Australian startup Cyclevision launches world’s first Dual Camera Cycling Helmet on Kickstarter

A world-first Dual Camera Cycling Helmet, launching today on Kickstarter, is designed to make cycling safer while recording the rider's adventures (and misadventures). Invented by cyclists, for cyclists, Cyclevision EDGE is the world's first bicycle helmet to incorporate in-built front and rear cameras.

Inventor Rob Asker, a helicopter engineer for 38 years, and his medical technologist wife Suzanne were motivated to develop Cyclevision EDGE by the acute vulnerability of road cyclists. An average of 35 cyclists are killed each year on Australian roads, and thousands more sustain serious injuries, 85% as a result of collisions with motor vehicles.

Mr Asker himself has been the victim of not one, but two hit-and-run incidents.

"Just two weeks ago there was a court report in the Australian media about an elderly motorist who has denied dangerous driving -- he was accused of killing a cyclist after hitting her at a roundabout, dragging her body along the road and then driving off to go to the library," Mr Asker said.  "These kinds of issues have led organisations like Bicycle Queensland to urge cyclists to use bike mounted cameras."

The drawback, Mr Asker said, is that other cameras have to be removed from the bicycle frame when the cyclist leaves the bike unattended and then refitted, whereas the Cyclevision EDGE helmet simply goes with riders wherever they go.

At the touch of a button, the Cyclevision EDGE helmet records Full HD footage simultaneously from both cameras onto twin 32GB of internal memory. The free App and built-in Wi-Fi lets you stream live vision from the rear (or front) cameras to a mobile device mounted on the handlebars to create an electronic rear-view camera.

"We are passionate about rider safety and we look forward to delivering the Cyclevision EDGE helmet to the world's cycling community, not only to make road cycling safer, but as a platform to record their commuting and recreational cycling experiences," Mr Asker said.

"The fact it is App-based means we can add new features as we progress simply by updating the software."

The Queensland Government has given strong backing to this project with a substantial financial grant from the Advance Queensland Ignite Ideas fund, and the state's Minister for Innovation and Tourism Industry Development and Minister for the Commonwealth Games, Hon. Kate Jones MP, has become an enthusiastic supporter of this Queensland invention.

When given a demonstration of a working pre-production prototype this week, she acknowledged the Cyclevision EDGE helmet as a fine example of Queenslanders developing world-leading technological products, with the potential to make cycling safer for millions of cyclists around the world.

Bicycle Queensland and CycleLaw are two organisations that have also endorsed the Cyclevision EDGE helmet.

Bicycle Queensland's CEO, Anne Savage, congratulated Cyclevision for the innovation:

"This helmet is a game-changer," Ms Savage said. "Professional and amateur riders will be able to ride safely and capture their trips on camera for other riders and the community to enjoy, showcasing all that cycling has to offer.

"High quality camera footage from a helmet has not been viable, until now. We welcome this innovation from Cyclevision and are proud to see a world-leading product like this one come out of Queensland."

Cyclevision EDGE - $660 AUD

Full HD 1080P front and rear cameras are fully integrated into an advanced bicycle helmet. With the ability to record 4 hour loops of footage from both cameras and at least 2.5 hours run-time from its 3,200mAh battery (extendable with auxiliary packs), the water-resistant (IP67) Cyclevision EDGE helmet is ready to capture all of your cycling adventures. The Cyclevision EDGE helmet will be certified to Australian/ NZ, North American (suitable for use in Canada), European and UK cycle helmet safety standards.

The Cyclevision EDGE helmet will be available for an Early Bird price of $550 AUD for a limited time only on Kickstarter.

• Dual Wide Angle 160° Cameras, Full HD 1920x1080P @ 30FPS +/- 0.03
  
• Twin 32GB in-built flash cards – 1 for each camera
  
• Record recording loop is 4 hours, the useable run time of the helmet is up to 3 hours
  
• Water resistant (IP67)
  
• 48kHz audio recording
  
• Wi-Fi connectivity
  
• 'Live Time' Rear View Link
  
• LED mode and battery indicators
  
• In-built rechargeable 3200mAh lithium battery
  
• Micro-USB charging 4 hours from flat on most chargers
  
• Certified to the following standards:
  
• Australian and New Zealand standards AS/NZ 2063-2008
  
• Europe standards EN 1078:1997
  
• UK standards BS EN 1078:1997 and BS 6863:1987
  
• USA standards (ASTM) F1447-12 and (ASTM) F-1446-11a
  
• Weight 410g (14.5oz)
  
• Available in two colours; white and blue
  
• Size: medium/large (57-62cm)
  

Gorilla Forest Camp Uganda

For a truly sublime wilderness escape, it is hard to surpass Uganda, the undiscovered pearl of Africa. A lush landscape of deep lakes, glacial alpine mountains, wide-open savannah and dense rainforests, the country boasts wildlife not found anywhere else, making a safari here an unforgettable one.

But Uganda is perhaps best known for its concentration of primates, including its most celebrated residents – half the world's remaining mountain gorilla population. And one of the best places to see them is Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp located in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the country's southwest.

Featuring eight private luxury tents tucked away on a on a flat ridge deep within the heart of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp is ecologically respectful, contemporary yet classic in style, and blends in sensitively with the dramatic African mountain landscape. It's also uniquely situated right inside the national park, where you are only minutes away from the start of your gorilla trekking adventure.

2018 has seen the recent re-launch of this extraordinary escape by boutique luxury travel operator Sanctuary Retreats, following the completion of an extensive refurbishment program. Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp's unique interpretation of camp living offers unrivalled seclusion and space in an ancient rainforest located in one of Africa's most remote areas.

Each comfortable canvas space is dressed with indigenous prints and furniture made from natural materials. Beds are draped in neutral-toned linens, with local artefacts artfully displayed both inside and out each tent. Tents also boast spacious stonewall bathrooms and a freestanding baths for a relaxing soak after a day's trekking. Or for guests looking for a truly indulgent experience, specialist therapist, Precious delivers by specialist therapist, Precious, a range of treatments at the Camp Spa including herbal massages, hydrating facials and foot massages.

The Camp's small size ensures it retains an intimate, exclusive feel, enabling guests to experience Africa's magic with the lightest of footprints, while enjoying practically every mod con. Even better, its unique location means the Camp is frequently visited by gorilla families, making it the perfect base for a once in a lifetime encounter with Uganda's endangered mountain gorillas.

If you're contemplating ticking a gorilla trek off your bucket list, take advantage of Sanctuary Retreats' great-value extended stay offer. 

Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts Says A Fond Farewell To Long-Term Executive Team Member, Andreas Mattmüller

Chief Operating Officer for Middle East & Africa retires following a successful and memorable 16-year career with the global hospitality firm Dubai, UAE, 16 January 2017 – Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts is to say a fond farewell to one of its longest standing executive team members, Andreas Mattmüller. The company's Chief Operating Officer Middle East & Africa (MEA) will retire on 31st January 2018 following a highly successful international hospitality career of 43 years, more than 16 of which have been spent working in senior positions with the Switzerland-headquartered hospitality firm. When Andreas joined Mövenpick in 2001, he was charged with the task of building the brand's presence in the Middle East where its modest portfolio included four hotels in Jordan. Under his expert guidance, the company rapidly expanded its footprint and today, manages 30 properties across the region, with 15 more under development. As a result of Andreas' efforts, Mövenpick was recently recognised as the top five-star hotel company in the Arab world by Forbes. Beyond the Middle East, he has also significantly contributed to developing and establishing the Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts portfolio in both Asia and Africa, cementing the brand's reputation as a global hospitality leader in both. "Andreas has been an integral part of our company for the last 16 years and the contributions he has made to our growth and success during his tenure are greatly appreciated. He has delivered outstanding results, creating strong relationships with our business partners, which is an aspect of his role he has embraced and really enjoyed," remarked Olivier Chavy, President & CEO, Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts. "On a more personal level, Andreas will be remembered by colleagues for his expertise, leadership and charisma – and for championing promotions and mentoring team members across the board. He will be missed by us all, but he will always be part of the Mövenpick family, and we wish him every success and happiness in his well-deserved retirement." Andreas, affectionately known as 'Andi' by his colleagues, said his 16-year tenure with Mövenpick had rounded off his hospitality career on a high note. "The journey to success is not a sprint; it is a marathon. With this motto top of mind, the company has marked many milestones and accomplishments over the past few decades and I'd like to thank every team member on the part they have played in our ongoing growth and development," said Andreas. "I feel blessed to have been part of Mövenpick success story and to have met business partners and colleagues that are now consider friends for life. I cherish these relationships and thank each and every one of you for making the final years of my career an absolute pleasure."

Banyan Tree Macau Appoint Vella Ramasawmy Appointed as General Manager

Banyan Tree Hotels and Resorts is delighted to announce the appointment of Mr. Vella Ramasawmy General Manager of its Banyan Tree Macau effective from December 2017.

In his role as General Manager for Banyan Tree Macau, Mr. Ramasawmy is responsible for the overall running, administration and service standards at Banyan Tree Hotels and Resorts' first property in Macau. He will be leading the professional team to ensure delivery of expected financial and operational results, as well as maintaining effective relations with the hotel's stakeholders.

For the past 14 years prior to joining Banyan Tree Macau, Mr. Ramasawmy served as General Manager at multiple award-winning international hotels, most notably at Kempinski and Hyatt properties. Mr Ramasawmy is recognised for his astute business acumen and profit-oriented approach to luxury hotel management. Under his leadership, Iconic Santorini Greece was voted as the best boutique hotel in Greece by World Travel Mart and the Best Mr and Mrs Smith Hotel around the world.

A graduate of Schiller University in London majored in International Hotel and Catering Management, Mr. Ramasawmy a is a veteran senior management executive with four decades' experience in hospitality industry. Starting out his career in food and beverage departments at properties in the Middle East, Africa, Australia and Europe, and overseeing re-launch operations for several of these, Mr Ramasawmy has developed an intimate knowledge for hotel operations for business and resort properties.

"I am delighted to join the team at Banyan Tree Macau. With my international expertise and experienced management skills, I look forward to working with the hotel's experienced team, hand in hand, to ensure the continued success of Banyan Tree Macau as a leading luxury destination for global travellers," says Mr. Ramasawmy.

 

Sanctuary Retreats’ Philanthropy – making a difference

Tourism is the world's largest industry, growing larger every year. Hand in hand with this has come an unprecedented level of interest in responsible travel and a rise in philanthropic programs and 'volun-tourism', with travellers increasingly seeking to give back to the communities they visit. This has, in turn, placed pressure on tourism suppliers to improve their social and environmental responsibility.

Boutique luxury travel operator Sanctuary Retreats is a company that has been committed to conservation and responsible tourism ever since opening its first camp in the Masai Mara in 1999. Says Michael McCall, Director of Sales Australia, NZ & Asia the company has always strived to build long lasting relationships with rural communities in the areas in which it operates, making a point of identifying and supporting long-term, viable and self-sustaining projects. "Our aim is to ensure that all projects are supported by our staff and guests and we work closely with communities to identify their needs so we can deliver projects that really have an impact."

Here are some of Sanctuary Retreats Philanthropy's success stories.

Ilboro School, Tanzania

Children in Tanzania with hearing impairments or mental or physical impairments are often left with limited opportunities to receive a formal education. A decade ago, in response Sanctuary Retreats Philanthropy (SRP) funded the construction of the first special needs primary school in Arusha, especially designed to meet the needs of deaf and disabled children. Unfortunately, once pupils graduated from the primary school, they were returned to regular mainstream education where teachers are not trained or equipped to deal with their unique learning needs, resulting in a high drop-out rate.

Recognizing the issue, SRP decided to further support these children by building a secondary school at Ilboru in partnership with Tanzania's Ministry of Education. The Ministry provides specially trained teachers to work at the two-story, five-classroom facility. In addition to standard academic courses, the school also teaches vocational skills such as sewing, which has significantly increased the chances of students securing employment upon graduating.

In 2016, in partnership with Worldreader, SRP also commenced an innovative literacy program at Ilboru's Primary School with the use of digital e-readers, which has given children access to a large library of textbooks and literature in both English and their local language of Swahili.

Approximately five kilometres from Sanctuary Retreats' Sussi & Chuma Lodge, the Nakatindi Village sits against the border fence of Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park. Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma has partnered with Nakatindi village on many projects, including education, conservation and the launch of a Bike Shop run by local women.

But one of its most successful programs has involved the rebuilding of a much-needed medical clinic within the Nakatindi Community. The clinic, which serves 50 people a day, has taken an active role in the prevention of the spread of HIV/AIDS, which is highly prevalent within community. More recently, SRP has helped build and equip an addition to the clinic to serve as a maternity ward. The new facility has significantly improved labor and delivery conditions for both mothers and infants, and helped to reduce the risk of HIV transmission from mother to child.

Bwindi Community Hospital, Uganda

Starting as nothing more than a clinic operating under a mango tree, Sanctuary Retreats has helped transform Bwindi Community Hospital into a 112-bed facility that is consistently ranked the best hospital in Uganda. Recognising that a national shortage of nurses was having a negative impact on the hospital, the Uganda Nursing School Bwindi was opened in 2013 and celebrated its first graduation this year.

Through donations, SRP has been able to provide scholarships to promising local students who might not otherwise be able to afford the course. In addition to this, the success of the first graduating class has led to Bwindi Community Hospital becoming a government-funded hospital, meaning all doctor and nursing salaries are now paid by the Ugandan government.

Rhino Relocation, Botswana

Concerned by increased poaching of critically endangered rhino in South Africa, several years SRP into a partnership with Rhino Conservation Botswana, among others, to translocate black and white rhino from South Africa to Botswana. This project has been hugely successful, with the company now employing two full time conservation officers to monitor rhino in the Moremi Game Reserve.

Indeed, one of the most exciting successes has been the birth of lots of new baby rhino following the reintroduction of their mothers to Botswana, with two progeny now ready to leave their mothers and set up their own territories.

Sin Kyun Village, Myanmar

Having partnered with Sin Kyun village following the launch of Sanctuary Ananda in Myanmar in 2014, SRP has worked closely with the village chief to identify areas where it can assist the community, with specific focus on improving the village school.

So far SRP has built accommodation for teachers, provided emergency assistance during severe flooding and in May 2017, completed the construction of a middle school at Sin Kyun. This means that children can now stay at Sin Kyun for school until they finish seventh grade. Previously the school only went up to fourth grade, following which students would have to cross the river to reach a neighbouring middle school – an often perilous journey during rainy season!

Are Millennials the key to influencing greater corporate social responsibility?

The Millennial 20/20 Australia Summit kicking off tomorrow in Sydney will see business leaders from TOMS and Nespresso discuss how the growing economic power of Millennials could have positive ethical ramifications that transcend consumer sectors from FMCG to fashion.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is not a new phenomenon, approximately 76% of Millennials agree that businesses are having a positive impact on society and harness the power to incite real change, says a recent Deloitte Millennial Survey. Yet, 41% believe multinational businesses are still not realising their potential to alleviate some of society's biggest challenges.

At the summit, John Elliott, Managing Director, TOMS Australia and NZ, will discuss how Millennials are driving socially responsible business models, changing the traditional marketing model, and championing ethical investment into the economy.

"The Millennial consumer not only needs a great product, but is interested in what positive social outcomes business can provide," explains Mr Elliott.

TOMS began in footwear in 2006 with a One for One initiative, matching every pair of shoes sold with a pair of shoes for a person in need. As the organisation expanded globally, TOMS now assist with aid for providing vital amenities including eye care, safe drinking water, safe childbirth facilities and anti-bullying services.

"We are actively engaged in making sure we use our business to provide positive outcomes and we let the consumer know that without their participation we cannot achieve our mutual desire to make the world a better place," added Mr Elliott.

TOMS has collaborated with partners to begin movements such as One Day Without Shoes and World Sight Day – annual events to raise awareness for the global issues of poverty and avoidable blindness and visual impairment.

With the sheer amount of information available online, brands are now subject to more scrutiny than ever before. Transparency in marketing is key to gaining trust with these discerning younger audiences, and proving an ethical supply and production chain are vital to building brand loyalty.

Michael Brunt, CMO at The Economist, a partner of Millennial 20/20, recognises the media company has advocated for positive change through its editorial since its founding in 1843, but admits modern marketing needs to be meaningful and personalised to find traction, with the key to success being transparency of practices and intentions.

"We are excited to continue our recent activation campaign at Millennial 20/20 where we will be serving smoothies made from 'ugly' fruit and vegetables which would have been otherwise thrown out. With food wastage a topical ethical conundrum, especially in Australia, it provides a valuable opportunity to demonstrate our business values to the millennial market.

"It's about creating a two-way conversation that allows consumers to engage with our brand directly, making it memorable. Our audience, by nature, are curious, and so they think 'what on earth is going on here?' Ultimately leading to more meaningful connections to the product and brand," concluded Mr Brunt.

In addition, Loïc Réthoré, Head of Oceania, Nespresso, will present at Millennial 20/20 on how increased interest from consumers on ethically sourced and organically made produce is re-shaping the Food and Beverage industry.

Following successful summits in London, New York and Singapore, Australia's inaugural Millennial 20/20 Summit will take place in Sydney, 14-15 November 2017 at Carriageworks. The summit will delve into how the millennial mindset, including ethical expectations, is reshaping the future of commerce for consumer brands and retailers.

Register: millennial20-20.com/sydney2017
Summit Program: millennial20-20.com/sydney2017/agenda

 

Cairns Airport CEO joins TTNQ Board

North Queensland Airports Chief Executive Officer Norris Carter has been appointed a Director of the Tourism Tropical North Queensland Board at its meeting today in Cairns.

New General Directors Sam Ferguson and Craig Pocock were welcomed to the Board after their election at the Annual General Meeting on Friday (October 20).

Chair Max Shepherd stepped down at the end of his three-year term and the  Board confirmed the appointment of Director Wendy Morris as Chair. Cairns South Zone representative Ross Steele was re-elected Deputy Chair.

Ms Morris said Mr Carter's appointment would add a vital skillset to the Board through his extensive airline and airport industry experience with Qantas, Auckland Airport, Cairns and Mackay Airports.

"Aviation is the funnel for visitation to Tropical North Queensland and a key plank for economic success for the region," she said.

"If the TTNQ Board can understand the drivers and nuances of aviation, we can better align our destination marketing to ensure sustainable air routes."

Mr Carter said: "I'm looking forward to contributing to TTNQ as a Director to grow tourism into Tropical North Queensland."

Ms Morris thanked Mr Shepherd for his service to TTNQ which he had chosen to end during his 50th year of working in the tourism industry.

"Max has been a stalwart and mentor for many in tourism, myself included, with a canny ability to think business decisions through," she said.

"His steady hand on the wheel at world-class operations including Quicksilver and Skyrail has complemented brilliant marketing coups including President Bill Clinton's trip to the Great Barrier Reef and the Olympic torch's first swim underwater at Agincourt Reef.

"A humble man with a wry sense of humour, Max will be missed by every one of us, but we hope he continues to visit and make sure we're 'doing it right'."

A Tropical North Queensland resident of 1974 with a degree in marine biology, Ms Morris has previously served on the TTNQ Board as well as the Tourism Port Douglas and Daintree, Tourism and Events Queensland and Advance Cairns boards.

She founded Reef Biosearch in 1986, a marine biologist-guided snorkelling operation aboard Quicksilver that continues to operate today, and remains a passionate advocate for the Great Barrier Reef who is on the Board of Citizens of the Great Barrier Reef.

Ms Morris been involved in the management and marketing of a range of mostly family owned tourism enterprises in the region including the resorts now known as Rydges Reef Resort, QT Port Douglas, Ramada Port Douglas and Crystalbrook Lodge, as well as The Wildlife Habitat, Wetherby Outback Experience, Lady Douglas Paddlewheeler and luxury charter yachts.

Also serving on the TTNQ Board are Tropical Tablelands/Remote Zone Director Ghislaine Gallo, General Director Russell Boswell, Cairns North Zone representative Sheena Walshaw, General Director Todd Parker, General Director Peter Woodward and Southern Zone Director Mark Evans.