Network of Networks

A hard road to riches - Tony Featherstone, BRW

2006-02-17T10:34:00.000+11:00

This is a great article on the basics of getting up and running in business in Australia...Sue Ellson
A hard road to riches
Getting a fast-growing business up and running is no easy job.

By Tony Featherstone
BRW. 16 February 2006

Daydreaming about starting your own business? This week's BRW Upstarts report features 75 fast-growing start-up companies, some with revenue well over $1 million after two years. But before you fall for the glamour of entrepreneurship and quit your job, here are 25 basic ideas that you should think about:

1. Are you an entrepreneur? If you bring your lunch to work and sit at your desk all day, forget it. Entrepreneurs are outgoing. They excel at selling a story to customers and staff, and cold calling.

2. Have a fall-back position. There are lots of anecdotes about entrepreneurs livin g on baked beans as they chase their dream. What you do not hear about are the failed entrepreneurs still living on baked beans, courtesy of the Salvation Army.

3. Why are you doing this? Hate the boss? Sick of corporate life? The only reason to start a fast-growth company is a strong belief that you can satisfy an unmet demand.

4. Do you enjoy your own company? Would you miss the social interaction of working for a big company? Entrepreneurship can be glamorous, but at times lonely and isolating.

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5. Do you have the mental constitution? If you break out in a rash every time you are stressed, entrepreneurship is not for you. Start-up companies are high-risk and full of anxious moments.

6. Are you disciplined? Can you work long hours, day in, day out, without supervision? Entrepreneurs need to be self-starters with great stamina.

7. Can you multi-task? People often overlook the resources in big companies. Can you be accountant, marketer, salesperson, human-resources manager and chief executive all at once?

8. Are you focused? Too many entrepreneurs get sucked into the next big deal and let their core business suffer because they are distracted.

9. Straddle full-time work and your own business. If your business idea competes with your employer, do the right thing and leave. If not, be open with your employer if you can. Take leave or a sabbatical to plan your venture.

10. Have one partner stay in full-time work. Why both take the risk? Often it makes more sense for one partner to keep a secure, full-time job while the other starts a business, and joins later.

11. Lift your profile before you quit. Become more visible within your organisation and outside it. Go to more trade conferences, get your name in the papers, and build your personal brand.

12. Find a mentor. Ask somebody who has built a successful company what their biggest mistakes were and what they would have done differently.

13. Tap networks. Tell everybody about your business before you start. Get friends, family and former colleagues to tell their contacts about you.

14. Plan the business. Do a 10-page, one-year business plan, and a 10-page, five-year business plan that forces you to think about where your customers are heading. Be flexible.

15. Do scenario planning. Model three basic scenarios: the business does 20% worse than you expect; it meets your expectations; or it does 20% better. How would you cope with each situation?

16. Get proper advice. Run your ideas and business plans past an accountant who specialises in helping start-up companies. Put the right structure in place to minimise tax and protect assets.

17. Manage risks. Put some basic systems in place to safeguard against employees stealing money, client lists, intellectual property and the like before you start.

18. Systematise the business. Most entrepreneurs rightly focus on winning business to stay afloat, only to find their enterprise is a mess when the work arrives. Set up basic management reporting systems before you start.

19. Record everything. It sounds basic, but keep great records. Poor record-keeping wastes time, loses money, maximises tax, makes your business harder to sell and erodes its value.

20. Plan the exit before you enter. Your first question should be: who will buy my business? You may never sell, but thinking about who would buy your business, and why, is great discipline.

21. Think about the sale multiple. How can you sell your business for four times earnings instead of two? Proper records, stable management, intellectual property, a clear plan ... the list goes on.

22. Get proper finance. Some entrepreneurs boast about living on their credit cards as they pursue their dream. Question your business model if the only source of finance comes with 20% interest and a $5000 limit.

23. Treat equity like gold. Fifty per cent of nothing is nothing, right? So why not give lots of equity away at the start if it means getting finance or attracting staff. If you do not value your equity, you probably do not have enough belief in your idea.

24. Be frugal. Watch every cent. Having a clear business plan safeguards against wasting money on unnecessary expenses. Remember that you will probably need to earn at least $3 for every dollar you spend.

25. Take a deep breath. You'll love it!

Network of Networks Survey

2005-12-05T16:25:00.000+11:00

Network of Networks Survey

Hello
As per our previous correspondence in 2004 and 2005, we are pleased to announce that a 'Network of Networks' based in Melbourne, Victoria will be launched in March 2006. A brief background statement is provided below and more details can be found on the Network of Networks Blog http://networkofnetworks.blogspot.com/ and the Network of Networks Yahoo Group http://groups.yahoo.com/group/networkofnetworks/

We would like you to answer the following questions by reply email by Friday 9 December 2005. All responses will be collected and summarised anonymously.

1. What would you like from a Network of Networks?

2. How can a Network of Networks help you or your organisation?

3. Do you have any other suggestions?
(involvement, sponsorship, international models, launch etc)

4. Would you like to remain on the mailing list?

Thank you...we look forward to hearing from you!

Sue Ellson, Bridgette Engeler-Newbury, Peter Tunjic, Darren Saffin and Kathie Thomas
Co-Founders
Network of Networks
http://networkofnetworks.blogspot.com
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/networkofnetworks/
post PO Box 2918, Cheltenham, Victoria 3192, Australia
email networkofnetworks at newcomersnetwork dot com

sueellson at newcomersnetwork dot com 9812 7288 or 0402 243 271
bridgette at incognitosum dot com 0418 588 845
petertunjic at thoughtpost dot com dot au 0407 762 212
president at mjcc dot org dot au 0411 089 209
kathie at asecretary dot com dot au 9585 5780

On 23 July 2004, Sue Ellson - Founder of Newcomers Network (initiator of the concept), Peter Tunjic - Founder of the Melbourne Fast Company Reader's Group, Horace Lim - Founder of the First Friday Group, Mark Pearce - Media Advisor for the State Government's Invest Victoria, and Michael Anderson - from Business Melbourne at the City of Melbourne, gathered to discuss how networks might be able to work together more closely.

They agreed to host a formal discussion on 13 October 2004 as part of the City of Melbourne's Melbourne Business Week. The full details of this event can be seen online at http://www.newcomersnetwork.com/mel/events/041013.php. This first gathering stimulated a lot of interest - and some confusion, as many of the guests assumed it was just a big 'networking festival' rather than a discussion on how we could work together in the future.

A Network of Networks Yahoo Group was established http://groups.yahoo.com/group/networkofnetworks/ and it was quite active in the first few days. However, without someone championing the cause, interest quickly dissipated.

On 13 July 2005, Sue Ellson called together a meeting to discuss the project further. The following people attended:

Sue Ellson, Founder, Newcomers Network sueellson at newcomersnetwork.com
Horace Lim, Convenor, First Friday Group, h.lim at pobox.com
Bridgette Engeler-Newbury, Convenor, Connect Network, bridgette at incognitosum.com
Jay Haugh, Manager Business Migration, Department for Victorian Communities, jay.haugh at dvc.vic.gov.au
Saxon Mitchell, Event Director, ICE Events Pty Ltd, saxonm at iceevents.net.au
Rebecca Cherry, Principal, Cherry Enterprises, rebeccacherry at cherryenterprises.com.au
Rob Lamicela, Career Advisor, robthecompere at yahoo.com
Bruce Croad, Principal, The Strategy Warehouse Group, brucec at strategywarehouse.net

It was agreed that we would host another event during Melbourne Business Festival - and this time, make it clear that the purpose was to progress the idea of a Network of Networks by only inviting 'Heads' of Networks to attend. Darren Saffin, President of the Melbourne Junior Chamber of Commerce president at mjcc.org.au who could not attend the meeting, began negotiations with Michael Anderson at the City of Melbourne micand at melbourne.vic.gov.au. Funding to cover the cost of the Yarra Room and afternoon tea was provided by the City of Melbourne (Business Melbourne area) and a function was hosted on 12 October 2005 http://www.newcomersnetwork.com/mel/events/051012.php (includes evaluation summary and guest list)

This event was extremely well received, there was no confusion as to its purpose and the evaluations were supportive of the next stage of development. A follow up meeting with Sue Ellson, Bridgette Engeler Newbury, Darren Saffin and Kay Withell was held on 4 November 2005 and Peter Tunjic, Andrew Donovan, Kathie Thomas, Rebecca Cherry, Bruce Croad, Gail Plowman and Sherrie Mazur have all indicated that they would like to continue working on the project.

The next meeting was held on Wednesday 16 November 2005 and a virtual follow up is being held in December 2005 once results from this email survey have been collated. An official launch will occur in March 2006. We look forward to hearing from you by 9 December 2005 with your answers to the above questions.

Heads of Networks - Summary of 12 October 2005

2005-12-05T12:41:00.000+11:00

HEADS OF NETWORKS GATHERING - WEDNESDAY 12 OCTOBER 2005 - MELBOURNE TOWN HALL

All Victorian Heads Welcome

A super business network - here in Melbourne....

Could it be true....could networks in Melbourne work together?

Could they share and support each other, and act reciprocally - without seeing one another as 'rivals'?

Can the 'heads' of these networks get along?

Well now is the time to find out!

Business Melbourne, an initiative of the City of Melbourne is hosting the Melbourne Business Festival from 3-14 October 2005 http://www.businessmelbourne.com.au/index.cfm?c=4&p=688 and are
sponsoring this very special occasion.

The invitation is for HEADS OF NETWORKS only (or if they cannot attend, a nominated representative can come on their behalf).

It will be held in the Yarra Room at the Melbourne Town Hall, corner of Swanston and Collins Street from 2-4pm on Wednesday 12 October 2005.

You are welcome to forward this link to people you know that are HEADS OF NETWORKS.

The City of Melbourne is providing afternoon tea and our discussion will be facilitated by a panel of network heads and a special guest. We will address the issues of:

. the operational structure of a 'super business network' based here in Melbourne
. the nature of this network (initially designed for growing Melbourne's businesses and cross-promotional purposes)
. criteria for 'member networks'
. how we would assess 'member networks'

The room will be filled with HEADS OF NETWORKS peers, other people who also share the joys and challenges of running networks. This is an opportunity to find out more about HEADS OF NETWORKS and how they can mutually support one another - as well as how they can benefit from being part of a larger 'cooperative' network.

All Heads of Networks and media representatives must book to attend by 10 October 2005 and include a brief profile so that this can be added to a handout given to all guests on the day.

Please send an email to networkofnetworks at newcomersnetwork dot com with the following information

Title: Dr/Mr/Ms ____
First name: ______________
Last name: ________________
Position: _____________________________
Organisation: ___________________________
Daytime phone: ____________
Mobile phone: ____________
Email: ______________________
Website: _______________________
Profile information: (describe your network/media purpose, when it was established, who it serves no more than 300 words)
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________

Are you willing to have this information shared with other attending guests? Yes / No

We believe that this network of networks concept needs to utilise a range of newer technologies including profile pages that will be removed if not updated, an ongoing events listing (that can be sorted by topic, industry, network name, location, date, cost, organiser), RSS technology so that subscribers can have direct feeds of information related to their own interests, shared technology services etc. This could also be a model for otherlocations. We would like to make sure that private, non government and government organisations are included.

Our goal is to achieve a productive, sustainable outcome - one that promotes trade, investment, cooperation, ethics and opportunities (whether they be business, social or personal development - by design or simply implementation). Melbourne and Victoria need to continue to believe in abundance, a true belief that we can all benefit, if we work together. We would also like this event to highlight any challenges or issues that we may be up against and if there are any alternative models that a 'champion team' needs to explore. A survey will be conducted on the day. A listing of all networks involved with this process will also be provided.

A number of people who run networks here in Melbourne are forwarding this invitation to people they know who also run networks - Alumni Groups, Business Networks, Chambers of Commerce, Professional Associations, Industry Groups, in short, networks that help generate business information, opportunities and advocacy.

Further enquiries:
Sue Ellson
Founder
Newcomers Network
telephone 9812 7288 or 0402 243 271
email sueellson at newcomersnetwork dot com or sueellson at yahoo dot com dot au
website http://www.newcomersnetwork.com

OR

Darren Saffin
President
Melbourne Junior Chamber of Commerce
telephone 0411 089 209
email president at mjcc.org.au
website http://www.mjcc.org.au

OR

Bridgette Engeler-Newbury
Convenor
Connect Network
telephone 0418 588 845
email bridgette at incognitosum dot com
website http://www.connectnetwork.com.au
Event Format - here is the running sheet from the day

2-20pm 1. Welcome - Sue Ellson

Thank you for coming.
Respects to the traditional owners the Wurundjeri Tribe part of the Kulin Nation.
I am the Founder of Newcomers Network and each month I host Welcome to Melbourne Social Events on the Second Sunday. My reason for initiating this process is because people who move to Melbourne need access to networks - and of course I have seen many benefits from networks making referrals to one another and working collaboratively. I plan to provide a complete list of attendees via email after the event. There were a number of people who asked to be added to our mailing list because they could not attend todayâ€¦so your details, if you gave us permission to pass them on, will be going far and wide.

This event has already
a) been promoted widely so it is now in the 'consciousness' of Victoria
b) encouraged you all to meet one another
c) prompted people to contact me and let them know more details in the future
d) is a follow up to last year's Network of Networks event...hopefully the start of new connections in the future

2-23pm 2. Format - Sue Ellson

Our plan today is to

a) For our panel members to help facilitate the event
b) For everyone to introduce themselves
c) For individual groups to BRIEFLY explore issues with our panel members
d) For our panel members to come back and summarise
e) More time for networking

We do not want you at any time to feel uncomfortable so if you would prefer to observe rather than contribute, that is okay. Please keep to time and allow people in your groups to share equally.

2-25pm 3. Introductions - Peter Tunjic

Role is to moderate this activity so people DO NOT spend too long talking. Everyone has a guest list for details about their network/organisation. Each guest to mention

a) Their name and network
b) An event or activity that is coming up that may be of interest to others here
c) One sentence about why you came today or what you thought might happen as a result of this event

Peter to start by introducing himself, then Bridgette, Darren and remaining guests. (less than one minute for everyone) Peter to summarise the main themes at the end. Must finish by 2-55pm.

2-55pm 4. Why it is important - Bridgette Engeler-Newbury

a) Bridgette to mention how we got to this point. As indicated in the email invitation, we would like to achieve a productive, sustainable single reference point for Melbourne's (Victoria's) and/or resource for people seeking networks in Melbourne/Victoria - one that promotes trade, investment, cooperation, ethics and opportunities (whether they be business, social or personal development - by design or simply implementation)
b) As a result of her own personal experiences sharing with other networks, believe that founding philosophy should include a true belief in abundance - that we can all benefit, if we work together (summarise two examples)
c) With time restrictions, it would be easier if we could ask each group to focus either the why, how or when, but without knowing the why, we can't really move to that point.
d) So our initial discussion needs to reiterate the why? It was discussed last year, but no formal action occurred, so for those of you who were here last year, can you please remind us of the 'why'

** Make sure we cover - social capital, recognition of effort for network heads, users requirements to have access to all networks not just one, the promotion of the importance of networks, the 'free marketing' opportunities they provide and the role they play at providing affordable education.

3-05pm 5. Starting the process - Darren Saffin

As the President for one of the longest running business networks for professionals in Melbourne, the MJCC, I can tell you that there are many issues that need to be dealt with on a daily, yearly and decade basis. At the MJCC, we are run by a committee and funded through members and we work very closely with local and state government too.

An umbrella organisation that crosses the Melbourne/Victoria/Australia/International boundaries needs to be very specific on where it begins and where it would like to go. Various funding sources have requirements (ie only Melbourne, only business, only government funded etc) but this part of the day is designed to help us determine some options so that we can move on to the 'next stage.' This will be a group activity facilitated by our four panel members - one panel member in each group will lead you through these questions and summarise the most critical points at the end (as we won't have time for a full plenary). There are no 'right or wrong' answers.

We all know that there are many issues and challenges in front of us to make this 'Network of Networks' concept a reality. For today's purposes, we will ASSUME that every network is different and has its own intrinsic value - one network is not better than another, just different. Because you are all here and ready to contribute, we will also assume that heads of networks are prepared to get along. (this is an important aspect of the Network of Networks philosophy)

Because we are all human, it is natural for some relationships to be more collaborative than others, but a 'Network of Networks' group needs to accept and accommodate this diversity and have the skills to provide a common understanding of roles and responsibilities.

In the interests of providing 'access to all,' the concept of criteria is so that people can express their way to the information and contacts they need rather than to gentrify the selection process (after all, it should be supportive of new networks getting started as so many have not been sustainable because of a competitive and unacknowledged value environment in the past).

** Panel members need to actively lead the discussion to make sure the questions are answered in the time available and also record notes. We won't have time to summarise all of the models, but we will be able to distribute information after this event via email.

a) who champions the concept and why? - names/organisations can be suggested here
b) who would be involved in creating it and why? - govt (local/state), networks, businesses and any other interested parties
c) who would run/moderate/maintain it? - will there be policies for the distribution of marketing material? Governance issues (how do we avoid 'vested interests')
d) cost, infrastructure and creating the brand - who owns it, pays for it and benefits from it - how would it be funded?
e) what would it look like and how would it be 'officially' formed and governed? -
Would it include online and offline resources?
Would it include profiles and organisations?
Would it include ongoing events listing?
Would it listi 'like-minded networks'?
Would it provide feeds of information related to specific network interests?
Would it provide access to shared technology services?
f) Does there need to be a criteria for eligibility and if so, what is it?
g) Action items - who and when

3-30 6. Plenary - all panel members - three minutes each

Darren's Group
Bridgette's Group
Peter's Group
Sue's Group

3-45 - Evaluation and close - Sue Ellson

More networkingâ€¦.the function finished at 4pm.
Evaluation Results

38 guests attended including Bill Pheasant from the Australian Financial Review Newspaper. 17 People completed evaluations. People were asked to tick a box if the answer was yes. For some questions, people ticked more than one box and some people did not tick any (the form was incomplete).

Question 1 asked - Which of the following describes you today?
Head of a network - 9 (53%)
Previous Head of a network - 2 (12%)
Representative of a network - 4 (24%)
Keen to see a 'Network of Networks' - 8 (47%)
Other - Journalist

Question 2 asked - Why did you decide to come today?
Meet other Heads of networks - 9 (53%)
Help champion a new network - 8 (47%)
Network for myself - 6 (35%)
Other - possible story idea

Question 3 asked - Did you enjoy the function overall?
Yes

Question 4 asked - What has been the best part so far?
Information
Discussing ideas
Good networking opportunity
Ideas for regular get togethers
Planning action
Discussion
Energy â€œcommonâ€ purpose
Hearing about all the different networks
The promise of getting it off the ground
An idea of what â€œtheâ€ group/network should be
Talking with others
Workshop
Networking - contributing to this new entity

Question 5 asked - What would you like to see happen next?
A Network of Networks created
More collaboration between networks
More networks created
Other - shared infrastructure, a PEER network,

Question 6 asked - Any other thoughts or suggestions?
Needs an objective
Our notes are good
Survey to get hard ideas/commitments
Hold a workshop to scope out 'super network'

Comments from discussion groups:

a) who champions the concept and why? - names/organisations can be suggested here

Champion - elected chair of a self appointed committee made up of people with a passion. It was agreed that the chairmanship would be for a one year term. Need sponsors, be they financial or 'supporters.'

Steering group to preserve all networks, create a charter based on a benchmarked organization that may have a similar effective model, with representatives of all groups. The Charter would need to be set up by 13 people (for voting purposes).

. City of Melbourne
. state or federal government
. someone to run it as a business
. Kathy and her secretary's network can do any paid work on an as needs basis to save hiring someone fulltime
. Revolving committee - made up of people from networks involved
. There is a listing for an Assoc of Assocs in the Aust Directory of Assoc - maybe they could do it

b) who would be involved in creating it and why? - govt (local/state), networks, businesses and any other interested parties

See above.
Government role is to provide money - it is a service to people.
Could be part of a group. Prefer it not to be commercial. Could involve the Invest Australia organization and be designed for 'facilitated serendipity.'
maybe a committee needs to be formed just to oversee getting it started
people in attendance at heads of networks meeting
Need for a central source is there so that people can find Melbourne's networks easily and judiciously (or at least consider them valid networks and approach with a sense of confidence as they seem somehow 'approved') - how to fund it is still unclear. That it is two-pronged - first part is a peer group but second is the 'public' central resource as noted above. Both are equally important, relevant and needed.

c) who would run/moderate/maintain it? - will there be policies for the distribution of marketing material? Governance issues (how do we avoid 'vested interests')

Independent board would run and maintain as above. If it's to be an umbrella network, it needs to have a defined purpose so that it doesn't duplicate activities of those under its cover. Would probably need to have a MARKETING function. Could include a directorate which people could go to find out about the different networks under the umbrella. e.g. Careers Day at Uni where architecture grads could go to find architecture networks and sub networks.
Super network could also hold its own big events which smaller networks can't do on their own. Eg have a speaker such as Hilary Clinton. (Scott McQuade, Platform Communications - monthly email).

Could also provide opportunities to have international events.

Would provide LEVERAGE. Could have an 'internal' marketing role (marketing itself) as well as an external role (marketing its individual constituents). Could also SHARE costs and spread of visiting speaker. E.g. an overseas speaker could speak on five separate occasions to individual associations over the period of a week rather than be brought out to do just one gig.

Government grant to provide a permanent part time Executive Officer - the doer to make sure that the work is done.
as above
yes to policies - need to be fleshed out later when the goals are decided

d) cost, infrastructure and creating the brand - who owns it, pays for it and benefits from it - how would it be funded?

Would need to be government funded or 'government underwritten' but be independent of government. May attract sponsorship for particular events, also advertisers, especially if it has a good website.

Could seek advertisers and sponsorship - need funding to provide infrastructure and legitimacy.
Funding - sponsors (Westpac - they were at the meeting), grants, small fee to be listed/involved, city of Melbourne - small business development grant
Make it an incorporated assoc - small costs to setup and maintain, limits legal liabilities, owns brand etc

e) what would it look like and how would it be 'officially' formed and governed? -

Member associations and all concerned need to set credentials for membership. State Government because it is proactive, an initiative that is useful to government, contributing to 'world's most livable city.'
Online - searchable listing of all networks with contact details
Offline - forums around common issues for heads/boards of groups, an annual meeting/event for all, combined networking events for members of the different groups
Governance, regulation/control as well as 'admittance' criteria - seen as good and necessary but 'who' sets the criteria and why?
United voice and action was seen as a positive but not as a lobby group of 'voice of networking' at a political or quasi political level

f) Would it include online and offline resources?

Needs to be online and would include profiles of each member association. Would also need to display program of individual events (Barb Gabogrecan might be able to get website sponsors).

It would be good to produce a Quarterly Magazine with a sample of news from various states or chapters.

Yes

Content, Context, Infrastructure (with Governance around all three)

g) Would it include profiles and organisations?

Need to be nominated - use the model of an employment website so that information could be found via various categories (and organisations would need to supply this).
Yes
Suggestion was made that networks could pay (25 or 50 dollars - but probably not more) to cover some sort of 'admin cost' for being entered and listed on the site (but presumably that is also something that network heads could do given a password and some instructions? Although this content loading in itself then raises the possible need for it to be moderated)

h) Would it include ongoing events listing?
Yes, and a discussion forum for peers. Needs various searches - alpha, topic, etc

i) Would it list 'like-minded networks'?
An online Yellow Pages - subject based with shared processing technology (like for event ticket sales). Start off with business networks but could expand to include social (personal or for social cause like environmental) and recreational, not for profit and commercial (provided that is made clear).
YES - with a common theme of business

Plot where a group lies on a rating triangle: - Social, Business, Recreational on the three points

j) Would it provide feeds of information related to specific network interests?

Possibly - but it would be good to provide some sort of common branding, similar to Hitwise or Fairfax in relation to RSVP.
YES - maybe a listing of resources that all can use ie caterers, venues, etc

k) Would it provide access to shared technology services?

NO - too hard
Combined purchasing power was not considered valid or viable as some networks are already subsidised and/or sponsored and it was deemed potentially unfair on those

l) Does there need to be a criteria for eligibility and if so, what is it?
Each member needs to be legal and incorporated.
Business focus with a legal form ie Pty Ltd, Inc Assoc so as to limit liability to the overall organization and to show these groups are serious about what they do
All participating agree to a code of conduct/ethics/charter
Application form to be involved - voted on by organising committee

m) Action items - who and when
Small Business Development Grant through the City of Melbourne -
http://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/info.cfm?top=77&pg=929
Survey group at heads of networks and others interested to see what they want from this proposed org before anything goes ahead. Eg size, shape, form, outcomes, benefits, scope, services provided
Ask who wants to do it/be involved
Start in Melbourne and get a working model before doing anything else
One comment made by a first-timer was that there seem to be plenty of people available and offering to help but that what it needs is a business case, a proper strategy and a few people to take ownership and treat it seriously (there was a suggestion that students could run it but this was howled down because of what happens when essays are due and exams are on)
Re a venue, the Melbourne City Council indicated we may be able to have a room at town hall around four times a year on him for network peer activities -also suggested that we should treat the central source idea like a project with a three-year time frame and then apply for fundingâ€¦we have to be a legal entity to do this however and budgets are being done in the next few weeks. As an aside, the MCC representative believes the central source has merit and needs to be done.

A number of people came up to me and said how much they enjoyed the event. Well done.
1. see the need as being peer to peer - the professional organization for the heads of networks.
2. see the need for a directory of network resources - email list on network leadership.
3. would like to meet informally four times a year around a particular theme - but focus on self organizing discussion groups
4. would like basic rules - not to sell your network, law of two feet - designed to maximize security and authenticity.
5. question also emerged like how we aggregate the demand of our particular groups to get better purchasing deals, sponsorship etc

Like the peer network concept. Possibly convene four meetings in 2006 for the heads of networks in Victoria. The purpose of the meetings will be to encourage peer support for those who run, co-ordinate or wish to found social and commercial networks in the State.

a POWERFUL network of networks where PROGRESSIVE PEOPLE can find like-minded PEERS or PRINCIPLED PROFESSIONALS to develop a PURPOSE and create PREFERRED outcomes for PROFIT, PHILANTHROPY or just for PHUN
Final Guest List
Title First name Last name Position Organisation Phone Email Website Description
Ms Robyn Allcock Director Pro Populi Pty Ltd (co-founder of the network 'Social Enterprise Partnerships Ltd') 9329 7068 or 0437 941 293 robyn at propopuli.com.au / robyn at partnerships.org.au www.propopuli.com.au / www.partnerships.org.au Social Enterprise Partnerships builds peer-generated strategic development of social enterprise and social entrepreneurship. We organise training events and discussion forums and have developed a number of special interest groups which focus on social enterprise in health, education, cafes and catering and resource recovery.
Mr Michael Anderson Principal Project Officer City of Melbourne 9489 9886 micand at melbourne.vic.gov.au www.businessmelbourne.com.au The City of Melbourne takes a lead role as a Capital City government facilitating business and trade throughout the Asia Pacific region. We are committed to ensuring sustainable business development, job growth and enhancement of business infrastructure in Melbourne and promoting the development of Melbourne as a globally recognised and competitive Knowledge City.
Mr Craig Beaver Industry Principal Oxygen Business Solutions 0409 975 335 cdbeaver at bigpond.net.au
Guest from 2004 Network of Networks event
Mr David Byers Executive Director BNI Melbourne 9376 6721 or 0424 020 270 david.byers at bni.com.au www.bni.com.au BNI is a business networking organization focused on increasing word of mouth referrals for our members. We run weekly meetings for our members and regular training programs to assist members become better networkers. We train our chapters to be self managing through a series of leadership team seminars run every six months. We currently have 35 chapters with 650 members. Our members are mainly the decision makers in small businesses. BNI was started in the US in 1985. It is a franchise business that has approx 3,600 chapters worldwide, with 130 of those in Australia. It was started in Melbourne in August 1999. I purchased the business in March 2004.
Mr Joachim Chen Incoming Exchange Director AIESEC 8344 8157 or 0421 922 943 joachimchen at yahoo.co.uk www.aisec.org/australia AIESEC is the international platform for young people to discover and develop their potential to make a positive impact on society. Our focus is youth leadership development and improving cultural understanding through our international graduated exchange program. AIESEC International was established in 1948, we are present in 91 countries in over 800 universities. In Australia, we are present in 17 universities, we seek to engage young leaders and provide a platform for them to further realize their leadership potential. In part of this development, we give companies access to top talent from our global database of members. Every year, we exchange over 3500 members and provide over 5000 leadership pportunities, with the ultimate aim of cultivating the young leaders of today. Our current global partners include organisations such as: Alcatel, ABN AMRO, Cadbury Schweppes, DHL, Electrolux, InBev, P&G, PwC, UBS
Ms Rebecca Cherry Co-Founder B3000 9663 1143 or 0417 773 775 rebeccacherry at cherryenterprises.com.au www.b3000.org.au B3000 began in 2003 as an organisation that is pivotal in connecting people and businesses in Melbourne. The B3000 Awards are designed to:. Recognise and showcase local companies that demonstrate business success and excellence; . Inspire other businesses to take up the challenge and learn from the experience of others to achieve their own business success;. Foster a valuable networking environment for local business people to share ideas and experiences and to create business opportunities and,. Encourage and support business activity that will enhance the City of Melbourne s reputation for innovation, business vitality and environmental sustainability.Any organisation MUST evolve and establish a market niche to provide value and become market leader. B3000 is certainly no different.With this commitment B3000 has engaged Square Circle Triangle, a specialist in helping companies define their offering, carve a market niche and then brand and communicate that offering based on a customer need. It has certainly been refreshing to have their creative business thinking and outcome driven facilitation and design at our disposal.You will need to wait till our 1st business breakfast in February to see the fresh new look that Brands our evolution, however we can share our new vision statement.The Claim to Fame that we are striving toward, and committed to achieving is is encompassed by one statement; "A guarantee of business opportunity" Or even more bold, one word. "Pivotal' Although simple, this statement and word is one we will hang out hat on to ensure each of you, and many more companies and individuals in the future gain maximum benefit and enjoyment from encounters with us in a dynamic and friendly atmosphere much like today.This will increase our profile and make association with B3000 as a 'must have' for your personal growth and business success.
Ms Elaine Dickson President/Director Australian Institute of Office Professionals (AIOP) 9500 1286 adminvic at aiop.com.au www.aiop.com.au The Australian Institute of Office Professionals is the only national professional body for office professionals in Australia. The Institute was established in 1963 to "encourage the attainment of a professional qualification and promote and develop the private secretarial profession at all levels". The Institute is still primarily involved with improving the profile of Office Professionals in the business community and increasing their educational levels. In 1968 the Institute became the only professional examining body for Secretaries in Australia, and the Institute now has its own registered Diploma of Business [Administration] from Charles Sturt University, NSW. Which is conducted nationally as an external self-paced study program. The Diploma forms the basis of the Institute's accreditation system for business colleges and educational institutions. The Australian Institute of Office Professionals is affiliated with similar professional associations for office professionals in the USA, UK, Asia, South Africa and New Zealand. The Institute is also represented at the Asia-Pacific International Summit for Office Professionals held every three years. In July 2000 the International Summit was held in Wellington, New Zealand and was represented by the National President, ensuring our Association is kept abreast of all international developments within the industry. Professional and personal development meetings are held regularly in each Division and Branch around Australia. A National Convention is held every three years and anyone involved with the secretarial and administrative profession is encouraged to become a member and attend development meetings.
Ms Rosemary Downey Executive Assistant Australia-China Business Council (Vic) 9645 5385 or 0417 312 003 acbcvic at acbc.com.au www.acbc.com.au With approximately 550 corporate members across Australia, the Australia China Business Council (ACBC) is the principal business organisation of Australian companies engaged in business relations with the People's Republic of China. Members are comprised of companies with established commercial relationships in China, as well as companies looking to enter China's market for the first time. The ACBC was originally formed in 1973 following the normalisation of relations between Australia and China. In 1996 it merged with the Australia-China Chamber of Commerce and Industry and now operates with a national secretariat in Canberra and strong, autonomous branches in five Australian states: NSW, SA, VIC, WA & QLD.The ACBC's activities provide a wide range of information and networking opportunities involving Australian and Chinese government officials, business specialists and academics, and also offer companies the chance to share ideas and experiences. Members are invited to participate in boardroom briefings, receptions with prominent guest speakers, educational seminars, and networking events.
Mr Paul Ebbels Treasurer West End Business Association 9663 7400 or 0414 791 831 admin at westendbusiness.org.au www.westendbusiness.org.au West End Business Association Inc was established in 1995 to represent the West End Precinct of the CBD. The Association has since broadened its reach beyond the CBD to be an active business networking organization for its members, predominantly SMEs but including corporates, education institutions, hotels and a range of other organisations.
Ms Sue Ellson Founder Newcomers Network 9812 7288 or 0402 243 271 sueellson at newcomersnetwork.com or sueellson at yahoo.com.au www.newcomersnetwork.com Newcomers Network started in 1999 and was launched in 2001. Serving over 25,000 website visitors every month and with over 2500 subscribers to the monthly email newsletter, it is the leading information, referral and advocacy network in Australia for people who have moved or are planning to move, intrastate, interstate or overseas. Sue also provides Cultural and Networking Consultancy and Training Services, is actively involved in issues related to employment and supports the Living in Harmony and Australian Citizenship programs of the Australian Government. As the main driver of a potential 'Network of Networks', Sue is committed to providing people with access to networks that suit their needs and increasing the value and service that networks can provide to their members and the general public.
Ms Bridgette Engeler Newbury Convenor Connect Network 9421 2025 or 0418 588 845 bridgette at connectnetwork.com.au www.connectnetwork.com.au1 Connect Network is the not-for-profit network run in Victoria as part of Connect Marketing Professionals. Connect Network is a group for small business marketing professionals (mostly consultants, solo traders and small businesses with max.15 employees) - it is a forum for small businesses to collaborate, learn and grow. In addition to a monthly breakfast event with a speaker that is run by volunteers, Connect offers a website with a member directory and other member- befits and special events. Members include marketing & communications professionals (branding consultants, strategists, marcomms consultants, writers, business development specialists, designers, PR, IT providers, event managers etc) and people who offer complementary business support services (accountants, lawyers, printers etc.). The website explains more about our philosophy and approach to working together. Essentially, we believe in growing the pie for all, rather than promoting competition amongst the group, and that everyone has something different and unique to offer. As a result, we don't offer exclusivity in any membership category. Some of us work together on projects, by referring clients to each other or forming a 'virtual team' to support a client; many of us use each other as a work resource, referring specialists on to our clients when required; and also we are a peer group for moral and professional support.
Mr Geoffrey Favaloro Psychologist/Director Centre for Happiness 9596 6772 geoffFav at yahoo.com www.delphient.com.au/happiness Serves a community of persons into natural healing, wellness and spiritual growth/personal development. about 1500-2000 in database. Centre for Happiness offers training in stress, Meditation and coaching.
Ms Barbara Gabogrecan Managing Director Micro Biz Navigator 5625 5195 or 0418 106 133 barbara at micronavigator.com.au www.micronavigator.com.au Micro Biz Navigator was launched in 2003, offering specific marketing support for the Micro/HBB Sector and an accreditation programme that provides participating businesses with a 'star rating'. This was a spin off from the Micro Business Network (which was founded by Barbara Gabogrecan) and the number of Government Committees she was invited to sit on. Membership is free. The ezine Solutions@Work is sent out weekly, offering a Business and Lifestyle tip/Idea; an event (when appropriate); information on new products/services - plus a free bonus product is made available each week.
Ms Kacy Harding

0414 344 792

Trainer and facilitator with many years' experience in working with government and large corporates including Sensis and Telstra.
Mr Paul Hutchison Managing Director Aztel Communications 9537 1000 or 0410 967 967 pmail7-heads at yahoo.com
To enhance people's lives in the areas of health, wealth and personal fulfillment synergistically with their current activities. Established in 1985, now operating in 10 countries, in a major growth phase in Asia-Pacific.
Mrs Robyn Larson General Manager The American Chamber of Commerce 9614 7744 vic at amcham.com.au www.amcham.com.au Founded in 1961, the Chamber's objectives are: To promote the two-way flow of trade and investment, primarily between the United States and Australia, and to help business links with other countries.To provide information on trade and business activities to its members. . To interpret and present the point of view of Australian commercial interests to the American business public and to lend all practical assistance to Australian interests seeking to enter the United States market, or wishing to develop their activities in the US. . To distil and represent the business views of its members before government in Washington and Canberra. . To endorse the standing of its members in the local business and international communities. . To develop a broad range of community-oriented programs - directed toward students, labor unions, consumers and politicians - to encourage a better understanding of the role of business in a competitive market system, and to contribute in a positive way to the community at large. AmCham has 1,700 corporate members, and offices in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth.
Mr Horace Lim Strategic Advisor to Chairman and CEO Recoilless Technologies International Corp Ltd 9543 1400 or 0411 108 809 h.lim at pobox.com www.firstfridaygroup.com Strategic Advisor to Chairman and CEO means I also take out the garbage!! I assist in all aspects of commercialization, marketing strategy and business development for a company with a revolutionary technology (first time in 700 years) which we believe will be the next Dolby (a standard everyone in our industry, defence and aerospace will need to adopt to stay in business). As First Friday Group Convenor - our group was formed nearly 11 years ago as a technology focused group for orphaned MBA and MMT Alumni of the Melbourne Business School. First Friday has evolved into a technology, entrepreneurship and innovation group of interested professionals with or without an MBA. It stimulates the mingling of minds and the marriage of skills, hopefully to assist in the formation of startups (especially) but not limited to business. We welcome MBAs, Managers, Marketers, Musicians, Models, Mechanical Engineers and others who chose to be here. We have been catalytic in many matrimonial engagements too.
Mr Saxon Mitchell Director/Member Venue Management Services P/L/Y500 Club 1300 669 423 or 0425 775 885 saxon at venuemanagement.com.au www.venuemanagement.com.au www.y500.com.au I have been involved in active networking since I established my first business in 1999 (ICE Events). Since this time I have been and continue to be involved with several networking and business and personal development networks. I have championed the idea of conducive networking for many years and see the development of a 'network or networks' as a positive step for Melbourne's many networking organisations. My percuniary interest is simple- to have a resource that allows people to find the right networking groups for them and for myself to continue networking in the overall development of my business interests as networking in several industries has been extremely beneficial. The Y500 Club. The Y500 was developed for young Melbourne business men and women under the age of 35 to converse and network with Victoria's 'up and coming' achievers on a regular and informal basis. The Y500's inaugural event was held in February 2004. The Y500 is based on The 500 Club that was founded in 1982. Membership of The 500 Club is drawn from Victoria's leading business and professional men and women. These individuals share a commitment to fostering a strong and vibrant private enterprise system in Australia, through support of the Liberal Party. The 500 Club provides a wealth of opportunities for members of the corporate sector and political leaders to network within an informal framework of events. Members of The 500 Club are prominent and influential members of the business and professional community in Melbourne and beyond.
Ms Susan Ng Manager - Young Lawyers' Section Law Institute of Victoria 9607 9379 sng at liv.asn.au www.liv.asn.au/members/sections/younglawyers.htm The Young Lawyers (YL) is a dynamic group established in 1979 to enhance the legal skills, knowledge and professional networks of members in the early stages of career development. Membership of the Young Lawyers Section is free to all eligible LIV members. These are: . Practitioners under the age of 36. â€¢ Practitioners over the age of 36 with less than six years practical experience. . Mature age new lawyers with less than six years practical experience. . Articled Clerks and law students - Objectives . Provide practical guidance to new solicitors on how to build a successful legal career . Provide networking opportunities for Young Lawyers to meet their peers . Continued Professional Development tailored specifically for new solicitors .Stimulate interest amongst Young Lawyers to become involved in the activities of the LIV and the wider community . Provide a voice for Young Lawyers when commenting on the application of law â€¢ Create a forum for Young Lawyers to participate in law reform . To help Young Lawyers strike a balance between their career and social activities
Mrs Christine Owen Vice-President Manningham Referral Network 9877 1469 or 0409 594 270 chris at pinkapple.com.au
Manningham Referral Network is loosely affiliated with Knox, Northern, Casey and Caulfield Referral Networks. It is run by members for members. Our meetings are fortnightly and have a structure than includes all members and visitors briefly sharing an informercial about their business as well as members delivering 10 minute presentations to skill their colleagues as referrers to their business. Rather than seeking business from within the group, we look for ways to build alliances and joint ventures. Membership is $220/year.
Ms Kimberly Palmer Founder Networx Marketers Meetings / Entrepreneurs Networx 9328 1958 or 0403 937 347 Kimberly at networxevents.com.au www.networxevents.com.au / www.entrepreneursnetworx.com.au Networx Marketers Meetings - Started in 1999 to run fun and relaxed business events for young professionals working in marketing and communications. Originally founded in Melbourne, the group now also runs monthly events in Sydney and Brisbane. It's motto is â€œInspiration. Information. Introductions.â€ And we have a database of approx 5,000.Entrepreneurs Networx - A spin of off Networx Markters Meetings, this group was founded in 2003 to support young (under 40's) entrepreneurs. This group operates soley in Melbourne and has a database of approx 1,000 and the group's motto is â€œBusiness is an Adventureâ€.
Ms Glenys Permezel Founder Dinner Dynamics - Social Network for Selective Singles 9826 2611 or 0414 221.207 events at dinnerdynamics.com.au www.dinnerdynamics.com.au Dinner Dynamics was established in Melbourne in January 2005. As a 'boutique' and 'highly personalised' social network we cater to the high-end professional market who has little time and often limited avenues to meet others with whom to socialise. Our monthly events program offers a variety of hosted events which always begin with a round of introductions to all. Dinner Dynamics is recognised for it's friendliness, inclusiveness and high standards. Building and extending social and business networks is our aim and our success.
Mr Bill Pheasant Senior Journalist Australian Financial Review 9249 9955 or 0412 770 704 wpheasant at afr.com.au www.afr.com The Australian Financial Review is Australia's pre-eminent business, finance and technology publication. It provides a daily analysis of the latest news from the Banking, Finance and Information Technology sector, and breaking news from the business sector and the political arena.
Ms Nicci Richman State Manager Young Achievement Australia (YAA) 9650 2923 or 0417 373 351 nicci at vic.yaa.org.au www.yaa.org.au YAA was established in 1977. Our mission is to build partnerships with business, government, education and the community to provide all Australians, particularly our young Australians, the opportunity to access business enterprise learning. The YAA network links business sponsors and mentors with young Australians, who, with the mentors' guidance, run their own business for a period of 24 weeks. YAA provides events to support the students' learning, and networking opportunities for business mentors.
Mr Darren Saffin President Melbourne Junior Chamber of Commerce 0411 089 209 president at mjcc.org.au www.mjcc.org.au The Melbourne Junior Chamber of Commerce (MJCC) is the peak representative body for young business professionals in Melbourne. We are a not-for-profit organisation run by its members for its members to provide professional and personal development, networking and training for members and non-members alike.Every member has the opportunity to contribute to how the MJCC is run. The organisation has no political affiliation and welcomes members from all sectors of industry.The organisation was established in 1936 and the Patron is the Right Hon. Lord Mayor of Melbourne. Past members include Ron Walker, Sir Phillip Lynch, David Marriner and the Hon. Walter Jona.
Mr Gary Schuller Founder Breakthrough Events International 5973 5071 info at breakthroughevents.com.au www.breakthroughevents.com.au Breakthrough Events International is the epitome of business networking, dynamic, exciting and effective! With over 20 years of thought leadership and pro-active motivation, Gary is the living embodiment of the Business Conduit in action! Experience Schullerism today! Our Vision is to see HOPE live in People. Our Mission is to Build, Maintain, Protect and Expand a powerful network of skills, services and people whose sole purpose is to assist People in Business find and live their potential. To date, Breakthrough Events International has helped hundreds of People in Business see renewed hope and vigour to recapture their ambition and business dreams. Every month, hundreds of People experience our network and its community of result-oriented members and advocates who help one another see new opportunities and experience new growth through powerful networking, symbiotic cross-leveraging and strategic alliancing.
Mr Greg Shepherd Managing Director The Dining and Activity Network (DAN) 9326 3862 or 0411 961 338 (mobile is always better) greg at appleseed.com.au www.danwk.com DAN is a General Melbourne "Social" Club with 6-10 events each week - for different age groups (20's/30's, 30's/40's, over 40's). It is open to both singles and couples to join. The atmosphere at all events is very friendly and relaxed - it is all about getting out and about, jazzing up your social calendar and "having FUN"! There are over 450 members from right across Melbourne and beyond. It has been operating for over four years. Typical events include: Cinema, BBQ's, Wineries, Trivia, Tennis, Golf, Murder Mystery, Parties, 10 Pin Bowling, Latin Dancing and meals at a huge range of restaurants. The cost of membership is $198 for a year. If you want to get a "feel" for the club, then come along to our weekly Thursday Night "Introductory Talk" (7.15 for 7.30pm start) at The Prince Alfred Hotel - 619 Church st, Richmond, eastern side, close to the Yarra river - generally there are plenty of parking spots across the road. Ring Greg Shepherd on 0411 961 338 to book in.
Mrs Liz Small Event Manager Melbourne Network Central 0410 563 222 liz at networkcentral.com.au www.networkcentral.com.au Network Central is an initiative of Centrum Events Pty Ltd which commenced in 1999. Over the years Centrum Events has successfully staged many events, ranging in size between ten and 2000 delegates, and engaged speakers ranging from the unsung heroes of the business world to the Prime Minister of Australia. Many of Australia's leading companies and associations are among previous clients, including CCH Australia, St James Ethics Centre, Australian Business Limited, the National Speakers Association of Australia and many more. Kim McGuinness, managing director of Network Central and Centrum Events is perhaps most widely recognised as the founder of The Businesswomen's Breakfast Series, which began in March 1999 and has grown to become one of Australia's premier women's networking events. Each month Kim and her team host breakfasts in Sydney, Parramatta and Melbourne where women from both the corporate and entrepreneurial worlds meet, network and exchange information. Each month, guest speakers who are chosen for their contribution, inspirational message and advice to the ever-increasing number of businesswomen in Australia, address some 500+ attendees. Now Network Central is born - creating communities for busy businesspeople...Please feel free to contact us with any questions 1300 66 70 75 or visit www.networkcentral.com.au
Ms Jennifer Squires Executive Officer West End Business Association 9663 7400 or 0414 791 831 admin at westendbusiness.org.au www.westendbusiness.org.au West End Business Association Inc was established in 1995 to represent the West End Precinct of the CBD. The Association has since broadened its reach beyond the CBD to be an active business networking organization for its members, predominantly SMEs but including corporates, education institutions, hotels and a range of other organisations.
Mr Will Symons Senior Sustainability Consultant Maunsell Australia Pty Ltd 9653 8395 or 0400 628 774 will.symons at maunsell.com www.maunsell.com The Business and the Environment network (BATE) was founded in 1993 by a group of business managers and environmental professionals to promote environmentally sound business practices. Its members have successfully pioneered new and better environmental practices in their own organisations. BATE is made of a secretary, steering committee, regular members and a wider mailing list. Membership is free and open to people involved or interested in being involved in environmental improvement programs and initiatives. Over recent years, BATE meetings have been generously hosted by BP and held on the last Thursday of each month. Additionally, BATE traditionally runs a Christmas cocktail networking function. BATE meetings are informal in nature, providing:o An opportunity to find out what environmental programs and initiatives other organisations are involved in. o A networking opportunity, allowing individuals to share experience and knowledge, seek advice and make connections.o Focussed discussion on specific topics that are relevant to organisations trying to improve their environmental practice.
Mrs Kathie Thomas Principal/Founder "A Clayton's Secretary" and Whats on inTown.com (2 separate networks, 2 different purposes) 9585 5780 or 0414 659 142 kathie at asecretary.com.au www.asecretary.com.au and www.whats-on-in-town.com A Clayton's Secretary is a network of global homebased operators providing secretarial and administrative services worldwide - we have a 24/7 online chat forum which is open to non-members so they can learn about the industry. We also have an accreditation program and heaps of member benefits - currently around 140 members, most of whom are in Australia. We occasionally have get togethers around the country so members can meet one another - we know each other well by email and it's always fun to meet face-to-face.Whats on in Town.com is a website with mailing lists for each capital city, and sends out weekly updates on networking events around town for business people. All events listed must have a networking component and the services is currently provided free of charge as a community service. Largest readership is in Melbourne, as that's where it started but Sydney and Brisbane are growing now, Adelaide is following and we're getting some interest from the other capital cities. We have regular submissions given to us weekly and monthly, and several other networks are now finding out about this site to list with us.
Mr Ross Tor'Bey Account & Marketing Manager Seamer Design 9415 7727 or 0400 973 324 ross at seamerdesign.com www.seamerdesign.com Seamer Design was established as a leading design management company in 1998. Our team deliver design solutions on the cutting edge of creativity in both print and new media, with distinctly fresh ideas. We are an advertising agency, marketing consultancy and graphic design studio. We manage your project from start to finish, including handling print production and multimedia implementation. Guest from 2004 Network of Networks event.
Mr Ryan Trainor President Entrepreneurs Organisation 0418 553 337 ryan at moversandshapers.com www.eonetwork.org The Entrepreneurs' Organisation was founded in 1987 by Verne Harnish and has chapters in 160 cities around the world. The EO's objective is to build the world's most influential community of entrepreneurs. Its membership criteria are geared to the Entrepreneurial-style Company. A new member must be 40 years of age or younger and be the Founder, Co-founder, Owner, or Controlling Shareholder of a business with annual gross sales exceeding US$1 Million.We would encourage you to visit our organisation's web site at www.eonetwork.org. EO World-wide Facts Total Sales of all Members: Over $90 Billion Total Members: Over 5,700 Total Number of Employees: Over 700,000 Average Age:35 Average Sales: $10 Million/Year Number of Chapters: 120 EO Melbourne Chapter Facts Total Sales of all Members:Over $500 + Million Total Members: Over 54 Average Age: 33 Average Sales: $10Million/Year
Mr Peter Tunjic Immediate Past Convenor Company of Friends - Fast Company's Readers' Network 5276 1001 petertunjic at thoughtpost.com.au www.fastcompany.com/cof/group.jsp?id=7 Facilitator for 2004 Network of Networks event and panel member 2005. The Melbourne CoF was founded in September 1998 and is made up of readers of Fast Company and their friends.
The cell is best described as an unincorporated association. It has no legal identity, no constitution and no money. All it has is the goodwill of its members and the following values:
Authenticity; Emergence; Accelerated learning; Generosity of spirit; and Leadership.As a member of the Melbourne Company of Friends ( CoF ) you will recieve emails from time to time inviting you to participate in CoF meetings .You also get to use the resources of the Melbourne CoF ( Brand, network, lists, enthusiasm etc) to help build a space to explore the issues in business which you are passionate about, present a paradox, keeps you up at night or because you think it would be cool to do because no one else is doing it.If you want to build a space or want a copy of the Melbourne CoF Operating instructions please contact me, the interim co-ordinator of the Melbourne CoF and I'll see what we can do about helping you to create the space:
Ms Giovanna Walker Operations Manager Westpac 9608 3090 giovannawalker at westpac.com.au www.westpac.com.au Working for Westpac, we provide various financial services to numerous organisations, and as part of the newly established, Business Acquisition Group, we are interested in being involved with the business community.
Ms Kay Withell Director The Relocation Network 9416 2887 or 0411 744 975 info at relocationdirectory.com.au www.relocationdirectory.com.au Established in 1997, The Relocation Network acts as a business support group which provides a link between all individuals, and the companies they work for, that are involved in helping people relocate as successfully as possible. The Network provides networking, marketing and business opportunities, as well as support and information to service providers of the Relocation Industry. Members join The Relocation Network to promote and market their own relocation service, or to find out about other affiliated services which are available. Relocation Network Members work together to develop a wider understanding and use of relocation services, and to ensure high standards of service. There are regular meetings in most state capitals, and an annual Conference which alternates between Sydney and Melbourne. All events are open to anyone interested in relocation, and their friendly focus ensures excellent NetWORKing opportunities.The website at relocationdirectory.com.au provides free information about the many services available which can ensure a successful corporate or personal, national or international relocation. The ONLINE Directory of Australian and International Relocation Service Providers is a fully searchable database containing the contact and service details of the member companies of The Relocation Network. There is a PRINTED version of the Directory of Relocation Service Providers which is published annually, and distributed to many potential users of relocation services and to member companies.Director Kay Withell welcomes contact from anyone interested in providing or using relocation services.
Mr Robert Zancan Business Analyst and Customer Experience Manager Westpac 9608 3470 robertzancan at westpac.com.au www.westpac.com.au Working for Westpac, we provide various financial services to numerous organisations, and as part of the newly established, Business Acquisition Group, we are interested in being involved with the business community.
Final email sent after the event

Our four panel members were:
Sue Ellson, Founder, Newcomers Network, 9812 7288 or 0402 243 271
Peter Tunjic, Immediate Past Convenor, Company of Friends - Fast Company's Readers' Network, 5276 1001 or 0407 762 212
Bridgette Engeler Newbury, Convenor, Connect Network, 9421 2025 or 0418 588 845
Darren Saffin, President, Melbourne Junior Chamber of Commerce, 0411 089 209

We have also received indications of additional support from Horace Lim, Rebecca Cherry, Andrew Donovan and Kathie Thomas. If you would also like to be considered as part of the initial Project Development Team, please reply to this email.

What are we planning to do next:
1. Plan and develop the Heads of Networks Peer Support Program - to be run four times a year in a Melbourne City Council Venue to encourage peer support for those who run, co-ordinate or wish to found social and commercial networks in the State. Sue Ellson is willing to organise the mailout for these events.

2. The Network of Networks Project Development Team would like to meet again, Friday 4 November at 11am at the Green Cat Cafe, KPMG Building, 161 Collins Street and discuss the points raised last Wednesday so that we can start preparing a more detailed charter and business case, design a survey that will substantiate our methodologies and then apply for funding under the City of Melbourne's Small Business Development Grant (plus other sources if available). This central portal service will initially:

a. focus on business/commercial/trade networks
b. be independently run with appropriate legal requirements
c. be a useful tool for journalists seeking comment, individuals seeking networks, networks seeking alliance partners
d. ensure that networks listed agree to a code of conduct
e. that cross branding and promotion is used to ensure the viability of both the network portal and the networks themselves
f. improve the level of connectedness here in Victoria with a model that will be useful for other locations in the future
g. provide additional resources over time
h. be sustainable and innovative

What we would like you to do:
1. We encourage you to network with the other guests, make connections, meet for coffee, form alliances and partnerships as you wish. However, we also ask that you respect the privacy of people at all times.

2. You are welcome to forward this information to other people you know that are either Heads of Networks or Representatives of Networks and if they would like to be added to the mailing list for future correspondence, please ask them send their details to networkofnetworks at newcomersnetwork.com.

3. You may like to list your networking related events at www.whats-on-in-town.com

4. If you can provide additional support to either the Heads of Networks Peer Support Program or the Network of Networks Project Development Team, please reply to this email as soon as possible. It could be in the form of office space, equipment, resources, sponsorship, consulting services, contacts, software - whatever you are willing to contribute. Everyone who has been involved so far, including me, has done so on a voluntary basis and this will need to continue until formal arrangements are in place.

I trust that you have received value by being involved in this process so far - any further comments and suggestions are welcome at any time.

For the latest update and full archive on this project, please visit the Network of Networks Blog at http://networkofnetworks.blogspot.com

Liveable but lonely - towards a Network of Networks, Summary 13 October 2004

2005-12-05T12:39:00.000+11:00

Liveable but lonely - towards a network of networks

Proudly brought to you by the City of Melbourne - Business Melbourne
and part of Melbourne Business Week 2004

Melbourne may well be liveable but is it becoming a lonely place to do business?

Are our businessmen and businesswomen at risk of finding themselves out
of the relationship economy that drives a globally connected world?

Is it difficult to find the right 'contacts' when you are new to the city?

Is it hard to break into the right 'circles' when you are starting out in business?

Do you know how to find the right 'network' to achieve your goals?

Can you bring an international network in to Melbourne business?

Is there a way that the existing networks can work together better?

What do you want in the future? How do we make it happen?
These networks have got together to bring
you this interactive and productive event

Australian Institute of Management - Victoria and Tasmania

BioMelbourne Network

Business Women's Breakfast Series

Company of Friends - Fast Company's Readers' Network

Connect - the marketing professionals' network

Entrepreneurs Networx

First Friday Group - technology, innovation and entrepreneurship - Convenor, Horace Lim

Home Base Inc

Micro Biz Navigator

Spirituality, Leadership and Management Network
SLaM Network

VentureLink Network

What's on in Town.com (prepared by A Clayton's Secretary)

Facilitated by
Thoughtpost - the art of uncommon strategy

Concept initiator and administration
Sue Ellson
Newcomers Network

Venue
Green Cat Function Centre

Far from being a typical guest speaker event where you just sit and listen, this event will challenge you to interact with each other. We will start proceedings by pulling together a 'fish bowl' of people to discuss these issues and then get you involved in the actual presentation (if you want to - otherwise you can just watch others!)

We have scheduled from 6-8pm but if you are enjoying this dynamic format, you can linger longer. We aim to have fun - and at the same time, find a way to move forward in the future - with a strategy that only YOU can help us design.

This event is part of Business Melbourne Week - running from Monday 11th - Friday 15th October.

Date Wednesday 13 October 2004
Time 6:00 - 8:00pm (or later)
Cost $19 (designed to cover costs only)
All tickets are transferable
This includes two drinks and lots of finger food
Additional drinks can be purchased from the bar

Venue
The Green Cat Function Centre
Ground Floor inside KPMG House in the old T&G Building
161 Collins Street
Melbourne Phone 9650 7768
Melways Map Reference 1A K9

Audio Equipment supplied by Charlie Kopa
Centre Stage
55 Brady Street
South Melbourne 3205
Phone 8645 9888
Fax 8645 9889
Mobile 0411 748 565
Website http://www.centrestage.com.au

Facilitators and supporters
Australian Institute of Management - Victoria and Tasmania, Events Manager, Sharlene Eade
(for details) http://www.aimvic.com.au
(to subscribe) http://www.aimvic.com.au/apps/maillist/
(to contact) seade at aimvic.com.au or 9536 3203

BioMelbourne Network - Executive Director, Tim Murphy
(for details) http://www.biomelbourne.org
(to subscribe) http://www.biomelbourne.org/aboutus.0.html (see left hand side)
(to contact) info at biomelbourne.org or 9650 8800

Business Melbourne - Principal Project Officer Business Development, Sustainable Business and Trade Development Branch, Michael Anderson
(for details) http://www.businessmelbourne.com.au
(to contact) micand at melbourne.vic.gov.au or 9658 8874

Businesswomen's Breakfast Series - Founder, Kim McGuinness
(for details) http://www.centrumevents.com.au/BBS.asp
(to subscribe) http://www.centrumevents.com.au/BBS-SubscribeNewsletter.asp
to contact) info at centrumevents.com.au or 02 9983 9406

Company of Friends - Fast Company's Readers' Network - Immediate Past Convenor, Peter Tunjic
(for details and to subscribe) http://www.fastcompany.com/mbr/profile/fc/cof?origin=/cof/index.jsp
(to contact) petertunjic at thoughtpost.com.au or 5276 1001

Connect - the marketing professionals' network - Co-Convenor, Bridgette Engeler Newbury
(for details) http://www.connectnetwork.com.au
(to subscribe) http://www.connectnetwork.com.au/reg_email.html
(to contact) bridgette at incognitosum.com or 9421 2025

Entrepreneurs Networx - Founder, Kimberly Palmer
(for details) http://www.entrepreneursnetworx.com.au
(to subscribe) http://www.entrepreneursnetworx.com.au/register_now.htm
(to contact) info at entrepreneursnetworx.com.au or 9328 1958

First Friday Group - technology, innovation and entrepreneurship - Convenor, Horace Lim
(for details) http://www.firstfridaygroup.com
(to subscribe) send email to firstfriday at pobox.com
with "JOIN" in subject line or body
(to contact) h.lim at pobox.com or 0411 108 809

Home Base Inc - President, Graeme Turner
(for details) http://www.homebaseinc.com.au
(to subscribe) http://www.homebaseinc.com.au/?lqIAh&1Qm0&7yp&CHl
(to contact) info at homebaseinc.com.au or 9885 6785

Micro Biz Navigator - accreditation for micro business - Founder, Barbara Gabogrecan
(for details) http://www.micronavigator.com.au
(to subscribe) http://micronavigator.com.au/display/text/1069488487640-8500/
(to contact) enquiries at micronavigator.com.au or 5625 5195

Newcomers Network - Founder, Sue Ellson
(for details) http://www.newcomersnetwork.com
(to subscribe) http://www.newcomersnetwork.com/mel/oursay/newsletters/
(to contact) sueellson at newcomersnetwork.com or 9812 7288

Spirituality, Leadership and Management Network Ltd – Executive Officer, Steve McDonald
(for details) http://www.slam.net.au
(to subscribe) http://www.slam.net.au and click ‘Register for free’
(to contact) steve.mcdonald at slam.net.au or 9681 9111

VentureLink Network - Convenor, Anna McDonald
(for details and to subscribe) http://www.newcomersnetwork.com/mel/host/vn/index.php
(to contact) anna_mcdonald at optusnet.com.au or 0412 001 198

What's on in Town.com - Founder, Kathie Thomas from A Clayton's Secretary
(for details) http://www.whats-on-in-town.com
(to subscribe) http://www.asecretary.com.au/cgi-bin/mojo/mojo.cgi?f=list&l=woit
(to contact) kathie at asecretary.com.au or 9583 8359

Register

Newcomers Network will process your registration and if you wish, keep your contact details for passing on to the new 'network of networks' that may be developed.

1. Print this registration form and fax or post it to us OR

2. Send us an email by clicking on this link events at newcomersnetwork.com OR

3. Register online via our secure vault page - MUST BE BEFORE MIDDAY 13/10/04 - or just turn up and register and pay at the venue.

All guests that book to attend receive three emails

a) one to confirm that we have received the booking (within 24 hours of receiving your booking)
b) one to confirm your registration details and with your payment receipt number (Monday before the event)
c) one that includes a copy of the guest list (Tuesday before the event)

If you do not receive these three emails, we have not received your booking - so please contact us direct via events at newcomersnetwork.com or phone 9812 7288 or
0402 243 271.

If you wish to subscribe to any of the above networks, please do so direct.

Proudly sponsored by the City of Melbourne's Business Melbourne
http://www.businessmelbourne.com.au

Budget
Receipts - Tickets and sponsorship $2,273.00 (when all invoices paid)
Expenses - Audio and catering for 100 people $2154.40 (paid)
Surplus - $118.60 (no allowances for administration, bank fees etc)

Guests
116 people registered to attend.
86 guests attended and 12 apologies were received
46 evaluations were completed.

Evaluation results

Question one asked – Have you attended events hosted by any network in the last three years?
Yes, more than 30 (8 – 17%)
Yes, between 11 and 29 (12 – 26%)
Yes, 10 or less (21 – 46%)
No (5 – 11%)

Question two asked – Do you believe that networks offer the following opportunities?
Business development (35 – 76%)
Marketing (22 – 48%)
Affordable training (14 – 30%)
A sense of belonging (27 - 59%)
Discounts (6 – 13%)

Other – keeping up with friends, contacts, skill set development, all of the above, all depending on appropriate network, create more contacts, work towards common goal, connect with like minded people with similar interests, information sharing, social outlet, opportunity to talk to interesting people, peer connections, social networking, yet to be convinced, to learn

Question three asked What could networks do better?
Accelerated networking – getting to what you are looking for quicker
Initial opening address state what is on tonight, will run 1, 2, 3 intro, state biz, why?
Engage people who attend and find out what people want to get out of the network
Topical information outside presentation
Coordinate activities
More contact via email/web etc
More time to mingle
Not sure as I’m new to this
My first networking event so I’m not sure
Streamline communication under one piece
Have well established vision for each network
Up to date, brief but informative websites
Educating attendees about the role of networks and people how to add value to their members
Everything based on tonight
Referrals
Develop across other networks to leverage off each other
Provide a consolidated list of what networks are available
Work together network networks
Enable more one to one interaction – eg one hour of designated networking time, 10 minutes of meeting a different person by musical chairs (if you are sitting down eg speed dating) by colour badges – ie 10 minutes starting with a quote that inspires higher, inclusive interaction – PS The dinner table needed more audience interaction
This one was great! The breakfasts are very good too. Keep them going!
Give people more creative ways to talk about themselves publicly
Be humble and sincere
Actively network (really put the onus on people to network)
Be more industry specific
Stay together
Cooperate, promote themselves
Make money for the coordinators
Organisation
Listen to the needs of newcomers
Use feedback to drive what networks products and services provide

Question four asked What would you like to see in the future?
More networks for specific niches (15 – 33%)
More ‘super’ networks (6 – 13%)
More structure and support for networks (13 – 28%)
A centralised referral system (25 – 54%)
Other – network and online forums
All communicate via one e-newsletter events monthly – What’s on in town approach
Categorised the Networks – Social, marketing professionals, business, education, general
A peak body for networks is an excellent idea
More general networks
The purpose of networks
A centralised referral system is not realistic
Greater visibility of existing networks
Interested in ‘super’ networks but not sure what you mean by this (amalgamated networks)
Cross networking
Purely social functions
Higher level awareness of their value
Question five asked Which groups should support networks?

Government (federal, state or local) (27 – 59%)
The industries they represent (27 – 59%)
The people who use them (31 – 67%)
The media (12 – 26%)

Other – especially the media, all of the above
I feel very strongly that government should support groups who help promote business sustainability, not just start ups
The system – donors eg Philanthropists who understand

Question six asked Did you enjoy this function overall?
Yes box was ticked by 23 people – 50%

Other comments – Not what I expected from promotional materials, not really, initially – too long about you – me me me me me me me me
In between, no – poorly moderated,
No – expected to be more interactive – no benefit to the individual
Yes for the networking not really for the biz network dinner table not enuff interaction
Yes – environment difficult – more structure please as the part of evening if you checked the floor you would have found that unfortunately you had lost interest – I loved the idea but venue and structure was not particularly conducive – very interesting stuff
No, not for me
Yes, sort of
Other comments and notes

Thank you
When you are customer focused, you are relevant and you make a difference. If you want to know more www.rhinoceross.com.au
Could have been greater focus on developing business opportunities rather than the social issues associated with networks – good opportunity to learn more about networks
The one point which wasn’t spoken about was ‘what do people want’ Basically meeting customers/attendees needs.

‘Thanks for arranging this event, it was a really interesting format that really got everyone talking!’

‘I enjoyed it. I'm actually revamping Whats on in Town.com now based on some feedback from people last night - all positive’
Network of Networks Yahoo Group

This Yahoo Group has been established to continue the dialogue and work towards a sustainable outcome - if you would like to read further feedback, join and/or keep up to date, please visit http://groups.yahoo.com/group/networkofnetworks/

Final list of registered guests
Title or Area of Expertise Organisation Name or Previous Location

Motor Industry
Teen Mentor
Director/Marketing 3RD I
Business Development Manager 4LOOP Pty Ltd
Director 4LOOP Pty Ltd
Director and Founder A Clayton's Secretary
Acclaim Printing Services
Melbourne Representative Advance (New York)
Lawyer Aitken, Walker and Strachan
Lawyer Aitken, Walker and Strachan
Legal AJH Lawyers
Managing Director and Editor-In-Chief Australian Anthill
Events Manager Australian Institute of Management
Parent and Youth Coach Aviva Coach
Corporate and TV producer/Trainer-Media, performing, speaking Backspin Pty Ltd
Director Because
CEO Blue Chip Consulting Group
CEO Brunswick Business Incubator
Admin Officer Brunswick Business Incubator
Business Development Partners
Event Manager - Victoria Businesswomen's Breakfast Series
Managing Director Businesswomen's Breakfast Series
Principal Cherry Enterprises
Senior Project Officer
Sustainable Business & Trade Development City of Melbourne
Principal Project Officer Business Development, Sustainable Business and Trade Development Branch City of Melbourne
Marketing Officer City of Whitehorse
Founder Clever Fox
Managing Director Collins Street Business Centre
Senior Consultant Computer Services Group
Victorian Co-Convenor Connect - The Marketing Professionals' Network
Co-Convenor Connect Network and Winning Words
Victorian Co-Convenor Connect, Marketing Professionals Network
Account Manager Dell Computers
Business Development Manager Easy Forex
Learning & Development el camino
Business Advisor Enterprise Accelerators
IT ETX Consultants
Annuity Business Manager Express Data (Sydney)
Coordinator First Friday Group
Managing Director Flamin' Galah Clothing
Executive Director FLO CarShare
Director Mindwerx International Founder Creativity Exchange Network
Director Buzan Centre Founder The Bran Club
Accounting From Adelaide
Owner/Mortgage Consultant Fusion Finance
Business Development Consultant Futurum Australia
Business Development Consultant Futurum Australia
Director Happytoworkathome.com
Manager Home and Hearth
President Home Base Inc
Director Hot Web Solutions
Workplace Facilitator/Coach Insight Now
Director/Senior Consultant Integ Solutions Pty Ltd
Media Manager Invest Victoria
Naturopath Specialising in Paediatric Health Katherine Knott Naturopathy
Consultant KPMG
Managing Director Manoir
Coach & Facilitator McLachlan Consulting Pty Ltd
Senior Consultant Melbourne
Melbourne Surprise
Public Relations/Marketing Miami, Florida USA
Managing Director Micro Biz Navigator
Co-Owner Mind Your Business/Hey dee ho music for tinies
Qualified Bookkeepers & Payroll Specialists Mind Your Time
Mortgage Broker Mortgage Choice
Finance Consultant Mortgage First
Marketing and Development Executive - Community Relations MS Society
Web and Graphic Design MT Creative
Project Manager, International Markets and Services National Australia Bank
Producer/Writer Exploring Victoria Netherlands/Canada
Founder Networx Marketing Meetings / Entrepreneur's Networx
Marketing/Events Assistant Networx, a brazen production
New Ways to Wellness
Wellness Consultant Neways Int
Founder Newcomers Network
Managing Director NewPath IT Pty Ltd
Project Coordinator - Emerging Skills Capabilities Office of Science and Technology, Department of Innovation, Industry and Regional Development
Solutions Consultant Optus
Paradigm House
Managing Director Pegasus Communications
Designer Point of View
Business Development Manager Positive IT Solutions
Profit Consultant Profit Revolution
Marketing Strategist RAIM Pty Ltd
Director relocations-made-easy
Associate Professor RMIT School of Management
Sole Trader Self
SilverStream Solutions
Founder Speed Networking
Textile Artist Spiritual Threads
Executive Officer Spirituality, Leadership and Management Network Ltd
Managing Director Staffing Synergy
Business Development Manager Stamford Plaza Melbourne
Business Development Executive Stamford Plaza Melbourne
Managing Consultant Sustainable Risk Management
Managing Consultant Sustainable Risk Management
Founder Systems Marketing and Enterprise Innovations Pty Ltd (SME Innovations)
Managing Director Technology Assistance Group (TAG) Pty Ltd
Sales Technology Assistance Group (TAG) Pty Ltd
Business Initiative Manager Telstra
Director The Ad Company
The Centre for Management Creativity
Managing Director The Dining and Activity Network
President The Hames Group
Founder, Career Consultant and Trainer The Job Show
Career Consultant and Trainer The Job Show
Director Thoughtpost
Principal Thoughtpost
Business Development Manager Traders Collection Services (Vic) Pty Ltd
Up Front Consulting
Marketing USANA
Convenor VentureLink Network
Lecturer Victoria University
Conference Manager Waldron Smith Management
Business Development West End Business Association
Sales/Product Development your home executive

Network of Networks Concept Outline - Sue Ellson, Newcomers Network

2005-11-11T11:18:00.000+11:00

Network of Networks - Concept Outline 11/11/05

Network of Networks

Welcome!

On 23 July 2004, Sue Ellson - Founder of Newcomers Network (initiator of the concept), Peter Tunjic - Founder of the Melbourne Fast Company Reader's Group, Horace Lim - Founder of the First Friday Group, Mark Pearce - Media Advisor for the State Government's Invest Victoria, and Michael Anderson - from Business Melbourne at the City of Melbourne, gathered to discuss how networks might be able to work together more closely.

They agreed to host a formal discussion on 13 October 2004 as part of the City of Melbourne's Melbourne Business Week. The full details of this event can be seen in the next post to this blog and online at http://www.newcomersnetwork.com/mel/events/041013.php. This first gathering stimulated a lot of interest - and some confusion, as many of the guests assumed it was just a big 'networking festival' rather than a discussion on how we could work together in the future.

A Network of Networks Yahoo Group was established http://groups.yahoo.com/group/networkofnetworks/ and it was quite active in the first few days. However, without someone championing the cause, interest quickly dissipated.

On 13 July 2005, Sue Ellson called together a meeting to discuss the project further. The following people attended:

Sue Ellson, Founder, Newcomers Network sueellson at newcomersnetwork.com
Horace Lim, Convenor, First Friday Group, h.lim at pobox.com
Bridgette Engeler-Newbury, Convenor, Connect Network, bridgette at incognitosum.com
Jay Haugh, Manager Business Migration, Department for Victorian Communities, jay.haugh at dvc.vic.gov.au
Saxon Mitchell, Event Director, ICE Events Pty Ltd, saxonm at iceevents.net.au
Rebecca Cherry, Principal, Cherry Enterprises, rebeccacherry at cherryenterprises.com.au
Rob Lamicela, Career Advisor, robthecompere at yahoo.com
Bruce Croad, Principal, The Strategy Warehouse Group, brucec at strategywarehouse.net

It was agreed that we would host another event during Melbourne Business Festival - and this time, make it clear that the purpose was to progress the idea of a Network of Networks by only inviting 'Heads' of Networks to attend. It was also believed that the State Government's Office of Small Business could progress the concept further. Darren Saffin, President of the Melbourne Junior Chamber of Commerce president at mjcc.org.au who could not attend the meeting, began negotiations with Michael Anderson at the City of Melbourne micand at melbourne.vic.gov.au and the Lord Mayor's Office to see if the Lord Mayor could host an 'afternoon tea.'

Funding to cover the cost of the Yarra Room and afternoon tea was provided by the City of Melbourne (Business Melbourne area) and a function was hosted on 12 October 2005 http://www.newcomersnetwork.com/mel/events/051012.php
(see second next post for details)

This event was extremely well received, there was no confusion as to its purpose and the evaluations were supportive of the next stage of development. A follow up meeting with Sue Ellson, Bridgette Engeler Newbury, Darren Saffin and Kay Withell was held on 4 November 2005 and Kathie Thomas, Rebecca Cherry and Bruce Croad have all indicated that they would like to continue working on the project.

The next meeting was scheduled for Wednesday 16 November 2005 at the Red Limon cafe, 87 Swan Street, Richmond (come out of Richmond station onto Swan Street, turn left (away from the city) and it is on your left hand side under the railway bridge and one block along) at 12:00pm. (see third next post for details).

A virtual follow up was held in December 2005. Further posts will be added to this blog to provide a complete archive of the development of the Network of Networks.