Showing posts with label Australia. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Australia. Show all posts

Thursday, February 3, 2011

Tycoon Ng buys another property in Australia

PETALING JAYA: Malaysian tycoon Ming Ng, well known for his investment foray into Australian properties, is believed to be on another buying spree.

This time, Ng, via his family-controlled company Dradgin of Singapore, is said to have purchased a landmark commercial property, 502 Hay Street, in the suburb of Subiaco, the central business district (CBD) of Perth, at an undisclosed price.

The Australian Financial Review reported on Tuesday that Ng had acquired the building from beleaguered Perth-based developer Luke Saraceni, who had to offload the property because of mounting debts.

Dradgin was unavailable for comment at press time.

Ng and his family is said to own several other prime properties in Western Australia, including 168 St George's Terrace in the CBD.

It has been a trend of sort for Malaysia companies to purchase land, develop or acquire prime properties down under.

This include Mulpha International Bhd, which owns Sanctuary Cove, a 474-ha residential and lifestyle property development in Queensland Gold Coast.

Other Malaysian tycoons chose to venture into Britain and they include YTL Corp Bhd, which carries out its utilities activities via subsidiary YTL Power International Bhd.

YTL Power wholly-owns Wessex Water, one of the most efficient water and sewerage operators in Britain.

This acquisition represents YTL's first major foray into Europe and marks the beginning of another exciting chapter in the growth and development of the YTL Group.

However, Ng's property purchase is an interesting one the acquisition was done when the Aussie dollar was almost at its all-time high against the ringgit (A$1: RM3.084).

Ideally, acquisitions are best done when the exchange rate is in favour of the buyer.

A local property analyst said the “right” price to buy could lead to an opportunity gain.

He said this might well be the case with Ng's recent acquisition of 502 Hay Street.

“The acquisition may be a situation of striking or buying when an opportunity arises, despite the high price of the asset, because of future earnings potential,” he said.

However, the analyst said the situation remained speculative as it was difficult to assess the reason for Ming' purchase, especially with so little information provided by the company.

He said it was generally uncommon for local tycoons to acquire prime property, especially in the developed world, when the exchange rate was not to their favour.

The analyst said it was also a risky decision as the stronger currency might suddenly fall.

“There must be a catch somewhere to compensate for buying a property against a stronger exchange,” he noted.

By The Star

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Monday, January 10, 2011

Top 5 most attractive place in the world where you can Travel!

We all know that the world is marked with some high fueled travel destinations that can easily please all eyes. Spectacular sunsets, glorious beaches, pleasant weather, swaying breeze, splendid waterfalls and premium resorts are few amongst the many aspirations that an adrenaline junkie traveler imagines to experience in his next trip.
Today, we will expose you to the top ten world travel destinations that are much pretty much alive and kicking with infinite amount of fun filled activities coupled with great sightseeing spots and endless discoveries that can easily allure most eyes. Although one might have to experience a price war, while on a visit to one of these exhilarating travel spots, the visit will certainly leave one with lifetime worth of memories. Let’s explore these travel destinations:


Mauritius

Declared by many as a paradise on earth, Mauritius needs no formal introduction. Filled with a plethora of ocean and exhilarating natural beauty, a visit to Mauritius can never be disappointing. Some of the beautiful coastlines in Mauritius are simply mesmerizing. Combined with white beaches, numerous species of sharks and highly energetic people, the place is flooded by tourists all round the year.

New Zealand

There is a good reason why the sun shines first in New Zealand before any other place in the world. With greenery all around that will connect you to Mother Nature, and mountain peaks that will make you believe that it’s touching heaven, New Zealand can easily win any traveler’s heart. There are loads of fun-filled activities and scenery that can offer you a good time on your visit to the amazing soil of New Zealand.
Australia

Australia is a place that beats almost every other travel destination, when we talk about various ethnicities coming together to offer tourists the best food of each culture. There are endless places that a worth a visit in Australia such as Sydney harbour, Kakadu National Park, Great Barrier Reef, Sydney Opera House and many more. Not to forget the fact that one can enjoy a great nightlife and shopping experience on their stay in Australia.


China

With immaculate surroundings, breathtaking skyscrapers and awesome architectural structures, China can easily blow away your mind. It’s a place where people, food and places come together to offer tourists an experience of a lifetime. The city of Shanghai in particular is worth a visit. Shanghai is an ever bustling city that will let you experience much more than the gigantic skyscrapers and picture perfect structures. How can we forget the Great Wall of China and the Forbidden City that has always been on the list of places to visits in almost every traveler’s diary?


Rome

The beauty of Rome goes beyond words. Rome is the capital city of Italy that is filled with few of the best architectural landmarks. The city has great numbers of beautiful churches, great parks and ancient monuments that will offer you a glimpse of the history. Art lovers will simply love their stay in Rome like nothing else in life.


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Friday, December 17, 2010

Mulpha sells Hilton Melbourne for RM327mil


Hilton Melbourne Airport Hotel

PETALING JAYA: Mulpha International Bhd will use the RM327mil proceeds from the sale of its Hilton Melbourne Airport Hotel to repay its debt levels unless new investment opportunities arise.

Executive chairman Lee Seng Huang, in an e-mail reply to questions from StarBiz, explained: While we have no current use of the proceeds, we will repay our outstanding facilities as much as possible. But if and when an opportunity comes up, we can redraw our loan facilities to make an acquisition. This is part of our treasury management to ensure we maximise returns on our cash resources.

In a statement to Bursa Malaysia yesterday, Mulpha said that the proceeds, if used to repay debts, could bring down the group's debt levels from RM1.5bil to RM1.18bil.

To recap, yesterday Mulpha said it's wholly-owned subsidiary Mulpha Australia Ltd, had sold the Hilton Melbourne Airport Hotel to Singapore-listed Pan Pacific Hotels Group for A$108.89 (RM337.5mil) cash, with the sale expected to be completed by the first quarter of next year.

Mulpha said the hotel was acquired in June 2004 at a cost of A$40mil (RM120mil) as part of a larger acquisition of a portfolio of properties.

The disposal of Hilton Melbourne Airport Hotel crystalises the embedded asset value in this investment which has significantly appreciated in value since the acquisition in 2004. During this time, the hotel performed exceptionally well and has won numerous awards. The sale will result in a one-off pre-tax gain of A$77mil (RM238.6mil) for the group, Lee said in a statement.

The Hilton Melbourne Airport Hotel is a six-level, four-and-a-half star hotel comprising 276 rooms on a 6,630 sq m land.

Mulpha other assets in Australia include the five-star InterContinental Sydney, a resort-styled property development called Sanctuary Cove in northern Gold Coast and Hayman, a five-star private island destination on the Great Barrier Reef.

Mulpha also owns 25% of Australian-listed FKP Property Group, the largest private owner/operator of retirement villages in Australia and New Zealand. All these assets were acquired by Mulpha Australia between 2002 and 2004.

FKP and Mupha were recently in the news in Australia over rumours that the former's second-largest shareholder, Stockland a leading Australian property developer was seeking to take over FKP.

Lee had then said that Mulpha was not keen on selling its shares in FKP as there was still a lot of upside potential in it. In an earlier interview with StarBiz, Lee also said that Mulpha was inclined to reinvest its profits.

Mulpha's investment philosophy is to maximise the value of its assets and recycle that money into other assets that can generate more value,'' Lee said.

By The Star

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Thursday, September 23, 2010

Top Places To Visit in Australia

Australia has something for just about everyone. From simple holidays to culture filled excitement, there are all sorts of options to enjoy. Here are ten of the must see places and events around Australia that you can consider for your next holiday.

  1. Sydney

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Sydney is Australia’s number one travel destination in terms of number of visitors. The Sydney Opera House was completed in the 1960's. The unique design for the facility, coupled with the excellent acoustics, make this cultural icon a must see stop that even persons who are not interested in opera will enjoy.
One of the great things about Sydney is there is both culture and lots of fun activities as well. The beaches provide some of the most beautiful ocean side playgrounds in the entire world. Visitors can spend endless hours enjoying the sun and pristine sands, then enjoy tours into some of the surrounding bush areas. Later, a night out on the town is easy to manage, with an array of night spots that will accommodate just about every interest. While in town, don't forget to admire the spectacular Harbour Bridge.

2. Cairns & the Great Barrier Reef

Far North Queensland is a wonderful tropical paradise. Cairns is the main entry point and from there you can travel north or south and out to beautiful island resorts. Luxury holiday homes are a great accommodation option in this part of Australia.
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The Great Barrier Reef is known as the world's largest coral reef, the Great Barrier Reef stretches along the Queensland coast for a distance of approximately 35 million hectares. Many varieties of fish and other forms of sea life make the Reef home, and there are plenty of opportunities to learn about and observe. As a family opportunity, the Great Barrier Reef is an activity that will fascinate even the most jaded of travelers.

3. Brisbane


While visiting along the Great Barrier Reef, Brisbane is the place to go when you need a taste of the big city. Located in Queensland, the city is known for spectacular night spots that offer a little something for everyone, as well as a range of cuisine that is considered to be the best in Australia by many visitors.

4. Melbourne

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Considered by many to be the emotional heart of Australia, Melbourne offers a mix of modern architecture and amenities along with some of the most beautiful examples of Victorian architecture in the world. Shopping and food that ranges from fine cuisine to guilty pleasures can easily be found at Federation Square and the New Quay.

5. The Great Ocean Road


No visit to Australia is complete without enjoying the view from the Great Ocean Road. Running for over two hundred miles along the coastline in the area of Victoria, the view is breathtaking any time of the year. There are plenty of interesting local restaurants to try along the way, as well as several great places to stop and enjoy a beer. The Great Ocean Road is a wonderful drive over a weekend or stay a little longer at a holiday rental property.

6. The Red Centre including Uluru-Tjuta National Park


Found in the Northern Territory, the Red Centre is considered to be the physical center spot of Australia. Tourists will enjoy viewing the Ayers Rock, which is also known as Uluru. Viewing Uluru is considered to be an ideal activity at sunrise and sunset, when the range of colors across the red rock seem to waver and change in fascinating patterns.
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Uluru-Tjuta National Park is an area that functions as both a wildlife preserve and a national park. Along with the Ayers Rock, the part also encompasses such sites as Alice Springs and the Olgas.

7. Canberra
Canberra is the Capital of Australia and a fascinating place to see. Visit Parliament House, the National Gallery of Australia, the National Library, National Archives which feature old movies, records, books and artifacts as well as the War Memorial. Four days is Canberra is adequate to see most of the attractions.

8. Adelaide


Considered to be the doorway into the Outback, Adelaide is a thriving city that includes some of the most prestigious vineyards in the country. There are a number of places around the city that are ideal for getting away from it all for a few days, as well as enjoying a night life that is low key but very active.

9. Tasmania

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Tasmania offers breathtaking scenery, hiking and camping. Just off the coast, the main land you can reach Tasmania by car ferry or by short flight. Hobart is a stunning town on the Derwent river and features colonial architecture. The local food produce is deliciously fresh and restaurants reasonably priced.
Rent-A-Home.com.au lists a wide range of Holiday Accommodation in Australia including Holiday Rentals, Holiday Apartments, Holiday Homes and Serviced Apartments for short or long stay. For more information on Holiday Apartments Sydney, Serviced Apartments Sydney, visit http://www.rent-a-home.com.au.
By Samuell Armstrong
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Friday, June 11, 2010

Toad Safari in Australia

As you know, Australia isliving an other terrible oppression: there are millions and millions of toads there. There are 420 toads of the weight of 160 g for every resident of this continent. (non the species n the photo)


Посмотреть на Яндекс.Фотках

If you like safaris and want to help the Australians, you can take a tour to visit this country and ask the touroperator to help in the national park to gather them.

They organize these "safaris" in the night. The persons walk in the fields and pick up the toads in the sacks. After that they are frized and transformed in fertilizers.
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Toad Safari in Australia

As you know, Australia isliving an other terrible oppression: there are millions and millions of toads there. There are 420 toads of the weight of 160 g for every resident of this continent. (non the species n the photo)


Посмотреть на Яндекс.Фотках

If you like safaris and want to help the Australians, you can take a tour to visit this country and ask the touroperator to help in the national park to gather them.

They organize these "safaris" in the night. The persons walk in the fields and pick up the toads in the sacks. After that they are frized and transformed in fertilizers.
[Read Posts...]

Sunday, May 16, 2010

History of Yulefest in the Blue Mountains of Australia

In 1980 a small group of Irish came to the Blue Mountains in their search for the crisp and clear winter climate they were used to back in Ireland. And as they drank and relaxed in front of the warming roaring log fires they glanced out through the frosted window panes and admired longingly with nostalgia the snowflakes dancing in the wind. Their thoughts turned to their homeland. At this point in time the Irish group turned to their host and the owner of Mountain Heritage and lamented that celebrating Christmas in Australia in the heat of summer did not "feel quite the same". This became a defining moment in the history of the Blue Mountains and Australia.

The name of Mountain Heritage was Garry Crockett. And as he quietly listened to his guests, Gary was reminded of his childhood and the stories of a white Christmas his own father Bill used to tell him. And as he thought of the traditional Christmas cards so many Australians send and receive depicting sleigh rides, frosted windows, Christmas feats of turkey and hams and mince pies with steaming plum puddings, the snowman and the choiristers joining together singing the joys of the festive season. As the images of a Northern Hemisphere Christmas unfolded in this mind Garry offered to re-create for his Irish guests a similar festive Christmas atmosphere at Mountain Heritage. And so the famous Yulefest in the Blue Mountains was born.

So preparations for the great feast began as everyone enthusiastically started the hanging of decorations throughout the hotel. Even a Christmas tree was put up. Some observers were a bit sceptical and thought this was just another Irish joke as no one has ever heard of a Christmas in the middle of the year. As Garry explained how important this occurrence was for a group of homesick Irish people, word began to spread far and wide, about the most unusual festive event at Mountain Heritage and enquiries from other interested parties, who also wanted to enjoy such a wonderful occasion, began flowing in.

And as time came to pass Chritmas in July was born on a cold wintry night at the Mountain Heritage. Today the tradition has become known as Yulefest and lives on throughout the Blue Mountains in the winter months of June, July and August. Many other regions have tried to imitate but none have succeeded like the Blue Mountains. Today the Yulefest celebration brings together people from all over the country and the world to enjoy a Christmas feast during the cold winter months.

Now many venues offer the traditional Christmas style celebrations, when you can experience warm Mountains hospitality with many establishments offering Winter Yulefest Packages. Typically you can expect a sumptuous six course dinner including the usual after glass of port; a cabaret show; a visit from Santa and caroling around open fireplaces and an atmosphere of Christmas that December really can't match. And you never know! Perhaps even a hint of snow on a cold winters night! It really is a Christmas celebration but without the stress.

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ACCOMMODATED offers outstanding service that is exemplified by no booking fees and our commitment to personally answer your enquiries 7 days a week to find the perfect accommodation to match your needs. At ACCOMMODATED, we strive to greater lengths to always ensure customer satisfaction and that you have the experience of a Home Away From Home.

accommodated.com.au

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Darwin - The Top End of Australia

Overlooking Timor Sea in Australia's northern coastline is Darwin, the capital city of the Northern Territory. Darwin has a permanent population of around 110,000 people, but really comes alive during the Dry Season when the tourists flock to the city. Because of Darwin's warm weather and tropical climate, the nightclubs and hotels are buzzing with activity each night as the people enjoy a relaxed outdoor lifestyle. If you want to experience some true Australian cuisine then make sure you try Kangaroo, Barramundi and Mud Crabs, or for the real experience try some Buffalo or Crocodile.

On the 19th of February 1942, the Japanese raided Darwin with 188 planes attacking the city, dropping more bombs than were dropped on Pearl Harbour. Along with the 15,000 Allied soldiers that were based in Darwin at the time to support the war, there were also 2,000 permanent residents, down from its original 5,000 due to the war. Darwin came under attack another 58 times during 1942 and 1943, but none were as devastating as the original attack. Today you can still see remnants around the city from World War 2.

With Darwin being so far north in Australia, it has 2 very distinct seasons, one being Wet, and the other being Dry. The dry season tends to run from April/May through to October, with the wet season seeing most of the rain fall between December and March. Darwin sees very little rain falling between May and September, and come November the days become very hot and humid in the build up to the wet season. Don't be put off from Darwin in the wet season though as the days are warm and the stunning waterfalls and rivers are at their best in the Kakadu National Park.

Darwin is a good base to explore the Top End of Australia with good access to the World Heritage listed Kakadu National Park, Litchfield and Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge) National Parks, the Tiwi Islands and Arnhem Land. Try your hand at fishing for Barramundi with one of the many tour charters from Darwin, or experience the crocodiles out in their wild habitat on one of the jumping crocodile tours on the Adelaide River. Head to the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets and watch the sunset over the ocean, and afterwards have dinner from an array of food stalls while looking over the arts and crafts from local artists.

There are many other attractions in Darwin, with some of them being:

- Crocodylus Park is a crocodile museum displaying everything you need to know about the Crocodile. There are breeding and rearing crocodile pens, plus many other animals on display such as lizards, snakes, wombats, dingoes, birds and buffalo.

- Visit Acquascene at Doctor's Gully to witness the fish feeding frenzy. At particular times during the day when the tides are right, wild fish come in to be fed.

- Darwin Crocodile Farm is a breeding ground for crocodiles to be farmed for their skins as the leather is highly durable and unique with its individual patterning. The crocodile farm is also open to tourists, with the best time to visit being feeding time.

- The Territory Wildlife Park is a 400 hectare open range sanctuary situated 56kms outside of Darwin. It is on natural bushland and contains animals and plants native to the Northern Territory, including an aviary, an aquarium, natural lagoons and a nocturnal house.

- Majestic Orchids houses Australia's largest tropical orchid farm, set across 2 hectares and with over 300,000 blooms.

- Windows on the Wetlands is on the Arnhem highway overlooking the Adelaide River floodplains. It offers spectacular views across the Top End Wetlands, with the Wet Season the floodplains are under water, and the Dry Season they are baked in the sunlight.

- The Darwin Wharf Precinct is a great place to relax and enjoy your dinner at a restaurant overlooking the water. There are also tours that go through old World War 2 tunnels.

- Operating over the Dry Season, the Deckchair Cinema overlooks Darwin Harbour creating a stunning backdrop to enjoy a glass of wine and watch a movie.

- The Myilly Point Heritage Precinct is made up of 4 houses set in their original location and are perfect examples of pre World War 2 Darwin architecture.

- The Darwin Botanic Gardens have displays of orchids that thrive in the humid conditions, along with baobab trees, palms and mangroves.

About the Author

The Darwin article was brought to you by Lyndon Sparrow: Australian Outback Travel Guide

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