MICRO SECTOR SHINES IN THE SPOTLIGHT WITH THE OPTUS MICRO BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD

IT company Octahedron has won the 2001 title of "Optus Micro Business of the Year" at the recent Australian Micro Business Awards, beating five major Australian finalists vying for the prestigious Award.

"The micro business sector, which is a business with five or less employees, represents 88% of all small business in Australia," said Kathy Hatzis, Marketing Manager, Home Office, Optus.

"Optus is proud to support this sector as we understand the needs and wants of micro business owners," said Ms. Hatzis.

The "Optus Micro Business of the Year Award" recognises the remarkable achievements of these organisations and rewards one winner with the distinguished title.

The Awards ceremony took place last night (23 October 2001) at Parliament House, Canberra in celebration of the achievements of this high growth sector.

"Micro businesses tend not to work traditional working hours and need the freedom of receiving great offers and discounts 24 hours a day, seven days a week," Ms. Hatzis said.

More than 300 businesses entered the Australian Micro Business Awards. Judges based their decisions on the business' vision, problem solving capabilities, business systems and market skills.

The five Australian finalists included the Victorian based Mt. Ophir Estate, Lake Jindabyne Trout Fishing Adventure, New South Wales, SRNG Visual Art in Victoria, ACT based Inland Trading Company and Awnings WA.

Octahedron is an IT company specialising in the jewellery industry, providing software and technology solutions for jewellery retailers, wholesalers and manufacturers.

"We're overjoyed by this achievement," said Raeleen Gillett of Octahedron.

"It's really encouraging to see companies like Optus support micro businesses in their day-to-day operations and also through industry incentives like the Australian Micro Business Awards," Ms. Gillett said.

Optus business customers can choose from a great range of packages to suit their needs including great savings on calls to mobile, calls across Australia and calls overseas. Optus also offers a choice of competitive local call plans and Internet plans to suit your business needs.

For media information please contact:
Melissa Favero
Optus Public Affairs
Tel: 02 9342 5030

Barbara Gabogrecan
Micro Business Network
Tel: 03 9735 1618

Octahedron Pty Ltd
Octahedron's products include a business management system, an image dome light box, a jewellery education touch screen kiosk, a virtual display unit for videos and pictures and a freestyle catalogue creator. Making good decisions as well as seeking advice and the guidance and experience of others have all contributed to the success of the business.

Judges' Comments
Raeleen Gillett of Octahedron had the ability to recognise a niche market and to offer an 'up to date' solution. She gained knowledge and support through clever, targeted networking and by creating alliances. An extremely dynamic, young entrepreneur and fantastic role model.