design awards 2015 fenestration australia 2015
Transcription
design awards 2015 fenestration australia 2015
member profile gabbett machinery people new trends in talent search a clearer view winter 2015 awa state conferences QLD 26 June NSW 10 July WA 17 July economy population clock fenestration australia 2015 darwin 16-18 september bass strait 8.8 Challenging Site Achieves High Energy Rating design awards 2015 entries now open 100% ALIAN R T S U A D N A MADE D E N W O 15 N9000 SERIES Australia’s leading roller. Made in Australia for Australian conditions. For more information, call our team on 03 9460 1166 or visit www.anthonyinnovations.com.au this winter F e n e s t r at i o n a Desi 31 Awa 09 2015 10 20 14 18 28 25 Consent 04 06 22 features REgulars 09 10 18 31 02 04 06 08 12 13 state conferences 2015 book now case study bass strait 8.8 fenestration australia 2015 uncharted territory design awards 2015 entries now open 14 16 words member profile gabbett machinery 20 22 certification green tag certified compliance tracey gramlick 25 economy population clock people emerging trends in talent search ask the expert glass selection checklist whs consultation 26 28 30 32 Please ensure th consent form is returned to the Australia Secret application form your entry can b the judging proc doric racing presentation and the story far ofso winners. marketing Fenestration Australia 20 10 steps toaccred@awa.org.au writing your social media Australia marketingFenestration plan c/o Australian Window industry skillsSuite 1, Level 1, Buildin 20 Bridge apprentices thriveStreet Pymble NSW 2073 with on-site training options retirement peter leeke news products directory www.awa.org.au info@awa.org.au Windows magazine is a quarterly publication from the Australian Window Association Cover Darwin Convention Centre at Sunrise Magazine design Stephanie Grigg Sydney Suite 1, Level 1, Building 1, 20 Bridge Street, Pymble NSW 2073 p. +61 2 9498 2768 f. +61 2 9498 3816 Melbourne Level 1, Unit 34, 125-127 Highbury Road, Burwood VIC 3015 p. +61 3 9808 0069 f. +61 3 9808 9009 It is impossible for the publisher to ensure that the advertisements and other material herein comply with the Australian Consumer Law Competition and Consumer Act 2010. Readers should make their own inquiries in making decisions and where necessary seek professional advice. Australian Window Association © 2015 All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without permission is strictly prohibited. Applicati Winter 2015 www.awa.org.au 1 wo r ds W michael o’keefe Chairman of the Board elcome to our winter edition of Windows. On the back of a reduction in the official cash rate to a historic low of two per cent, the commentary has begun. Soaring property prices particularly in Sydney, with a forecast growth of a further seven per cent in 2015/16, look to send the median house price well above $1 million. Prices are also set to take off in Brisbane, but growth will be much more subdued in Melbourne and Adelaide, and prices will fall in Perth. With pockets of the country still reporting significant housing shortages, will 0.25 per cent off a prospective buyer’s mortgage be enough to encourage them to invest? It would appear that many Australians are looking more towards retiring non deductible debt than going further into debt. So what position does all this rhetoric leave our window industry in for the next twelve to eighteen months? The current activity reported by our W tracey gramlick Executive Director Enjoy this edition of Windows and I look forward to catching up with many in warm and sunny Darwin during Fenestration Australia 2015, when you take a break from your busy schedules. • Information about candidate drinking or using drugs – 40 per cent. The author notes that whilst you may be qualified for that job you’re trying to land, something you said on Facebook might turn off potential employers. This has been true for years, but companies’ reliance on social media to screen potential employees is rising. According to a recent study in the USA, over half of employers are researching job applicants on social media. One of the more interesting finds from CareerBuilder’s study is that whitewashing your social media accounts may be a good idea, but deleting them entirely might not be so smart. According to the study, the biggest red flags for employers and the percentage of which caused them to reject a candidate are: • Provocative or inappropriate photographs – 46 per cent. T Marketing and Communications Manager The indicators looking forward are also positive with total building commencement data displaying constant activity off an already solid base in some states, and total commencement growth of up to 14 per cent in other states. So despite the ensuing cold as we ‘rug up’ for winter, we should have plenty of work to keep us warm and additionally the signs for the next twelve months are quite encouraging. ebProNews released a very interesting article last month regarding the growth in the number of businesses screening social media such as Facebook and Twitter before hiring a new employee. The study was conducted by CareerBuilder, who found that 52 per cent of companies surveyed check on potential employees’ Facebook, Twitter and other social media accounts. That’s up from 39 per cent just two years ago. gary smith members indicates that most businesses are busy and certainly if you are actively ‘hunting’ the work, it’s there for the signing. his winter edition of Windows 2015 celebrates Peter Leeke from Canterbury Windows who has decided to retire after four decades in the industry. The issue also includes a report from Paarhammer on a fantastic project supplied in Tasmania, a member profile on Gabbett Machinery and regular articles from Harley Dale, David Esler and Stephanie Dale. Don’t forget to check out the information on the 2015 Design Awards, Fenestration Australia and the State Conferences. 2 Australian Window Association Winter 2015 • Candidate bad-mouthed previous company or fellow employee – 34 per cent. • Poor communication skills – 30 per cent. As this trend continues, some employers are starting to consider a candidate’s absence from social media to be a red flag. More than one third (35 per cent) said they’d be less likely to interview someone they couldn’t find online. Employers may now find it strange if you’re not on Facebook or Twitter: They might overlook you if they can’t find any information about you. Of course, don’t let that put you off visiting the AWA Facebook page to see what your association and colleagues are posting and to find information about our upcoming state and national conferences. I look forward to catching up with many of you there. Do you have a picture that would make a good front cover of Windows magazine? Send it to gary.smith@awa.org.au Don’t forget to download a copy of the media kit and ensure you submit your case studies, news and new products for each edition of Windows. Visit www.awa.org.au and look under the News tab. Sit back, relax in front of the fire and enjoy the winter edition of Windows. member profile As the exclusive Australian distributor for many of the world’s greatest woodworking and aluminium machinery manufacturers, Gabbett Machinery has built a reputation as an industry leader in factory floor efficiency. G abbett Machinery’s rapid evolution as an internationally respected business mirrors that of the fastpaced industries it serves. From humble beginnings in suburban Sydney in the late 1970s, Gabbett Machinery has grown to become a globally recognised company with approximately 60 staff in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth. Director, Lee Gabbett, says his father Barry established the company in 1978 as a supplier of mostly second-hand woodworking machinery, “My father was a wood machinist by trade and he’s the first to tell you he wasn’t much good at it; so he decided to go and sell machines!” Over subsequent years, the company adapted its product ranges to become a trusted distributor of predominantly new machinery for leading international brands such as SCM, Morbidelli, FOM Industrie, DMC, Balestrini and many more. Its extensive showrooms are transit points for machinery ranging from bandsaws, edge banders, mortisers, moulders and borers to the largest, industrial-size nesting machines and advanced CNC machines. 4 Australian Window Association Winter 2015 With clients spanning a broad range of industries – from kitchen, furniture and window manufacturing to shopfitting and a host of ancillary sub-industries, Gabbett Machinery is now a highly diversified business with two main divisions, sales and service. the art of efficiency Contemporary manufacturing machinery for both wood and aluminium sectors has changed dramatically in recent years, with computer-controlled, high-precision equipment now dominating markets that were, until comparatively recently, slowfunctioning and ‘manual’ in style. Increased efficiency is the driving force behind mechanical R&D, with customers seeking ever-faster, more compact and lighter weight units to accomplish increasingly sophisticated tasks. In tandem with customer expectations, Lee says machinery has become more multifunctional and user-friendly while prices have dropped accordingly, particularly at the ‘top end’ of the market where enhanced automation functions have become the norm. “As a trend, customers want machinery that can do more in less space and which is easy to use and affordable; these are the ongoing design challenges driving product development from year to year,” Lee says. Gabbett Machinery’s relationship with its suppliers is far more dynamic than many customers realise. A strong ‘two-way’ communication process exists between Gabbett and its overseas manufacturers, driven by the fact that Australia leads the way in many technical product applications. This means Gabbett Machinery, with its powerful Australian customer base, plays a lead role in directing manufacturers’ global R&D programs. Therefore, Gabbett cooperates with its manufacturing partners as a trendsetter rather than a follower. “For example, if we consider the timber market and flat panel laminate board, Australia is probably leading the world in nesting technology and in automated manufacturing technology. I would suggest we are ahead of the UK and US in that market and Europe is only starting to become active now,” explains Lee. Gabbett’s active participation with suppliers translates into direct benefits for customers, member profile including high levels of product customisation, as required, as well as detailed customer service protocols. Staff training at Gabbett Machinery is an obvious high priority, as service personnel and in-house technicians need to be able to respond instantly to customer enquiries about a complex array of equipment from many suppliers. (Remote helpline services are available.) Of course, clear operational training at handover also helps obviate future problems. “With the handover of a CNC machine, for instance, we focus on on-site training, tailored around the clients particular production methods and techniques,” Lee says. “So, the training is devoted to how to drive the machine, how to set it up and how to maintain it. We also schedule a followup day about a month afterwards which gives customers a safety net to write down any questions they have, if any, and we can address them in one hit. These are not the sorts of machines where you can say, ‘Here is the machine, see you later’, we invest a Image: Lee Gabbett lot of money in the training and servicing processes – that’s why we have more service technicians than sales reps, by choice.” focus on ‘solutions’ As high-quality, multifunctional machinery has become more advanced, it has also become more indispensable to the basic operations of businesses – a point not lost on Gabbett Machinery. In response to this reality, Gabbett has taken on greater responsibilities, supplementing its traditional distribution and servicing programs with a stronger focus on wide-ranging ‘solutions’. This involves: • Improved assessment of opportunities for rationalisation, including the replacement of multiple units with a single multifunctional device; As Lee notes, the most active area of newwave technical advancement is in Materials Handling - superior logistical systems for delivering materials to and from processing equipment. “So, in aluminium, for example, you might have 6.5 metre long bars of varying sizes and weights and then on the outfeed you might have three or four pieces of dissimilar sized components – each one destined for a different customers’ installation. We’re talking about barcoding, labeling, stock management. That’s where we’re seeing a lot more integration between Materials Handling, the software that drives the machine and the software that drives Material Handling systems,” says Lee. As this era of enhanced factory floor efficiency gains momentum, Lee says Gabbett Machinery will continue to be an enthusiastic and proud leader. • Closer examination of ways to make better use of floor space; and • Better integration of units into existing plants. For more information, visit the website: gabbett.com Winter 2015 www.awa.org.au 5 c e rt i f i cat i o n Green Tag Certified what the new Green Star® environment can do for your bottom line. david baggs CEO, Global Green Tag International A re you aware that the Green Building Council of Australia’s Green Star® rating tool program has recently undergone a complete overhaul? The Green Star program has been both simplified and broadened. It now not only covers all project types (except single dwellings), but it also engages all the products used in building construction, interior fitout and existing building refurbishment. In effect, all products made by AWA members are now able to gain credits that will give them more sales leverage for all Green Star projects. How big a deal is that? Well, 374 projects were ‘registered’ and working to achieve Green Star ratings within the Green Star system early in 2015, with 75 being processed. The majority of projects are large commercial offices including 86 education projects, 28 multi-unit residential projects, 24 retail centres and 19 industrial developments, not to mention libraries, club houses, retirement living developments, restaurants and two new hospitals. In due course, all will be looking for windows and doors with many looking for skylights, window film and other glazed products. So targeting Green Star projects is a major commercial opportunity and one that could potentially give your company first mover advantage in base building construction projects if you act quickly. So what are these new Green Star® tools and credits? Three tools have replaced the ten existing tools that are now considered ‘legacy’ tools, and are being phased out this year. Each of the new tools covers a discrete building phase or process. The new tools are; ‘Design and As Built v1’, ‘Interiors v1’ and ‘Performance v1’. The ‘Design and As Built v1’ tool covers base building construction at the ‘Design’ phase and after completion (but before occupation), i.e. ‘As built’. Buildings can no longer trade on the ‘Design’ stage ratings for long periods and must obtain the ‘As Built’ ratings to continue to use the rating beyond two years. At the ‘As Built’ assessment, projects must prove that they met their commitments, a great improvement over the previous process and one that gives better security to manufacturers included in the design phase commitments. The ‘Performance v1’ tool is for building operations and includes credits relating to existing building refurbishment and calls up the same criteria as the other two tools. One of the criteria common to all of these new tools is a new ‘Sustainable Products’ credit. For the first time there is now a product based credit that applies to all products in any construction undergoing Green Star certification, including skylights, glazing, screens, façades, windows and doors, operable walls, glazed partitions, window film and even sealants. It is also the first time that general construction products have been able to assist projects gain Green Star ratings. The ‘MAT-Sustainable Product’ credit assesses a product based on a tiered score, depends on a product’s related ‘sustainability factor’. Overall project scores are calculated within a new sustainable products calculator, developed to simplify calculating credit points for a large diversity of products and product rating levels. Products are awarded scores on gaining the attributes in this table. The ‘Interiors v1’ tool is for interior projects and includes all tenant and interior fitouts including operable walls, partitions, doors and hardware. David is CEO of Global GreenTag International Pty Ltd and Program Director of Global GreenTagCertTM a life-cycle assessment based ecolabelling and product rating program. He is a multi-award winning chartered architect specialising in green building design and a world renowned green materials expert with over 35 years experience in sustainable development. He has been voted one of Australia’s Top 50 Green Leaders and in the Top 100 Sustainability Leaders Globally. 6 Australian Window Association Winter 2015 Recognised Third Party Certification (e.g. Global GreenTag) to Level A 100% Recognised Third Party Certification (e.g. Global GreenTag) to Level B 75% Recognised Third Party Certification (e.g. Global GreenTag) to Level C 50% Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) (e.g. Global GreenTag) - Specific 50% Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) (e.g. Global GreenTag)- Generic 25% Approved Product Stewardship Program 50% In case you’ve never heard of them, Environmental Product Declarations are summary Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) reports undertaken in accordance with ISO 14025, ISO 14040 and IS0 14044. They provide LCA consultants with the numerical information to feed into whole project LCA reporting. This concept of whole project LCA reporting forms another common credit to both ‘Design and As Built’ and ‘Interiors’ tools as either an ‘Alternative Pathway’ (Interiors rating tool) or in addition to the Product Sustainability credit in the ‘Design and As Built’ rating tool. The new ‘MAT-Life Cycle Impacts’ credit requires a project LCA to compare the whole of life performance of the project to a benchmark project. To do this, projects like Lend Lease’s Barangaroo require product EPDs from manufacturers. Hence, to gain sales in Green Star projects when they decide to undertake the Life Cycle Impacts credit, manufacturers will need to need to provide an EPD. To have bases covered under both credits, it is wise to consider certification by a recognised third party certification scheme in addition to creating a product EPD. Fortunately, Global GreenTag’s GreenRate certification program is recognised for Levels A, B and C of the Sustainable Product credit and the GreenTag LCARate certification program provides low cost LCA and EPD reporting as part of the certification. Global GreenTag is the only one stop certification that covers all your product needs and the only recognised third party certification program that can help your product comply with each of the new credits. This means Global GreenTag Certification can assist all AWA member products gain credit relevance and sales leverage in these new Green Star® rating tools including: Skylights, Glazing and Screens, Façades, Windows and Doors, Operable Walls and Glazed Partitions. The benefits of these changes for the industry is that it has simplified the Green Star application process and fixed many of the concerns of the ‘old’ Green Star tools. For example, the ‘As Built’ tool now requires invoice based evidence of purchase and it is therefore harder for a builder to substitute specified products at the last moment and still retain the desired rating. If you have a greener window or glazing solution, leveraging your sales potential with Green Star projects can add value to your brand and bottom line. Winter 2015 www.awa.org.au 7 co m p l i a n c e THE CHANGING STATE IN AWARENESS OF BUILDING PRODUCTS COMPLIANCE T Exploding glass panels, water damaged interiors, incorrect sizes, faulty electrical cables, non-conforming wall panelling, fraudulent certificates... We know it started a number of years ago, but where will it all end? he AWA team have taken an average of 170 technical calls per month since the AWA Executive beginning of 2015 Director and another 20 requests per month for mediation, reports or inspections. That’s about nine per day a small team of five experts listen to, research and respond to amidst a myriad of other responsibilities they undertake on behalf of industry and members. Roughly half of these requests are from non-members such as certifiers, builders and homeowners and at least two per day are about potential non-conforming products. windows and doors for these buildings tend to be consistent in dimensions throughout all the levels - lending this market to high volume importation on a per project basis by builders and import suppliers. The CFMEU recently published a submission regarding government procurement procedures, highlighting that the Australian Government is a significant influencer in the building and construction industry as an important consumer and funder of projects. It needs to play a leadership role by ensuring that imported, non-conforming, substandard building products and furniture are never used in Commonwealth funded and capital supported infrastructure projects. No matter how cheap the product is, if it does not conform to certain critical Australian Standards, it cannot represent value for money. In April, I was invited to join the QLD MBA at their meeting with Hon. Karen Andrews MP, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Industry and Science, to discuss the prevalence of non-conforming products as a major concern for the Queensland building and construction industry. The key concern being for consumer safety and better support of industry in meeting its obligation to provide buildings that are safe. tracey gramlick They stated that the amount of nonconforming imported windows, doors and other glass and aluminium based products including glass curtain walls, balustrades and balconies, aluminium and glass ‘shopfront’ products on the Australian market has reached epidemic proportions. Nonconforming product is most prevalent in the high rise residential and office market as the In a media release on 4 May 2015, following a building fire in Melbourne, the CFMEU called for import restrictions to be slapped on companies found to have manufactured building products that do not comply with Australian Standards. The AWA has responded to many projects, committees and requests for articles and interviews specific to this issue for our industry at the state, territory and federal levels. All present shared a broad consensus of the urgent need to reform the current system to provide specifiers, purchasers, installers and certifiers with a clear mechanism to determine whether products are fit-forpurpose as defined under the National Construction Code. More must also be done to remove nonconforming products at the point of sale and to proactively identify and remove from our buildings non-conforming products that slip through the net. Collectively, we need to send out a message of ‘not on our watch’. They pointed out that industry is already doing a lot towards addressing the problem in building an extensive array of third party product certification schemes of varying quality and scope. Some industry associations, such as the AWA, even have accredited inspection and auditing processes. The MBA wrote a letter of thanks and recommendations for the federal government to consider the following immediate steps towards a solution: Government endorsement and common labelling of existing third party product certification schemes that meet the following minimum requirements: a. Accredited through the JAS–ANZ. b. Includes product conformity requirements for type or batch (ongoing) testing to Australian or International Standards as appropriate, as well as a process for ongoing, periodic auditing. c. Undertakes market surveillance to identify and weed out fraudulent activity. This year’s changes to the AWA Accreditation Program have been applauded by manufacturers and the market surveillance part, including the physical testing of products purchased from the market place. Commencing in June, this will underpin a move to address product conformity concerns and has been well received by governments and regulators spoken to. Let’s face it; when a decision is based on price only and fitness for purpose and whole of life costs are not adequately taken into account when procuring window and doors, the impact can be negative on safety of the fabricators, installers, certifiers, consumers and the public and the long term asset value. Image: Tracey Gramlick with the Hon. Karen Andrews, Parliamentary Secretary to Minister for Industry and Science, and Brent Davis, MBA. 8 Australian Window Association Winter 2015 AWA State Conferences 2015 Whether you manage your own business, work in management, sales, operations, customer service or any area within the window industry, participation in the 2015 State Conferences will enhance your knowledge and professional skills. The program consists of an afternoon of business sessions followed by dinner. Queensland: 26 June Novotel Sydney Manly Pacific New South Wales: 10 July Novotel Brisbane Western Australia: 17 July Matilda Bay on the River & Royal Perth Yacht Club Claire Madden John Bygrave Director of Research, McCrindle Research Group Strategy & Planning Manager, CSR (QLD & NSW) (WA) Proudly sponsored by To book and view the full program for each event, visit www.awa.org.au/events/category/state-conferences Winter 2015 www.awa.org.au 9 ca s e st u dy | pa a r h a m m e r bass strait 8.8 I t was after spending time at the award winning Saffire Freycinet Resort in Tasmania that the clients made their decision, as designers and owner-builders, to select Paarhammer as their window and door supplier. This was a project where breathtaking views took centre stage and the power of architecture and design demonstrated what is possible. With their own stunning location in mind, and with consideration to the environment, the family decided to use Paarhammer triple glazed products to increase their comfort level within the house by reducing extreme temperature fluctuations. A wall of triple glazed Paarhammer fixed glass units, combined with some openable lift-slide doors, allows the sweeping views of the land and water to be enjoyed all year round, day or night. To enhance the wide unbroken view, while also incorporating air circulation, tall narrow vertical windows were installed adjoining floor to ceiling expanses of fixed glass. These ingenious venting windows have a casement opening that allows a controlled air flow into the home. The windows are locked into Perched high on the edge of the north coast of Tasmania overlooking the blue waters of Bass Strait, sits a modern and tranquil 8.8 star family home. position with a multi-point locking system featuring locking pins all around the frame. These very narrow vertical windows have flyscreens while the large fixed windows frame the view without interruption. Facing extreme winds of up to 150 km per hour, the giant lift-slide doors are manufactured with a unique airtight framing design, incorporating multi-level rubber seals, ultimately eliminating drafts. Extremely low air infiltration of 0.3 was a prerequisite for use in such an exposed location. The Victorian Ash timber windows and doors, have been sealed with a clear finish on the interior, enhancing the beauty and warmth of the timber, and painted on the exterior to suit the architecture. Manufactured at the Paarhammer factory in country Victoria, the windows and doors together with a glass lifter, were loaded on a truck and travelled overnight on the Spirit of Tasmania. Usually factory glazed, in this case the extra-large triple glazed glass units were delivered directly onto site by Viridian. The glass was then installed on site after the frames were put into place. This was a challenging project due to the location as well as the extremely high wind speeds. But with U-values of 1.0 to 1.8 and low air infiltration of 0.05 to 0.3 for openable windows and doors, the best solution was achieved. Motivated by the superior insulating properties of triple glazed windows, the clients specified R 4.0 Insulation in the walls and ceiling with additional R 2.0 under the Cliplock roof and a polished concrete floor over Waffle Pods with in-slab hydronic heating. This has resulted in an Energy Rating of 8.8 stars, enabling the clients to now enjoy their unique home and stunning views in extreme comfort. For more information visit paarhammer.com.au 10 Australian Window Association Winter 2015 Winter 2015 www.awa.org.au 11 eco n o m y Population Clock Harley Dale HIA Chief Economist I was born in 1968. At that time, Australia had a population of just over 12 million people. In an absolute sense that was a very substantial number of people at the time. The growth rate of Australia’s population in 1967/68 was 1.8 per cent. In 2013/14, the latest period for which information is available, Australia’s population increased by 1.6 per cent to 23.49 million. That means Australia had nearly double the population of 46 years ago and also a substantially higher standard of living. The population growth rate for 2013/14 was slower than the 1.8 per cent growth recorded in 2012/13, but that 1.6 per cent rate remained well above the long term average. Note that 1.8 per cent was the population growth rate in 1967/68. Australia’s population has been growing since federation and, at times, the pace has been quite fast. In the late 1960s, there was no talk of the challenges of an ageing population. That challenge was still ahead of us and indeed wasn’t elevated to a level of public scrutiny until the then Federal Treasurer, Peter Costello, presciently raised the issue in the mid 2000s. It is also the case that in the 1960s arguments against an expanding population were less shrill than they are now, although regardless of whether those arguments were justified or not, they were probably more informed than they are now! In contemporary Australia, population growth is a vexed issue. We live in an ‘ageing world’, but the complex realities of that world and the challenges it presents to Australia’s future standard of living are not fully outlined, much less debated. How much 12 Australian Window Association Winter 2015 australia’s population has doubled in the last 50 years. where to now? should the population grow by? Should it be a mere trickle? Should we have a ‘big Australia’, whatever that ill-defined term might actually represent? Should we just allow Australia to add modest numbers to its population each year? “H ow fa st d o w e wa n t t h e sta n da r d o f living of our children, g ra n d c h i l d r e n a n d g r e at - g ra n d c h i l d r e n to g r ow ?” These are important questions for Australia, but they are the tip of the iceberg. An informed discussion about Australia’s future population growth needs to include consideration of the interaction of population growth, and the sources of that growth, with a range of other factors which will have an impact on Australia’s future economic growth and level of prosperity. Let’s just consider one prominent question related to the size of Australia’s population: How fast do we want the standard of living of our children, grandchildren and greatgrandchildren to grow? Back in 1968, when Butch was kidding with Sundance, the proportion of the working age population was over seven. In other words, there were seven people of working age to support each Australian aged 65 years and over. That ratio is now sitting at 4.5. The official projection in the 2015 Intergenerational Report released in March is that the ratio will drop to 2.7 by 2055. That’s a massive decline. One way of ameliorating the ageing of the population and the impact it understandably has on the working age ratio is, of course, immigration. Immigrants tend to be younger on average than Australia’s resident population. Therefore, any discussion about Australia’s future population growth needs to include a frank and adult conversation about the average level of net overseas migration we should aim for. In recent years, we’ve added high numbers of people to Australia’s population due to historically fast natural population growth, and especially because of high net overseas migration. Net overseas migration hit a record high in the 2000s cycle, reaching an annual level of 316,000 people in 2008. The current cycle for net overseas migration (which is past its peak) was the second highest on record with a high of 237,500 people over the 12 months to September 2012. What future levels of net overseas migration could look like and what they mean for growth in Australia’s economy and standard of living need to be a key focus of a wider policy discussion around population. That discussion currently doesn’t exist. Note also that Australia’s future population growth rate, levels of net overseas migration and increase in standard of living have a crucial impact on how many new homes Australia will need to build over the next 35 years. HIA’s Housing Australia’s Future research released last year comprehensively addresses that new home building question. We’ll take a step through that research in the context of the Intergenerational Report in the next issue. p eo p l e Emerging Trends in Talent Search David Esler Principal, Kaizen Executive D on’t you know it. The world continues to evolve at such a rapid pace that if you blink, you will miss the next trend, no matter what industry or profession you are in. It is no different in the talent search sector. I thought that it was probably timely to spend a bit of energy updating you on some of the newer trends in recruitment and talent search so that if you are engaging in your own staff recruitment, you will be up to date with some of the changes that are happening. I will also give you some insight into the challenges that are being faced across the industry and some of the tips that may help you find that next all important staff member. How many of you, when you begin the process of looking for a new staff member, just whack a hurriedly constructed advertisement up on seek.com or one of the other talent websites and then sit back and wait for the candidates to start flowing through the door? And, yes of course they do. But then you start to scratch your head and ask yourself ‘Where have all the good candidates gone?’ If you are lucky, you will get a candidate or two that somewhat resembles the person you think you are looking for, with some modification required to either the position or to the person. The days have gone when you could place an advertisement on a job board (electronic or, the old fashioned way, newspaper) and you would receive a multitude of candidates that matched exactly what you were looking for... with your eyes lighting up and you become like a hyperactive child, alone in a lolly shop not knowing which one to choose. These days the analogy of this would be that the lolly shop is closed; you can only get them over the internet; your choice is limited and, you know, it’s not quite the same as it used to be. Well, you had better get used to it because times have a changed, you know! The first issue that seems to have been around for quite some time now, but gets labelled a different name each year, is our ‘skills shortage’, with this year no different, now becoming a ‘super skills shortage’. According to recruitment firm Hays, while employers are ready to start hiring more employees in the next year or so, they will find it difficult to secure the qualified candidates they need for high-profile or technical positions. One sector that will specifically struggle is construction. This coincides with a building boom that is expected to continue this year, as developer’s ramp up high-rise inner-city apartment projects and as interest rates continue to drop. As such, many businesses will need to re-evaluate their existing attraction and retention policies to ensure they are capable of attracting and keeping the best talent. But this is not going to be as easy as it sounds because the balance of power has now shifted. So what does that mean, balance of power? In an article written by Recruiting Intelligence in January of this year, 83 per cent of recruiters or employers who have recruited recently report that the power has shifted away from where it has been for years, the employer, and is now in the hands of the candidate. In a candidatedriven marketplace, ‘traditional recruiting approaches’ simply stop working. Well, you say, now what do we do? If you have not been building your networks in your specialised field, then you have either best get cracking or connect with someone who is well connected in your space. Now is the time when you need to tap into the ‘passive’ recruitment market. In Australia, just fewer than 80 per cent of professionals consider themselves to be ‘passive’ in their approach to their career and to gain access to these professionals, you must be connected. I know, next question, so how do we get connected? Firstly, you need to talk with your prospective audience through the medium that ‘they’ want to be spoken to by, such as Mobile Recruitment. Up to 72 per cent of active candidates and 62 per cent of passive candidates now use mobile devices to research and apply for positions in a mobileoptimised format. They are also active in searching and watching business for signs of their next opportunity. A simple start is to ensure that if you are posting anything on job boards, websites or social media that it is written ‘mobile-optimised’. To you and me that means short bullet points that are straight to the point. Don’t waffle on with long sentences and motherhood statements. They are not interested and don’t take the time to read them anyway. The last area that I wanted to touch on is social media and the online job boards. Social professional networks are the fastest source of quality successful hires globally and this has increased 73 per cent over the past four years. Social professional networks now account for around 59 per cent of all successful hires. Interestingly though, a very large proportion of these successful hires come from that passive market. So get connected! So now that you are up to date and you know where to look, happy searching. And as always, if you find yourself in a bit of a pickle, give me a call. For more information, contact David on 0420 905 580 or visit his website at www.kaizenexec.com.au Winter 2015 www.awa.org.au 13 a s k t h e e x p e rt Glass Selection Checklist 1 2 Getting the fundamentals right, at design stage Build your lighting and climate control needs around your performance windows Of all the elements that go into a house, windows are uniquely powerful and important in creating a comfortable, appealing and liveable home. The glass selection choices made at the design stage will shape the way homeowners use and enjoy their living space on a long term basis. To get the most out of your home’s potential and to decide your specific glazing needs, involve your building designer, architect, builder, window or glass supplier early in the process. Good home design is crucial to ensure maximum natural light levels throughout the year and the right size windows in the correct place with suitable glazing is the key to achieving this. Remember to use your knowledge of glass and how it provides greater design flexibility to overcome site issues – such as poor orientation, reflective surfaces, shadowing, overlooking by a neighbouring property, proximity to major roads or thoroughfares. To get a good light balance, use windows from several directions. 14 Australian Window Association Winter 2015 In addition to controlling and increasing the amount of natural light in our home, performance glass offers a variety of features which enhance different elements of our home life including space, security, temperature, comfort and property value so it’s important to consider the following points: With the design and selection of high performance glass, can you reduce the size of the mechanical heating and cooling units? Given the window sizes and their positioning, what electrical lighting options exist? Can you reduce the number and type of interior lights, external lighting and feature lighting? Do the types of windows and glass specified allow you to maximise natural light levels in the home? Do the types of windows and doors specified allow you to maximise natural ventilation, access to outdoor living areas and the ability to ‘partition’ air conditioned or heated spaces? 3 4 Finding the right product for the right application Make sure you get exactly what you paid for Do east and west-facing or glare-exposed windows feature toned and Low E solar control glass? For cooler climates to allow passive solar heating in winter to naturally warm your home, consider using appropriate summer shading in combination with Viridian SmartGlass™ on northern orientations for superior insulation and less solar heat reduction. The benefits of using a performance glass product like Viridian’s new LightBridge™ which offers a combination of insulation, security and noise reduction properties for domestic windows, is that it allows homeowners to achieve expansive areas of glazing in their home but also helps keep out noise, intruders and damaging UV light offering ‘Sanctuary’ from the outside world. Remember that different windows around a building demand different performance levels, so make sure to choose the glazing solution that best meets the building’s various requirements. For example, a product like Viridian’s LightBridge™ is available in two upgrade options, Sanctuary level 1 and Sanctuary level 2. Sanctuary level 1 is a laminated Grade A safety glass. It offers enhanced security, near-complete elimination of UV rays, and a modest level of noise control, and Sanctuary level 2 has all the benefits of Sanctuary 1 but with greatly enhanced noise control. These Sanctuary upgrades allow you to easily tune your windows to specific needs or issues for certain rooms or areas of your home. Remember, Viridian LightBridge™ double glazing isn’t just for cold climates. Air conditioning is an energy intensive process – any reduction in the load of your air conditioner will have a positive impact on your energy bills. Consider the range of other glass performance features available that can be utilised in each area of your home – security, noise reduction, self-cleaning (especially for inaccessible glazed areas) and privacy screening. Make sure your glass selection is clearly indicated by name on specification drawings and your window schedule. Even apparently similar products from different manufacturers may not offer the same performance levels. Inadequate specification can lead to inappropriate products being used that don’t meet intended performance or may fail regulatory requirements. Ensure windows are installed as per manufacturer’s instructions with required weather sealing to combat air leakage and ensure good operation. Look for the WERS energy rating and testing system for windows. Check that all safety glass is appropriately marked on each piece of glass to confirm compliance to Australian standards. Check that your glass selection has been installed in the windows and ask for evidence from your builder or window installer – this will be important not only for your peace of mind, but also for valuing your home at future resale. Viridian recommends that any glass product selections should be viewed in application; always consult your window or glass provider or glazier for advice on specific designs and applications. Images: (left) Butterfly House, Viridian; (top) One Central Park, G.James Glass & Aluminium. Winter 2015 www.awa.org.au 15 wo r k p l ac e h e a lt h a n d sa f e t y Consultation let’s talk about whs Maureen Kyne Maureen Kyne and Associates + 0° Policy & Planning Employee Management Risk Management What is Consultation? Why is this important? Consultation is one of the most important processes in compliance with WHS Legislation. Put simply, it’s the act of sitting down with your team members and having an open two-way conversation about the application of WHS within the workplace and further, how this information and views on WHS are communicated, shared, exchanged and considered. Under the WHS Act, each team member has the responsibility to create and maintain a safe working environment, so it really is a team effort. The company must help facilitate this. Each team member must (as is reasonably practical) contribute to these discussions, co-operate in implementation and coordinate safe practices with other team members. What do I need to know about Workplace Consultation in 30 seconds? • You need to involve your team in activities aimed at providing a safe work place. e.g. Identifying hazards, assessing the risks and implementing control measures to reduce the likelihood of injuries. • You need to communicate your efforts in providing a safe work place with workers under your control. Injury Management Record Management Environmental Management When and how should Consultation take Place? • In the identification of hazards and assessment of risks. • When making decisions about ways to eliminate or minimise those risks. • When making decisions about the adequacy of facilities. • When proposing changes that may affect health and safety. • When making any decisions about health and safety. What is involved? • Contacting individuals and discussing the relevant health and safety matters. • Sharing information relating to the matters. • You must involve the workers in decision making processes on WHS matters. • Finding out what the other team members know about the WHS risks and control measures. • You must document all communications and efforts. • Planning who is responsible to control the • You must constantly review processes and involve workers in the review. For more information, contact Maureen Kyne: 16 Australian Window Association Winter 2015 risks. t. 1300 136 146 m. 0437 022 246 e. enquires@maureenkyne.com.au w. www.maureenkyne.com.au DOOR and WINDOW REPLACEMENT HARDWARE What are three things I can do right now? 1. Engage your workers in identifying the hazards related to your activities, plant items, hazardous substances and places of work. 2. Get input to help develop control measures, procedures and policies. 3. Induct, train, communicate and record with workers on the above points. How to manage your Consultation process Managing the meetings and the information gathered in your meetings is the next critical step. It is mandatory that this information can be provided at any time if called upon. • Screen Wire, Supplies, and Tools • Storm Door and Window Supplies • Commercial Door Hardware What I recommend for my clients is an online product called Online WHS. You can download the Meetings Register in the Online WHS Management System - it is fantastic for demonstrating WHS compliance and excellent business practices, and it is yours today free of charge. • Insulating Glass Supplies and Tools The Meeting Register manages all aspects of the consultation process to schedule meetings, invite attendees, build agendas, record minutes, actions to follow up on and responsibilities. • Shower Enclosure Hardware It provides an excellent demonstration of your commitment to a safe workplace and WHS compliance. Many of our clients have told us just how much it has helped them. You can get more from your Meetings Register by applying it to other sections of your business. • Patio Door Hardware • Home Security Hardware • Residential Window Hardware OVER 700 PAGES OF DOOR AND WINDOW REPLACEMENT HARDWARE Get our new 83R DWH DOOR and WINDOW REPLACEMENT HARDWARE Catalog. Order, View or Download at crlaurence.com.au A ® AUSTRALIA crlaurence.com.au C.R. LAURENCE OF AUSTRALIA Each edition Maureen Kyne brings you advice and strategies for ensuring your company is compliant with IR, HR and WHS legislation. PHONE: 1 800 424 275 FAX: 1 800 813 013 JAB297B_3/14 This can be done offline through keeping records of all meetings that occur in a centralised filing system (either a shared folder on the network or a filing cabinet) and through correctly keeping notes on staff inductions (again stored with your HR files, either via paper trail or on a computer). Winter 2015 www.awa.org.au 17 7 Unmissable Events at Fenestration Australia 2015 Conference & Exhibition Darwin Convention Centre 16 - 18 September 2015 The Australian Window Association (AWA), Australian Institute of Surface Finishing (AISF) and Skylight Industry Association (SIA) invite you to attend their Annual Fenestration Conference and Exhibition to be held at the Darwin Convention Centre, Northern Territory, from Wednesday, 16 September to Friday, 18 September 2015. Fenestration Australia 2015 is the largest gathering of organisations associated with the fenestration industry, bringing together 200-plus delegates from right across the value chain; manufacturers, product designers, as well as suppliers and associated service industries. Thanks to the involvement from other industry associations, the event will provide you with unprecedented access to the largest gathering of window industry decision makers. 2015 marks our first excursion to Darwin. This year’s theme, Uncharted Territory, reflects our aim to broaden the scope of the program to become a source of information, training and networking opportunities that previously did not exist for our industry. Fenestration Australia 2015 aims to be a melting pot for the industry, providing a platform for the introduction of new innovations, technology and work practices while addressing key issues that affect the industry, all set against the backdrop of a fun and informative networking environment. We look forward to your participation in Fenestration Australia 2015 and your help in continuing to grow this event and support for the industry. The Conference Team Early Bird Registration closes June 30. To register visit www.awa.org.au/conference-information 18 Australian Window Association Winter 2015 Barry Urquhart 1 Keynote: Business Warfare A dynamic, high-impact presentation on effective and malleable strategic planning which applies the principles of warfare to business and marketing planning. All four strategic options can, typically, be developed by businesses being: • • • • Offensive Defensive Flanking Guerrilla A fun and interactive learning experience tailored specifically to the needs of the window industry. Crocosaurus Cove Casual Dinner Join us for a memorable casual cocktail evening of delicious native Nothern Territory food, fine wine and mingling with the local wildlife at Crocosaurus Cove, Darwin’s ultimate urban wildlife experience. Who will enter the ‘Cage of Death’? Can they last fifteen minutes with a five metre crocodile at feeding time? Don’t miss this once in a lifetime event. 2015 Design Awards Celebrate the Industry Accompanied by pre-dinner drinks, the AWA, AISF and SIA celebrate the talents and innovative achievements of the Fenestration Industry and provide recognition of members that excel in their field in this professional showcase. Don’t forget that you have to be in it to win it! Welcome Reception Conference Kick Off Kick off the conference with a warm welcome to Darwin. Unwind and network with peers and fellow delegates in a pleasant, informal setting. 2 3 4 5 6 7 Shar Moore Women in Windows Breakfast Uncovering the top secrets used by Oprah, Richard Branson and every successful entrepreneur globally, Shar shares the top strategies used to find and live your true purpose in life every day and have a ball doing it! Yes people, you can have your cake and eat it too! Your Y must be big enough to pick you up off the bathroom floor, as let’s face it, most entrepreneurs end up there at some point during their journey to success. Trade Exhibition Get your Schmooze on A major component of Fenestration Australia, the Exhibition attracts exhibitors from the fenestration industry, both within Australia and overseas. Darwin Convention Centre Hall 2 will be the focus of activity and the prime networking area for both delegates and exhibitors outside sessions. A true meeting point and a wonderful opportunity to rub elbows with key industry decision makers. Gala Dinner Finish the conference in style The most anticipated event on the social calendar will be the spectacular finish to a great Conference. A scrumptious three-course meal will be followed by a vibrant local band. Let down your hair and kick up your heels on the dance floor. Winter 2015 www.awa.org.au 19 d o r i c rac i n g the story so far Doric Products isn’t just all about door and window hardware. Since 2004, it has been involved with some of Australia’s leading motorsport teams and personalities as part of a strategic marketing plan to reach new audiences in Australia and across Asia Pacific. F or 2015 and 2016, Doric has partnered with V8 Supercar newcomer, Erebus Motorsport, while still continuing its long term relationship with Bathurst Champion, Will Davison. While its history is short, Erebus Motorsport has become one of the most talked about teams in Australia since it burst onto the scene just four years ago. And its star driver, Doric Ambassador Will Davison, continues to raise the bar for the young team. After an intense 12 month development period, Davison recently scored his first race win with the team. While it certainly wasn’t his first V8 win, the experienced racer rates the victory one of the most rewarding of his career. The success has shone the spotlight on the team and has them tipped to be challenging the big guns for the top spot on the podium again this year. Image: Erebus team celebrating a win at the Perth 400 in May. female team owner in V8 Supercars and also the first female team owner to win a Bathurst 12 hour event. The colourful businesswoman became famous for her straight-talking, quirky style and changed the V8 Supercars landscape forever. Building two brand new V8 supercars from scratch was no easy task. Working around a new body shape and creating a brand new engine for the series, the team has gone through their fair share of development woes. The potential of the Mercedes Benz E63 AMG racer has always been clear, but finding the balance between speed and reliability is a monumental task. However, Erebus have proved they are on the right track, taking their first V8 Supercar race win last year and increasing the outright speed of the cars rapidly over the last 12 months. Erebus began life in the Australian GT Championship, when team owner, Betty Klimenko, became the first person outside of Europe to purchase an SLS AMG GT3 race car. In 2012, the GT team expanded to two SLS Gullwings and widened their interest in the Australian motorsport landscape, entering the Aussie Racing Cars Series. But it was at the end of 2012, the squad was elevated to worldwide fame, announcing its plans to bring the Mercedes Benz nameplate to V8 Supercars. The team showed it really means business by signing V8 frontrunner Will Davison in 2014. Davison brought a swag of top ten finishes and a pole position for the team last year and is tipped to go even bigger in 2015, already stealing a race win in Perth. Taking over one of the most successful teams in Australian Touring Car history, Stone Brothers Racing, Erebus vowed to bring a whole new approach to the V8 Supercars Championship. And so they did. “I’ve been very lucky to drive for some of the biggest teams in the sport, but I really wanted to take on this new challenge. Erebus is a new team and we’re developing a new car. I can’t really express how amazing it has been to be a part of that process. To see and feel the results of all the hard work lately has been unreal. And now everyone else has seen that too. It’s something the whole team should be very proud of,” Davison said. With the introduction of the Car of the Future regulations to the V8 category, Erebus fielded two Mercedes-Benz AMG E63 V8 Supercars throughout the 2013 season. That year, Klimenko became the first 20 Australian Window Association Winter 2015 Davison has raced for some of the biggest and most successful teams in the sport, but says seeing the hard work behind the development of a new team payoff is very fulfilling. “Sharing the win with loyal sponsors such as the team at Doric makes it even more rewarding. Doric are long-term personal sponsors of mine and I was thrilled when they extended their involvement to include sponsorship of the Erebus team. Doric are passionate about motorsport and committed to sharing this journey.” Davison’s win at Barbagallo Raceway on May 3 came down to the wire after an enthralling battle with V8 legend Craig Lowndes. Davison maximised the team’s strategy to conserve his tyres and was able to slip past Lowndes with just a few laps remaining. “I’ve done countless interviews about our win at Perth since Sunday but I’m still not really sure how to verbalise how I feel about that moment,” says Davison. “While the win is very rewarding personally, it’s the culmination of the entire team’s hard work. I’ve been working really hard and it’s been a tough start to the year but the entire team is there with me. We’re not shy of a challenge and we’ll keep pushing to make sure we get back on that top step of the podium again and again. “The race itself was perfect and I couldn’t ask for a better finish. As the laps were winding down, we were running on softs and you never quite know what they’re going to do. I was totally focused on holding onto second position behind Craig Lowndes, looking after my tyres and agonising over every tiny detail on track. With about eight laps to go I decided it was time to have a crack. By then I knew no one was on our tail so I didn’t have much to lose. “A finish like that really is the icing on the cake. We raced for it and we earned it; that’s the ultimate satisfaction for a driver. It’s why I do this sport and why all the blood, sweat and tears are completely worth it.” The NEW Twin Chain-winder (TCW) from Doric is a revolution in the area of Awning Window control which is sure to change the way windows are specified. Features • Self restriction to an opening distance of approx 105mm • Removable chain from sash plate to aid installation and to assist in This innovative, unrivalled and unique hardware device delivers a solution to the growing trend of large awning openings with a product that delivers ultimate window control. cleaning – “ Chain Release” • Suitable for use on both Residential and Commercial applications • Tested and surpassed Neutral Salt Spray Testing in accordance with AS2331.3.1 Following on from yet another industry leader, the Doric TCW allows for easy operation and installation in a secure key lockable configuration, combined with a stylish and easy to use large fold down lever delivering manual window control where other products cannot. • Supplied with a Stainless Steel chain as standard • Available with either “5 pin” or “ 6 disc” cylinder locking mechanism Suitable for use on standard residential openings but where this hardware comes into its own is large awning windows. Visit www.doric.com.au/product/dn400_twin_chainwinder for more details. Winter 2015 www.awa.org.au 21 marketing 10 Steps to Writing Your Social Media Marketing Plan Stephanie Dale Managing Partner DMC Advertising Group T here’s more to writing a social medial marketing plan than simply setting up a Facebook page; especially if you rarely contribute to it. In fact, the act of sitting down and writing your social media marketing plan is often more important than the strategy itself. The strategy-writing process forces you to develop and define your brand identity, identify your most likely client base and determine the best way to connect with them. Traditional advertisers talk at people. Social media marketers engage and talk with them. 1. Set up Your Company Website and Blog Surprisingly, many people miss this important social media marketing strategy step when writing a social media marketing plan. Instead, they put all of their marketing endeavours on their social media pages. This is a big mistake. Your website, and its accompanying blog, help you create your brand identity. Everything from the colours you use, your font style and your content establishes ‘Brand You.’ This is a key step in creating a social media marketing plan. 2. Create Personal and Professional Social Media Pages Although the rules of social media networks are constantly changing, most websites will only let you have a professional page when you have a personal page. That’s actually a good thing. Once you make personal connections with people, you can refer them to your professional page without feeling like a spammer when creating a social media marketing plan. Start with the major networks, such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube and Google+. 3. Link Your Blog Content to Your Social Media Pages However, don’t just link to the article. Write a paragraph to introduce the topic and ask questions that will spark discussion. Warning: You turn people off when you only post about your business. Write a list of other types of topics your connections would enjoy. You’ll find this to be a beneficial part of your social media marketing strategy. 4. Identify Your Audience and Build Your Tribe Notice the words ‘audience’ and ‘tribe’ in lieu of ‘customer’. Your audience might simply enjoy your writing style and the topics you choose to discuss. A tribe, one of the newer social media buzz words, is a group of people who share similar interests and passions. Neither your tribe nor your audience may start out as potential clients, but they might have associates and friends who require your services. If, in the future, they do need your product or services, they will be more likely to turn to someone they know. For more information, contact Stephanie: t. 02 9912 4400 e. sdale@dmcadvertisinggroup.com.au w. www.dmcadvertisinggroup.com.au 22 Australian Window Association Winter 2015 5. Find the Favourite Social Media Sites of Your Tribe and Audience Although you should create an active profile across all social networks, when writing your social media marketing plan, create a spreadsheet and note where your tribe and audience members spend most of their time. This is where you should aim your major marketing focus. Your spreadsheet should also include which topics encourage the most conversation. This reveals a good deal about your potential clients. One social media marketing blooper to avoid is to not put most of your energy into a site that contains most of your real life friends. They already know you. Meeting new people is the essence of social media marketing. 6. Use All Types of Media to Create Informative Content Keep abreast of new research and development in your business sector and share it with your connections. Don’t stop at simple written content. A world of photography, video and podcasts is at your disposal. Accumulate ideas that will trigger discussion and arrange online webinars, podcasts and chats. 7. Set Up a Klout Account and Make a Note of Your Score Check the page regularly and make a note of your Klout Moments. These posts, which engage the most discussion, show you the topics that your readers find most interesting. Then, check the left-hand column on the Klout Page. This shows what people perceive as your topics of expertise. If your business specialty does not appear in the column, you need to change your strategy. 8. Set Up a Disqus Commenting Platform On Your Blog or Website When writing your social media marketing plan, you need to consider the people who have no interest in creating Facebook or other social networking profiles. That does not mean that they do not want to comment on your site, other blogs and relevant news websites. Disqus is a commenting platform that works across different online websites. Once you create a Disqus identity, your comments on other sites are stored with a link back to your business website and social media profiles. If people like what you say, you might inspire them and make it easy for them to patronise your business. In an age when everyone is concerned with privacy, while criticising businesses for their lack of transparency, a Disqus profile shows that you have nothing to hide. 9. Create a List of Related Websites And of course, use your Disqus profile to comment on them on a regular basis. 10.Sign up for a Service that Monitors Your Success Or lack thereof. Collect analytics and site statistics and check them regularly. Many free services allow you to track visitor traffic, determine where it came from and the amount of time visitors spend on your page. Stephanie launched DMC Advertising Group in 1996. It is a full service advertising agency and production house including graphic design, web design, campaign development, corporate branding, strategic development, copywriting, database management, relationship marketing, direct marketing, mail production, print management and sales promotion development, software, and management. Winter 2015 www.awa.org.au 23 support your awa supplier members AWA Supplier Members support our industry. Let’s get together and support them. Visit awa.org.au and use the ‘Advanced Search’ feature for your product and service requirements. Images courtesy of Hanlon Windows, Azuma Design, AW Window Transport and Viridian Glass. YOUR MEMBERSHIP IS YOUR GUARANTEE OF PERFORMANCE AWA Members Are peformance tested. Are independently third party accredited. Have access to up to date technical and regulatory information. Have access to quality industry training through the Australian Fenestration Training Institute. Are represented on numerous Australian Standards Committees, the Building Code of Australia, the HIA’s Technical Committee and the Australian Fenestration Rating Council. WERS Is AFRC and NFRC accredited. Is the only Australian scheme of its type. Means your customers can ensure comparisons are accurate. Means your customers can ensure correct window choice for their climate zone. Provides results for house rating software. 24 Australian Window Association Winter 2015 Join AWA & WERS www.awa.org.au i n d u st ry s k i l l s Windows And Doors Apprentices Thrive With On-Site Training Options A pprentice numbers in the windows industry are increasing with the on-site delivery training options provided by Glass Skills Australia. Since starting operation just three years ago, these programs have tripled the number of people enrolling in regional areas to complete the Certificate III in Glass and Glazing, a qualification suitable for window and door fabricators and installers. region, has also benefited from the new delivery model and claims the training is absolutely fantastic. “This program has opened our eyes to what innovative training models can do for our business. The training is first class and the small group training ensures that the apprentices know what they are doing and can meet the industry standards as defined in the training package,” he says. Each program is custom built to suit the nature of the work undertaken by each business, whilst still conforming with the training package requirements – on completion, participants are issued with their Trade Qualification. Both employers have enrolled experienced existing workers, who did not previously have qualifications, and school leavers in their apprenticeship programs. Employer subsidies help offset the cost and leave employers with a surplus on completion by their apprentices. As an example, window fabricators in the Lismore and North Coast regions of New South Wales have saved time and improved productivity with the new training options. Sherilee and Troy Matthews from Lickiss Fabrications, Lismore, recently enrolled three of their staff when they found out they did not have to send their apprentices to Sydney or Brisbane for block courses. One has subsequently completed his trade certificate following a rigorous ‘Recognition of Prior Learning’ or RPL process and gap training provided by Glass Skills Coach, David Robertson. “The ability to put on apprentices and have them trained on site has had a significant impact on our productivity, with no lost time to block courses or disruptions to family and community commitments of the apprentices. Knowing that David is on site every four weeks allows us to schedule our work more effectively,” says Sherilee. Kevin Wilson from K and K Wilson – a manufacturer of glass windows and doors systems, based in the Northern Rivers Glass Skills Australia provides similar services throughout Australia and partners with The Improve Group, a Registered Training Organisation, for the delivery of these programs. brisbane based funded short courses construction industry ohs/whs systems training This workshop covers fundamental Occupational Health and Safety necessary to undertake work tasks within any sector in the construction industry. It includes the identification of hazardous materials, including asbestos, and compliance with legislated work safety practices. It does not cover removal of asbestos, which is a licensed activity. work safely at heights workshops newsflash Certificate IV in Glass and Glazing is now subsidised by the New South Wales government for businesses operating in Sydney. This nationally recognised qualification, delivered in partnership with The Improve Group, is targeting a range of leadership roles. This workshop includes working safely at heights with ladders, roof work, elevated work platforms, scaffolding and fall protection systems. The workshop covers working safely at heights on domestic and commercial work sites and includes new construction, renovation or refurbishment, and maintenance. Our program provides your team with the skills and knowledge of specialist and leadership roles including sales, production, scheduling and quality assurance functions in a glass and glazing enterprise. To find out more, contact us on 1800 886 269 or info@glassskills.com.au Image: David Robertson, trainer/assessor from Glass Skills Australia (centre) with the team from Lickiss Fabrications. Winter 2015 www.awa.org.au 25 A life in windows – Peter Leeke Retirement With just over 40 years in the Australian Window industry, Peter Leeke, Technical Manager of Canterbury Windows in Clayton, Victoria, retired this May. As a respected and trusted industry expert and long-time member of the Australian Window Association Technical Committee, there’s nothing Peter doesn’t know about windows. He discusses his career, his passions and the milestones he’s observed over the course of a lifetime’s work. P eter’s story begins back in 1966, when he commenced his apprenticeship as a Joiner in England. After making the decision to move to Australia in May 1972, he didn’t waste any time getting his start in the industry. “I arrived here with my wife Maggie, whom I’d just married the year prior,” he recalls. “We joined my wife’s sister Val and her husband Ron; our parents made the journey to Australia shortly afterwards to join us.” For someone used to life on a smaller scale, 26 Australian Window Association Winter 2015 the Australian environment’s vastness took some getting used to. “The physical change was massive,” Peter remembers. “We used to live near the Welsh border, in a village with a country atmosphere and small cottages. In Australia, the horizon was huge everywhere – there was simply so much open space! My brother-in-law Ron and I used to go shooting in South Gippsland, where we essentially had the freedom and space to roam wherever we wanted.” Peter was hired by Canterbury Windows (Burwood Timber Mills, as it was then known) that same year – and he’s been there ever since. “I began in the Machine Shop as a Wood Machinist,” he recalls. “Soon, I was transferred to their milling and re-sawing operation, working with exposed Oregon beams and producing the components for window manufacture.” This began Peter’s long journey through just about every aspect of the organisation – by his own estimation, he’s worked in 16 different positions since he began. “I got a bit of a ribbing initially about being a ‘Ten Pound Pom’ at first … but nothing serious,” he laughs. “Canterbury was a pretty good working environment.” Before the advent of computing and automation, running a major window operation required a great deal more manpower than it does today. “Everything was very different in the seventies and eighties,” Peter confirms. “Every machine had a person allocated to it – nothing like today. As a result of this labour specialisation, the number of people working at Canterbury Windows was phenomenal in comparison to today – back then, it was simply unheard of to have one person working several machines on their own.” As a lifelong technology buff, Peter particularly appreciates the industry’s continued embrace of innovative solutions over the last two decades. “Computers have only really entered the industry in the last 15 or 20 years, and I’ve been heavily involved with them since the beginning,” he says. “I now manage the software that manufactures the windows at Canterbury, which also acts as the quoting tool.” Peter got his beginning in the technical side of the business when he was approached to create the firm’s IT strategy. “After working in the mills, window production and product development in the mid to late 1990s, Peter Jackson, General Manager of Canterbury, asked Glen Morgan and myself to design the company’s software program - we had everything ready to go within six months. Later on, we collaborated on the current software program, V6.” The increased use of computers has significantly changed the way things work on the factory floor. “There’s obviously been a huge move towards computer software within the industry, as few things are now done manually,” Peter points out. “The rise of technology within manufacturing has substantially simplified and streamlined the entire window-making process – there’s far more precision and less waste than there used to be. With so much advanced technology to choose from, window technology has come along in leaps and bounds from what it was.” Another area that automation has quietly revolutionised is the quotation process, which is now far more flexible, dynamic and efficient. “The software makes quoting far easier,” says Peter. “An architect or home owner can now get a window that’s exactly right for the task by asking the builder a series of predetermined questions. It’s a highly precise yet simple process, which virtually eliminates the risk of the glass not being fit for purpose or components that are unsuitable for their installation.” Of the many other changes to the industry that have occurred over the years, certain aspects jump out for Peter. “The biggest thing I’ve noticed is how diverse our product lines have become,” he says. “At one time we would make only standard-sized Awning windows; now we make every type of window that can be imagined. When we were owned by A. V. Jennings, we supplied everything you would require to build a house, with the probable exception of plasterboard and bricks. Divesting ourselves of all other operations other than windows in the late 80’s enabled us to concentrate on what we did best – window manufacture.” As a technical guru, Peter has often been called upon to give advice on the latest developments and updates to the Australian Standards. “I was involved in the technical committee of what used to be called the Residential Window Association, now the AWA,” he says. “I was there for a number of years, and it was a really good experience that was also quite social. It can be isolated working in the back room, so my work with the committee often gave me the chance to get out and engage with my peers.” Now that he’s on the cusp of retirement, Peter is looking forward to spending more time with the extended family. “There are our daughters, Sam and Rachel, and our grandchildren, Tommy (6), Jonathan (4) and Anika (3),” he says. “It’s great being a grandparent – my wife and I both love it!” Retirement wouldn’t be complete without an elaborate (and potentially all-consuming) hobby, and Peter certainly has one of those. “One of my main interests is model railway building, which I’ve wanted to do for a long time,” he says. “I’m a steam engine tragic – but not as obsessive as some of my friends, who have built elaborate layouts that you wouldn’t believe. I’ve even seen entire barns filled with track…” The mentors that Peter has been lucky enough to have over the years have been central to his success. “Peter Jackson, General Manager at Canterbury Windows, has played a very big role in my life,” he reflects. “He appointed me Product Development Manager and I worked happily in that position for 10 years.” Peter names two other people who were instrumental in his success. “Bill Phillips, who originally got me into the mills and encouraged me to write the Canterbury Windows newsletter, and John Edwards was my other major inspiration – he often boosted my confidence with his encouragement and support, and came to rely on me for many things.” With his role now exceeding four decades, Peter is recognised widely as a pillar of the Australian window industry. On behalf of all at the AWA, we would like to wish him all the very best for the future, with many years of enjoyment ahead in his new role as a ‘steam engine tragic’ and again express our sincere thanks for many years of valuable and dedicated service to the industry. Winter 2015 www.awa.org.au 27 n e ws mercy centre This inspirational Aged Care Facility is located in Albury, New South Wales, and has been designed by JWP Architects. The building is a 60 bed nursing home made up of bedrooms, various sitting rooms, verandah space and television rooms. The activity, lounge and dining rooms have been designed to take in the view of the garden. It was important to have large floor to ceiling double glazed fixed and sliding glass doors in these communal living spaces – to meet the brief of allowing light and views of the outdoors into the facility. The windows and doors were double glazed in these areas to ensure energy efficiency whilst not compromising on size. This project has won a Master Builders Association Award for ‘Best Commercial project from $5 to $10 million’. For more information, visit www.awsaustralia. com.au/mercy-centre Cricket Legend visits bradnam’s Bradnam’s export windows to india for former cricket star Rahaul Dravid Rahaul Dravid is a former Indian cricketer and captain, widely regarded as one of the greatest batsmen in the history of cricket. Hailed as The Wall, Dravid was named one of the best five cricketers of the year by Wisden Cricketers’ Almanack in 2000. Brett Hurren, Sales Manager of Bradnam’s Windows, was lucky enough to have him visit their Point Cook showroom to view the products he purchased. Brett took advantage of the opportunity and got his autograph while he was in the showroom. Welcoming Megan smith Megan joined the AWA team as Member Services and Event Coordinator in March this year. How long have you been in the industry? I have been working in Events roles for over 15 years. I really enjoy the process of developing events from the initial concept to the final delivery of (hopefully!) a successful outcome. What are your hobbies outside of work? I enjoy going to the gym, reading and have a guilty pleasure of enjoying reality and trashy TV. I have two primary age daughters who 28 Australian Window Association Winter 2015 also keep me very busy - they have a better social life than me! Name your favourite travel destination, and what do you like about it? New York City. My husband and I went there on our honeymoon and we loved it. We loved the hustle and bustle, going to Broadway shows, Times Square and Central Park. BDAV annual Golf tournament Attendees at the 2015 BDAV Golf Tournament (left to right): Hilton Gaulbert (Shueco), Brett Hurren (Bradnam’s), Gary Smith (AWA) and Nick Bull (Canterbury Windows). RegistRations noW open www.aggaconference.com Winter 2015 www.awa.org.au 29 p r o d u cts Introducing the 2015 Viridian Architectural Glass Selection Guide Viridian has issued its 2015 Viridian Architectural Glass Selection Guide, an essential reference document for industry professionals. Developed to provide architects, specifiers, builders and industry professionals with a detailed catalogue of information relating to glass types, sizes, properties, behaviours and configurations in Viridian’s product range, this year’s guide presents numerous updates to the 2014 edition. The 2015 guide includes updated information on Viridian products, including the recently launched high performance double glazed LightBridge™ range, updated performance data and production capabilities, information on specification assistance tools and QR codes to allow for easy access to information. Introducing Providing comprehensive glazing solutions to architects, specifiers and building design professionals, the 2015 guide highlights essential glazing considerations around glass selection in façades, interiors and glazing systems. “Glass plays a crucial role in building design. Glass selection impacts the design, appearance, thermal performance, natural light levels and occupant comfort of a property therefore accessing the best information is essential to make the best choices,” explains Viridian’s General Marketing Manager, Lachlan Austin. “The 2015 Viridian Architectural Glass Selection Guide offers a wide scope of glazing solutions and advice to meet various building design needs. The guide not only helps simplify the glass decision making LightBridge TM An amazing double glazed product by Viridian Glass. LightBridge™ creates a seamless bridge between inside and out, allowing us to bring light, space and colours of nature into our daily lives. By offering a market-leading combination of insulation, security and noise reduction properties, we can now easily achieve the beauty from expansive glazing and use it to reconnect with the world around us. To learn more, visit us at www.viridianglass.com For any queries, please contact our customer service team E: resfab@csr.com.au P: 1300 RESFAB (1300 73 73 22) 2014 TRUSTED BRANDS TOP TEN COMPANY NO.6 2014 CATEGORY WINNER WINDOWS & GLAZING 30 Australian Window Association Winter 2015 process but can also help influence more innovative building designs.” Key features in the 2015 Viridian Architectural Glass Selection Guide include: • Product information and capability updates • Specification assistance tools • Performance data updates • New innovations such as QR codes to allow for easy access to information The 2015 Viridian Architectural Glass Selection Guide can be downloaded from the Viridian website here: http://glassguide. viridianglass.com For more information visit www.viridianglass.com F E N E S T R AT I O N A U S T R A L I A Design Awards 2015 Entries now open Supplied products to a great project? Designed an innovative new product? Enter the AWA design awards and celebrate your company’s achievements. Winning a Fenestration Australia Design Award recognises your staff’s efforts and provides great promotional opportunities for your business. The Fenestration Australia Design Awards are open to members of the Australian Window Association (AWA), the Australasian Institute of Surface Finishing (AISF) and the Skylight Industry Association (SIA). The Design Awards aim to: • Increase the level of interest in windows, doors, skylights, fenestration products and surface finishings. • Raise the awareness, profile of and interest in members of the AWA, AISF and SIA and to differentiate them from others. • Execute a consistent professional showcase for window systems skylights and surface finishings by celebrating and recognising excellence. To enter, download an entry form from www.awa.org.au/conference-information/ design-awards. Best Use Of Windows & Doors Residential Commercial New Construction New Construction Up To $500,000 Up To $5Million New Construction New Construction Over $500,000 Over $5Million Renovation Renovation Fenestration Innovation Most Innovative Window System Most Innovative Component Showroom Of The Year Small Large Best use of anodising Best use of powder coating Residential Commercial Best use of Skylights Residential Commercial Skylight Showroom Of The Year Small Large Applications close: 31 July 2015 Winter 2015 www.awa.org.au 31 directory trainingAS2047 darwin 21 april Orange Melbourne Perth Perth intermediatefenestration melbourne 13 april orange 6 may Benjamin Lam, Philip Trimnell (A&L Windows Pty Ltd); Ben Anthony (Anthony Innovations); Alastair Baldwin, Helena Bubica (Architectural Window Systems); Jessica Wolter (ASSA ABLOY Australia); Robert Jones (Autex Pty Ltd); Kenneth O’Meara, Alf Ongarato, (Capral Aluminium); Alex Simpson (Starglazing Pty Ltd); Amanda Roberts, Ashleigh Cattermole (Trend Windows & Doors); Chris Henderson (Valley Windows) Alister Hiles (Wintec Architectural Systems/ Ullrich Aluminium); Serge Sokolov (Zenit Windows). Jamie Ryan (Alspec); Jack Absolum (Arch System Fabrication Pty Ltd); Martin Meanwell (Beta View); Mathew Bryant, (Bryant’s Glass & Windscreens); Adam Socha (Kinzel Industries Pty Ltd); Richard Dowton, Todd Freedman, Matt Philpott, Lyndon Taberner, Paula Young (Taberner Glass Pty Ltd); parramatta 16 april Torik Dib, Bob Madani (Alumode Windows Pty Ltd); Daniel Karlson (ASSA ABLOY Australia); Kellie McElhinney, Katrina Swiatczak (AWS Australia); John Garth Kirkland (Cool Change Doors & Windows Pty Ltd); Aritesh Nand, Damian Rocca, Tim Wiseman (Doric Products); Amire Mafi (Dowell Windows Pty Ltd); Mike Abela, Daniel Cavasinni (JELD-WEN Australia); Daniel Eyles, Yousef Muawwad (Nicco Joinery); Kevin Rigby , Roland Rode (O’Brien Glass); Thiyagu Mahalingam (Schueco Australia Pty Ltd); Hailey Smith, Alex Longmuir (Trend Windows & Doors); Michael Wilkins (Wilkins Windows). 32 Australian Window Association Winter 2015 brisbane 12 may Matthew Newton (Alspec); Nathan Boyd, Grant Gough (Breezway Australia); Shontell Smith (Capral Limited); Grant Faulmann (Concept Architectural Systems Pty Ltd); Ramachandran Rameshkumara (Crimsafe Security Systems); Richard Thomas (Elvapark Pty Ltd); Jamie Ford, David Moffatt, Gino Trevisan, Jacob Van Veldhoven, Gavin Gray, Jonathan Busiko, Paul Davie, Jason Hutchings (G.James Glass & Aluminium); James Davidson (Plumb Glazing Pty Ltd); Shane Rothero (Ullrich Aluminium). perth 19 may Greg Browne, Brad Doody, Richard Ewins, Nick Guthrie, Craig Hayden (Alspec); Imran Ajid, Michael Watson (Aluminium Innovations); Mark Carter (ASSA ABLOY Australia); Rhett Williams (ClearShield Australia); Trent Harding (Lakers Glass Pty Ltd); Graham Spindler, Doug Stewart (Modern Glass); Scottie Fox, Ali Namini (NuLook Glass & Aluminium Windows). Patrick Quinn (ADG Engineers (Aust) Pty Ltd); William Harrison (Alfix Aluminium); Stephen Bleakley, Daniel Griffith, Jeffrey Reis (Allglass and Aluminium (NT) Pty Ltd); Yunqiu Jiang (Aluglass Australia Pty Ltd); Paul Bonnell (Cool Glass NT); Chris Carey, Scott Duncan, Gary Norris (Dabsco); William Chin (Darwin Glass); Anna Koulianos, Nirav Parekh (Glasstech (AUS) Pty Limited). upcomingevents 26 June Queensland State Conference Brisbane 4 August Technical Committee Melbourne 10 July New South Wales Conference Sydney 25 August AWA Board Adelaide 17 July Western Australia Conference Perth 16 - 18 September Fenestration Australia 2015 Darwin 13 - 14 October Intermediate Fenestration Parramatta awawelcomes ASWF Australia Pty Ltd Pendle Hill, NSW Design Window Solutions Carrum Downs, VIC MCG Windows & Doors Croydon, VIC NM Steindl Glazing Paget Mackay, QLD SourcecorpAustralia Kingmeadows, TAS French Door Handle & Lock Ultimate in Security Long Lasting Performance Stylish Design (Multi-point System) C4 euro cylinder compatible Unique anti-sagging design Easily reverse for both left and right hand orientations Nylon bushings for optimal feel and durability Extra secure 24mm projection bolt with hardened pin Our Commitment to bring the best product t. 03. 9703 1006 e. sales@ciilock.com www.ciilock.com/products