Welcome to the first volume of ‘Best of Australia’, in which we celebrate this nation’s achievement in the fields of arts, fashion, design, business and innovation. The time is evidently ripe for this publication. For one, there are plenty of good stories to tell. Consistent economic growth has created an environment where Australian companies and individuals are achieving remarkable things in their fields, creating novel forms of performing art, innovating new technologies, creating uniquely Australian fashion brands, and maintaining our welldeserved reputation for quality and excellence. Secondly, ‘Best of Australia’ meets a need for what we call a collaborative marketing effort. Whether in the arts, fashion or business, a substantial amount of Australian achievement is internationally focused. In this publication, Australian achievers worked together to bring their unique stories to all corners of the earth. As publishers we also express our gratitude to all contributors for their support in the compilation of this publication. ‘Best of Australia’ will also go out to our associate publishers in the Global Village Partnerships network, from Dubai and Singapore to Europe and South Africa. In the years ahead, ‘Best of Australia’ will continue to tell stories of Australian achievement, highlighting that Australia is a major contributor to the world, and a nation of considerable wealth and talent, where individuals have the space and inspiration to create that which makes our world a better place. Australia and Australians have a lot to be proud of – and it is these things that ‘Best of Australia’ will continue to showcase on the world stage.