of our clinics. It will ensure that any underlying issues are picked up before they become serious and will help bring much needed peace of mind to both the patient and their loved ones.”
Costing $20 for a 15 minute consultation with a registered nurse, most clinics will conveniently take place during lunch hours. Patients will also be able to discuss other key health and lifestyle issues that may be affecting them such as mental fitness, hair loss, sleep apnoea and weight. Ms Clark says the campaign is all about awareness and prevention and has been geared towards busy men, giving them no excuse to ignore their health.
“We’ve worked hard to remove the embarrassment factor behind men’s health,” she said. “Our clinics are designed to be quick and almost painless with no invasive exams. The benefits of having a simple 15 minute check-up are huge and can make a real difference to overall wellbeing, so we hope to see a lot of men taking advantage of this service.”
Bookings are preferred. For more information, please visit www.discountdrugstores.com.au/health-clinics.
Media Enquiries: Suzanne Ross at Graymedia on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au.
In an industry first, the Australian pharmacy brand is striving to improve health & wellbeing in men by providing a more convenient way for them to have a quick and non-invasive check-up of their blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure.
“We wanted to provide another avenue for Australian men to have all of their key vitals checked without it seeming too confronting or too much of a hassle,” explained Professional Services Manager at Discount Drug Stores, Casey Clark. “Our ‘Men’s Health Tune Up’ clinics will only take 15 minutes but in that time, patients will have their BMI, blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol tested with instant results, as well as receive a lifestyle assessment and the opportunity to discuss other health concerns.”
While they may seem non-urgent, these small health checks are actually vital to picking up more serious health conditions before they become too far progressed, with Ms Clark continuing stating the clinics are aimed at encouraging men to be proactive rather than reactive with their health.
“Research has found that men visit their doctor less frequently than women and generally only when their illness is serious,” she said. “It’s this behaviour that needs to change in order to improve overall health in Australian men and to ensure they’re living longer lives.”
The pharmacy brand has a strong track record of picking up potentially serious conditions during its health clinics with close to 50% of patients tested during its bone, bowel and sun awareness clinics being referred onto their GPs or the pharmacist for further treatment or advice.
Acknowledging that many men don’t like talking about or seeking help when it comes to their health, Ms Clark states DDS’ ‘Men’s Health Tune Up’ clinics have been designed to make this process easier but that partners will play a pivotal role in keeping their loved ones healthy.
“Men’s health is always a challenging topic because we often find that men don’t generally make their health a priority,” she said. “This is where partners and family members can play a really valuable role.
“We strongly encourage anyone whose husband, boyfriend, son etc. hasn’t had a health check up in a while to book them into one of our clinics. It will ensure that any underlying issues are picked up before they become serious and will help bring much needed peace of mind to both the patient and their loved ones.”
Costing $20 for a 15 minute consultation with a registered nurse, most clinics will conveniently take place during lunch hours. Patients will also be able to discuss other key health and lifestyle issues that may be affecting them such as mental fitness, hair loss, sleep apnoea and weight. Ms Clark says the campaign is all about awareness and prevention and has been geared towards busy men, giving them no excuse to ignore their health.
“We’ve worked hard to remove the embarrassment factor behind men’s health,” she said. “Our clinics are designed to be quick and almost painless with no invasive exams. The benefits of having a simple 15 minute check-up are huge and can make a real difference to overall wellbeing, so we hope to see a lot of men taking advantage of this service.”
Bookings are preferred. For more information, please visit www.discountdrugstores.com.au/health-clinics.
Media Enquiries: Suzanne Ross at Graymedia on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au.
Campaign for Change unearths inspiring bright ideas
An ethical fashion line, a touch footy program for disadvantaged youth and an aquaponics program are among the bright ideas unearthed in the 2014 Wesley Mission Brisbane (WMB) Campaign for Change competition.
More than 60 South East Queenslanders entered the unique competition that encourages local residents to share their bright ideas for improving the local community for the chance to win a $30,000 kick-start to get their project off of the ground.
WMB’s Executive Director Geoff Batkin says he was overwhelmed with the wide and varied entries that ranged from initiatives to combat bullying, to programmes aimed at encouraging Brisbane residents to grow their own produce.
“It was impressive to see the level of thought that people had put into the challenges facing their local community and into devising feasible solutions to those issues,” he said. “It made the judging process incredibly difficult as really, all of the concepts were fantastic initiatives for bringing about positive change and for helping those in need.”
Andrew and Leona Walker, finalists from Ipswich, want their program ‘Rise Above’ to break the cycle of self-harm, self-abuse and addictions among young people and encourage self-love and healthy living.
“Our idea is to create a base where young people can come to learn the life-skills that many of us take for granted,” explained Mr Walker. “We want to inspire disadvantaged youths to rise above their circumstances and empower them to break the cycle of negative behaviours.”
Helping marginalised people in the local Brisbane community to find work is the mission for Rebecca Sheehan who plans to offer work opportunities for skilled refugees through her eco-friendly fashion label, WayWard Community.
“WayWard Community aims to provide society with an alternative to immoral fast fashion production,” she said. “Targeting abuse of labour, WayWard will employ skilled refugees for pattern making and construction, paying award wages and ensuring safe working conditions while developing clothing using 100% salvaged fabrics and trims.”
Other finalists include: New Farm local Rebecca Sheehan, Geoff Wilson from Mt Gravatt Wooloowin resident Angela Harrison and Kate Baker from Petrie.
All five finalists will now enter the next round of the Campaign for Change 2014 competition where they will present a full breakdown of their proposed project and business idea to a selection committee on the 19th of July. The winner will be announced on July 28 and will receive $30,000 from WMB and campaign partners, tailored support from WMB and a short course from Foresters Community Finance. Two runners-up will receive $5,000 from campaign partners PBS Building and enrolment into a short course focusing on starting a social enterprise, sponsored by Foresters Community Finance.
For more information on Wesley Mission Brisbane’s Campaign for Change, please visit www.wmb.org.au
Media Enquiries: please contact Suzanne Ross at Graymedia on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au.
More than 60 South East Queenslanders entered the unique competition that encourages local residents to share their bright ideas for improving the local community for the chance to win a $30,000 kick-start to get their project off of the ground.
WMB’s Executive Director Geoff Batkin says he was overwhelmed with the wide and varied entries that ranged from initiatives to combat bullying, to programmes aimed at encouraging Brisbane residents to grow their own produce.
“It was impressive to see the level of thought that people had put into the challenges facing their local community and into devising feasible solutions to those issues,” he said. “It made the judging process incredibly difficult as really, all of the concepts were fantastic initiatives for bringing about positive change and for helping those in need.”
Andrew and Leona Walker, finalists from Ipswich, want their program ‘Rise Above’ to break the cycle of self-harm, self-abuse and addictions among young people and encourage self-love and healthy living.
“Our idea is to create a base where young people can come to learn the life-skills that many of us take for granted,” explained Mr Walker. “We want to inspire disadvantaged youths to rise above their circumstances and empower them to break the cycle of negative behaviours.”
Helping marginalised people in the local Brisbane community to find work is the mission for Rebecca Sheehan who plans to offer work opportunities for skilled refugees through her eco-friendly fashion label, WayWard Community.
“WayWard Community aims to provide society with an alternative to immoral fast fashion production,” she said. “Targeting abuse of labour, WayWard will employ skilled refugees for pattern making and construction, paying award wages and ensuring safe working conditions while developing clothing using 100% salvaged fabrics and trims.”
Other finalists include: New Farm local Rebecca Sheehan, Geoff Wilson from Mt Gravatt Wooloowin resident Angela Harrison and Kate Baker from Petrie.
All five finalists will now enter the next round of the Campaign for Change 2014 competition where they will present a full breakdown of their proposed project and business idea to a selection committee on the 19th of July. The winner will be announced on July 28 and will receive $30,000 from WMB and campaign partners, tailored support from WMB and a short course from Foresters Community Finance. Two runners-up will receive $5,000 from campaign partners PBS Building and enrolment into a short course focusing on starting a social enterprise, sponsored by Foresters Community Finance.
For more information on Wesley Mission Brisbane’s Campaign for Change, please visit www.wmb.org.au
Media Enquiries: please contact Suzanne Ross at Graymedia on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au.
Thursday, June 12, 2014
DDS National Conference focuses on owners' bottom line
Discount Drug Stores has announced a number of new programs and two major initiatives to drive the bottom line of its franchisees at its 2014 National Conference, held in Melbourne from June 1 to 3.
Key among the initiatives, which include new product launches and improved e-commerce and loyalty strategies, was the announcement of an enhanced Medication Management Program, and a new partnership with DAA packing company MPS.
Discount Drug Store General Manager Douglas Kuskopf-Dallas said the initiatives will usher in the next chapter for the brand as the industry enters a period of consolidation as a result of the PBS reforms.
“This is an incredibly challenging time for pharmacy with PBS reforms having a significant impact on profit,” Mr Kuskopf-Dallas said. “At conference we announced a number of programs and strategies to address these challenges and give store owners not only new means to gain back some lost profits, but to achieve growth.”
The conference, which featured a keynote address from Pharmacy Guild of Australia Executive Director, David Quilty and was attended by Victoria Pharmacy Guild President Anthony Tassone, also saw a renewed focus on professional services.
In continued partnership with PharmEngage, DDS announced the enhancement of its highly successful TOP Medication Management Program (MMP), which will now deliver consumer information and patient support programs.
DDS also announced a new partnership with DAA packing company MPS, which will manage community Dose Administration Aids, preparing stores for growing consumer need and enabling pharmacists to spend more time in the front of store consulting with their customers.
Mr Kuskopf-Dallas said DDS would focus on driving both initiatives, which will improve customer health outcomes and drive customer loyalty.
“Our TOP MMP has been a significant success both for customers in improving medication compliance and health outcomes and for our stores in increasing loyalty and thereby profits,” Mr Kuskopf-Dallas said. "Our partnership with MPS will similarly help improve customer compliance and health outcomes, driving customer loyalty to the stores. Professional services continue to be one of our leading priorities and we remain firm that this will be the key differentiator for the future success of our business.”
Other initiatives announced at conference include an enhanced e-commerce platform designed to drive customer engagement with stores, new loyalty program strategies designed to increase brand loyalty, a DDS App designed to incorporate both the loyalty program and assist customers with accessing information from the MMP, an expansion of the brand's products in a number of categories, and a new focus on stocking control brands, with DDS taking on Premium Health Brands' goHealthy vitamin range.
Mr Kuskopf-Dallas said control brands will help stores compete against supermarket private label ranges, offering consumers better value and stores better margins.
“Through taking on pharmacy only ranges such as goHealthy we can both better compete with the supermarket chains and help our owners achieve a better gross profit,” Mr Kuskopf-Dallas said.
Mr Kuskopf-Dallas said all the initiatives aim to encourage owners to work smarter in order to combat the rising challenges in the industry.
“Our 2014 focus is about taking what we’ve done over the past few years to the next level,” Mr Kuskopf-Dallas said. “We need to be utilising our tools and resources more effectively, monitoring and measuring our business with much more precision and most importantly ensuring that our customers are receiving the highest possible level of care and attention at all times. This will be fundamental to our continued success and growth.”
For more information on Discount Drug Stores, please visit www.discountdrugstores.com.au.
Media Enquiries: Suzanne Ross at Graymedia on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au.
Key among the initiatives, which include new product launches and improved e-commerce and loyalty strategies, was the announcement of an enhanced Medication Management Program, and a new partnership with DAA packing company MPS.
Discount Drug Store General Manager Douglas Kuskopf-Dallas said the initiatives will usher in the next chapter for the brand as the industry enters a period of consolidation as a result of the PBS reforms.
“This is an incredibly challenging time for pharmacy with PBS reforms having a significant impact on profit,” Mr Kuskopf-Dallas said. “At conference we announced a number of programs and strategies to address these challenges and give store owners not only new means to gain back some lost profits, but to achieve growth.”
The conference, which featured a keynote address from Pharmacy Guild of Australia Executive Director, David Quilty and was attended by Victoria Pharmacy Guild President Anthony Tassone, also saw a renewed focus on professional services.
In continued partnership with PharmEngage, DDS announced the enhancement of its highly successful TOP Medication Management Program (MMP), which will now deliver consumer information and patient support programs.
DDS also announced a new partnership with DAA packing company MPS, which will manage community Dose Administration Aids, preparing stores for growing consumer need and enabling pharmacists to spend more time in the front of store consulting with their customers.
Mr Kuskopf-Dallas said DDS would focus on driving both initiatives, which will improve customer health outcomes and drive customer loyalty.
“Our TOP MMP has been a significant success both for customers in improving medication compliance and health outcomes and for our stores in increasing loyalty and thereby profits,” Mr Kuskopf-Dallas said. "Our partnership with MPS will similarly help improve customer compliance and health outcomes, driving customer loyalty to the stores. Professional services continue to be one of our leading priorities and we remain firm that this will be the key differentiator for the future success of our business.”
Other initiatives announced at conference include an enhanced e-commerce platform designed to drive customer engagement with stores, new loyalty program strategies designed to increase brand loyalty, a DDS App designed to incorporate both the loyalty program and assist customers with accessing information from the MMP, an expansion of the brand's products in a number of categories, and a new focus on stocking control brands, with DDS taking on Premium Health Brands' goHealthy vitamin range.
Mr Kuskopf-Dallas said control brands will help stores compete against supermarket private label ranges, offering consumers better value and stores better margins.
“Through taking on pharmacy only ranges such as goHealthy we can both better compete with the supermarket chains and help our owners achieve a better gross profit,” Mr Kuskopf-Dallas said.
Mr Kuskopf-Dallas said all the initiatives aim to encourage owners to work smarter in order to combat the rising challenges in the industry.
“Our 2014 focus is about taking what we’ve done over the past few years to the next level,” Mr Kuskopf-Dallas said. “We need to be utilising our tools and resources more effectively, monitoring and measuring our business with much more precision and most importantly ensuring that our customers are receiving the highest possible level of care and attention at all times. This will be fundamental to our continued success and growth.”
For more information on Discount Drug Stores, please visit www.discountdrugstores.com.au.
Media Enquiries: Suzanne Ross at Graymedia on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au.
Thursday, June 5, 2014
New partnership sees Parmia take on the Australian weight loss industry
Leading Queensland based insurance broker Parmia Insurance has secured market leading cover for the Australian Institute of Weight Loss Consultants (AIWLC) in a new partnership that looks set to help take the rapidly growing association to the next level.
A challenging industry to cover due to the wide and varied skills and services that professionals offer, Parmia has successfully developed a policy for AIWLC members that provides comprehensive public liability and professional indemnity protection.
Founder of the AIWLC, Sonja Bella says Parmia’s ability to provide coverage for multiple streams within the weight loss industry was one of the key reasons she engaged the award winning broker.
“The AIWLC covers all aspects of the weight loss industry from nutrition to psychology to personal training and physiotherapy so our members come from many different fields, all of which carry their own unique risks,” she explained. “We needed an insurance provider that would provide a tailored solution to meet all of these demands and Parmia was far and beyond the best choice.”
Established by the National Insurance Broker Association’s 2013 Broker of the Year Danny Gumm in 2002, Parmia is known for tackling hard to cover industries including the beauty and tattoo sectors.
Mr Gumm states he felt a strong need to help protect the weight loss market and specifically the AIWLC given the important role that professionals in this sector play in reducing obesity in Australia.
“Australia has one of the highest obesity rates in the world and fitness professionals, nutritionists and psychologists are vital to reducing this,” he explained. “We wanted to do our part to make sure that they’re able to carry out their jobs confidently and without worrying about whether their insurance adequately covers them. More to the point though, we wanted to help the AIWLC to carry out its important mission of helping Australians to lose weight holistically.”
The AIWLC was established by Ms Bella, who is a highly regarded weight loss professional, in 2012 after she became frustrated at the lack of associations and industry groups that covered all areas of weight loss and management.
“In my ten years of working in the industry both in Australia and overseas, I couldn’t find any organisation that represented all of the different streams of weight loss consultants,” she said. “I wanted to fill this gap because I believe weight loss and management needs to be approached holistically. Psychologists, trainers, nutritionists and all other allied health professionals specialising in weight loss need to work together to address our current obesity epidemic.”
It’s a unique approach that has been met with great enthusiasm within the industry with more than 200 professionals signing to the AIWLC since March. However, Mr Gumm states it’s the fact that the AIWLC focuses on assisting both industry professionals and members of the general public that really drew his attention.
“The AWILC isn’t just about supporting the industry, it’s also about showing the community all of the different lifestyle changes that need to be made in order to lose weight effectively,” he said.
The organisation does this through holding weight loss summits across the country, including the Global Weight Management Congress to be held in Brisbane in December which will teach Australians how to take a multidisciplinary approach to weight loss.
For more information on Parmia or its policies for the weight loss industry industry, please visit www.parmiainsurance.com.au. For more information on the AIWLC, please visit www.weightlossinstitute.com.au.
Media Enquiries: Suzanne Ross at Graymedia on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au.
A challenging industry to cover due to the wide and varied skills and services that professionals offer, Parmia has successfully developed a policy for AIWLC members that provides comprehensive public liability and professional indemnity protection.
Founder of the AIWLC, Sonja Bella says Parmia’s ability to provide coverage for multiple streams within the weight loss industry was one of the key reasons she engaged the award winning broker.
“The AIWLC covers all aspects of the weight loss industry from nutrition to psychology to personal training and physiotherapy so our members come from many different fields, all of which carry their own unique risks,” she explained. “We needed an insurance provider that would provide a tailored solution to meet all of these demands and Parmia was far and beyond the best choice.”
Established by the National Insurance Broker Association’s 2013 Broker of the Year Danny Gumm in 2002, Parmia is known for tackling hard to cover industries including the beauty and tattoo sectors.
Mr Gumm states he felt a strong need to help protect the weight loss market and specifically the AIWLC given the important role that professionals in this sector play in reducing obesity in Australia.
“Australia has one of the highest obesity rates in the world and fitness professionals, nutritionists and psychologists are vital to reducing this,” he explained. “We wanted to do our part to make sure that they’re able to carry out their jobs confidently and without worrying about whether their insurance adequately covers them. More to the point though, we wanted to help the AIWLC to carry out its important mission of helping Australians to lose weight holistically.”
The AIWLC was established by Ms Bella, who is a highly regarded weight loss professional, in 2012 after she became frustrated at the lack of associations and industry groups that covered all areas of weight loss and management.
“In my ten years of working in the industry both in Australia and overseas, I couldn’t find any organisation that represented all of the different streams of weight loss consultants,” she said. “I wanted to fill this gap because I believe weight loss and management needs to be approached holistically. Psychologists, trainers, nutritionists and all other allied health professionals specialising in weight loss need to work together to address our current obesity epidemic.”
It’s a unique approach that has been met with great enthusiasm within the industry with more than 200 professionals signing to the AIWLC since March. However, Mr Gumm states it’s the fact that the AIWLC focuses on assisting both industry professionals and members of the general public that really drew his attention.
“The AWILC isn’t just about supporting the industry, it’s also about showing the community all of the different lifestyle changes that need to be made in order to lose weight effectively,” he said.
The organisation does this through holding weight loss summits across the country, including the Global Weight Management Congress to be held in Brisbane in December which will teach Australians how to take a multidisciplinary approach to weight loss.
For more information on Parmia or its policies for the weight loss industry industry, please visit www.parmiainsurance.com.au. For more information on the AIWLC, please visit www.weightlossinstitute.com.au.
Media Enquiries: Suzanne Ross at Graymedia on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au.
Wednesday, May 14, 2014
Road safety initiative to be launched at caravan show targeting Outback drivers
A road safety initiative, aimed at reducing fatal and injury accidents on outback roads, is set to expand across Queensland, with its launch at the 2014 Caravan, Camping and Touring Holiday Show in Brisbane on June 5.
Called ‘Stay on Track Outback’ the programme has been developed by the Queensland Police Service and the caravanning industry in response to the increase in vehicles travelling on western Queensland roads.
Set initially to cover the Charleville, Roma and Longreach districts and surrounding areas the campaign will see police officers visiting caravan parks to warn tourists of the potential dangers they will face driving in the Outback and to give them advice that could possibly save their lives.
Senior Constable Sarah Grayson of the Charleville DCPC explains: “The aim of this initiative is to increase general driver education through conversation and by supplying tourists with informative education packs. By improving understanding of the challenges they may face whilst travelling they will be better equipped to avoid an accident.”
Snr Constable Grayson says some of the key hazards people need to aware of include how to deal with single track roads, wide loads or road trains. Also watching for stock on the roads and other wildlife, not driving at night because of kangaroos, and to always notify someone if planning to go off road and having a plan for assistance in the event of an incident.
A key supporter and CEO of Caravanning Queensland Ron Chapman says the initiative is an example of the caravanning industry looking out for its own, and ensuring that the pastime of caravanning is continually made safer and more enjoyable.
“We are proud to get behind Stay on Track Outback because it is an incredibly worthwhile cause for our customers, for Queensland tourism and road safety, and as an organisation we are concerned about the welfare of everyone who enjoys caravanning,” says Mr Chapman.
“The 2014 Caravan Show is the perfect place to launch the expanded initiative because it attracts both caravan and camping enthusiasts as well as those who are just considering their first caravan holiday, and all can benefit from learning about safer ways to travel.”
With the support of key stakeholders Santos, Imparja, Caravanning Queensland, Jayco, local councils and Queensland Transport the initiative will grow from a local to a state campaign, with Stay on Track Outback information being placed in all Queensland Transport Customer Service Centres across the state in the coming months.
The launch will be held on June 5 at the 2014 Caravan, Camping and Touring Holiday Show and police representatives attending will include Assistant Commissioner Tony Wright (Southern Region), and Inspector Steve Kersley of the Charleville Patrol Group, with others yet to be confirmed.
The Queensland Caravan, Camping and Touring Holiday Show will be held at the Brisbane Showgrounds from June 4-10. More information and tickets can be found at www.caravanqld.com.au. Pre-purchase your tickets online to receive free train travel to and from the event from any station on the Queensland CityRail network.
Media enquiries, please contact Kate Shuttleworth on 0418 723 841 or 07 3250 9400 or respond to this email.
About Caravanning Queensland
Caravanning Queensland is the peak industry body for caravan dealers, manufacturers, camping suppliers, service providers and caravan park operators through two related associations. These are the Caravan Trade & Industries Association of Queensland and the Caravan Parks Association of Queensland Inc.
The Queensland Caravan, Camping and Touring Holiday Show is the official industry event for Queensland, and has been running for 46 years. It attracts over 300 exhibitors and up to 70,000 visitors each year. Featuring the latest products and services the caravanning and camping industry has to offer, including information on tourism and holiday destinations all around Australia, this year’s event will be on June 4-10 at the Brisbane Showgrounds.
This year pre-paid ticketholders can take advantage of free train travel from any station on the Queensland CityRail Network. Catch the ShowTrain from Brunswick Street, Central or Roma Street stations to be taken directly to the Showgrounds. The ShowTrain runs every 20 to 30 minutes and starts at 9.30am each day with the last train leaving shortly after close.
Called ‘Stay on Track Outback’ the programme has been developed by the Queensland Police Service and the caravanning industry in response to the increase in vehicles travelling on western Queensland roads.
Set initially to cover the Charleville, Roma and Longreach districts and surrounding areas the campaign will see police officers visiting caravan parks to warn tourists of the potential dangers they will face driving in the Outback and to give them advice that could possibly save their lives.
Senior Constable Sarah Grayson of the Charleville DCPC explains: “The aim of this initiative is to increase general driver education through conversation and by supplying tourists with informative education packs. By improving understanding of the challenges they may face whilst travelling they will be better equipped to avoid an accident.”
Snr Constable Grayson says some of the key hazards people need to aware of include how to deal with single track roads, wide loads or road trains. Also watching for stock on the roads and other wildlife, not driving at night because of kangaroos, and to always notify someone if planning to go off road and having a plan for assistance in the event of an incident.
A key supporter and CEO of Caravanning Queensland Ron Chapman says the initiative is an example of the caravanning industry looking out for its own, and ensuring that the pastime of caravanning is continually made safer and more enjoyable.
“We are proud to get behind Stay on Track Outback because it is an incredibly worthwhile cause for our customers, for Queensland tourism and road safety, and as an organisation we are concerned about the welfare of everyone who enjoys caravanning,” says Mr Chapman.
“The 2014 Caravan Show is the perfect place to launch the expanded initiative because it attracts both caravan and camping enthusiasts as well as those who are just considering their first caravan holiday, and all can benefit from learning about safer ways to travel.”
With the support of key stakeholders Santos, Imparja, Caravanning Queensland, Jayco, local councils and Queensland Transport the initiative will grow from a local to a state campaign, with Stay on Track Outback information being placed in all Queensland Transport Customer Service Centres across the state in the coming months.
The launch will be held on June 5 at the 2014 Caravan, Camping and Touring Holiday Show and police representatives attending will include Assistant Commissioner Tony Wright (Southern Region), and Inspector Steve Kersley of the Charleville Patrol Group, with others yet to be confirmed.
The Queensland Caravan, Camping and Touring Holiday Show will be held at the Brisbane Showgrounds from June 4-10. More information and tickets can be found at www.caravanqld.com.au. Pre-purchase your tickets online to receive free train travel to and from the event from any station on the Queensland CityRail network.
Media enquiries, please contact Kate Shuttleworth on 0418 723 841 or 07 3250 9400 or respond to this email.
About Caravanning Queensland
Caravanning Queensland is the peak industry body for caravan dealers, manufacturers, camping suppliers, service providers and caravan park operators through two related associations. These are the Caravan Trade & Industries Association of Queensland and the Caravan Parks Association of Queensland Inc.
The Queensland Caravan, Camping and Touring Holiday Show is the official industry event for Queensland, and has been running for 46 years. It attracts over 300 exhibitors and up to 70,000 visitors each year. Featuring the latest products and services the caravanning and camping industry has to offer, including information on tourism and holiday destinations all around Australia, this year’s event will be on June 4-10 at the Brisbane Showgrounds.
This year pre-paid ticketholders can take advantage of free train travel from any station on the Queensland CityRail Network. Catch the ShowTrain from Brunswick Street, Central or Roma Street stations to be taken directly to the Showgrounds. The ShowTrain runs every 20 to 30 minutes and starts at 9.30am each day with the last train leaving shortly after close.
Thursday, May 1, 2014
Campaign for Change set to light up and connect the Queensland community
Looking to encourage South East Queensland residents to come together and share their bright ideas for improving the local community, Wesley Mission Brisbane (WMB) is running its incredibly successful Campaign for Change competition again in 2014.
To be officially launched at the State Library of Queensland on Saturday, May 3, WMB is aiming to build on the success of its 2012 inaugural competition which saw more than 80 ideas submitted for creating a brighter, more unified community.
A unique competition that gives residents in Brisbane, Moreton Bay, Logan and the Gold Coast the chance to win a $40,000 kick-start to get their concept for enriching the community off the ground, WMB’s Executive Director Geoff Batkin says he’s looking forward to seeing the entries in this year’s competition.
“We were overwhelmed by the response we received when we launched Campaign for Change in 2012,” he said. “It worked to inspire a new wave of community kindness and wellbeing. We really want to build on that further in this year’s campaign and to try and fill the many unmet needs that are facing our local community on a daily basis.”
Mr Batkin continues stating it’s all about highlighting the capability and positive change residents can make if they unite and take action against the issues facing their community.
“Campaign for Change is about motivating residents to make a difference, whether that is offering support services for disadvantaged youths, running a community clean up or providing initiatives to help reduce the stigmas around mental illness,” he said. “It doesn’t have to be a massive project; it could be something small that changes the community for the better. Any and every idea is welcome.”
Winners of Campaign for Change’s 2012 competition, Kath Coory and Tina Graham are just two examples of how everyday Queenslanders can make a big difference to their local community if given the financial backing and support they need.
Thanks to winning the competition, they were able to launch their concept, BestLife Sleepovers in 2013, a service that provides children with disabilities the opportunity to experience a sleep over and to form friendships, while giving their parents a brief break.
“It’s a different, unique kind of respite that you don’t get anywhere else,” explained Co-Founder Ms Coory. “It aims to help give children living with a disability independence and the chance to create networks and friendships. More than that though, it strives to give families a sense of hope, to give them the idea that maybe their child could be independent, and even be part of a community.”
Ms Coory continued saying that her dream would never have been realised if not for the support that she received from WMB, which she believes has been absolutely invaluable, not just in providing funding but also in educating her on how to run a community program. “I think if you’re passionate about an idea that you think is going to change lives then Campaign for Change can be the catalyst to help you to deliver those changes,” she said.
To celebrate the launch of Campaign for Change, WMB will be holding an event on Saturday, May 3, where it will strive to literally light up the community by encouraging residents to connect in a vibrant visual display that will officially open the competition.
Previous winners and finalists will also be in attendance to share their ideas for changing the local community and to inspire Brisbane residents to get involved in Campaign for Change 2014 and to make a difference.
Kids will also have the opportunity to witness and take part in the ‘Magic of Change’ magic show and meet Nova Boy from Nova Radio Station. Entries for Campaign for Change will open on May 1 and close on June 13, with the winner receiving $30,000 from WMB’s campaign partners PBS Building, tailored support from WMB and a short course from Foresters Community Finance. Two runners-up will receive $5,000 from campaign partners PBS Building and enrolment into a short course focusing on starting a social enterprise, sponsored by Foresters Community Finance.
For more information on Wesley Mission Brisbane’s Campaign for Change, please visit www.wmb.org.au
Media Enquiries: please contact Suzanne Ross at Graymedia on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au.
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, May 3, 2014
Time: 10am to 11am
Where: The Studio – The State Library of Queensland
Cultural Precinct, Stanley Place, South Bank
Brisbane, Queensland, 4101
Who: Open to Brisbane residents of all ages
Cost: Free
Notes to Editors:
About Wesley Mission Brisbane
Wesley Mission Brisbane (WMB) is a not for profit organisation that has been helping Queenslanders for over 100 years. WMB is a leading provider of innovative and responsive aged care, child care and community service programs that support those in need.
As part of WMB’s ongoing commitment to assisting and improving the Brisbane community, WMB has developed the Campaign for Change initiative, which for the first time, gives Brisbane residents the funding and support services they need to get their programs for improving their local community off the ground.
To be officially launched at the State Library of Queensland on Saturday, May 3, WMB is aiming to build on the success of its 2012 inaugural competition which saw more than 80 ideas submitted for creating a brighter, more unified community.
A unique competition that gives residents in Brisbane, Moreton Bay, Logan and the Gold Coast the chance to win a $40,000 kick-start to get their concept for enriching the community off the ground, WMB’s Executive Director Geoff Batkin says he’s looking forward to seeing the entries in this year’s competition.
“We were overwhelmed by the response we received when we launched Campaign for Change in 2012,” he said. “It worked to inspire a new wave of community kindness and wellbeing. We really want to build on that further in this year’s campaign and to try and fill the many unmet needs that are facing our local community on a daily basis.”
Mr Batkin continues stating it’s all about highlighting the capability and positive change residents can make if they unite and take action against the issues facing their community.
“Campaign for Change is about motivating residents to make a difference, whether that is offering support services for disadvantaged youths, running a community clean up or providing initiatives to help reduce the stigmas around mental illness,” he said. “It doesn’t have to be a massive project; it could be something small that changes the community for the better. Any and every idea is welcome.”
Winners of Campaign for Change’s 2012 competition, Kath Coory and Tina Graham are just two examples of how everyday Queenslanders can make a big difference to their local community if given the financial backing and support they need.
Thanks to winning the competition, they were able to launch their concept, BestLife Sleepovers in 2013, a service that provides children with disabilities the opportunity to experience a sleep over and to form friendships, while giving their parents a brief break.
“It’s a different, unique kind of respite that you don’t get anywhere else,” explained Co-Founder Ms Coory. “It aims to help give children living with a disability independence and the chance to create networks and friendships. More than that though, it strives to give families a sense of hope, to give them the idea that maybe their child could be independent, and even be part of a community.”
Ms Coory continued saying that her dream would never have been realised if not for the support that she received from WMB, which she believes has been absolutely invaluable, not just in providing funding but also in educating her on how to run a community program. “I think if you’re passionate about an idea that you think is going to change lives then Campaign for Change can be the catalyst to help you to deliver those changes,” she said.
To celebrate the launch of Campaign for Change, WMB will be holding an event on Saturday, May 3, where it will strive to literally light up the community by encouraging residents to connect in a vibrant visual display that will officially open the competition.
Previous winners and finalists will also be in attendance to share their ideas for changing the local community and to inspire Brisbane residents to get involved in Campaign for Change 2014 and to make a difference.
Kids will also have the opportunity to witness and take part in the ‘Magic of Change’ magic show and meet Nova Boy from Nova Radio Station. Entries for Campaign for Change will open on May 1 and close on June 13, with the winner receiving $30,000 from WMB’s campaign partners PBS Building, tailored support from WMB and a short course from Foresters Community Finance. Two runners-up will receive $5,000 from campaign partners PBS Building and enrolment into a short course focusing on starting a social enterprise, sponsored by Foresters Community Finance.
For more information on Wesley Mission Brisbane’s Campaign for Change, please visit www.wmb.org.au
Media Enquiries: please contact Suzanne Ross at Graymedia on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au.
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, May 3, 2014
Time: 10am to 11am
Where: The Studio – The State Library of Queensland
Cultural Precinct, Stanley Place, South Bank
Brisbane, Queensland, 4101
Who: Open to Brisbane residents of all ages
Cost: Free
Notes to Editors:
About Wesley Mission Brisbane
Wesley Mission Brisbane (WMB) is a not for profit organisation that has been helping Queenslanders for over 100 years. WMB is a leading provider of innovative and responsive aged care, child care and community service programs that support those in need.
As part of WMB’s ongoing commitment to assisting and improving the Brisbane community, WMB has developed the Campaign for Change initiative, which for the first time, gives Brisbane residents the funding and support services they need to get their programs for improving their local community off the ground.
Discount Drug Stores adopts new online platform to streamline buying process
Discount Drug Stores has become one of the first major Australian pharmacy brands to adopt a new state of the art online portal that uniquely connects product buyers to potential suppliers.
Streamlining the lengthy and complex buying process, Discount Drug Stores has signed on to RANGEme, a new, free to join online marketplace for brands to showcase their products to Australia’s biggest retailers including Coles, Woolworths and Kmart that has been created by Marketing Executive Nicky Jackson.
Developed as a result of Ms Jackson’s own difficulties securing stockists for her baby skincare line, RANGEme aims to save category buyers time and to increase the chances of companies getting their products ranged sooner by bringing everyone together in one, easy to navigate space.
“It’s incredibly challenging to get your product in front of the major retailers for consideration, especially if you don’t have any existing connections,” she said. “RANGEme streamlines this process. Suppliers simply need to post their products on the site, specifying the categories they fall into and RANGEme will connect them directly to the appropriate retailers and buyers.”
National Merchandise Manager at Discount Drug Stores Adam Goss states the brand was immediately drawn to the one of a kind platform as it provided it with the opportunity to maximise efficiency and to better engage with a wider pool of product suppliers.
“Our buyers are often inundated with suppliers pitching their products and we want to make sure that we’re seizing every opportunity,” he said. “RANGEme is a fantastic tool as it sorts through all of the potential products and only highlights the suppliers that are best suited to our brand and categories. It saves our buyers a considerable amount of time.
“It’s also been great in introducing us to smaller, more niche suppliers that would have previously gotten lost through the old pitching process amongst the more established brands and in ensuring that Discount Drug Stores stays up to date with market trends,” Mr Goss continued.
Free to join for buyers, since its launch only a month ago, over 150 suppliers have subscribed to RANGEme to connect with grocery, pharmacy and general convenience and lifestyle retailers. For more information please visit www.discountdrugstores.com.au or https://www.rangeme.com.au.
Media Enquiries: Suzanne Ross at Graymedia on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au.
Streamlining the lengthy and complex buying process, Discount Drug Stores has signed on to RANGEme, a new, free to join online marketplace for brands to showcase their products to Australia’s biggest retailers including Coles, Woolworths and Kmart that has been created by Marketing Executive Nicky Jackson.
Developed as a result of Ms Jackson’s own difficulties securing stockists for her baby skincare line, RANGEme aims to save category buyers time and to increase the chances of companies getting their products ranged sooner by bringing everyone together in one, easy to navigate space.
“It’s incredibly challenging to get your product in front of the major retailers for consideration, especially if you don’t have any existing connections,” she said. “RANGEme streamlines this process. Suppliers simply need to post their products on the site, specifying the categories they fall into and RANGEme will connect them directly to the appropriate retailers and buyers.”
National Merchandise Manager at Discount Drug Stores Adam Goss states the brand was immediately drawn to the one of a kind platform as it provided it with the opportunity to maximise efficiency and to better engage with a wider pool of product suppliers.
“Our buyers are often inundated with suppliers pitching their products and we want to make sure that we’re seizing every opportunity,” he said. “RANGEme is a fantastic tool as it sorts through all of the potential products and only highlights the suppliers that are best suited to our brand and categories. It saves our buyers a considerable amount of time.
“It’s also been great in introducing us to smaller, more niche suppliers that would have previously gotten lost through the old pitching process amongst the more established brands and in ensuring that Discount Drug Stores stays up to date with market trends,” Mr Goss continued.
Free to join for buyers, since its launch only a month ago, over 150 suppliers have subscribed to RANGEme to connect with grocery, pharmacy and general convenience and lifestyle retailers. For more information please visit www.discountdrugstores.com.au or https://www.rangeme.com.au.
Media Enquiries: Suzanne Ross at Graymedia on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au.
Tuesday, April 8, 2014
Hidden risks putting Australian beauty distributors and importers in danger
Many Australian beauty product distributors and importers are unaware of the significant risks their businesses face should the equipment they’re providing prove faulty, with Parmia Insurance stating they’re just as liable as the manufacturers developing them.
The award winning Queensland niche insurance broker states there is a misconception within the industry that claims can only be made against beauty product developers and not professionals supplying the equipment to salons and therapists.
Director of Parmia and the National Insurance Broker Association’s 2013 Broker of the Year, Danny Gumm stresses this is not the case and urges distributors and importers to review their insurance policies to make sure they’re adequately covered.
“Distributors are exposed to considerable risks as in Australia the regulations are that equipment importers face the same liabilities as manufacturers,” he explained. “This is despite, in many instances, distributors having no say in quality control or processes of equipment manufacturing.”
A previous Vice President of the Association of Professional Aestheticians of Australia (APAA) who has over thirty years of experience in the industry, Mr Gumm is considered an industry expert in developing strong, tailored insurance packages for all professionals operating in the beauty sector.
He says one of the biggest dangers for distributors and importers lies in ‘off-the-shelf’ packages that claim to provide protection against all potential risks and claims but in reality only provide superficial cover.
“’Off-the-shelf’ packages offer little or inadequate protection because they don’t take into consideration the unique nature of each individual business,” he said. “What may be suitable protection for a beauty salon may not be for a distributor or manufacturer. The only way to gain complete peace of mind that a business is adequately protected is to actually sit down with a broker and have all of your individual risks assessed so that you’re purchasing tailored insurance cover that meets all of your needs.”
Parmia’s insurance policies for the Australian beauty industry, which are written by world leading insurer Lloyd’s of London, are award winning. For more information, please visit www.parmiainsurance.com.au.
Media Enquiries: Suzanne Ross at Graymedia on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au.
The award winning Queensland niche insurance broker states there is a misconception within the industry that claims can only be made against beauty product developers and not professionals supplying the equipment to salons and therapists.
Director of Parmia and the National Insurance Broker Association’s 2013 Broker of the Year, Danny Gumm stresses this is not the case and urges distributors and importers to review their insurance policies to make sure they’re adequately covered.
“Distributors are exposed to considerable risks as in Australia the regulations are that equipment importers face the same liabilities as manufacturers,” he explained. “This is despite, in many instances, distributors having no say in quality control or processes of equipment manufacturing.”
A previous Vice President of the Association of Professional Aestheticians of Australia (APAA) who has over thirty years of experience in the industry, Mr Gumm is considered an industry expert in developing strong, tailored insurance packages for all professionals operating in the beauty sector.
He says one of the biggest dangers for distributors and importers lies in ‘off-the-shelf’ packages that claim to provide protection against all potential risks and claims but in reality only provide superficial cover.
“’Off-the-shelf’ packages offer little or inadequate protection because they don’t take into consideration the unique nature of each individual business,” he said. “What may be suitable protection for a beauty salon may not be for a distributor or manufacturer. The only way to gain complete peace of mind that a business is adequately protected is to actually sit down with a broker and have all of your individual risks assessed so that you’re purchasing tailored insurance cover that meets all of your needs.”
Parmia’s insurance policies for the Australian beauty industry, which are written by world leading insurer Lloyd’s of London, are award winning. For more information, please visit www.parmiainsurance.com.au.
Media Enquiries: Suzanne Ross at Graymedia on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au.
Monday, April 7, 2014
New pharmacy clinic helps parents prepare for pregnancy
In an industry first for a national pharmacy brand, Discount Drug Stores will be providing ‘Preparing for Pregnancy’ clinics in more than 100 of its stores in May to help prepare those who are thinking of starting a family.
The clinics aim to help Australians cut through the sea of information available online on falling pregnant and pregnancy in general, by providing them with the opportunity to have a one-on-one consultation with a registered nurse.
Professional Services Manager at Discount Drug Stores Casey Clark states the idea came as a result of seeing many customers being misled by common myths and misconceptions about pregnancy.
“There are so many forums and online organisations offering advice and tips on how to fall pregnant or on what to do once you are pregnant that it’s now very difficult to know what information to trust and follow,” she explained. “We want to ensure that our customers who either are, or who are looking to become pregnant, are equipped with highly credible information that they can trust.”
Discount Drug Stores’ ‘Preparing for Pregnancy’ clinics will give Australians the opportunity to discuss these myths openly and to clarify what is fact and what is fiction.
To run in over 100 Discount Drug Stores across Australia, Ms Clark states another core objective for the clinics was to make it easier for Australians to access and gain preliminary information about preparing for pregnancy.
“Many Australians, particularly those living in regional areas, can find it hard to get an appointment with a credible, local source of information for all of their pregnancy questions,” she said. “These clinics aim to resolve this by providing a convenient and easy to access touch point where parents can have all of their questions answered.”
During the clinics, the registered nurses will cover the topics of conception, how to maximise your chances of falling pregnant, advice for fathers, the best time to get pregnant, when to seek help and what to do once pregnant.
“Our nurses will provide comprehensive advice on all aspects of pregnancy,” explained Ms Clark, “but more importantly, they’ll be on hand to answer all of our customers’ questions. Starting a family is a life changing decision so we think that having a medical professional available for people to bounce their queries off of and to advise them will be invaluable.”
Ms Clark believes that providing advice for fathers will also be a strong draw card for new parents, as very few information hubs offer information to expectant dads.
“Soon to be dads play an important role during their partners’ pregnancies and we want to ensure that they are also equipped with the information they need and are given the chance to ask any questions that they may have,” she said.
The first time that a pharmacy brand has offered such a service in store, Ms Clark continues stating the ‘Preparing for Pregnancy’ clinics aim to provide Australians looking to conceive with greater opportunity to have all of their questions answered.
“Our pharmacies are already convenient avenues for Australians to purchase products to assist in their pregnancy planning,” she said. “These one day clinics are an additional opportunity for customers wanting to discuss preparing for pregnancy and are a preliminary avenue in which they can ask questions and to gain qualified advice prior to beginning their family.”
Discount Drug Stores’ ‘Preparing for Pregnancy’ clinics will cost $10 and include a 15 minute, one on one consultation with a registered nurse. Attendees will receive gifts and vouchers to the value of $15 to use to purchase products that may suit their individual pregnancy planning needs.
Bookings are essential. For more information, please visit www.discountdrugstores.com.au/health-clinics.
Media Enquiries: Suzanne Ross at Graymedia on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au.
The clinics aim to help Australians cut through the sea of information available online on falling pregnant and pregnancy in general, by providing them with the opportunity to have a one-on-one consultation with a registered nurse.
Professional Services Manager at Discount Drug Stores Casey Clark states the idea came as a result of seeing many customers being misled by common myths and misconceptions about pregnancy.
“There are so many forums and online organisations offering advice and tips on how to fall pregnant or on what to do once you are pregnant that it’s now very difficult to know what information to trust and follow,” she explained. “We want to ensure that our customers who either are, or who are looking to become pregnant, are equipped with highly credible information that they can trust.”
Discount Drug Stores’ ‘Preparing for Pregnancy’ clinics will give Australians the opportunity to discuss these myths openly and to clarify what is fact and what is fiction.
To run in over 100 Discount Drug Stores across Australia, Ms Clark states another core objective for the clinics was to make it easier for Australians to access and gain preliminary information about preparing for pregnancy.
“Many Australians, particularly those living in regional areas, can find it hard to get an appointment with a credible, local source of information for all of their pregnancy questions,” she said. “These clinics aim to resolve this by providing a convenient and easy to access touch point where parents can have all of their questions answered.”
During the clinics, the registered nurses will cover the topics of conception, how to maximise your chances of falling pregnant, advice for fathers, the best time to get pregnant, when to seek help and what to do once pregnant.
“Our nurses will provide comprehensive advice on all aspects of pregnancy,” explained Ms Clark, “but more importantly, they’ll be on hand to answer all of our customers’ questions. Starting a family is a life changing decision so we think that having a medical professional available for people to bounce their queries off of and to advise them will be invaluable.”
Ms Clark believes that providing advice for fathers will also be a strong draw card for new parents, as very few information hubs offer information to expectant dads.
“Soon to be dads play an important role during their partners’ pregnancies and we want to ensure that they are also equipped with the information they need and are given the chance to ask any questions that they may have,” she said.
The first time that a pharmacy brand has offered such a service in store, Ms Clark continues stating the ‘Preparing for Pregnancy’ clinics aim to provide Australians looking to conceive with greater opportunity to have all of their questions answered.
“Our pharmacies are already convenient avenues for Australians to purchase products to assist in their pregnancy planning,” she said. “These one day clinics are an additional opportunity for customers wanting to discuss preparing for pregnancy and are a preliminary avenue in which they can ask questions and to gain qualified advice prior to beginning their family.”
Discount Drug Stores’ ‘Preparing for Pregnancy’ clinics will cost $10 and include a 15 minute, one on one consultation with a registered nurse. Attendees will receive gifts and vouchers to the value of $15 to use to purchase products that may suit their individual pregnancy planning needs.
Bookings are essential. For more information, please visit www.discountdrugstores.com.au/health-clinics.
Media Enquiries: Suzanne Ross at Graymedia on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au.
Wednesday, March 26, 2014
Caravan and camping holidays giving families more bang for their buck
For immediate release:
More Australian families than ever before are turning to caravanning and camping as the best and most affordable holiday option as the gap between the cost of staying at a caravan park versus other styles of accommodation continues to widen.
With the current average cost for a family of four just $40 per night for a campsite, it’s little wonder that families are getting back to the great outdoors and choosing caravanning and camping as the most affordable holiday option.
Recent figures released show that caravan and campervan registrations have risen 15% over the last five years, and with camping now costing families as much as 84% less than the average hotel accommodation this figure is expected to continue to climb.
“Certainly the indications are that families are finding it tough and are looking for less expensive holiday options,” said Caravanning Queensland Operations Manager Jason Plant.
“The stress of saving up for a holiday and having to factor in all of the additional entertainment expenses can cause many families to abandon plans completely. Holidaying at a caravan park can cost less than $100 a day inclusive of food and entertainment and gives families a chance to take time out without the stress of wondering how they are going to foot the bill at the end.”
Caravanning Queensland runs the state’s official industry event, the annual Queensland Caravan, Camping and Touring Holiday Show. Now in its 46th year Mr Plant expects attendance numbers to again be strong, with the majority of stands already booked out by exhibitors, as more families turn to caravans and camping as the more economical holiday option.
“Caravanning and camping has become much more popular in recent years with young families. The largest demographic sector for caravanning and camping is by far the 30-54 year olds , because it is not only extremely affordable, but is also quite easy these days to enjoy the creature comforts of home such as comfortable beds, hot showers, and modern cooking equipment while you camp,” he said.
Natasha McIntyre, mother of two and a resident of Heathwood in Queensland, knows only too well the costs of holidaying with a young family. She has fond memories of camping as a child, and now also prefers camping as a cost effective way to holiday with her family and keep her budget in check.
“These holidays are so cost effective for us as family,” says Mrs McIntyre. “Even when I factor in accommodation costs, food for the week, fuel and anything else that might come up, the total cost of the holiday would never exceed $1,000, which is a fraction of the cost of taking the whole family to stay elsewhere for the week.”
Mr Plant explains there are caravanning and camping options for all styles and budgets, so the family can easily find a way to bond away from work, traffic and school pressures without feeling like they are ‘roughing it’.
While requiring an initial investment in camping gear, a caravan or a camper trailer, Mr Plant said the long-term returns provide families with much greater value than taking a resort holiday each year.
“For a family of four on a budget, they could purchase new camping gear for as little as $600, then factor in $400 or less for campground fees for a week, food, gas, and ice and they’ve got a great vacation without burning a hole in the hip pocket,” he explained.
“Once the equipment has been acquired, each subsequent holiday will be even more budget friendly and over the space of year the savings are well into the thousands while the family has enjoyed a real escape from the norm.”
Mrs McIntyre agrees, saying the low cost to set a family up with camping equipment would surprise most people.
“We paid $300 for our 10-man tent about 10 years ago, and even though it has been used countless times over the years it is still fine- once you’ve got it, it lasts a really long time,” she says.
The Queensland Caravan, Camping and Touring Holiday Show will be held at the Brisbane Showgrounds in June 2014 and will provide an opportunity for families to find out more information about caravanning, camping, what to do, where to go and the latest in products and equipment. To find out more please visit www.caravanqld.com.au
Media enquiries, please contact Kate Shuttleworth on 0418 723 841 or 07 3250 9400 or respond to this email.
About Caravanning Queensland
Caravanning Queensland is the peak industry body for caravan dealers, manufacturers, camping suppliers, service providers and caravan park operators through two related associations. These are the Caravan Trade & Industries Association of Queensland and the Caravan Parks Association of Queensland Inc.
The Queensland Caravan, Camping and Touring Holiday Show is the official industry event for Queensland, and has been running for 46 years. It attracts over 300 exhibitors and up to 70,000 visitors each year. Featuring the latest products and services the caravanning and camping industry has to offer, including information on tourism and holiday destinations all around Australia, this year’s event will be on June 4-10 at the Brisbane Showgrounds.
More Australian families than ever before are turning to caravanning and camping as the best and most affordable holiday option as the gap between the cost of staying at a caravan park versus other styles of accommodation continues to widen.
With the current average cost for a family of four just $40 per night for a campsite, it’s little wonder that families are getting back to the great outdoors and choosing caravanning and camping as the most affordable holiday option.
Recent figures released show that caravan and campervan registrations have risen 15% over the last five years, and with camping now costing families as much as 84% less than the average hotel accommodation this figure is expected to continue to climb.
“Certainly the indications are that families are finding it tough and are looking for less expensive holiday options,” said Caravanning Queensland Operations Manager Jason Plant.
“The stress of saving up for a holiday and having to factor in all of the additional entertainment expenses can cause many families to abandon plans completely. Holidaying at a caravan park can cost less than $100 a day inclusive of food and entertainment and gives families a chance to take time out without the stress of wondering how they are going to foot the bill at the end.”
Caravanning Queensland runs the state’s official industry event, the annual Queensland Caravan, Camping and Touring Holiday Show. Now in its 46th year Mr Plant expects attendance numbers to again be strong, with the majority of stands already booked out by exhibitors, as more families turn to caravans and camping as the more economical holiday option.
“Caravanning and camping has become much more popular in recent years with young families. The largest demographic sector for caravanning and camping is by far the 30-54 year olds , because it is not only extremely affordable, but is also quite easy these days to enjoy the creature comforts of home such as comfortable beds, hot showers, and modern cooking equipment while you camp,” he said.
Natasha McIntyre, mother of two and a resident of Heathwood in Queensland, knows only too well the costs of holidaying with a young family. She has fond memories of camping as a child, and now also prefers camping as a cost effective way to holiday with her family and keep her budget in check.
“These holidays are so cost effective for us as family,” says Mrs McIntyre. “Even when I factor in accommodation costs, food for the week, fuel and anything else that might come up, the total cost of the holiday would never exceed $1,000, which is a fraction of the cost of taking the whole family to stay elsewhere for the week.”
Mr Plant explains there are caravanning and camping options for all styles and budgets, so the family can easily find a way to bond away from work, traffic and school pressures without feeling like they are ‘roughing it’.
While requiring an initial investment in camping gear, a caravan or a camper trailer, Mr Plant said the long-term returns provide families with much greater value than taking a resort holiday each year.
“For a family of four on a budget, they could purchase new camping gear for as little as $600, then factor in $400 or less for campground fees for a week, food, gas, and ice and they’ve got a great vacation without burning a hole in the hip pocket,” he explained.
“Once the equipment has been acquired, each subsequent holiday will be even more budget friendly and over the space of year the savings are well into the thousands while the family has enjoyed a real escape from the norm.”
Mrs McIntyre agrees, saying the low cost to set a family up with camping equipment would surprise most people.
“We paid $300 for our 10-man tent about 10 years ago, and even though it has been used countless times over the years it is still fine- once you’ve got it, it lasts a really long time,” she says.
The Queensland Caravan, Camping and Touring Holiday Show will be held at the Brisbane Showgrounds in June 2014 and will provide an opportunity for families to find out more information about caravanning, camping, what to do, where to go and the latest in products and equipment. To find out more please visit www.caravanqld.com.au
Media enquiries, please contact Kate Shuttleworth on 0418 723 841 or 07 3250 9400 or respond to this email.
About Caravanning Queensland
Caravanning Queensland is the peak industry body for caravan dealers, manufacturers, camping suppliers, service providers and caravan park operators through two related associations. These are the Caravan Trade & Industries Association of Queensland and the Caravan Parks Association of Queensland Inc.
The Queensland Caravan, Camping and Touring Holiday Show is the official industry event for Queensland, and has been running for 46 years. It attracts over 300 exhibitors and up to 70,000 visitors each year. Featuring the latest products and services the caravanning and camping industry has to offer, including information on tourism and holiday destinations all around Australia, this year’s event will be on June 4-10 at the Brisbane Showgrounds.
Tuesday, March 4, 2014
Insurer embraces advances in beauty treatments but urges Australians to approach them with caution
Australians no longer need to pay a fortune for some plastic surgery procedures, with qualified and experienced beauticians today able to perform complex cosmetic treatments such as laser hair removal and chemical peels at a fraction of the cost.
However, while these advancements are helping Australians to stay young and beautiful for longer, Queensland insurance broker Parmia Insurance warns they also present higher risks for both therapists and their clients.
Responding to the latest blood doping beauty trend, where a person’s blood is removed, infused with vitamins and then put back in, Director of Parmia Danny Gumm states these procedures have a far greater chance of resulting in injury if performed by inexperienced or unqualified therapists.
“I’m not saying don’t try them or perform them,” he said. “I just urge both parties to make sure they’ve done their research and to ensure that they’re properly qualified and experienced in the procedure being performed. It is the only way to minimise the possibility of something going wrong.”
Mr Gumm continues stating that treatments such as beauty blood doping, which has been made popular by celebrities such as Katy Perry and Madonna, require extensive training and should never be offered at a standard beauty salon.
“I would say that Australians need to be wary if their local salon is offering blood doping without any sign that they’ve undergone additional training and have appropriate experience,” he said. “They need to be incredibly diligent in their research and make sure they’ve had a comprehensive consultation with the therapist before having the treatment.”
The firm, which has over 30 years of experience in developing insurance and risk management policies for the beauty industry, says the onus is on the client to check that the salon they’re visiting has the proper credentials.
“Australians need to thoroughly check their salon’s qualifications before undergoing any procedure but particularly so if it requires needles, lasers or other such medical equipment because the risks of injury are far higher,” Mr Gumm said. “You could suffer poisoning or permanent scarring should you undergo a procedure at an unqualified salon.”
While clients are at greater risk of injury from advances in beauty therapy, so too are the professionals performing the procedures, with Mr Gumm stating their livelihoods could be ruined should something go wrong.
“If permanent injury is caused as a result of these new procedures then beauty therapists without comprehensive cover could find themselves paying millions of dollars in damages,” he explained, “and if they’re a small, independent salon then this could result in a loss that they’re unable to recover from.”
Mr Gumm continues stating that therapists considering offering complex beauty treatments should ensure they have tailored protection first.
“Therapists looking to perform these procedures need to work together with insurers to develop a risk analysis that identifies their concerns,” he said. “They can’t just purchase an ‘off-the-shelf’ package because it will never address their individual requirements and will most likely leave them exposed to significant risks.”
Established in Queensland in 2002, Parmia has quickly made a name for itself through its work in the Australian beauty industry and for its unique approach to developing policies, with each package carefully tailored to suit its clients’ needs.
The firm is award winning, with Mr Gumm named the National Insurance Broker Association’s 2013 Broker of the Year. For more information, please visit www.parmiainsurance.com.au.
Media Enquiries: Suzanne Ross at Graymedia on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au.
However, while these advancements are helping Australians to stay young and beautiful for longer, Queensland insurance broker Parmia Insurance warns they also present higher risks for both therapists and their clients.
Responding to the latest blood doping beauty trend, where a person’s blood is removed, infused with vitamins and then put back in, Director of Parmia Danny Gumm states these procedures have a far greater chance of resulting in injury if performed by inexperienced or unqualified therapists.
“I’m not saying don’t try them or perform them,” he said. “I just urge both parties to make sure they’ve done their research and to ensure that they’re properly qualified and experienced in the procedure being performed. It is the only way to minimise the possibility of something going wrong.”
Mr Gumm continues stating that treatments such as beauty blood doping, which has been made popular by celebrities such as Katy Perry and Madonna, require extensive training and should never be offered at a standard beauty salon.
“I would say that Australians need to be wary if their local salon is offering blood doping without any sign that they’ve undergone additional training and have appropriate experience,” he said. “They need to be incredibly diligent in their research and make sure they’ve had a comprehensive consultation with the therapist before having the treatment.”
The firm, which has over 30 years of experience in developing insurance and risk management policies for the beauty industry, says the onus is on the client to check that the salon they’re visiting has the proper credentials.
“Australians need to thoroughly check their salon’s qualifications before undergoing any procedure but particularly so if it requires needles, lasers or other such medical equipment because the risks of injury are far higher,” Mr Gumm said. “You could suffer poisoning or permanent scarring should you undergo a procedure at an unqualified salon.”
While clients are at greater risk of injury from advances in beauty therapy, so too are the professionals performing the procedures, with Mr Gumm stating their livelihoods could be ruined should something go wrong.
“If permanent injury is caused as a result of these new procedures then beauty therapists without comprehensive cover could find themselves paying millions of dollars in damages,” he explained, “and if they’re a small, independent salon then this could result in a loss that they’re unable to recover from.”
Mr Gumm continues stating that therapists considering offering complex beauty treatments should ensure they have tailored protection first.
“Therapists looking to perform these procedures need to work together with insurers to develop a risk analysis that identifies their concerns,” he said. “They can’t just purchase an ‘off-the-shelf’ package because it will never address their individual requirements and will most likely leave them exposed to significant risks.”
Established in Queensland in 2002, Parmia has quickly made a name for itself through its work in the Australian beauty industry and for its unique approach to developing policies, with each package carefully tailored to suit its clients’ needs.
The firm is award winning, with Mr Gumm named the National Insurance Broker Association’s 2013 Broker of the Year. For more information, please visit www.parmiainsurance.com.au.
Media Enquiries: Suzanne Ross at Graymedia on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au.
Pharmacy brand helps Australians to arm themselves against the flu
Looking to ensure more Australians receive the influenza vaccine in time for the winter flu season, community pharmacy brand Discount Drug Stores is holding over 100 flu vaccination clinics in the majority of its stores from March through to May.
Following the pharmacy brand’s 2013 campaign, which helped to protect thousands of Australians against influenza, Discount Drug Stores is hoping to encourage more Australians to arm themselves against the serious virus.
Professional Services Manager at Discount Drug Stores, Casey Clark states the clinics are specifically designed for busy, working Australians who are too time poor to get to the GP for a vaccination against the flu.
“Due to time or the belief that they won’t come down with the illness, they may not be as proactive about protecting themselves against influenza as they should be,” she said. “We understand that people are often busy, which is why we’ve tried to make it as easy as possible for Australians to protect themselves against the flu season.
“The vaccination consultation only takes 5 minutes,” Ms Clark continued. “It doesn’t require a prescription and most of our stores are conveniently located meaning people can quickly visit us on their lunch break or between errands to get immunised.”
According to the Australian Government’s Department of Health, 12% of influenza cases in 2013 resulted in sufferers having to be admitted to hospital.
Known to strike down healthy Australians, leaving them bed ridden for weeks, Ms Clark hopes more Australians will take preventative action against the flu that’s symptoms include severe exhaustion, body aches and nausea.
“It only requires about twenty minutes of your day, compared to a fortnight of being incapacitated if you come down with the virus,” she said. “Ultimately, it’s about prioritising your health so that you or your loved ones don’t get struck down by preventable illnesses like the flu.”
Ms Clark continues stating it is just as important for young adults to get vaccinated as it is for children and the elderly as it ensures they’re not putting their loved ones at risk.
“The biggest issue is that people in this group forget that they could transfer it to a loved one who can suffer severely,” she explained. “The influenza virus is very contagious and can easily be spread to co-workers, family and friends. Getting vaccinated is the best way to ensure that you’re not only protecting your health but those of your family and friends as well.”
The flu vaccination campaign is just one of many services Discount Drug Stores provides to its customers, with the brand also offering medication management, and annual hearing and bone density testing clinics to name but a few.
Discount Drug Stores flu vaccination clinics will run from March to May. All vaccinations will be administered by a qualified immunisation nurse and require patients to undergo a 5 minute consultation, followed by a 15 minute observation period. Bookings are essential. For more information, please visit www.discountdrugstores.com.au.
Media Enquiries: Suzanne Ross at Graymedia on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au.
Following the pharmacy brand’s 2013 campaign, which helped to protect thousands of Australians against influenza, Discount Drug Stores is hoping to encourage more Australians to arm themselves against the serious virus.
Professional Services Manager at Discount Drug Stores, Casey Clark states the clinics are specifically designed for busy, working Australians who are too time poor to get to the GP for a vaccination against the flu.
“Due to time or the belief that they won’t come down with the illness, they may not be as proactive about protecting themselves against influenza as they should be,” she said. “We understand that people are often busy, which is why we’ve tried to make it as easy as possible for Australians to protect themselves against the flu season.
“The vaccination consultation only takes 5 minutes,” Ms Clark continued. “It doesn’t require a prescription and most of our stores are conveniently located meaning people can quickly visit us on their lunch break or between errands to get immunised.”
According to the Australian Government’s Department of Health, 12% of influenza cases in 2013 resulted in sufferers having to be admitted to hospital.
Known to strike down healthy Australians, leaving them bed ridden for weeks, Ms Clark hopes more Australians will take preventative action against the flu that’s symptoms include severe exhaustion, body aches and nausea.
“It only requires about twenty minutes of your day, compared to a fortnight of being incapacitated if you come down with the virus,” she said. “Ultimately, it’s about prioritising your health so that you or your loved ones don’t get struck down by preventable illnesses like the flu.”
Ms Clark continues stating it is just as important for young adults to get vaccinated as it is for children and the elderly as it ensures they’re not putting their loved ones at risk.
“The biggest issue is that people in this group forget that they could transfer it to a loved one who can suffer severely,” she explained. “The influenza virus is very contagious and can easily be spread to co-workers, family and friends. Getting vaccinated is the best way to ensure that you’re not only protecting your health but those of your family and friends as well.”
The flu vaccination campaign is just one of many services Discount Drug Stores provides to its customers, with the brand also offering medication management, and annual hearing and bone density testing clinics to name but a few.
Discount Drug Stores flu vaccination clinics will run from March to May. All vaccinations will be administered by a qualified immunisation nurse and require patients to undergo a 5 minute consultation, followed by a 15 minute observation period. Bookings are essential. For more information, please visit www.discountdrugstores.com.au.
Media Enquiries: Suzanne Ross at Graymedia on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au.
Wednesday, February 12, 2014
Insurance broker’s risky move to protect tattoo practitioners pays off
Parmia Insurance’s decision to take on the nation’s challenging tattoo and body piercing sector has proven incredibly worthwhile, with hundreds of professionals taking advantage of the firm’s unique policies since their launch last November.
One of the only brokers in Australia to provide cover for the tattoo industry, Parmia specifically designed its policies to help protect the many upstanding tattoo and body piercing professionals who were being negatively impacted by the governments’ anti bikie campaign.
Director of Parmia and the National Insurance Broker Association’s 2013 Broker of the Year, Danny Gumm states that while he knew the move would be controversial, he felt that those working in the industry should be entitled to comprehensive protection.
“There was reluctance within our industry to develop policies for tattoo and body piercing artists because of the high risks involved,” he said. “As a result, many professionals in the industry had no way of protecting their businesses, which we felt wasn’t fair. We didn’t feel it was right to punish the significant portion of the tattoo and body piercing sector that is honestly going about their daily business and just trying to do their job.”
Written by Lloyd’s of London, Parmia has developed a tailored Industrial Special Risks Policy that provides property cover for tattoo studios, as well as property owners with tattoo studio occupancies.
This, in addition to the firm’s Medical Malpractice, Public and Products Liability Policy is ensuring that professionals in all areas of the tattoo and body piercing industry have maximum protection and peace of mind.
“We pride ourselves on not shying away from industries that are complex or that have a number of challenges,” Mr Gumm explained. “We’re proud of what we’ve developed for the tattoo sector and to be working together with professionals in this industry to develop a risk analysis that identifies their concerns and that addresses their insurance requirements.”
In just the few short months since its launch, Parmia has experienced an influx of calls from tattoo and body piercing professionals seeking to take out cover with the firm.
“We’ve been overwhelmed with the response we’ve had and not just in terms of the number of people taking out the policies but with their attitude when they call us,” he said. “They’re just so thankful that someone is out there supporting them and willing to help.”
However while Parmia’s policies are a significant breakthrough for the tattoo industry, cover is subject to strict criteria with unacceptable risks including criminal conviction and new businesses.
“We have entered into this market knowing full well the risks,” explained Mr Gumm. “Obviously while we want to help businesses in the tattoo and body piercing industry gain cover, we also need to ensure that each applicant meets the criteria prior to evaluating their application for insurance.”
Established in Queensland in 2002, Parmia has quickly made a name for itself through its award winning work in the Australian beauty industry and for its unique approach to developing policies, with each package carefully tailored to suit its clients’ needs.
“Every industry we assist has its own unique risks that have to be addressed so we treat it as a priority to always meet personally with our clients to resolve any issues they face and to minimise the exposures of their industry,” Mr Gumm said.
For more information on Parmia or its policies for the tattoo and body piercing industry, please visit www.parmiainsurance.com.au.
Media Enquiries: Suzanne Ross at Graymedia on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au.
One of the only brokers in Australia to provide cover for the tattoo industry, Parmia specifically designed its policies to help protect the many upstanding tattoo and body piercing professionals who were being negatively impacted by the governments’ anti bikie campaign.
Director of Parmia and the National Insurance Broker Association’s 2013 Broker of the Year, Danny Gumm states that while he knew the move would be controversial, he felt that those working in the industry should be entitled to comprehensive protection.
“There was reluctance within our industry to develop policies for tattoo and body piercing artists because of the high risks involved,” he said. “As a result, many professionals in the industry had no way of protecting their businesses, which we felt wasn’t fair. We didn’t feel it was right to punish the significant portion of the tattoo and body piercing sector that is honestly going about their daily business and just trying to do their job.”
Written by Lloyd’s of London, Parmia has developed a tailored Industrial Special Risks Policy that provides property cover for tattoo studios, as well as property owners with tattoo studio occupancies.
This, in addition to the firm’s Medical Malpractice, Public and Products Liability Policy is ensuring that professionals in all areas of the tattoo and body piercing industry have maximum protection and peace of mind.
“We pride ourselves on not shying away from industries that are complex or that have a number of challenges,” Mr Gumm explained. “We’re proud of what we’ve developed for the tattoo sector and to be working together with professionals in this industry to develop a risk analysis that identifies their concerns and that addresses their insurance requirements.”
In just the few short months since its launch, Parmia has experienced an influx of calls from tattoo and body piercing professionals seeking to take out cover with the firm.
“We’ve been overwhelmed with the response we’ve had and not just in terms of the number of people taking out the policies but with their attitude when they call us,” he said. “They’re just so thankful that someone is out there supporting them and willing to help.”
However while Parmia’s policies are a significant breakthrough for the tattoo industry, cover is subject to strict criteria with unacceptable risks including criminal conviction and new businesses.
“We have entered into this market knowing full well the risks,” explained Mr Gumm. “Obviously while we want to help businesses in the tattoo and body piercing industry gain cover, we also need to ensure that each applicant meets the criteria prior to evaluating their application for insurance.”
Established in Queensland in 2002, Parmia has quickly made a name for itself through its award winning work in the Australian beauty industry and for its unique approach to developing policies, with each package carefully tailored to suit its clients’ needs.
“Every industry we assist has its own unique risks that have to be addressed so we treat it as a priority to always meet personally with our clients to resolve any issues they face and to minimise the exposures of their industry,” Mr Gumm said.
For more information on Parmia or its policies for the tattoo and body piercing industry, please visit www.parmiainsurance.com.au.
Media Enquiries: Suzanne Ross at Graymedia on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au.
Tuesday, February 4, 2014
New pharmacy service helps Australians to achieve better health outcomes
Half of the Australian population do not take their medication as prescribed, which has resulted in a high number of avoidable hospital admissions that are estimated to cost the economy approximately $1 million a year.
Looking to increase health outcomes for their customers, community pharmacy brand Discount Drug Stores is implementing a new, free medication management program specifically designed to assist the 41% of Australians who stop taking their medication before they’re meant to.
With medication related illnesses currently causing approximately 140,000 hospital admissions per year, Professional Services Manager at Discount Drug Stores Casey Clark states she hopes the new service will educate customers on the risks of not following prescriptions properly.
“We developed this program to better inform and advise our customers on how to best take their medication and the side effects of not following the prescription, as well as to reassure them that the medication is safe and effective when taken properly,” she said. “It’s also about helping to make the whole process of filling and refilling prescriptions easier for them so that they can achieve better health outcomes.”
The new service, which allows customers or their nominated carers to receive prescription reminders via SMS, voicemail or email, is geared towards improving their health and wellbeing by ensuring they adhere to their medication.
“The biggest reasons for medication related illnesses stems from medication mismanagement,” Ms Clark explained. “Either they forget, have difficulty understanding how to take it, don’t take it at all because they’re worried about side effects or they self-medicate instead of following their doctor and pharmacist’s advice.”
This is what Discount Drug Stores’ medication management program aims to change by providing additional information resources and consultation time with its pharmacists that promote the importance of following prescriptions properly.
“People don’t realise how significantly their health can be affected by not properly following their prescription,” Ms Clark said. “This is particularly the case for those on preventative medicines for conditions like asthma, where while they might not necessarily notice any difference from missing a dose, it actually has a long-term negative effect.”
Ms Clark continues, stating the programme also aims to raise awareness of the many different free health services pharmacies and pharmacists can offer to customers to improve their wellbeing.
“There’s a common misconception that pharmacists just fill prescriptions,” she explained. “Pharmacies and pharmacists are a great way for Australians to gain free, highly qualified medical and health advice and we want to encourage our customers to take advantage of this.”
In addition to issuing reminders, Discount Drug Stores’ medication program also enables customers to call their local pharmacy ahead of time so that pharmacists can prepare and have their prescriptions ready in advance.
This in conjunction with the community pharmacy brand’s dose administration aids and medication review services is working to ensure customers are equipped with the knowledge required to live healthier lifestyles.
“We hope our customers take advantage of our medication management programme,” said Ms Clark. “It will ensure they have a better understanding of how to manage their health and will also make this process easier for them.”
Discount Drug Stores’ medication management programme is available to all Australians, with people also able to nominate a carer to receive script notifications for them. For more information, please visit www.discountdrugstores.com.au.
Media Enquiries: Suzanne Ross at Graymedia on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au.
Looking to increase health outcomes for their customers, community pharmacy brand Discount Drug Stores is implementing a new, free medication management program specifically designed to assist the 41% of Australians who stop taking their medication before they’re meant to.
With medication related illnesses currently causing approximately 140,000 hospital admissions per year, Professional Services Manager at Discount Drug Stores Casey Clark states she hopes the new service will educate customers on the risks of not following prescriptions properly.
“We developed this program to better inform and advise our customers on how to best take their medication and the side effects of not following the prescription, as well as to reassure them that the medication is safe and effective when taken properly,” she said. “It’s also about helping to make the whole process of filling and refilling prescriptions easier for them so that they can achieve better health outcomes.”
The new service, which allows customers or their nominated carers to receive prescription reminders via SMS, voicemail or email, is geared towards improving their health and wellbeing by ensuring they adhere to their medication.
“The biggest reasons for medication related illnesses stems from medication mismanagement,” Ms Clark explained. “Either they forget, have difficulty understanding how to take it, don’t take it at all because they’re worried about side effects or they self-medicate instead of following their doctor and pharmacist’s advice.”
This is what Discount Drug Stores’ medication management program aims to change by providing additional information resources and consultation time with its pharmacists that promote the importance of following prescriptions properly.
“People don’t realise how significantly their health can be affected by not properly following their prescription,” Ms Clark said. “This is particularly the case for those on preventative medicines for conditions like asthma, where while they might not necessarily notice any difference from missing a dose, it actually has a long-term negative effect.”
Ms Clark continues, stating the programme also aims to raise awareness of the many different free health services pharmacies and pharmacists can offer to customers to improve their wellbeing.
“There’s a common misconception that pharmacists just fill prescriptions,” she explained. “Pharmacies and pharmacists are a great way for Australians to gain free, highly qualified medical and health advice and we want to encourage our customers to take advantage of this.”
In addition to issuing reminders, Discount Drug Stores’ medication program also enables customers to call their local pharmacy ahead of time so that pharmacists can prepare and have their prescriptions ready in advance.
This in conjunction with the community pharmacy brand’s dose administration aids and medication review services is working to ensure customers are equipped with the knowledge required to live healthier lifestyles.
“We hope our customers take advantage of our medication management programme,” said Ms Clark. “It will ensure they have a better understanding of how to manage their health and will also make this process easier for them.”
Discount Drug Stores’ medication management programme is available to all Australians, with people also able to nominate a carer to receive script notifications for them. For more information, please visit www.discountdrugstores.com.au.
Media Enquiries: Suzanne Ross at Graymedia on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au.
Monday, January 20, 2014
Free pharmacy health clinic encourages Australians to regularly test their hearing
To help combat hearing loss, a condition that is on the rise in Australia with experts predicting one in every four Australians to be affected by 2050, Australian pharmacy brand Discount Drug Stores, together with Australian Hearing, is running free hearing clinics in over 100 of its stores from January to March.
With hearing loss most common amongst the elderly with one in two people aged over 60 suffering from the condition, Discount Drug Stores is aiming to raise awareness of the problem and the need for Australians to have their hearing regularly tested.
Professional Services Manager at Discount Drug Stores Casey Clark states that due to hearing loss occurring gradually, many Australians are often unaware that there is an issue until the condition has progressed to affecting their quality of life.
“Regular testing is vital to ensuring hearing problems are picked up and treated before permanent damage is done,” she said. “If caught early, those affected may only need to make small lifestyle changes in order to prevent further loss, such as turning down their iPod, wearing ear plugs at concerts or implementing additional safety practices in industrial work environments. However, if people wait until significant damage has occurred then often only the more invasive and expensive treatment options are available such as requiring a hearing aid or a cochlear implant.”
The social and psychological impacts of severe hearing loss can also be significant, with sufferers experiencing depression, social isolation, impaired memory and poor job performance as a result of not being able to hear properly.
Ms Clark states that these factors combined with the physical impairment are why it’s so important that Australians have their hearing tested regularly.
“It’s predicted that people take on average seven years to get their hearing tested and even then, it is because they’re being prompted by their friends or family to take action,” she explained. “Often by the time they’ve sought help, their condition has already significantly impacted their quality of life. This is what our clinics aim to address by giving customers a greater understanding of hearing loss and of the physical, social and psychological side effects that come from waiting too long to get tested.”
Ms Clark continues stating family intervention is still imperative though in getting sufferers to seek help and encourages family members to bring their loved ones who may have a hearing loss, to the clinics.
“Family members are uniquely positioned to notice the signs that their loved one might be struggling with a hearing impairment,” she said. “It’s important that if they are noticing any of the symptoms that they speak up and encourage them to seek help.”
During the clinics customers will be able to discuss their hearing concerns with an Australian Hearing Health Promotions Officer and will have their hearing tested using an audiometer, which involves participants listening for sounds while wearing light-weight headphones.
The Hearing Health Promotions Officer will then explain the outcome of the test and advise customers on what to do next or refer them to seek further medical advice if required.
Customers can also visit their local Discount Drug Store throughout the year to get general advice on ear care or to discuss their concerns regarding their hearing such as impairments caused by wax blockages and infections.
With Australia’s ageing population meaning hearing loss only looks to rise over the next decade, Ms Clark says she hopes the free clinics encourage more Australians to seek help early.
“Hearing loss is unfortunately not being taken as seriously as it should be,” she said. “We want to change this and to promote the importance of Australians getting a hearing test as regularly as they go to the dentist or visit the optometrist.”
For more information on Discount Drug Stores’ free hearing clinics, please visit www.discountdrugstores.com.au.
Media Enquiries: Suzanne Ross at Graymedia on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au.
With hearing loss most common amongst the elderly with one in two people aged over 60 suffering from the condition, Discount Drug Stores is aiming to raise awareness of the problem and the need for Australians to have their hearing regularly tested.
Professional Services Manager at Discount Drug Stores Casey Clark states that due to hearing loss occurring gradually, many Australians are often unaware that there is an issue until the condition has progressed to affecting their quality of life.
“Regular testing is vital to ensuring hearing problems are picked up and treated before permanent damage is done,” she said. “If caught early, those affected may only need to make small lifestyle changes in order to prevent further loss, such as turning down their iPod, wearing ear plugs at concerts or implementing additional safety practices in industrial work environments. However, if people wait until significant damage has occurred then often only the more invasive and expensive treatment options are available such as requiring a hearing aid or a cochlear implant.”
The social and psychological impacts of severe hearing loss can also be significant, with sufferers experiencing depression, social isolation, impaired memory and poor job performance as a result of not being able to hear properly.
Ms Clark states that these factors combined with the physical impairment are why it’s so important that Australians have their hearing tested regularly.
“It’s predicted that people take on average seven years to get their hearing tested and even then, it is because they’re being prompted by their friends or family to take action,” she explained. “Often by the time they’ve sought help, their condition has already significantly impacted their quality of life. This is what our clinics aim to address by giving customers a greater understanding of hearing loss and of the physical, social and psychological side effects that come from waiting too long to get tested.”
Ms Clark continues stating family intervention is still imperative though in getting sufferers to seek help and encourages family members to bring their loved ones who may have a hearing loss, to the clinics.
“Family members are uniquely positioned to notice the signs that their loved one might be struggling with a hearing impairment,” she said. “It’s important that if they are noticing any of the symptoms that they speak up and encourage them to seek help.”
During the clinics customers will be able to discuss their hearing concerns with an Australian Hearing Health Promotions Officer and will have their hearing tested using an audiometer, which involves participants listening for sounds while wearing light-weight headphones.
The Hearing Health Promotions Officer will then explain the outcome of the test and advise customers on what to do next or refer them to seek further medical advice if required.
Customers can also visit their local Discount Drug Store throughout the year to get general advice on ear care or to discuss their concerns regarding their hearing such as impairments caused by wax blockages and infections.
With Australia’s ageing population meaning hearing loss only looks to rise over the next decade, Ms Clark says she hopes the free clinics encourage more Australians to seek help early.
“Hearing loss is unfortunately not being taken as seriously as it should be,” she said. “We want to change this and to promote the importance of Australians getting a hearing test as regularly as they go to the dentist or visit the optometrist.”
For more information on Discount Drug Stores’ free hearing clinics, please visit www.discountdrugstores.com.au.
Media Enquiries: Suzanne Ross at Graymedia on 07 3250 9406, 0488 441 589 or email s.ross@graymedia.com.au.
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