EDITORS MESSAGE AUGUST

A scene from Monty Python’s Life of Brian comes to mind, where despite crucifixion imminent, the condemned break into the song ‘always look on the bright side of life’. It’s the glass half full/half empty ethos.

The business community has a responsibility to seize opportunities and in a crisis there are plenty. Let’s not create more self fulfilling prophecy. Enough talkfests. Rather than wax lyrical about the dire status of our local economy, this month we bring you a collection of positive business stories that will both inspire and aim to cast off any negativity associated with conducting business and attracting investment.

Those of you reading this from interstate or overseas and are considering a move and/or investing in the Gold Coast, there’s plenty to be confident about.

Take a look at ASX-listed medical tech Medigard, a company seeking to raise $4.5m in capital as it taps into the lucrative heath care market in the US.

Set to prick some skin in the billion dollar US health market for its blood collection device and a range of safe retractable needles, Medigard has spent a decade getting it to commercialisation stage and now has a manufacturer and distributor.

The US market consumes about 700 million blood-collection devices a year with Medigard aiming for a 4 per cent share.

The tourism industry has also received a shot in the arm, with news that Niecon’s $850 million twin residential tower Oracle, will be managed by Mantra Group’s expanding Peppers brand. Mantra Group CEO Bob East talks leadership in this issue.

Also maximising opportunities in one of the world’s most competitive industries is Labrador-based special effects and movie makeup company JMB FX Studio – in the running for a US Primetime Emmy Award for the mini series The Pacific.

The company is nominated in the Outstanding Prosthetic Makeup for a Series, Miniseries, Movie category for its creative work on the Tom Hanks-Steven Spielberg TV war epic. Founder Jason Baird says the recognition is not about one film, but years of dedication.

And it’s that time of year when excellence is recognised in the Master Builders Gold Coast Awards, encapsulating outstanding workmanship, inspired designs and innovative projects. We showcase the companies and individuals that contribute so much to the construction sector on the Gold Coast and discover some solid sentiment in the industry.

Also celebrating is Sirromet Wines, which will double its growth and export volumes to China following a four-year deal worth up to $10 million.

Sirromet has kindly donated a bottle of its finest Saint Judes Road Cabernet Sauvignon valued at $300, so that one lucky Gold Coast Business News reader can share in the celebrations. See page 49 for details.