Parramatta. Launch of new network

The Parramatta-based Western Sydney Business Connection plans to launch the Western Sydney Manufactures Network, on May 12, at its 2010 Federal Budget Briefing, held, for the first time during National Manufacturing Week 2010, at the Sydney Showground, May 11-14.

North Ryde. Macquarie Park growing fast

Macquarie Park, has been one of the fastest-growing areas in terms of leasing and sales over the past five years and while activity has slowed recently, demand remains at a high level, according the The Sydney Morning Herald. In January 2005, the Property Council of Australia (PCA) measured the market at 526,573 square metres;. By January this year, the total market had grown to 783,257 square metres - a 33 per cent increase. About 500,000 square metres has been approved or mooted, much of which could be developed in the next four to five years.

Parramatta. ICE to set up creative hub

The Parramatta-based Information and Cultural Exchange (ICE) is setting up a creative hub that can provide a program of support and mentorship for those who want to establish digital arts-based enterprises and businesses, said ICE, executive director, Lena Nahlous. Saber Baluch, from Liverpool, a 21-year-old communications student, at the University of Western Sydney, is one such person. His creative business plan impressed the judges and he was awarded Western Sydney's most coveted young creative entrepreneur award, the Create Media Incubation prize, with prizes totaling $10,000 in the form of equipment, office space, training and professional mentorship. He will have his own video camera and edit suite as well as office space, with access to training and mentorship, allowing him to set up his own creative enterprise.