Mark Pownall

Four Western Australian wine producers have appeared in a new book about the development of ‘new world’ wines.

TELSTRA is the classic example of why business and government don’t mix. The current furore over the telco’s new and outspoken leadership team is all politically driven, despite criticism of some management for talking down the price of the stock.

Intangible assets they may be, but there’s no doubting the value brands bring to those who operate in the commercial world.

While I would be the last person to agree to the construction of a nuclear power plant in my backyard, I can understand that this form of energy may play a vital role in our future.

A couple of weeks ago I discussed my belief in the importance of holidays and, while open to the need for choice, my concerns about the practice of cashing in leave.

I am glad to see the debate about liquor regulation start up again.

It’s probably a good time to weigh into the debate about annual leave provision with a few thoughts about holidays, which I believe are an integral part of work.

I’m always fascinated how the pendulum finds its natural balance in politics.

The sale details of high-profile Albany sandalwood oil and cosmetics company Mt Romance Australia Pty Ltd have emerged after weeks of legal process around the settlement – with an Australian company committing an estimated $20 million for the purchase.

Superannuation choice is upon us, and there is a lot of talk of the cost to business in this change.

Donaldson and Warn Architects won a design competition to build a memorial to victims of the 2002 Bali bombing on a site chosen by the victims’ families.

It’s a tough life at the top of business at the best of times. It’s even tougher when things aren’t going well and pesky journalists keep asking well-informed questions.

I was reading an obituary this week about Jack ‘River’ Murray, a legendary Fremantle footballer from the 1940s and 1950s.

WA Business News’ reporting and production values have again been recognised with awards from the Alliance of Area Business Publications.

Last week I was going to air my personal views on the Schapelle Corby case following her conviction for drug trafficking in Bali.

There has been much reference to the promised tax cuts in this year’s Federal Budget, with the Labor opposition damning its “unfairness” while supporters have emailed around the famous restaurant analogy we published on this page last year.

Just in case anyone missed me, I have had the great pleasure of visiting the State’s vast North West with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s annual tour.

I attended an Institute of Management Consultants function this week, where the organisation welcomed several fellowships and introduced a new certificate program to try to provide some form of solid footing to the profession here.

Bill Clough is a rare specimen when it comes to looking at dynastic Western Australians.

Examining the thinking of Perth’s council candidates has provided some interesting fodder for thought, especially with regard to issues confronting our central city and its role as our capital.

Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan’s proposal for a light rail or tram line running through the east-west axis of the Central Business District would be welcomed by several candidates seeking election to the City of Perth’s council th

I noted a recent Federal Government initiative to allow backpackers an additional year on their working holiday visas – something that I believe is long overdue and still probably doesn’t go far enough.

Western Australian motoring giant Automotive Holdings Group is examining plans for a $50 million stock market float.

There is a fascinating battle under way over states’ rights and taxation, with federal Treasurer Peter Costello wielding his new-found power as chieftain of the biggest pot of gold the nation has ever seen – the GST.

Not surprisingly, I have been fascinated by politics this past week or so. But not in an admiring way, more in that stunned, what-are-they-going-on-about way, when you shake your head and wonder if there isn’t something better they might all be doing.

It was, perhaps, the only moment when those in the big audience could see themselves in the shoes of Western Australia’s number one business leader.

Michael Chaney interviewed by Mark Pownall, Editor of WA Business News.

Next time you receive one of those early evening calls from someone with the faintest sub-continental accent trying to sell you shares in Vegemite or raise money for surf lifesaving, put your feet up, answer the questions and think of Australia.

For an expert perspective on what makes a city such as Perth an attractive one to young workers, Mark Pownall spoke to US regional development guru Professor Richard Florida during his recent visit to WA.

Western Australia looks set to remain an economic powerhouse, with all the stars maintaining their alignment for the business community in the medium term.

I have always been fascinated by generational change and the way society evolves no matter how many people would like to preserve the status quo.

Hotel project manager Tony Pallotta is the latest nominee planning to contest the forthcoming City of Perth council elections – where residents are likely to outnumber registered business voters for the first time since the original Perth council was spli