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.
Thursday, May 1, 2014
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.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)