Rabobank’s Client Councils partner with AgriFocused to help farmers hone agribusiness administrative skills

by | Apr 17, 2025 | Business

Rabobank’s Rabo Client Councils have partnered with rural training provider AgriFocused to deliver farm business skills for primary producers in NSW, Victoria and Tasmania.

The practical online Farm Office Plus program provides tools to improve management of the “office side” of farming businesses.

The hands-on training aims to assist with establishing easy record-keeping systems, streamlining bill payment and bookkeeping, reduce accounting fees, minimise filing time and develop time management skills.

The initiative has been spearheaded and funded by food and agribusiness banking specialist Rabobank’s Rabo Client Councils, a group of innovative, forward-thinking clients who are passionate about making a difference in their communities and who support initiatives with the goal of making a meaningful impact on the vibrancy and resilience of rural Australia.

Through the support of the NSW and Victoria and Tasmania Rabo Client Councils, farm businesses can sign up for Farm Office Plus training at a discounted price. Course participants do not have to be Rabobank clients. The discounted positions are limited to 160 and will be distributed in order of registration.

Rabobank’s NSW Client Council member and Gunning-based sheep and cattle producer Lucy Knight said there is a “need and thirst” amongst farmers to build office administration skills.

“Many farming businesses are becoming larger, more complex and operating with fewer staff – managing the farm office is not immune from these pressures – farmers are looking for ways to streamline administrative processes,” Mrs Knight said.

The Farm Office Plus training is designed for people who may have been “battling in the office for a while” and looking for an opportunity to upskill, she said.

Mrs Knight said the training aims to enhance farmers’ “non-paddock skills” and boost their confidence in managing their farm office.

The training will be delivered by AgriFocused founder Carmen Quade. Ms Quade has worked as a university lecturer in accounting and agribusiness, as well as having experience in local government, focused on economic and community development and corporate governance. Together with her husband and family members, Ms Quade is a partner in a mixed farming business at Tallimba, in the Northern Riverina.

Ms Quade said the administrative requirements of running a farming business have grown exponentially.

“Staying on top of finances, managing the email load and fulfilling record keeping requirements can take a lot of time, often impacting on farm operations and family life,” she said. “Efficient and effective systems and a better understanding of tech solutions can win back hours. And timely information can lead to less stress and better decisions.”

Rabobank state manager for NSW Toby Mendl said Rabobank’s Client Councils are helping rural communities flourish.

“Alongside local Client Council members, we engage in listening and learning about the key issues that matter most to our clients, communities and the broader food and agriculture industry,” he said.

Rabobank’s Rabo Client Council network is focussed on developing meaningful grassroots initiatives to support key themes focusing on building industry capacity, championing rural-wellbeing, sustainability and strengthening the rural/urban connection.

Mr Mendl said the AgriFocused training is “empowering farmers by providing the tools and systems that help with the growing complexity of the administrative tasks associated with farming businesses. Ultimately, this allows them to make timely decisions, spend more time in the paddock and allocate more time on other aspects of their business”.

Farm businesses based in NSW, Victoria and Tasmania can sign up for the Farm Office Plus training and receive a $200 discount. This offer is available until March 2026 or until supported positions are filled.

To find out more about the program, click here

This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES

Bali to Nusa Penida: The Best Ways to Reach This Island Paradise

by | Apr 17, 2025 | Business

Bali, Indonesia – Travellers looking to escape the crowds and dive into natural beauty are setting their sights on Nusa Penida — a rugged island gem just off the southeast coast of Bali. With dramatic coastal cliffs, hidden coves, and crystal-clear waters, Nusa Penida offers a refreshing mix of adventure and serenity.

Whether it’s exploring iconic spots like Kelingking Beach or enjoying a slow sunset cruise, reaching Nusa Penida from Bali is easier than ever — with travel options to suit every type of visitor.

About the Nusa Islands

The Nusa Islands are a trio of islands located just a short boat ride from Bali’s mainland. Each has its own charm:

Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida is known for its raw beauty and dramatic landscapes

1. Kelingking Beach: A scenic cliff resembling a T-Rex, offering sweeping ocean views.

2. Broken Beach: A natural rock arch over turquoise waters.

3. Angel’s Billabong: A crystal-clear natural infinity pool set into the rocks.

4. Crystal Bay: A tranquil beach ideal for snorkelling and relaxing.

Nusa Ceningan

Nusa Ceningan, the smallest of the three, sits between Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan. With cliffside views and the famed Blue Lagoon, it’s a favourite for laid-back travellers and cliff jumpers.

Nusa Lembongan

Nusa Lembongan boasts mellow beach vibes, charming villages, and fantastic diving — perfect for those seeking both relaxation and ocean exploration.

How to Get There

Travellers can choose from two main transport options from Bali to Nusa Penida:

1. Private Boat Rental

For a seamless and personalised experience, boat rental is a premium option. Private boats offer comfort, privacy, and flexibility — ideal for families, groups, or couples wanting to island-hop at their own pace.

“Many of our guests prefer private charters for their freedom and convenience,” says Ketut Arya, a travel consultant at Bali Luxury Travel. “They can choose their departure time, avoid the crowds, and stop wherever they like — it’s truly a custom journey.”

When considering boat rentals, you can check this list reputable providers of boat rental bali that highly recommended for their reliability and stellar service. 

2. Public Ferry

A budget-friendly alternative, scheduled ferries operate daily from Sanur, Padang Bai, and Kusamba. While they can be crowded and less flexible, ferries remain a reliable choice for solo travellers or those on a tighter schedule.

Tips Before Booking a Boat

1. Know Your Purpose: Choose your vessel based on your plan — whether it’s a day of island hopping, snorkelling, or a romantic sunset cruise.

2. Book Early: Secure your spot in advance, especially during holidays and high season, to avoid limited availability and price hikes.

3. Book Early: Secure your spot in advance, especially during holidays and high season, to avoid limited availability and price hikes.

4. Check Weather Conditions: Monitor the marine forecast and be prepared to reschedule if conditions are rough. Calm seas make all the difference.

5. Use Reputable Operators: Select licensed providers with strong reviews, transparent pricing, and appropriate insurance.

A Must-Do While in Bali

Planning a visit to Nusa Penida is increasingly seen as a must-do experience for anyone holidaying in Bali. With stunning natural backdrops and easy travel options, the Nusa Islands are a perfect escape from the hustle — just an hour away by boat.

“There’s something magical about sailing out from Bali and arriving in a place that still feels untouched,” adds Arya. “It’s the side of Bali most travellers don’t expect — and never forget.”

This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES

Crewstone International and Vince Group Launch Groundbreaking RM150 Million Real Estate Investment Fund

by | Apr 17, 2025 | Business

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – 26th March 2025 — Crewstone International Sdn Bhd, a PEMC-licensed private equity firm, and Vince Group, one of Malaysia’s leading integrated real estate developers, are proud to announce the launch of a strategic partnership to establish a RM150 million Real Estate Investment Fund — marking a major milestone in the country’s investment and property landscape.

This newly established fund will pioneer Malaysia’s first fully integrated real estate investment ecosystem, enabling investors to participate in a seamless, end-to-end property investment platform — from acquisition and development to value enhancement and exit realization.

“This partnership sets a new benchmark for real estate investment in Malaysia. By combining our investment structuring capabilities with Vince Group’s robust property ecosystem, we are unlocking a future where real estate investing is smarter, scalable, and more accessible,” said Ahmad Izmir, CEO of Crewstone International.

The fund will focus on high-yield, risk-mitigated real estate opportunities throughout Malaysia, with an emphasis on capital preservation and attractive upside potential for both institutional and qualified investors.

“We’re proud to collaborate with Crewstone to bring a bold vision to life — a one-stop, future-ready real estate platform designed to generate long-term value,” said Dato’ Vincent Nee, Group Managing Director of Vince Group. “This RM150 million fund is more than a financial vehicle — it’s a revolution in how real estate investment is approached in Southeast Asia.”

The signing ceremony, held in Kuala Lumpur, was attended by key stakeholders, and investors — marking the formal launch of this ambitious initiative. The partnership is expected to catalyze innovation within Malaysia’s real estate and alternative investment sectors, while offering robust returns to aligned partners.

About Crewstone International

Crewstone International is a private equity and investment management firm licensed under the Securities Commission Malaysia (License No. VCPE/0099/2023). With over MYR 500 million in assets under management, Crewstone specializes in cross-border private equity, credit, and fund strategies with a focus on delivering value for institutional and government partners.

About Vince Group

Vince Group is a diversified property group with an end-to-end ecosystem across development, marketing, leasing, and hospitality. With a track record of transformative real estate projects across Malaysia, the Group is known for innovation, execution excellence, and a strong commitment to shaping the built environment.

This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES

Victorian Stories Unearthed at Australia’s Largest Heritage Festival

by | Apr 16, 2025 | Business

Victoria’s biggest celebration of heritage returns on Friday, 18 April, with the launch of the Australian Heritage Festival (Victoria) – presented by the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) and proudly supported by the Heritage Council Victoria and the Victorian Goldfields World Heritage Bid. 

Running until Sunday, 18 May, the festival features more than 300 free and ticketed events across Victoria and invites visitors to explore the people, places and cultures that have shaped the state’s rich story. 

This year’s theme, Unearthed, brings to light hidden histories and untold stories – highlighting the contributions of migrant and queer communities, as well as the lasting legacy of women who helped build and shape our cities and towns. 

The month-long program offers something for everyone, with walking tours, exhibitions, workshops, and family-friendly experiences spanning urban centres and regional towns. Visitors can step inside historic homes, board vintage trains, or uncover the secrets of Victoria’s gold rush past. 

Festival highlights include The Alchemy of Gold forum in Campbells Creek from 16 to 18 May, which will examine how the 1850s gold rush transformed Victoria. Historians, experts, and community members will explore the profound and lasting impact of this era on the state’s identity. 

In Geelong, The Heights Heritage Skills & Traditions Autumn Fair on 26 April offers visitors a chance to step back in time with heritage gardens, traditional crafts, and hands-on demonstrations that showcase skills passed down through generations. 

In Bendigo, families can enjoy The Heritage Fiesta on 17 May, with free entry to iconic sites including the Central Deborah Gold Mine, Bendigo Tramways, and the Bendigo Joss House Temple. 

At Melbourne’s Trades Hall, special heritage tours on 21 and 28 April and 5 and 12 May invite visitors to walk in the footsteps of labour movement icons such as John Curtin, Zelda D’Aprano and Bob Hawke, while learning about more than 150 years of workers’ rights history. 

Visitors can also gain exclusive access to behind-the-scenes Tours of the See Yup Temple in South Melbourne on 4 May. Historian and curator Dr. Sophie Couchman will guide guests through the fire-damaged temple, sharing insights into its restoration and showcasing rare heritage objects up close. 

The 2025 Festival also comes at a significant moment for Victoria, following the addition of the Victorian Goldfields to Australia’s World Heritage Tentative List – a major milestone in recognising the global significance of the state’s gold rush legacy. 

The Australian Heritage Festival runs from Friday 18 April to Sunday 18 May 2025. Full program details are available at: www.nationaltrust.org.au/ahf/vic 

The festival is proudly presented by the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) in partnership with the Heritage Council Victoria and the Victorian Goldfields World Heritage Bid. 

This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES

What is the Difference Between XXX and XXXX Token? Similar Names, Different Purposes in Crypto

by | Apr 16, 2025 | Business

Confused by similarly named tokens? Discover the key differences between XXX and XXXX (xx coin), their unique use cases, and how to verify each project’s legitimacy in the evolving crypto space.

In the rapidly evolving world of cryptocurrency, it’s easy to get confused by tokens and coins with similar or identical names. One such example is the confusion surrounding XXX and XXXX (also known as the xx coin). While their names may sound alike, their functionalities, ecosystems, and value propositions are vastly different.

This article aims to clarify the differences between XXX and XXXX tokens, explore the broader range of XXX-related tokens, and offer guidance on how to navigate projects with shared tickers.

XXX Token (Triple X): A Utility Token on Ethereum

XXX is an ERC-20 token built on the Ethereum blockchain. As a typical utility token, it is designed for trading and use within decentralized finance (DeFi) applications.

Key Features:

1. Blockchain: Ethereum (ERC-20)

2. Use Cases: Trading, value storage, DeFi interactions

3. Governance: No disclosed on-chain governance

4. Market Status: Priced around $3.11 and available on various centralized and decentralized exchanges

Despite its utility, XXX lacks deeper infrastructure or unique functionalities beyond its general use in Ethereum-based ecosystems.

XXXX Token (Four X / xx Coin): Privacy-First Blockchain Innovation

XXXX, often referring to the xx coin, is the native cryptocurrency of the xx network, a purpose-built blockchain emphasizing privacy, secure communication, and decentralized governance.

Key Features:

1. Blockchain: Native to the xx network

2. Use Cases: Private payments, encrypted messaging, staking, node incentives, and decentralized governance

3. Security: Quantum-resistant encryption and zero-knowledge proofs

4. Governance: Utilizes Nominated Proof-of-Stake (NPoS) for community-driven consensus

XXXX is a serious contender in privacy-focused blockchain innovation, offering not only transactional anonymity but also supporting privacy-oriented dApps and decentralized communication tools.

Core Differences Between XXX and XXXX

The Many Faces of “XXX Token”: One Ticker, Multiple Projects

“XXX Token” isn’t just one coin—it’s a shared label across several unrelated projects, each with different use cases and degrees of legitimacy. Here are some notable examples:

1. AdultChain (XXX)

• Built on Bitcoin, Dash, and PIVX foundations

• Privacy features like Zerocoin protocol

• Fast, low-fee, anonymous transactions

• Supports masternodes for instant payments

2. XxX Coin (XXX)

• Deployed on Binance Smart Chain (BEP-20)

• Little to no active trading or development

• Essentially a placeholder token

3. Triple X Token (XXX)

• BEP-20 community-driven token

• 1 trillion supply

• Aimed at liquidity pools, but lacks broader adoption

4. Black Whale (XXX)

• A rebranded token associated with gaming, NFTs, and metaverse

• Once reached $74.55, now trades with low volume

• Introduced DAO, DeFi, and virtual world features, but lacks partnerships

5. Web3-Enabled XXX Tokens

• In development

• Focused on user-friendly decentralized apps (dApps) and crypto onboarding

• Still not widely available on exchanges

Use Cases of the Most Functional XXX Token: The xx Coin

Among all projects using the XXX label, the xx coin (XXXX) stands out as the most structured and purpose-driven.

Top Use Cases:

1. Private Communication: Uses token “postage” to send encrypted messages

2. Secure Payments: Quantum-safe transactions for digital asset transfers

3. Staking and Governance: Vote on upgrades, nominate validators, and earn rewards

4. Privacy dApp Development: Developers are incentivized via grants and rewards

5. Ecosystem Growth: Supports node onboarding and network expansion

How to Identify Which XXX Token You’re Dealing With

Due to ticker overlap, it’s essential to confirm a token’s identity before investing. Here’s how:

1. Check the Blockchain: Is it on Ethereum, BSC, or a native chain?

2. Look for Exchange Listings: Is it actively traded or dormant?

3. Read the Whitepaper: Understand the project goals and vision

4. Observe Community and Developer Activity: Look for active GitHub repositories, forums, and social media

Future Outlook: Where Are XXX-Related Tokens Headed?

The broader class of XXX-related tokens—especially those focused on privacy, DeFi, and NFTs—has room to grow. Key trends include:

1. Tokenization of Real-World Assets: Enabling fractional ownership of property, stocks, etc.

2. Integration with DeFi: Use of XXX-related tokens for staking, lending, and liquidity

3. NFT Expansion: Rise of unique digital collectibles in niche XXX sectors

4. Decentralized Governance: Community-led upgrades and platform decisions

Conclusion: Don’t Judge a Token by Its Name

Although XXX and XXXX may sound alike, their roles in the crypto world are drastically different. XXX tokens are often generalized utility tokens across multiple networks, some of which lack active development.

Meanwhile, XXXX (xx coin) stands out as a serious, privacy-centric digital asset with a dedicated blockchain, governance model, and growing use cases.

Before investing or engaging with any token, do your due diligence. Always verify the token’s blockchain, community, and purpose—because in crypto, names can be deceiving, but technology never lies.

Find out more about XXX and XXXX Token Crypto by accessing the Bitrue blog. Bitrue also provides various challenges that will give prizes in the form of free crypto token for you.

This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES