It’s been a while between drinks, so to speak! Not because I’ve had nothing to share, but because I’ve had so much to share!
In this past month, I’ve been to Perth, Melbourne (twice), and Sydney, I’ve delivered webinars, officiated at an awards programme, attended an awards ceremony, recorded a podcast, and worked at a mining expo. I’ve smiled for dozens of photos, been streamed, filmed, and had my flesh pressed more times than I can count.
So let’s get you up to speed!
On 18 August I flew to Perth to moderate my bi-monthly breakfast for the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD). (This time the man was with me.) I arrived on the 19th, did the work on the 20th, caught up briefly with my nephew Shon, and then flew onto Melbourne.
Melbourne disappeared in a whirl of catch ups …
And meetings and more. But we did come home each day to our lovely friend Dewetia’s peaceful home and splendid garden!
From Melbourne we headed to Sydney for the National iAwards. The man judged, I – as Chief Judge – officiated. Winners were selected and deliberations were had.
The iAwards culminated in a ritzy Gala event, with food and speeches, and one or two glitches. A great time was had by all!
From Sydney the man headed home, and I headed back to Melbourne for work, and to attend the Governor of Victoria’s Export Awards (GOVEA).
It was great to catch up with old friends and colleagues. Many laughs were had, and proud moments too, as many of the companies I coached walked away with gongs.
In Melbourne I presented the first of my webinars on AI and technology in trade for Austrade. This would also be the only one presented at the decent time of 12pm AEST. From then on I would be presenting these at 4am South Africa time!
I arrived home late on Friday night, 05 September to find that Spring had arrived!
Saturday was spent catching up on washing, and doing shopping for basics. I had one home-cooked meal, and then prepared to head to Electra Mining Africa in Joburg.
With Electra being just too far from home to drive in and out each day, we stayed in Northcliff, with dear friend, Derrich. From his place the expo venue (NASREC) was just 20 minutes away. And he’s well set up for me to have delivered one of those 4am webinars, and to record my next podcast episode for “Food and Beverage: Trade Unpacked”.
Electra Mining is the largest METS (mining equipment, technology and services) expo in Africa. Mining companies come here with their shopping lists to buy everything from (very large) haul trucks to widgets and smart tech solutions. The man exhibited in his own right with Nordland, displaying the prototypes of some of the new lights he’s developed.
I worked with the Australian delegation, a group of 11 METS companies, each with a unique offering. I was engaged by Austrade, through the industry association, Austmine.
Working a show stand for five days is tough! But the companies gained much, the clients were happy, and I got my mining fix!
After Electra we headed home to find the garden in full Spring mode …
And the sunrises as spectacular as ever!
Now it’s back to the usual – webinars, podcasts, writing take-home guides, and more. All until I head back to Perth on 13 October …
Oh, and watch this space for the exciting announcement of my (limited) return to radio in South Africa!
I leave you with a purely South African bit of cheek (spotted at Electra Mining)!
Until next time, sala kahle!
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