The Sydney Morning Herald from Sydney, New South Wales, Australia • Page 49

4 News Saturday, September 23, 2000 www.smh.com.au Truckie mum hits the road to lead protest about survival Rates hope Philip Cornford as dollar oil turn around Now she spends most of her time on the "truckies' a network of mobile phones, UHV and CB radios reaching across the nation to 30,000 independent owner-drivers. Her targets are the Federal Government's oil-pricing policies, finance companies that are "hassling broke truck drivers into and the major freight companies' which have cut freight rates. Last year, finance company repossessions involving drivers unable to maintain monthly payments on their rigs increased by 176 per cent, according to the Transport Workers Union (TWU). Since then, times have got even tougher. The 10 per cent GST on July 1 was followed by 'freight companies cutting rates and, more devastatingly, by the rising price of diesel, up in two months from 78.9 a litre to $1 to $1.06 a litre.

And still rising. "Times have never been so bad," Mrs Bennetts said. "Owner-drivers aren't making enough to feed their families. Some are so desperate they're telling the finance companies to come and get their rigs." Mrs Bennetts is part of a steering committee of about 20 owner-drivers from around Australia which emerged from nationwide protests in May and June. The former hairdresser played a leading role in the blockades that closed down the Hume Highway at Albury-Wodonga.

The truckies won the support of the TWU, which represents about 10 per cent of owner-drivers in Australia and which has recognised they all share a common plight. Mrs Bennetts said the protests in Albury and Melbourne would be peaceful. When Lyn Bennetts speaks, tough truck drivers listen with respect. In these times of hardship, the Albury mother of three has emerged as one of their leaders. Today Mrs Bennetts will speak from the back of a truck at a protest in Albury against spiralling fuel prices.

On Sunday, she will be behind the wheel of her big Western Star rig, leading a convoy down the Hume Highway for another protest in Melbourne. "People have an image of truck drivers as big, bad and mean," she said yesterday. "But we're just families trying to survive." Mrs Bennetts and her husband have been owner-drivers for 12 years. While raising two sons and a daughter, aged between 7 and 12, she has taken the wheel as co-driver on school holidays "to give him a -C "4t-s A- V5 limn iH Wll nil Vl IK- AatnMtAiiltAMrir, if, III Mill a mr Lyn Bennetts says the GST and the rising price of diesel are forcing out owner-drivers. Photo: Chris McCormack DAVID DALE THE TRIBAL MIND WHAT WE WATCHED WHAT AMERICA WATCHED OUR FAVOURITE CDs OUR FAVOURITE MOVIES FAVOURITE VIDEOS All viewers, five capitals, Sept 10 -16 US viewers, Sept 10 -16 Albums sold, week ending September 18 Last weekend's box office Smiii total Most rented, week to Sept 18 AUDIENCE MILLIONS AUDIENCE MILLIONS 1 Olympics Opening Ceremony (7) 6.52 Olympics Opening Ceremony 27.3 1 1 Odyssey Number Five Pcmderfinger 1 1 Scary Movie 106 7J2 12 Double Jeopardy 2 Olympics Evening Day 1(7) 3.76 Who Wants To Be A Millionaire 232 2 2 In Blue The Cons 2 2 Big Momma's House 057 322 2 5 Hurricane 3 Seven News -Saturday (7) 2.92 Monday Night Football 22.9 3 3 33 13 John Farnham 3 8 Potenon2000 056 102 3 1 Stuart Little 4 Today At The Games, Early Day 1(7) 228 Olympics Day 1 4 4 Not That Kind Anastacia 4 3 Road Trip 0.45 596 4 8 Galaxy Quest 5 Today At The Games, Late Day 1(7) 226 Vanished 12.8 510 Ronan Ronan Keating 5 Centre Stage 038 038 5 7 American Beauty 6 OlympicsAfternoon Day 1 (7) 222 Dharma And Greg 12.4 6 Something Like Human Fuel 6 4 Hollow Man 036 423 6 6 Talented Mr Ripley 7 Olympics: Morning Day 1(7) 2.19 Law And Order 12.0 7 The Power Vanessa Amorosi 7 9 The Road To Dorado 030 059 7 3 Stigmata 8 Olympics Soccer Ausv Italy (7) 1.97 Big Brother 11.4 8 tomloDolt Craig David 8 Gossip 025 025 8 4 Story Of Us 9 Harry's Practice (7) 1.95 2020 Downtown 11.2 9 6 PlayMofle 9 6 Mr Accident 0J8 OS 9 The Insider 10 Great Outdoors (7) 1.83 Everybody Loves Raymond 11.1 10 9 Writing's On The Wall Destiny's Child 10 15 Snow Day 0J5 033 10 10 Dogma 11 SeaChangeG) 172 Speed (movie) 10.8 Singles sold, week ending September 18 11 5 High Fidelity 0W 193 Host sold videos, August 12 Dreamhome(9) 179 Sleepless In Seattle (movie) 10.6 1 On A Night Like This Kylie Minogue 12 7 Shanghai Noon 01! 1 Wiggles -Wiggly Work) 13 This Is Your Life (9) 178 The West Wing 105 2 1 Music Madonna 13 K) Chopper 0X17 541 2 Jungle Book 14 Friends(9) U1 60M'mutes 103 3 2 Shackles (Praise You) Mary Mary 14 11 ThePatriot 006 1099 3 HF5 Animal Adventures 15 Seven News (7) 171 Friends 10J 4 3 I'm Outta Love Anastacia 15 T2 Where The Heart Is 0.05 0.49 4 American Pie SOURCE NIELSEN ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY AUSTRALIAN RECORO INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION teSTlONOF VIDEO TRADER AND GfK MARKETING pressure to do something about it.

Yesterday, the Tourism Council of Australia (TCA) and the NSW Farmers Federation joined others in demanding the Government freeze the February indexation of petrol excise, which will add about 1.5C a litre to the price of petrol because of the GST impact on inflation. The TCA's managing director, Mr Phil Young, said: "Many small tourism businesses, particularly regional tour operators and those located at road-only access destinations, are already being impacted by rising price. "This is of significant concern given small businesses account for 80 per cent of the tourism industry." The Treasurer has repeatedly ruled out such a move, arguing it would hurt the Budget surplus. However, concerned MPs are still working behind the scenes to convince Mr Costello to change his mind. Elsewhere, the impact of oil prices and higher interest rates appears to be hurting business expectations.

A survey from the Australian. Bureau of Statistics showed a 2.7 per cent seasonally adjusted drop in profit expectations and a 0.8 per cent slump in hiring intentions. The negative sentiments were more pronounced in the small-business sector. The chief economist at the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Dr Steven Kates, said the survey's results provided ample evidence that there was no need for higher interest rates. The Reserve Bank meets early next month to discuss rates, with most analysts tipping a rise.

Oil becomes election issue Page 5 Tom Allard Economics Correspondent Mortgagors and motorists were shown a ray of hope yesterday after a horror week, with the Australian dollar rebounding tnd world oil prices falling. A combination of record lows for the dollar and record highs for oil was the worst of possible outcomes fot consumers, foreshadowing higher pump prices and interest rates in the months ahead. But speculation that this weekend's meeting of finance ministers from the seven leading industrialised countries will lead to intervention, or at least a strong statement, in defence of the euro helped the local currency. The Australian dollar rose more than half a cent from its Thursday close of US53.87C to finish at US54.614:, ending a run of losses that has seen the currency tumble more than 10 per cent in the past month. The low dollar is a prime threat to stable interest rates because it pushes up the price of impoited goods and services.

Oil, too, reversed the prevailing trend, dropping below SUS34 a barrel after being as high as SUS38 this week. The catalyst for the fall was a call by the United States Vice-President, Mr Al Gore, for the US to release some of its emergency stockpiles of oil to ease pressure during the northern winter. Oil analysts were expecting the President, Mr Bill Clinton, to answer the call positively in the near future. Nevertheless, few expect prices to come back down to the OPEC target range of SUS22 to SUS28 a barrel, and the Federal Government is likely to remain under Pikachu and the gang join the 2000 turnoffs Stuart Little hits the video big time, but it's the Games that's top of the games. Most of that period was school holidays, when kids were desperate for entertainment (and the Olympics hadn't started).

A Pokemon special shown by Ten at 6.30 last Saturday night ranked 26th with viewers aged under 12. It got a smaller audience than the morning edition oiPloy School, ranked 24 (which is a heartwarming thing to learn, even if the ABC did dump Angela without explanation from the Playschool presenter pool). So if they're no longer swapping cards covered with colourful creatures, what are kids doing for fun at the moment? They are renting'the mouse comedy Stuart Little on video, even though they already saw it twice at the cinema, and they are buying videos of the Wiggles, TheJungleBook and Hi-5 (derived from the vacuous Nine show that is Playschool's major rival). On TV they are joining their parents' obsession with the Olympics, as well as gaining insights into teen romance. The most watched programs among viewers under 12 last week were: 1) The opening ceremony, 2) Thorpie's first gold medal on Saturday night; 3) the soap Home and Away; 4) Hey Arnold (a Simpsons-like cartoon series about a kid with a football-shaped head, showing on the ABC at 5 pm weekdays); and 5) the veterinary show Harry's Practice.

At the cinema the older kids are probably sneaking into Scary Movie, even though they told their parents they were seeing Road to El Dorado. And a small number of diehards are letting their parents take them to Pokemon 2000, just to say goodbye to a phenomenon whose use-by date has come. Footnote: Those of us who thought Vanessa Amorosi was an unnecessary element in the Olympic opening ceremony are not representative of mass opinion: since that event, her album The Power, which had been fading from the CD sales chart after selling solid ly for six months, has leapt back into the top 10, rising from 16 last week to seven this week. Another beneficiary of Olympic euphoria was Andrea Bocelli, the blind tenor who came to sing at the Opera House and to carry the torch. His two-year-old album Romanza leapt from 41 spot to 23, and his new album Verdi Arias has entered at 25.

So some people are getting a financial spinoff from the Games. year, if we date it from when the first trading cards went on sale in Sydney. The rivers of gold that flowed to Nintendo from electronic games, cards, dolls, kits, toys, clothes, stickers and videos are now merely trickles. The evidence is in the cinema box office figures and the TV ratings. When Pokemon: The First Movie opened in December, it sold $3.2 million worth of tickets iri its first two weeks.

Its sequel, Pokemon 2000, has sold a mere $1.01 million worth of tickets since it opened on September 7. Someone had to break the news, and the sad duty falls to this column: the Pokemon craze is "over. Pikachu, Ash, Charmander and Team Rocket are about to join Transformers, Power Rangers and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles in the Non-Recyclables bin of history. Oh yes, a few daggy six-year-olds will still ask Santa for a yellow Gameboy in their stocking at Christmas, but the cool io-year-olds pulled out weeks ago, successfully avoiding the crash. The fad lasted exactly a wduc pklCnmTERHOUsE(OOPERS Executive Search Selection AM anager fmm' Newcastle based wj 1 The ability to market and develop race days at CO E-BUSINESS FOCUS Broodmeodow and Cessnock.

The creative talent to constantly review ond improve the utilisation of the numerous facilities. An energetic and proactive personality that exudes enthusiasm for whotever task you take on. The drive and commitment to consistently be the best and achieve goals by motivating those around you. The ability to represent the NJC in a professional and businesslike manner. Previous industry experience would be highly regarded, but is not as critical as your commitment to 'go the extra mile' in promoting this high profile organisation.

An attractive salary package commensurate with experience will be offered to the successful candidate. Initial enquiries in complete confidence may be made to Gail Whipper or Beulah Richardson on (02) 4929 1666 or alternatively forward your CV to the address below. Newcastle Jockey Club continues to be a 'leading edge' player within the growing entertainment and leisure sector of the Hunter Volley. The following position represents the significant growth of Thoroughbred Racing Industry and provides a dynamic platform for a skilled and possiorlote professional to move into the exciting world of racing. Newcastle Jockey Club races 35 times per year at Broodmeadow ond 15 times per year at Cessnock.

The club also operates a number of facilities that are utilised for promotional activities along with corporate, social and charitable functions. To be successful in the role you will possess: A proven background in marketing and promotion. The ability to prepare and implement financial budgets. A strategic vision that will be formalised into a successful marketing plan. The energy to actively pursue new business and the drive to build ond maintain relationships with sponsors that guarantees an ongoing relationship with the club.

BROAD CLIENT BASE Leading edge International, listed company Highly energised, entrepreneurial local environment The Company Our North Sydney-based client is a leading provider of wireless data services to mobile customers. They aggregate, package and transmit content to mobile users, and provide connectivity services for corporates' communication with customers, using technological platforms including IVR, SMS and WAP, in conjunction with mobile network operators. The Exciting Opportunity Reporting to the New Product and Business Development Manager, working in a flat, team-based structure Full accountability for the core, fast-growing product group of the company, from strategy and positioning to operational delivery against profit objectives Additional opportunities to be involved in multiple projects given the small and dynamic nature of the company The Ideal Candidate Will Be tertiary qualified, with minimum 4 years experience, preferably in the telecommunicationsInternet E-commerce arena Have strong commercial acumen, ability to manage all stages of product lifecycle Have exceptional project management and client relationship skills Display strong interpersonal skills and be highly self-motivated. Senior Executive Service Attorney General's Department of NSW Children's Court Clinic, Local Courts Director, Children's Court Clinic Senior Executive Service Level 1. Pos No: AG00561.

An attractive remuneration package of up to $124,540 p.a. will be negotiated with the successful applicant. The Director is responsible for establishingand managing a new Children's Court Clinic to achieve excellence and innovation in delivery of Children's Court Clinic services. Selection Criteria: Extensive experience and recognised excellence in directing, conducting and evaluating forensic, clinical assessment of ttje needs of children, young people, parents and families. Demonstrated leadership capabilities.

Demonstrated experience in developing, implementing and reviewing policies and procedures. Highly developed interpersonal, consultation and negotiation skills. Superior written communication skills and administration skills. Recognised degree in Social Sciences, Psychology or Psychiatry with -post graduate qualifications preferred. Eligible for registration in NSW with a relevant professional body.

Commitment to EEO. cultural diversity and ethical practices. Inquiries: William Grant (02) 9228 7577. Information package: Michelle Schofield (02) 9228 7017. Applications Marked "Confidential" To: Personnel Officer, SES Statutory Appointments.

NSW Attorney General's Department Level 7. Goodsell Building. 8-12 Chifley Square, Sydney NSW 2000 (GPO Box 6. Sydney NSW 2001). 3 Closing Date: 13 October 2000 RELATIONSHIP SELLING Mure is a fabulous opportunity to progress your career within an organisation which is at the forefront of its industry.

Our client, an international publisher, is experiencing significant changes as it develops innovative hi-tech solutions to further enhance its business. It is seeking to provide "first class" service and support to its client base and accordingly is now keen to appoint enthusiastic individuals to join its dynamic sales team. As a sales consultant, your primary focus will be to increase market penetration and visibility, while building effective relationships with key stakeholders in strategic and designated accounts (such as legalaccounting firms, academic libraries, corporates, etc). Working closely with other sales team members, as well as with those in marketing and customer relations, you will be responsible for promoting a portfolio of products, which are predominantly on-line and CD ROM sea'ices. To be a successful candidate you will have exceptional communication skills, a strong sales approach and proven ability to develop and maintain effective client relations.

Your professional demeanour is one of energy and self motivation as well as being a team player. Naturally, you are a proficient user of technology and have superior negotiation and presentation skills. If you enjoy relationship development and desire a truly professional workplace, then these positions will provide you with a high level of job satisfaction. The consultant managing this assignment is Catherine Tissier. To apply for these positions, visit our website at cmployment.au.pwcglobal.com Ref.

GHRS45 17. Alternative contacts are Email: ghrs.employmenlau.pwcglobal.com Fax: 1300 659 798 and Phone: 1300 360 704. http:empIoyment.au.pwcgIobaI.com Applications close 4 October 2000. 3 2 SYDNEY BASED POSITIONS PERMANENT OR CONTRACT toNviiwmwiiflyiiB communications Product Manager Telephony Services Once In A Lifetime Opportunity! Reporting to the General Manager, Telephony Services, you will have the enviable task of bringing Austar United Broadband's telephony portfolio to market. You will be working with both consumer ond business markets and will have full responsibility for the profitability of your portfolio.

To ensure a successful launch, sound marketing strategies need to be developed incorporating all elements of the marketing mix. In addition, strong working relationships with sales, senior management and other Austar departments are critical. You are currently in a marketing management role within telephony services with strong business planning and budget experience. You are a natural leader, flexible in your outlook and have an analytical bent. To enquire further, please phone Rebecca Ramster or Simone Salier in our Sydney office on 8298 381 1 When responding, please quote CRTC9344.

Confidentiality is assured. Manager Carrier Relations Telephony Services Make Your Mark! Be part of this new team developing and launching Austar's portfolio of telephony services. Responsible for the negotiation and management of interconnect arrangements with third parties you will define and manage the interconnect budget and have a keen eye on the profitability of telephony customers and the portfolio of services. Working as a senior member of this telephony team you will have input into all aspects of the marketing mix specifically pricing and product strategies Preferably degree qualified, you will need broad business experience coupled with a track record in the telecommunications arena. Strong commercial acumen, communication and interpersonal skills are prerequisites in this role where the development of business relationships at all levels is key.

You will have management experience demonstrating your ability to lead from the front and proven experience partnering with third parties. You need to be flexible and highly professional in your approach. In return you will work with like minded individuals in a fast paced, fun and creative environment where you can make your mark. To enquire further, please phone Yvette Gray or Simone Salier in our Sydney office on 8298 3832 or out of hours on 0402 140 259. When responding, please quote CRTC9356.

Confidentiality is assured. Engineering Managers Start Up Roles Satellite Engineering Manager Responsible for the management of internal and external satellite technology relationships, you will be instrumental in plotting the course for the flawless migration of satellite services. A builder of strong technical relationships, you will be a driver of change, provide technical assistance internally and take a proactive role in electrical engineering projects. Ideally you will be experienced in satellite technology and related equipment, have a thorough knowledge of the evolution of communication satellite services and possess superior problem solving skills. Spectrum Management Engineer With a sound understanding of microwave technology, you will be responsible for conducting global research for available and suitable sections of spectrum, advising management on appropriate bids as well as determining the value of the spectrum.

Successful applicants will currently be in a consulting or internal role advising senior management on the best utilisation of spectrum. Importantly you are strategic thinker with a sense of urgency and great communication skills. To enquire further, please phone Jenni Dowzell or Simone Salier in our Sydney office on 8298 3830. When responding, please quote CRTC9360. Confidentiality is assured.

Austar United Communications is a leading provider of integrated entertainment and communication services in Australia and New Zealand. As one of Australia's largest public companies, it is experiencing rapid growth and as such requires experienced and successful people to support the development of new telecommunication services in the business. is; Tanner fcH Menzies TANNER MENZIES RESPONSE CENTRE FAX: (02) 9410 0484 Internet: http:www.tannermenzies.com Email: sydneytannermenzies.com (9 fl it 8 (0 a.