Latest news with #TimMcDonald
West Australian
3 days ago
- Health
- West Australian
Occupational therapy students join forces with Broome Childcare Centre to boost early development
Young children at a Broome early learning centre have received extra support this month thanks to a new partnership with university students training in allied health. The Y Broome Early Learning Centre teamed up with the Marjarlin Kimberley Centre for Remote Health and the University of Notre Dame Australia to bring Occupational Therapy students into the classroom throughout July. The initiative aims to help kids build developmental skills while giving students practical, hands-on experience in a real-world setting. Y WA chief executive Dr Tim McDonald said the joint team was nurturing the next generation of allied health professionals while delivering real impact for children, families, and educators. 'Collaborations like this strengthen learning opportunities for both the students and the young children in our care,' he said. The university students integrated into the centre's day-to-day schedule, joining kids during play, rest, and learning time, using those moments to deliver targeted, play-based support. Y Broome ELC Director Tracy Mathers said the support that the students brought to the day-to-day running of the centre was invaluable. 'Many families in regions like Broome face long waiting periods to access critical developmental services,' she said. 'Whilst the students are not there to provide formal assessments, initiatives like this bring timely support into the centre at no extra cost to our families, while also assisting educators to learn skills and strategies for supporting children, right when it matters most, setting them up for success at school and beyond.' The Y hopes this is just the beginning. While Occupational Therapy students are leading the charge, there's potential for Speech Pathology and Physiotherapy students to join future placements at the Broome site. The centre already runs the Y's School ReadY Program, a curriculum designed to boost early literacy, numeracy and social-emotional wellbeing among children heading to school. The partnership adds another layer to that effort, bringing timely, targeted support to a region where families often wait months to access essential services.
Yahoo
25-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Tradie 'forced' to quit job after boss's controversial act
The Fair Work Commission has found a tradie was 'forced to resign' from his job after his employer swore at him during a secretly recorded meeting about his performance. A workplace lawyer said the issue 'cuts both ways' with both employees and employers potentially able to take action if they face swearing at work. Commissioner Susie Allison found that while swearing was likely to be a part of the 'everyday work culture' of the tradie's employer, Melbourne small business DMG Building & Electrical Services, the language and behaviour directed at him were 'not appropriate or acceptable behaviour in any workplace'. She said the worker was 'reasonably concerned for his mental and physical safety' and had no 'real choice' but to resign. McCabes Lawyers principal Tim McDonald told Yahoo Finance the case raised issues for both employees and employers. RELATED Right to disconnect warning as worker sues former employer for $800,000 ATO $1,519 cash boost heading for Aussies in weeks Centrelink payment alert for 58,000 Aussies in caravans 'This sort of issue cuts both ways. It's a precedent in the sense that if there is swearing and so forth, yes, an employee can be entitled to take it that that type of behaviour can force them to resign,' he said. 'But on the flip side of the coin, it would also be the case that if a worker was engaging in that type of behaviour then it would be reasonable for the employer to treat it as a valid reason to terminate the employee.' McDonald said the decision suggested the 'standards of behaviour' had changed and what might have been acceptable in the past was no longer acceptable today. 'It doesn't really matter what industry you're in, and even if you're in the construction industry what might have been okay 20 years ago, may not be the same,' he said. The tradie had started working at DMH Building & Electrical Services in September, 2024. The commission heard the DMG director had raised concerns about the tradie's work levels, along with his undertaking of religious prayer during work hours without informing the company. The worker alleged there was a series of discussions where his boss swore. That included discussions over the worker using his personal phone to contact clients and a vehicle reversing into his company van while he was at a mosque. The worker made a secret recording of his performance meeting with the director in November, where the director raised his voice and swore at him. The boss raised concerns that the worker was 'self-absorbed' and 'not a team player', and said his not revealing he was taking time off to pray was 'deceitful'. 'There's two things I can't f***ing tolerate, its people who steal and people who lie. Right now you've done that,' he said. 'I don't want any negative Nancys running around my company f***ing becoming toxic to other blokes. It festers. What we do with those people, we f***ing weed them out... You need to be on the same page as everyone.' The meeting ended with them discussing how the worker might take time off for his religious practices and make up work time. The director told the worker he was willing to work with him, but he needed to be clear on what times he would not be available. But the next day, the tradie took personal leave due to mental health reasons. He then resigned the following day, alleging bullying, poor treatment and serious safety concerns. DMG denied any inappropriate behaviour, with the director stating he addressed the situation in a normal manner that he would with any other employee. Commissioner Allison ruled in the worker's favour. She said she did not think that the boss intended the worker to resign. She acknowledged he was an employer who cared about his employees and listened to their concerns, including being open to flexible work arrangements. Having said that, she said the language and behaviour was 'not appropriate or acceptable' and noted that they did not approach each other 'on a level playing field' as employer and employee. She found the director was acting in an 'aggressive, confrontational and inappropriate way' that was likely to make the worker feel intimidated. The matter will now proceed to mediation. McDonald said there could be actionable consequences for swearing in the workplace. If it falls into bullying, workers would have the right to seek orders from the Fair Work Commission if they were staying in their employment. 'This case would suggest that if there was a pattern of behaviour that was so terrible that it forced you to resign, then you could do that and say you were forced to resign and seek damages from the employer,' McCondald said. 'The other thing is where there is that type of inappropriate behaviour, you could bring in Safe Work alleging that there is a psychosocial hazard in the workplace.'
7NEWS
24-06-2025
- Business
- 7NEWS
Brisbane leads as smaller capitals diverge in winter auction trends
WATCH: Australian auction surge fuels confidence | | 7NEWS By Tim McDonald Auction momentum across the smaller capitals remained steady last week, with Brisbane recording 152 auctions and a preliminary clearance rate of 66.7 percent, its strongest early result since mid-May. The result suggests that while volumes were moderate, buyer interest is holding firm across the Queensland capital. Adelaide once again emerged as the nation's top performer, with a preliminary clearance rate of 77.5 percent, the highest of any capital city. This also marks the South Australian capital's best preliminary result since early April, underscoring continued demand in a market known for its consistency and affordability. In Canberra, 64 homes went under the hammer, with early results showing a clearance rate of 55.3 percent. While softer than the larger cities, the ACT market remains active as winter trading conditions settle in. Looking ahead, auction volumes are expected to remain relatively steady, with around 2,080 homes scheduled to go under the hammer nationally this week. However, activity is forecast to dip below 1,800 the following week as seasonal factors and cooler weather begin to take their usual toll on listings and buyer activity. Auction success in Fulham SA as family favourite fetches $1.95 million A crowd of neighbours and onlookers gathered on auction day to watch 3 Samuel Street, Fulham go under the hammer, and the result justified the excitement. The expansive, single-level residence sold for $1.95 million, confirming its place among the premier properties in Adelaide's tightly held coastal west. Belle Property listing agent Rhys Digance said more than 60 groups inspected the home in the lead-up to the auction, with strong interest from local families. "It's a standout in the area," he said. "The buyers were drawn to the generous proportions, the flexible floorplan and the fact that it takes full advantage of the block. Being single-level just added to the appeal." Built in 2014, the five-bedroom home offers a refined blend of luxury and liveability, with multiple indoor and outdoor living zones, a sleek stone-appointed kitchen and a dedicated study or fifth bedroom. At the rear, an oversized tiled alfresco framed by low-maintenance landscaping anchors the home's easy entertaining appeal. "The auction had a perfect atmosphere," Digance said. "It was a great turnout, plenty of local families and neighbours, and it reflected the rarity of homes like this in Fulham." With its close proximity to Henley Beach, quality schools and scenic open spaces, 3 Samuel Street is a blueprint for modern family living in one of Adelaide's most sought-after seaside suburbs. Private sale in tight Perth market draws serious heat in winter chill In a market defined by low supply and high competition, the private sale of 14 Monash Way, Abbey has proven just how far buyers are willing to go for the right property and just how much excitement a sale can generate, even without an auctioneer's hammer. With just 4,000 properties currently listed in Perth, according to Ray White Western Australia CEO Mark Whiteman, buyers are feeling the squeeze. "Demand has surged, especially following the recent interest rate cut," Whiteman said. "We're seeing packed open homes, fierce competition and a real sense of urgency. Right now, winter is shaping up to be one of the best times to sell." Tapping into that momentum, Ray White Stocker Preston agents Jason and Mandi Cooper launched the sale of 14 Monash Street, a coastal gem in Abbey, Busselton. Despite wild winter weather and threats of hail, over 70 people poured through the home on inspection day. "The place was packed. People were crammed into the living room, on the deck, out in the yard," Mandi said. "It felt more like a celebration than a sale." While the property ultimately sold through private negotiation for $1.47 million, the energy rivalled that of a major auction. The buyer, an interstate house-hunter seeking a second home, flew in to secure the deal, one of four registered parties vying for the prize. "This is what we love about real estate," Jason added. "Even without the auction format, the energy, emotion and engagement were electric." Bulimba Queenslander sells for $1.95m ending in heartfelt group hug A long-held Queenslander at 108 Stuart Street Bulimba 's prestigious river avenues has sold under the hammer for $1.95 million, following a fast-paced and emotional auction that drew a crowd of 80 despite the rain. Located on an elevated, north-facing 567-square-metre corner block, the charmer was offered for the first time in 45 years. Listing agent Paula Pearce of Place Bulimba said the home, in beautifully preserved original condition, had captured the imagination of families and builders alike. "We had eight registered bidders and four actively competing on the day," Pearce said. "It's rare to find a property in this pocket with so much potential: north-facing, corner position, possible city views and just steps from Oxford Street." Bidding opened at $1.6 million and climbed quickly without pause. The hammer eventually fell at $1.95 million to a local family planning to renovate and create their forever home. "It was a strong, competitive auction from start to finish," Pearce said. "Even in the rain, the energy was fantastic." The home, while likely to be rebuilt, showcased charming original features like VJ walls, breezeways and high ceilings. The auction ended in an emotional embrace between the vendors and buyers, a touching moment after nearly half a century of family ownership.
Canberra Times
23-06-2025
- Business
- Canberra Times
Winter slowdown brings steady opportunities for buyers in top capital cities
WATCH: Australian auction surge fuels confidence | | 7NEWS By Tim McDonald Auction activity stepped back slightly last week, with 2,040 homes going under the hammer across the combined capital cities. This marked a 6.6 percent drop in volume compared to the previous week and a 5.1 percent decline year-on-year. Despite the softer numbers, buyer competition proved strong, with the preliminary clearance rate rising to 73.9 percent, the highest level since July 2024. The result signals a sharp rebound from the slowdown seen over the King's Birthday long weekend two weeks prior, when the preliminary clearance rate dipped to 63.8 percent amid reduced listings and public holiday timing. Melbourne led the nation in auction volumes, hosting 947 auctions for the week. Its preliminary clearance rate came in at an impressive 76.6 percent, the city's strongest result since May 2023 and the second-highest performance nationally, just behind Adelaide. SOLD: 9/67 Alexandra Avenue, South Yarra, VIC 3141 Pic: Supplied In Sydney, 789 properties were taken to auction. The harbour city reported a preliminary clearance rate of 73.5 percent, its highest since late February 2025, when the Reserve Bank delivered its first interest rate cut of the year. The improved result points to renewed buyer confidence and a tightening market in key metropolitan areas, even as winter sets in. Riverside penthouse apartment dazzles at auction with $1.115 million result A vibrant crowd of 60 turned out to watch bidding unfold for the riverside penthouse at 9/67 Alexandra Avenue, South Yarra, and they weren't disappointed. The top-floor Deco apartment with sweeping city views and brilliant northern light sold under the hammer for $1.115 million, delivering a dynamic result in one of Melbourne's most protected pockets. SOLD: 9/67 Alexandra Avenue, South Yarra, VIC 3141 Pic: Supplied Belle Property's Mark Konishi, who led the campaign, said interest was strong from the outset. "We had 57 groups through the apartment during the campaign and five registered bidders on the day," he said. "It was good fun, good energy and a really entertaining auction. The crowd was into it." SOLD: 9/67 Alexandra Avenue, South Yarra, VIC 3141 Pic: Supplied Spanning an impressive 148 square metres, the two-bedroom residence is the crown jewel of its Art Deco complex. A spacious living zone unfolds across three distinct lounge, dining and sitting areas, all bathed in north light and opening onto a full-width balcony that frames the Yarra and city skyline. Bidding opened at $910,000 and quickly escalated as a third-party bidder pushed the price to $1.107 million. In the final moments, the original bidder returned to clinch the win at $1.115 million. SOLD: 9/67 Alexandra Avenue, South Yarra, VIC 3141 Pic: Supplied Konishi said the result highlighted the long-term strength of Melbourne's prestige apartment market. "The property last sold in the mid-$600,000s back in 2006," he said. "To see it achieve $1.115 million today shows an uplift of more than 70 percent. It's a strong return, especially for a unique residence like this with such a premium riverside position." Manly apartment sells for $2.86m in emotional auction finale on Eastern Hill A rare opportunity at one of Manly's most premier addresses has captured hearts and headlines, with a near-original apartment in Marlborough Gardens selling under the hammer for $2.86 million. More than 100 onlookers gathered outside 8/140 Addison Road NSW to witness a spirited auction that saw three competitive bidders vie for the landmark Eastern Hill property. SOLD: 8/140 Addison Road, Manly, NSW 2095 Pic: Supplied Listing agent Mark Skeens of Stone Real Estate Manly said the sale was not only a financial success but an emotional moment for the estate. "The estate had been owned by a 92-year-old gentleman who bought it back in 1977 for just $41,500," Skeens said. "He passed away with no children, and as per his will, the full proceeds from the sale will be donated to two separate charities. It was a very special result." SOLD: 8/140 Addison Road, Manly, NSW 2095 Pic: Supplied Sold to a downsizing couple, the 114-square-metre apartment offered a pristine canvas for reinvention, with generous proportions, a sun-drenched balcony and leafy ocean glimpses. "This is the best part of Manly," Skeens added. "It's freehold land, footsteps to Fairy Bower and in a building that rarely sees turnover." SOLD: 8/140 Addison Road, Manly, NSW 2095 Pic: Supplied With the final price representing a more than 6,700 percent increase since it was last purchased, the sale stands as both a remarkable return on investment and a testament to Manly's enduring coastal prestige. Where oranges grow, fortune follows. Family treasure in Geelong West fetches $1.16m after heartfelt auction. There were smiles, sunshine and even mandarins at the auction of 3 Mowat Street, Geelong West, as the beloved family home sold for $1.16 million after a spirited 20-bid showdown. SOLD: 3 Mowat Street, Geelong West, VIC 3218 Pic: Supplied The classic character home, held by one family for 60 years, attracted 75 groups through its pre-auction campaign, with three registered bidders competing on the day. Jellis Craig agent Marcus Falconer said the result was deeply meaningful for the vendors. "The owners' children had recently renovated the home for their parents, so it was very emotional watching it change hands," he said. "There were tears, but also pride. They were thrilled with the outcome." SOLD: 3 Mowat Street, Geelong West, VIC 3218 Pic: Supplied Set on a wide 752-square-metre block, the home offered charm and potential in equal measure. Character details like high ceilings, timber fretwork and a bay window met modern updates, including a north-facing living zone, expansive backyard and undercover deck perfect for family life. "It's neat as a pin, with plenty of room to grow," said Falconer. "And it's in one of the most desirable pockets of Geelong West." SOLD: 3 Mowat Street, Geelong West, VIC 3218 Pic: Supplied As the auction wrapped up, the new owners left with more than a new address. The sellers handed them a bag full of mandarins from the backyard tree, a warm parting gift from one family to another.
Canberra Times
09-06-2025
- Business
- Canberra Times
Beyond Sydney and Melbourne, smaller capitals also see a softer week for auction volumes
WATCH: What you need to know about auctions By Tim McDonald Brisbane led the charge with 133 homes under the hammer over the weekend, maintaining its position as the busiest of the smaller capitals. Though numbers were down from the previous week, the River City continued to show solid demand across family-friendly suburbs, with buyers seeking lifestyle, space and relative affordability. SOLD: 128 Jetty Road, Largs Bay, SA 5016 Pic: Supplied Adelaide followed with 87 scheduled auctions, a moderate dip that reflects the public holiday lull rather than any shift in market confidence. Local agents continue to report strong attendance and well-contested campaigns, particularly for renovated homes close to the CBD. In contrast, Perth saw just six homes head to auction this week, a reminder that private treaty sales remain the dominant method of sale in Western Australia. Rain doesn't dampen spirits in SA as family favourite sells at $200k above reserve As auction activity slowed across Sydney and Melbourne due to the King's Birthday long weekend, one Adelaide property, 128 Jetty Rd. Largs Bay defied the quieter pace, delivering a standout result under pouring skies. SOLD: 128 Jetty Road, Largs Bay, SA 5016 Pic: Supplied The long-time rental in a popular inner suburb sold for $1.5 million, after five serious bidders braved the rain to compete for the keys. Ouwens Casserly agent Samantha Hirniak said the crowd crammed under the carport as the skies opened, but spirits remained high. "There was full rain, but everyone was happy, even laughing," Ms Hirniak said. "We ended with two young families going head-to-head. The winners were thrilled. They were already talking about building an extension." SOLD: 128 Jetty Road, Largs Bay, SA 5016 Pic: Supplied Ahead of the sale, Ms Hirniak said interest was strong thanks to the home's character and location. "Everyone wants to get into this suburb," she said. "It's a great area, and the house has that charm people love. It was a really nice entry-level option for young families. "It was an awesome result. "A great home, a great suburb and a family who can make it their own. That's the kind of outcome you love to see." Coastal vision makes waves in Quinns Rocks WA Set high above the Indian Ocean with nothing but blue water on the horizon, 43 Hazel Avenue offered bidders a rare chance to secure a landmark home in one of Perth's most quietly held coastal pockets. SOLD: 43 Hazel Avenue, Quinns Rocks, WA 6030 Pic Supplied Designed and built by the current owner, the three-storey residence stands apart for its sheer scale, versatility and bold architectural ambition. From its private gates and soaring living spaces to a top-floor master retreat with sweeping views and a spa-inspired bathroom, every level has been carefully curated. Belle Property Acton listing agent Thomas Whitford said the home had drawn consistent attention from a broad range of buyers looking to live, work and entertain in one extraordinary place. SOLD: 43 Hazel Avenue, Quinns Rocks, WA 6030 Pic Supplied "We had 19 groups through during the campaign and expected between three and five bidders on the day," Mr Whitford said. "It's a very unique home for a suburb like Quinns Rocks. The beachfront here is the most affordable in Perth, so it's a huge opportunity." Originally envisioned in the spirit of Old Quinns design, the home has evolved into a true modern entertainer. Glass-wrapped living zones flow onto sun-drenched terraces, a heated pool anchors the resort-style backyard, and flexible indoor spaces include a home theatre, gym, boardroom and games room. SOLD: 43 Hazel Avenue, Quinns Rocks, WA 6030 Pic Supplied "There's a real work-from-home opportunity here," he said. "The boardroom and professional spaces could suit consultants or creatives. It's not just a family home, it's a base for how you want to live and work." Auction results are yet to be released, as two separate conditional buyers are in private negotiations. Buzzing bayside beauty as Wynnum auction delights locals Held by the same family for three decades, the home at 91 Constellation Way, Wynnum QLD made its long-awaited debut at auction, and the locals turned out in force. A master-built residence backing directly onto parkland, the property drew a lively neighbourhood crowd and plenty of last-minute buyer interest. SOLD: 91 Constellation Way, Wynnum, QLD 4178 Pic: Supplied McGrath listing agent Gaby McEwan said the campaign was short but eventful, with 22 groups through the door and multiple buyers booking second inspections. "There was strong early interest but a few weren't quite ready to make the leap," Ms McEwan said. "Then the night before the auction, I got a voicemail from a couple who had never considered the area before but saw the house and fell instantly in love." SOLD: 91 Constellation Way, Wynnum, QLD 4178 Pic: Supplied Auction day delivered its own drama, with a local buyer arriving onsite and immediately kicking off proceedings at $1.35 million. After some slower bids that landed on $1.4 million, Ms McEwan paused to confer with the owner, after which bidding continued. The hammer finally fell, the late-entry couple winning the keys with a bid of $1.405 million. The sellers, now downsizing, were thrilled to see the home passed to another family ready to love it just as deeply. SOLD: 91 Constellation Way, Wynnum, QLD 4178 Pic: Supplied Bidding was further elevated by the upbeat setting thanks to the presence of a Mr. Barista coffee van that Ms McEwan organised to treat attendees and the neighbourhood at large. "There was a real community vibe," she said. "It was great to see the street come alive. It felt like everyone wanted to be a part of it."
