It was great to see the release of the preliminary findings of the Residential Development Council’s ‘Australia on the Move’ report. This estimated that Port Macquarie’s population will increase by 35% to 58,888 by 2027, placing Port as one of Australia’s top 20 growth centres. The implications are clear: a larger market will attract more competition, but mostly from the national chain and franchise players.

CEinternet has drawn quite a loyal following in business since it was launched at NorthPower’s turboweb in the late 90s. However, the business will be purchased by ONEtelecom, an Australian based wholesale internet services provider, who has provided internet services to CEinternet since 2007. The transfer of internet services will happen from 15 August 2009. Is this a sign of the future for Country Energy retail business?

Did anyone ever watch the late night business TV show The Apprentice? I loved it for the drama and real life competitiveness it displayed, even if Donald Trump was overly ruthless at times. The good news is that Network Nine have commissioned a local version, signing Mark Bouris, the former Wizard Home Loans Chief as the boss, for screening later this year.

“There was a path into this global financial crisis, and I guarantee there is a way out for us. And when we do come out the other side, it’s very important you’re able to put the foot on the accelerator  and get going at full speed and not have to start the engine again.” Michael Luscombe, CEO Woolworths recently discussing Woolworth’s increased marketing investment with the Fin Review.

Good to see that Wauchope will have some supermarket competition now that the existing monopoly has been smashed by the Land & Environment court, who recently validated local approval of the development application initially granted last year. The new supermarket brand is yet to be determined, but look out for some relief in 2010.

It’s been a phenomenal second quarter for free TV networks, with viewers tuning in to home-grown shows in massive numbers. Programs like MasterChef, Packed to the Rafters, Thank God You’re Here, State of Origin footy, Underbelly and Talkin ‘Bout Your Generation have consistently attracted huge audiences during the period – all averaging a combined audience of at least 2 million viewers. The quarterly review of the television ratings (1 April to 30 June) also reveals more people tuning in to free TV, especially during the evenings. The second quarter saw average audiences grow 6.1 per cent in regional areas, with increases recorded across all major demographics. Good news for advertisers concerned about the impact of Austar on overall viewing numbers.

McGrath Real Estate has carved out an enviable but profitable niche in the premium end of the Sydney market and are set to repeat that success here now that Todd & Greg Bates formerly of LJ Hooker have established an office here. Good luck boys.

The young Lawyer was invited to his boss’ house one evening for dinner. The associate wandered through the grand house, awestruck by the majesty of the design, the perfection of the stylish interiors, and the beauty of the original artworks.

As he stood there gazing at the impeccable ocean view, his boss comes over and puts an arm around his shoulder, “I know what you’re thinking and, yes, it’s possible that if you work long and hard, day in and day out, six days a week … I could buy another one!”