Motel Owners Journal 13_1

mo

t h e au st r a l i a n

Motel Owners’ Journal

Computerising Motels Solar Energy Online Bookings Pool Maintenance

PP 324494/00039

Volume 13 No. 1

solutions

RY • DELIVE R VE LI

I FRE

We deliver direct to yo ur door Australia w ide*

•D

GHT

Y

RY • DELIVE

Y

tr Aus

VE LI

•D

E E R n i F withalia*

ELIVERY • D E

ELIVERY • D E

HOSPITALITY TV R

Swivel Stand Allows for safe & easy adjustment of the TVs position for the best possible viewing angle

CONDITION

S APPLY

USB Cloning Easily customise and copy settings onto all your TVs at once.

Hotel lock for volume & tuning

Easy Installation & Setup Easy-to-use onscreen instructions that guide you through the entire process

One Combined Channel List for Analog & Digital Access Foxtel/Austar and Free to Air using the same up/down button

Not available on the 26” model

With over 25 years experience, Yardley Hospitality has served the hospitality industry as a central provider in the supply of electrical equipment and specialist hospitality items. Through every trend and development, our specialty within the industry has always been our deep understanding of your every need, and unique ability to fulfil those needs. This has garnered our long, successful history of providing a wide range of products from many leading brands, to Hotels, Motels, Apartments, Resorts and Tourists Parks throughout Australia. Quality; pricing; consistency of products; energy efficiency; we supply only the highest standard of products, tailoring a complete package of electrical appliances to suit your needs.

T 1300 659 053 M 0412 974 878 F 1300 659 063 E info@yardleyhospitality.com.au W www.yardleyhospitality.com.au *Delivery for all Samsung TVs is freight free to all Australian metropolitan areas and major regional cities.

mo 63

contents

6 3 5

30

27 Upgrade & boost motel value for

Message from the Publisher

zero cost

Message from the Minister for Tourism

6 Solar Energy 8 Computerising Motels 13 Australia’s new champion of

28 Sydney Water Study on Large Hotels 30 Colour Trends 2012 USA 34 ’Appy travels Employing overseas workers 36

16 Increasing online bookings at

39 Introducing Job Support

18 Stains can be a pain 20 Manage 25+ booking websites from

42 Do your Bed Valances fit perfectly?

4 4 Profiles 49 Top Hotel Technology –

Accommodation Standards

and 457 visas

your property

one location

– what’s the fuss all about?

70 ECOLINE 72 Harmonise your pool 75 Product News

Trends in 2012

23 Don’t let the BED BUGS Bite How to Kill BED BUGS without 25

57 Contemporary chic meets retro romance

58 Choosing commercial laundry equipment

Chemicals – Steam

63 Sanitising your pool Robot Cleaning Technology 66

Front Cover: The Country Comfort, Port Maquarie The Country Comfort Port Maquarie has 61 rooms offering superior accommodation, and most feature a private balcony on which to sit and take in the views of the Hastings River.

Advertising Sales Melbourne: Neil Muir Ph: (03) 9758 1433 Fax: (03) 9758 1432 Email: neil@adbourne.com Adelaide: Robert Spowart PO Box 213, Summertown, SA 5141 Ph: 0488 390 039 Email: robert@adbourne.com

Production: Emily Wallis Tel: (03) 9758 1436 Email: production@adbourne.com Administration: Robyn Fantin Tel: (03) 9758 1431 Email: admin@adbourne.com Marketing: Tania Lamanna Tel: (03) 9500 0285 Email: tlamanna@bigpond.net.au

mo PO Box 735, Belgrave, VIC 3160

www.adbourne.com

DISCLAIMER Adbourne Publishing cannot ensure that the advertisers appearing in The Motel Owners Journal comply absolutely with the Trades Practices Act and other consumer legislation. The responsibility is therefore on the person, company or advertising agency submitting the advertisement(s) for publication. Adbourne Publishing reserves the right to refuse any advertisement without stating the reason. No responsibility is accepted for incorrect information contained in advertisements or editorial. The editor reserves the right to edit, abridge or otherwise alter articles for publication. All original material produced in this magazine remains the property of the publisher and cannot be reproduced without authority. The views of the contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher.

Your Success is Our Business Sealy, Australia’s most preferred bedding brand has been in partnership with the leaders in the accommodation industry for over 30 years.

When choosing bedding for your business, you are making the biggest investment towards your success.

The Sealy Commercial range is built with this in mind to provide: - Orthopaedically designed bedding for optimum comfort and support - Durability to withstand the stresses of commercial use - Superior sleep for your guests.

You can trust Sealy Commercial to offer dedicated customer support and provide a customised bedding solution that is suitable to your property and budget.

Call Sealy Commercial...your success is our business

Please call 1300 780 150

www.sealy.com.au/commercial

Message from the

Publisher I

f you were placing the global economy on the psychiatrist’s couch right now, the diagnosis might well be schizophrenia. At a national level it seems to be mostly gloom and doom, apart from the mining industry.

However, there is a light at the end of the tunnel for the accommodation business when you read in this issue the message from our Minister for Tourism Martin Ferguson. In part he states: “Since my last message in the Motel Owner’s publication, Australian tourism has grown into a $35 billion dollar industry now employing over a half million Australians.

“Of all domestic travel undertaken last year, accommodation accounted for 24 percent of expenditure, or $10.4 billion dollars,” he wrote.

Within this issue is Robert Guarde’s article on computerising motels, I invited Robert to produce such a feature following recent travels I have made, especially out through country areas; and I was surprised to find how many properties still have not made the move to embrace this technology.

It reminded me how back in the first days of this publication, we at Adbourne were also back in the stone-age era with typewriters and manually putting the first couple of issues to bed that way.

mo

This was at a time when many businesses simply operated by taking a small advert in the Yellow Pages.

How the commercial world has advanced since then to build up their success in attracting many new clients.

As far as the accommodation industry goes it is now imperative to have a website with online bookings the norm. We have a couple of articles that discuss online bookings, search engines and now the mobile app.

When it comes to the larger motels, Ted Horner seems to have all the answers with technology. Ted this time provides his views on where it is all currently going, with much of this technology soon to be filtering through to the smaller motels.

Another article is AAA providing the latest information on star ratings. There is more about energy savings, including information dealing with the confusion surrounding solar energy. Dr Bill Parker, editor of Solar Progress talks on how a motel owner can save when installing solar panels.

That subject on bed bugs needs another mention as this problem still exists, while we include a feature on swimming pools, and the best ways to maintain them.

So, good reading until next time.

Neil Muir

Computerising Motels > Story on page 8

We have been building our extensive database for 26 years. You would be amazed how many people we know.

HELPING YOU BUY & SELL MOTELS NATIONWIDE Call (07)3878 3999 resortbrokers.com.au

The Original and still No. 1

Message from the

Minister for Tourism A

s a motel owner, you are an important part of Australia’s tourism industry and the growth we hope to achieve through the Tourism 2020 Strategy.

Since my last entry in the Motel Owners Magazine, Australian tourism has grown into a $35 billion industry, representing 2.5 per cent of our GDP. The industry is also responsible for directly employing over half a million Australians.

The importance of accommodation providers in achieving this growth cannot be underestimated.

Of all domestic travel undertaken last year, accommodation accounted for 24 per cent of expenditure, or $10.4 billion.

We are proud of this achievement and the Australian Government is continuing to support accommodation providers through the Tourism 2020 Strategy.

The Tourism 2020 Strategy is a blueprint for supporting investment, increasing and up-skilling the workforce, providing added quality to products and services, and expanding aviation capacity.

A key goal of the Tourism 2020 Strategy is to increase overnight visitor expenditure to between $115 and $140 billion by 2020, which of course will directly benefit motel owners.

Both accommodation and attractions are going to be key drivers if we are to achieve the goals of the Tourism 2020 Strategy.

To tackle these key issues, on 2 May 2012 I announced the launch of the Australian Tourism Investment Guide (Guide) and the Australian Tourism Investment Monitor (Investment Monitor).

The Guide and the Investment Monitor are deliverables of the newly formed partnership between Tourism Australia and Austrade – Australia’s Trade Commission.

In addition, from 1 July this year, all small businesses including motels can immediately write off every eligible asset they buy for less than $6,500, and up to $5,000 for cars or utes The Guide, the Investment Monitor and the immediate tax write off, will promote investment in Australian tourism. This increase in investment will ultimately lead to improved attractions and experiences, greater demand for accommodation and more jobs for Australians.

Also under the Tourism 2020 Strategy the Australian Government and industry has partnered to develop the T-QUAL Tick, tourism’s national symbol of quality.

The T-QUAL Tick enables consumers to recognise quality tourism products and be confident when making choices about which operators they engage with that they will receive a tourism experience of a high standard.

Tourism operators and related businesses that receive endorsement and display the T-QUAL Tick benefit from increased marketing exposure, enhanced business credibility and preferential listing on Australia.com.

I encourage all businesses to check their eligibility for the T-QUAL Tick under existing accreditation programs.

Information on the T-QUAL Tick can be found at www.ret.gov.au Martin Ferguson AM MP Minister for Tourism

mo |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

5

Solar Energy

By Dr Bill Parker | Editor Solar Progress

Can a motel owner expect to save money on energy costs by installing solar panels?

The idea sounds attractive and is certainly worthy of

produce excellent results and energy can be saved, sometimes without costs, and more with capital outlays.

A simple walk through can save 10%.

The reason for the audit is to arrive at an accurate an energy consumption picture as you can. In relation to

guests, it will be important to find when and where most electricity is consumed. And don’t forget, if your premises are in a designated “Solar City” area, you may be eligible for a free professional audit.

consideration. However, the answer to the question has

City

1.5 k W sy ste m

2.0 k W sy ste m

3.0 k W sy ste m

4.0 kW system

several aspects.

A del ai de

6.3 kWh

8.4 kWh

12.6 kWh

16.8 k Wh

Al i ce Spri n gs

7.5 kWh

10.0 kWh

15.0 kWh

20.0 k Wh

T

Bri s ban e

6.3 kWh

8.4 kWh

12.6 kWh

16.8 k Wh

Cai r n s

6.3 kWh

8.4 kWh

12.6 kWh

16.8 k Wh

Can berra

6.45 kWh

8.6 kWh

12.9 kWh

17.2 k Wh

D arwi n

6.6 kWh

8.8 kWh

13.2 kWh

17.6 k Wh

Ho bart

5.25 kWh

7.0 kWh

10.5 kWh

14.0 k Wh

M el bo u r n e

5.4 kWh

7.2 kWh

10.8 kWh

14.4 k Wh

P erth

6.6 kWh

8.8 kWh

13.2 kWh

17.6 k Wh

S ydn ey

5.85 kWh

7.8 kWh

11.7 kWh

15.6 k Wh

he first step towards the answer will be a full analysis of energy consumption and the motel energy costs over at least a year.

In other words, a comprehensive an energy audit should be your starting point. In my experience, all such audits

6|

Vol 13 No. 1 |

mo

Most motel electricity consumption is likely to occur in the morning before 10 am with another peak at the end of the day, tapering off into the night. The sun can obviously contribute to the daylight usage but just how much is a question of solar system size and premises location.

Just taking a walk around a motel room we can estimate where the electricity demand will come from. Room heating and cooling will be a significant part of the electricity demand. In a colder climate, an electric blanket might also be a standard item in winter. If water is heated by electricity, this will be a significant load each day.

Each room might well have a bar fridge, an electric kettle and a toaster. There may also be an outlet in the bathroom for a hair drier. The audit will identify and estimate consumption.

It is sometimes difficult to be exact about electricity consumption in a diverse usage building and that is why it is important to audit the premises, and if at all possible, to separate the administration building from the rooms. In this way you can get as accurate a demand figure for each room.

All this data is then compared to the actual costs taken from the electricity retailer’s bill.

This is where the confusing terminology comes into play. The electricity account talks of “units”, and many retailers provide charts to show historically what you have consumed. They usually never mention “kilowatthours” or “kWh” for short. Plain language translation: the kilowatthour is the measure of how much electricity an appliance will consume if running for one hour, and on the bill it is expressed as the “units” the whole premises consumes in the billing period. Confused? It gets worse because the solar companies also talk about “kilowatts” and that is not the same as kilowatthours. You’ll hear about a 3kiloWatt system or 3kW for short, but that’s only part of the story. That’s only another way of talking about the size of the system – not how much electricity it will generate. Taking that the other way around, a standard electric kettle will have a rating statement on its base indicating say 2200 – 2400 Watts (2.2 – 2.4 kilowatts). That’s telling you the size or the

rating of the element, but not how much electricity it consumes every day – that’s up to the users – your guests.

So far I have thrown one challenge out – to get the audit done and know exactly what is costing what in your motel. Here comes the second.

How big should your solar system be?

A good retailer and installer can only give a good estimate because solar panels have different performance characteristics depending on the climate where you are located, and the different types of panels available. And how much north facing roof space do you have? North facing is optimal, but east and west can also be useful. Take a careful look at what is to your north. Are there any possibilities of shading from growing trees? New buildings? One thing is certain; a properly sized solar system will provide the energy to meet the demand in the morning and during the day. But as guests arrive or return in the late afternoon, the output of the solar system will diminish.

So what can you expect a system to do? How many “units” a day is possible?

Average figures are published at the Clean Energy Council website. Bear in mind they were derived under lab conditions but they serve as a fair guide. The usual domestic system is 1.5kW and in most cities, except Melbourne and Hobart, would theoretically produce about 6kWh a day. But the average domestic residence in Australia uses about three times that. So for most people, a solar PV system on the roof is an offset. However, as electricity prices rise, the power coming from your solar investment still keeps on coming – free of charge and little maintenance.

With your energy audit done and taken steps to reduce consumption, you will have a sound foundation to start looking at the economics of a solar installation.

It will pay to get three quotes, and like all significant purchases, go for reputable installers and particularly firms that are willing to visit your premises, not merely to talk you through what they have on offer but to assess things like location of wiring and all the associated systems,

as well as any roofing issues, and types of panels which may be more suitable for your circumstances. A site visit is a must!

Your installer (and possibly sub-contractor) must be accredited and experienced.

You should also be careful about what is being included under warranty.

Unlike long established consumer products, solar systems are relatively new to the market and the consumer can be confused by a range of claims and counter claims. I have provided a list of websites to visit for more comprehensive information.

Going solar or not? I prefer of think of solar as an investment, it will certainly enhance the value of your property and it will remain in good functional order for decades. And it does no harm to your business image if you tell your guests that you generate your own power from solar. Even if you decide not to invest, your audit will have saved you money. n

Where to go for More Information The Clean Energy Council provides lists of accredited installers, approved solar panels and location specific information. www.cleanenergycouncil.org.au You can get information about rebates, feed in tariffs and more at: http://www.livinggreener.gov.au/energy/ renewable-energy/install-solar-power And here is a “must read” guide: “Solar Electricity Consumer Guide” www.whichenergy.com.au or www.auses.org.au Trevor Berrill’s excellent an inexpensive book is about the most thorough guide for the consumer as a can be found. All your questions are answered here.

And the Australian Solar Energy Society www.auses.org.au has a lot of information about solar PV including its “Solar Best Practice” program. (http://solarbestpractice.org/) Dr Bill Parker is editor of the Australian Solar Energy Society’s magazine “Solar Progress”. It can be viewed on-line at the society’s website.

mo |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

7

Computerising Motels

By Robert Garde | Starfleet Software

I still am surprised whenever I walk into a Motel and see a manual booking book in reception. In this technological age where everybody uses at least emails to communicate, having a computer is an essential part of doing business if you run an accommodation property. I haven’t seen a property for some time that doesn’t at least have a computer for emails (and also used to play the odd computer game or surf the Internet when things are quiet).

A

nd for these properties, the excuses not to computerise accommodation bookings are many and varied! And if you are one of the accommodation properties that are still manual, don’t feel alone.

There are lots of you out there! And if you are determined, you can maybe add one of the following to your list next time someone suggests you get computerised!

1. M y husband/partner/parent/receptionist (delete which is not applicable) is not computer literate and couldn’t handle a computerised booking system.

2. W e like to keep a personal relationship with our Guests.

3. I t’s easier for us to use a manual booking book.

4. Can’t afford the cost.

5. T oo hard to change from what we are using now.

8|

Vol 13 No. 1 |

mo

6. Don’t need to change (also known as resistance to change).

custom system, and have decided to go for a professional solution.

7. Don’t keep any paperwork we don’t need to have (also known as keep the cash and hide it).

When you get right down to it, almost all computer based booking systems offers a number of advantages over a manual system. Even for smaller properties! These include the following:

8. Computers are too unreliable – we might lose all our records.

9. Last but not least, we have minders in periodically and they can’t run a computer system.

I’ve sometimes wondered how these properties get on doing their payroll since all motels have relatively large staffing requirements with often quite a few casuals.

Next on the list are those properties that run a manual booking system, and also utilise an accounting system (for example MYOB or QuickBooks). All the bookings are recorded on the day book manually, and if a Guest requires an account then this is done manually on the accounting system. The (slight) bonus here is that the property can also do the payroll on the accounting system instead of manually or using a contractor. At this level if staff can handle this degree of computerisation then there aren’t many excuses for not having a computerised booking system.

Thirdly, there are those properties that have had someone (usually well meaning) assist in the design and implementation of an Excel spread sheet based system. In this category I also put properties that have had an Access (or similar) database program custom written especially for them. While it seems like a good idea at the time, the truth is that the cost of any customised solution isn’t a saving in the long term. And, maybe also not a saving in the short term either as the amount of work and testing required for a custom designed solution substantially outweighs it’s benefits. It’s not unusual for the management here to pull the pin after a while and get a proper Front Office system.

They have by then seen what computerised systems can do, spent too much time on a

1. Reduction in labour costs. Some Moteliers say well, we are on the premises all the time anyway, and my answer to that is surely some time could then be spent working on their business and not in it!

2. Better control over bookings and less likely to make errors in booking. Most Moteliers worst nightmare is to be fully booked and have someone unexpected turn up claiming to have a confirmed booking. And if that booking is through a booking agency then things can easily be even more embarrassing. Murphy’s law works well here usually ensuring any nearby properties are also fully booked!

Also very annoying is the opposite, believing that you are fully booked and have turned away a couple of late walk in’s to later find out that a booking or two has been put in for the wrong date and there are actually spare rooms.

3. Timely presentation of accurate accounts to guests. Guests can also be given a booking confirmation number at booking time. Or this can be emailed out of the computer system.

4. Minimisation of manual errors.

5. Allows management to work on the business more and less in it. Or take some time off!

6. Some reports further reduce the workload. For example, in Australia there is the quarterly accommodation survey and in New Zealand there is a monthly statistical return.

7. Provides substantial reporting capabilities to assist in the ongoing management of the property. And also provide

comprehensive records to support a possible sale.

8. The Guest arriving in reception sees a more professional business.

9. Storing and retrieval of Guest data for returning Guests or marketing purposes.

I am sure most Moteliers would agree that marketing their property Is a very important thing to do. And there are always a few exceptions who disagree and seem to wait by the roadside assuming that there will always be enough people driving by who will pull in and stay. And I wouldn’t like to be in that situation as that well known song says “The times they are a changing”! To quote an extreme case, dinosaurs died out because they could not adapt to changing conditions like we have now. Who wants to be a dinosaur?

Putting more effort into marketing the property, particularly in the current tough economic times would be very high on my list. And, a computerised system can assist substantially in this. From contacting existing Guests on your database to give them special offers to evaluating where your Guests come from and how they find out about you.

A particular example I know of was one regional property over 10 years ago who regularly spent over $10,000.00 per annum on Yellow Pages advertising. He believed that this expense was essential even though he didn’t know for sure whether he actually got many bookings from them or not. 12 months after putting in a computer system, he decided that most of the $10,000.00 was better spent on other forms of promotion! The computer showed him that in 12 months there were actually a negligible number of Guests who had used the Yellow Pages to find him. Who uses the Yellow Pages today? Not many of us I’m sure!

Now, if you are interested in looking at going computerised, sit down and work out what you want it to do. Is it just bookings, or (for example) do you have a PABX that you want connected to the system to send Guest phone calls direct to Guest accounts? While PABX’s are no longer the revenue stream they used to be they are still essential. And if staff forget to put Guest phone calls on their accounts this loss of revenue (although usually small) can add

up over a period of time. I have been told a number of times about staff forgetting to put calls on and even with expensive calls believing that the Guest couldn’t possibly have made a call that cost that much. It must have been an error in the PABX! Internet availability to guests is now often much more profitable than revenue obtained from phone calls. Some properties give it away free I’d suggest think twice before you do this. Especially if you have corporate guests staying as they often need Internet availability and are prepared to pay for it. A good service with reasonable charges I believe is better than a an average or poor service which is free.

Are Internet bookings something you want to add from your own website? I have to say there are a few properties out there that still don’t have a website but that’s another story. And some of those that do have a website still want guests to fill in their details and email the request to the property! It’s so easy to have people booking directly off your website – and there is no commission to pay!

Do you use a Channel Manager? One of the best price /performance options to promote your business is readily available to everyone. A Channel Manager enables you to present your property on dozens of Internet booking sites for less than A$100.00 a month to the average motel.

Or even less as one well known Channel Manager gives you six sites for free.

This is how it works. In use the Channel

Manager puts the availability you specify out to all the other booking sites you nominate. Someone is looking on one of these booking sites and books your property. You then get an email from the Channel Manager giving you details of the booking. If you have a Front Office software package, the Channel Manager often can be linked to your software so the booking is automatically inserted into your software.

Could be a good recession buster linked to a Front Office software package.

Include the Booking Button option and bookings from your website are handled as well. Things to beware of include checking the commission rate some booking sites have (up to 35%), so don’t say yes to any sites on your Channel Manager without checking. Also, make sure the availability you put on the Channel Manager is correct or you might get some bookings when you have no availability, or turn potential guests away when you have availability.

Do you have a small restaurant and want to computerise that at the same time?

Or, are you running an accounting system and want your Front Office to link to it?

And then computer software comes in many forms from very basic to extremely expensive (unless you are a 100+ room 6 star resort of course). You can usually start with a Front Office package and other components as you go. I’ve categorised some of these below.

1. First cab off the rank are the programs that can be downloaded off the

mo |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

9

internet. Often from the USA and often costing under US$500.00 (sometimes substantially so and also be aware of the exchange rate differences) they have been written for that market and may or may not suit our conditions.

The better ones can work quite well here although you need to remember that the only assistance you get will be by email and reading the manual (if any).

Often there is a fixed annual fee required or the program ceases to function (the fee usually includes help via email).

Sometimes the charges are high for add ons (like a connection to a PABX for charging calls to Guests). If you are computer literate and willing to take a chance then one of these could represent a low cost way of getting a booking system. You might already know another motelier who got one of these and get their feedback.

2. Next are the booking services that are usually offered for a fixed monthly fee on the Internet. Join up and you can get bookings from them and also manage your own Front Desk bookings with the included Internet based software. Usually works well for smaller properties but be aware that there is often a per booking commission charge involved as well as a monthly charge. And, there is no data on your computer so you can’t always

10 |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

mo

readily use it for your own purposes. If you are not in the category of a very small property the range of features available might not be enough for you. And, if your Internet is down, you cannot use it!

3. Somewhere in the lower – middle range are the older DOS based products still being used by some properties. Hard to use and train on, limited feature set and not a lot of extra options. Not a lot of support either! Most of these are no longer being offered for sale fortunately!

4. Mid range products are readily available from Australia and NZ suppliers as well as overseas. The local products are designed for the local market but not all have the feature list to offer state of the art products. Support is also variable. Prices here are usually in the range of A$2,000.00 to A$15,000.00 depending very much on the size of the property and the features/options desired. Some suppliers offer a pay by the month arrangement (usually starting at around $100.00 PCM for a small property including support) whereas others charge a once off supply and install charge. Check carefully what your total commitment is as the pay by the month plan can add up a lot over (say) three years. Most offer on going support packages.

5. Upper end products can be the optimum selection if you have a very upmarket property. However these usually start from at least A$15,000.00 and go up from there. You also obviously get a wide range of features appropriate to the cost.

6. If you are a member of a chain, you might find that you are under pressure to use a particular brand of Front Office system.

Evaluate these carefully as you will be paying a commission on all bookings you get and compare your costs of joining the chain plus your ongoing booking and other fees. For some properties this is a good investment, but not necessarily so.

Also check how good the Front Office software is with other existing users in the chain before you make a commitment.

As in all things, the message is to do your research! If you have decided to purchase Front Office software, do some homework and keep asking questions of suppliers until you get enough information to make a decision. Make sure you get a really good look at your final choices. I’ve been told by a number of Moteliers that requests for information and prices don’t always get an answer (surprising in these recessionary times). Also check out the level of after sale support agreements offered and the cost of this. Could be very important with staff changes! n

“Dura Fleece” Hotel Blankets

Keep your guests warm this winter!

Dura Fleece, still Australia’s most popular and proven fleece blanket for all Accommodation !

• • • • • • •

Extra Warm Robust with longevity Washable Superb presentation Double Anti-Pill protection Genuine 400 gsm Quality Hotel construction

Available in four stylish colours • Fudge • Camel • Charcoal • Sable

A U S T R A L I A

www.hotelhome.com.au 1800 HOTELHOME (1800 468 354)

enquiries@hotelhome.com.au

mo |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

11

FRO M 1 STAR TO 5 STAR , E V E R Y P R O P E R T Y W E R AT E HAS ONE T H ING IN COMM ON. C L E A N L I N E SS .

AAA TOURISM’S STAR RATING SCHEME IS THE NEW CHAMPION OF ACCOMMODATION STANDARDS Research has shown us that 94% of Australian travellers rate cleanliness as the most important aspect of a STAR Rating, so we’ve made cleanliness an immediate ‘pass’ or ‘fail’ for any assessment. Now any property licensed to display an official STAR Rating must achieve and maintain an overall standard of ‘Good’ or 75% for cleanliness, from 1 STAR properties through to 5 STAR properties.

To us, cleanliness simply means an absence of dirt, including dust and stains, and a ‘pass’ requires that the property is effectively maintained and clean for all guests at all times, with formalised Housekeeping procedures. So no matter what type of accommodation you’re booking for the night, with a STAR Rating you can always rest easy.

For more information about STAR Ratings or becoming accredited visit us at starratings.com.au

12 |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

mo

Australia’s new champion of Accommodation Standards

By Charles Deuchrass | AAA Tourism

AAA TOURISM’S STAR Rating Scheme is the new Champion of Accommodation Standards, with new branding and signage to promote its upgraded accreditation program.

F

ollowing the recent launch of the new STAR Rating program

by AAA Tourism on behalf of Australia’s Auto Clubs, the new branding is appearing on 7,000 properties around Australia.

The branding retains at its core AAA Tourism’s well known and respected STAR trade marks. The accreditation logo has been developed to make it more recognisable and official.

All properties, including Australia’s 2000plus STAR Rated motels, will be provided with this signage via various options including window decals, certificates and metal plaques, as well as access to electronic files to use in their collateral.

AAA Tourism CEO Peter Blackwell said travellers could engage immediately with the new STAR Rating Scheme by visiting www.starratings.com.au “When they see how we assess cleanliness and quality as well as facilities, they will know we really are the Champion of Accommodation Standards,” he said.

“More than 94% of travellers rate cleanliness their top priority, and most want quality to be rated too, but the real trick is to measure it.

“Through four years of working with travellers, moteliers and academia, we have developed a percentage score system that rates more than 200 different factors.”

The scheme traces its origins to 1915, when the Auto Clubs first provided their members with travel information, and builds on the national STAR Rating scheme introduced in 1963.

Research showed that travellers placed a high value on the independence of a STAR Rating, but were keen for cleanliness, quality and condition to also be taken into account.

Mr Blackwell said the new STAR Ratings applied absolute objectivity and consistency to a comprehensive assessment for every property, regardless of type.

Mr Blackwell said STAR Ratings were one of the top three factors influencing a choice or property, after pictures of the accommodation and recommendations from family and friends.

“To earn its STARS, an Officially Accredited property is still assessed on its facilities, but it must also achieve minimum scores for cleanliness, quality and condition,” he said.

“STAR Ratings are particularly important when people are refining and evaluating their initial short list in that key stage before they select their final choice,” he said.

“We worked with Victoria University and RMIT School of Design to develop weighted percentage scores that reflect the relative importance of all sorts of criteria to travellers.

“Our assessors leave nothing to chance, applying strict criteria for things like dust, stains, and general wear and tear to assess cleanliness and condition.”

The major upgrade of STAR Ratings is intended to ensure that a rating reflects the standard of a property as perceived by the end user.

“They value independent STAR Ratings well ahead of guest ratings and recommendations, and the upgraded ratings will give them even more reason for confidence.

“Self-rated properties just don’t have the same credibility, because we all tend to rate ourselves higher than we really are.

“I recently saw a survey that asked 2000 executives if they were in the top 10% of their company’s performers – and 90% said they were!”

Over the years, 85% of Australian travellers have used STAR Ratings to help select a

mo |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

13

place to stay, and AAA Tourism expects the new scheme to be even more valued.

By focusing on the cleanliness and quality as well as facilities, the Champion of Accommodation Standards enables people to plan a trip more confidently by choosing accommodation that best suits their needs.

AAA Tourism and the Auto Clubs will continue to support and promote STAR Rated motels to 7.1 million Club members Australia-wide.

For more information regarding the new STAR Rating Scheme or property signage, moteliers are advised to contact the STAR Ratings Australia team on (03) 8601 2225 or email stars@aaatourism.com.au or visit www.starratings.com.au

Reading the STARS Australia’s new STAR Ratings provide certainty that any officially STAR Rated property will exceed strict standards for cleanliness and condition.

5 STAR: Excellence in all areas, extensive

14 |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

mo

facilities and comprehensive or highly personalised service, exceptional design and attention to detail.

4 STAR: Satisfying the discerning needs of guests with a wide range of facilities and a unique accommodation experience, plus superior design.

3 STAR: Service and facilities exceed above-average accommodation needs, good quality design enhances the overall guest experience.

2 STAR: Adequate quality and facilities for price-conscious travellers, typically for independent travellers, but may be available upon request.

1 STAR: Acceptable quality and basic facilities without compromising cleanliness or security, guests may access fee-based services on request.

Half STAR increments reflect modest improvements in quality and facilities. n

HotelHome can supply quality Bedcoverings in any style for all budgets! a few examples .....

“Bed Wrap” & “Bel-Air” Cushion Quilted “Contempo” Bedspread

“Mirage” Bed Runner

“Chateau” Quilted Bed Runner

“Practical Fitted Bedcover”

www.hotelhome.com.au 1800 HOTELHOME (1800 468 354)

email : sales@hotelhome.com.au

A U S T R A L I A

mo |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

15

Increasing online bookings at your property

By Trevor Gardiner | Centium Software

U

ntil a few years ago, we relied heavily on our display ad in the Yellow Pages for guests to find our property, give us a call and make a booking. Today we rely primarily on being found on the internet.

Feel like your property is a needle in a haystack?

If you haven’t sat down and thought about an internet booking strategy to tap the rapid, upward trend of online sales, now is the time to do this. As a fellow motelier, with a 24 room property in south Brisbane, I implemented four steps that increased my

property’s online bookings by 75% in less than 6 months. Let me share the four key actions I implemented to achieve this.

To increase your online bookings you need an internet mix including: 1. taking commission free bookings from your own website 2. integrating with a channel manager for automatic real-time inventory distribution to Online Travel Agents (e.g. Wotif) 3. increasing the number of visitors to your web site 4. making sure your guests can easily find your property on the internet, whether they are at home, in their office or on the road Automating the process of taking online bookings from your website, with a booking page integrated with your property management system, provides instant results, allowing guests to book directly, and more importantly, commission free with your property. Other benefits include the booking page sending an automated confirmation email and also collecting credit card details to guarantee the booking. Don’t forget to make sure you have a secure system to manage the credit card details.

The main thing to remember with online booking pages is you want your guests to click just once to open a screen where they can see room availability, rates, location map, room and property photos and the facilities of your property, and, be able to make the booking then and there.

Booking pages that integrate with a property management system also enable online bookings to drop the reservation

16 |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

mo

directly into your property management system, saving the effort of keying in the details.

Integrating your property management system with a channel manager, to push your inventory out to sales channels such as Wotif.com, Bookings.com, Expedia etc… gives your property real-time online exposure. This is crucial to ensure all your rooms are available for sale and also to make sure you do not inadvertently overbook any rooms.

An example of this is where you receive a late cancellation and have to go into your sales channels and update them manually, to make the cancelled rooms available online. If you forget, or get busy, the rooms will not show as available. It is the same where you take a booking over the phone, especially if it is for a number of rooms, and then get busy or forget to update your sales channels, leading to a high risk of double bookings.

Integrating a channel manager with a property management system automates this often labour intensive management of your inventory leaving you with more time to welcome your guests.

Having an effective website, optimised for Google, is essential to being found on the internet. Websites need to be attractive with easy navigation but they also need to be designed for Google searches. How this works is fairly straight forward. Google needs to understand what you do and where you are. How Google knows this is by looking at how you use certain words on your website and the importance you put on them. For example: accommodation.

If you use this word in your website headers, navigation and links to other pages on your website, Google will have no doubt your website is about accommodation.

Same with putting the location of your property prominently throughout the website, including a Google map.

Google also favours websites with fresh content. You can do this by regularly adding details of local activities, sporting events,

concerts etc… on your website. The added benefit is when someone is searching for one of these events or activities, by having this information also on your website, your property will display in the search results making it more likely that they will book their accommodation at the same time.

The final step in your internet booking strategy is making your property available on mobile devices, smartphones, tablets or iPads. These have become dominant for searching information on the web, with over 50% of travellers now using mobile devices to access information. This is more than double the rate from just two years ago and the trend is continuing to grow considerably.

Some interesting stats: 61% of travellers use search engines for overnight accommodation via mobile phones, this is a 27% increase in personal travellers and a huge 51% in 2011 for business travel.* And, more people are using their mobile phones rather than their PCs to get online.

This means your website also needs to be optimised for mobile phones. So, when your website is displayed on a mobile

phone the information is re-formatted to fit on the smaller screen and can be easily navigated using the touch of a finger. Your website can be optimised to automatically know when it is being accessed via a smartphone and display accordingly.

Sound too hard? You might be surprised at just how easy, and affordable, it is to get your property online booking-enabled or to fine tune and improve your overall online bookings.

Want to learn more? I am currently running a 30 minute webinar on the 4 steps of ‘Increasing Online Bookings at Your Property’ and would like to invite you to attend. Please give me a call for a complimentary VIP invitation on 1300 236 848.

Trevor Gardiner is a motel proprietor and also the CEO of Centium Software, producers of the award winning GuestPoint® property management system. For more details www.centiumsoftware/guestpoint/intro n *Source: Google/OTX, The Traveller’s Road to Decision 2011.

mo |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

17

Stains can be a pain

By Col nation

No matter how well you try to keep your décor looking good

hot water extractor spotting machine then you job will be even easier again.

you can bet that a little accident

So how do we remove stains?

can spoil the image you are

First you need to identify the stain.

Ask yourself these questions to get some clues.

trying to maintain. If the mirrors, glassware, taps and toilets are shiny and sparkling and the beds are neatly made and furniture is

(a) Is it dry, wet or sticky? (b) What is the colour?

neat and tidy then your décor

(c) Where is the stain and what is the shape?

can look fantastic. But it only

(d) What does it smell like?

takes one stain to bring the whole look down.

S

tains on carpet and upholstery can be a real pain in the back pocket. New carpet or upholstery is costly to replace, so here are a few tips to help you remove stains and keep things looking great.

First you have to look at what is a stain.

A stain can be classified as ‘something left behind after cleaning’, and cleaning can be classified as ‘the removal of soil’ and soil can be classified as ‘anything foreign to the carpet or upholstery’. Using these classifications we can then start to look at the whole picture and try to understand what soiling actually is and how it can be removed. Then we can look at stains.

There are really only 4 types of soils. These are dry soils, water soluble soils, oily soils and dyes. Dry soils are easily removed by vacuuming. A suction only back pack or barrel type vacuum cleaner are okay if you want to do a lot of hard work or you can make the job easier and more effective by using an agitator power head on your standard vacuum cleaner or use a good quality upright vacuum cleaner to make the job easier and quicker. If vacuuming is the only cleaning process that you have available, then stains are anything left behind after vacuuming. If you have a small

18 |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

mo

Dry could be powdery and a vacuum may do the trick, or it could be a dried out dye type stain in which case it will still be there after vacuuming. It may be water soluble in which case all you need to do is rinse with water. But, if it’s a dye stain then it will still be there.

If it’s wet then it is probably water based and still wet. Blot this up with a paper towel or rinse with the spotting machine.

If it is water soluble then it will rinse away with nothing but water. If it doesn’t rinse away with water, then it is probably a dye stain.

If the stain is sticky, then it could be a partially dried out beverage spill and the sugary residue will rinse away with water, if it is still sticky then it could be oily and may need treatment with a detergent. A detergent will make sticky things soluble, and you can then rinse it away with water.

If the stain remains, then it is probably a dye stain.

What is the colour?

Here is a simple guide If it is black, then it is likely to be ink or grease. If it is sticky as well then this will confirm the diagnosis. If it is black and not sticky then it is likely to be a dye stain. This will require the use of a solvent. Be careful because using a detergent may set or spread the stain and turn it into a dye stain.

Brown could be a number of things. It may be coffee or tea. If it is still wet then a rinse with water may help, if it is dry then a simple rinse with water may help, but anything that remains behind is probably a tannin type dye stain. But, if it is brown and sticky, then your worst fears could be realised. Warning! That brown sticky substance might not be chocolate!!! Your sense of smell may come in to play here.

And don’t use your bare hands to test for stickiness, put gloves on and use a cloth to test for stickiness. If a brown stain transfers to the cloth then it may contain some oils or fats and you have a good chance of removing the stain with a bit of detergent.

Reds, yellows, orange, blues, greens and purple are usually from beverage spills. The dyes used to colour these drinks are called ‘acid dyes’. Chefs may use these standard food colourings to prepare colourful cakes and beverage manufacturers will make a variety of coloured drinks using the same acid dyes. But to a carpet manufacturer these very same acid dyes can be used to dye both wool and nylon carpet to achieve a range of colours to suit your decor. Spill a coloured drink on you carpet and you have just dyed it a different colour and no amount of regular cleaning will remove it. This must be removed by professional stain removers using heat

transfer processes, or dye stripping and re-colouring.

Grey stains are most likely to be nothing more than dry soils sticking to a sugary or fatty residue. For these you can simply try a detergent spotter and blot with a cloth until you have removed the stain and the detergent residue. It may be necessary to rinse the remaining detergent residue to prevent it from re-attracting the soil to form another grey spot. Grey marks are by far the most common, and usually the easiest to deal with.

Where is the stain? A red stain in the bedroom near a mirror is likely to be lipstick. Is it sticky? Does it transfer to a dry cloth? If so then it is most likely some form of oily make up and a detergent may very well fix it. A red stain in a lounge room in the shape of a spill could be a drink spill.

Try the dry cloth on this and you will find that it does not transfer to the cloth and is therefore probably a dye stain.

So to summarise, we try to work out what the stain is, and then treat it accordingly.

For example. A coffee or tea stain is usually brown, but these are usually wet or dry, not sticky and will not transfer to a dry cloth. Chocolate and faeces are brown, but will usually be sticky and will transfer to a dry cloth. If the stain transfers to a dry cloth then a detergent or solvent can be used. If the stain does not transfer to a dry cloth then rinse it with water, it will either work or it won’t. If it works, then great you have solved your problem, but if it doesn’t then try a detergent spotter, and if that works great. But if water and detergents don’t work then it may be better to call in some professional help as you may only cause permanent damage by trying other treatments.

There is a great spotting guide on the WoolSafe website: www.woolsafe.com.au It lists a variety of stains and some treatments that may help. You can

also look on my own website for our specialty stain removal service www.abbsolve.com.au for a very simple and easy to follow spill removal guide that uses the classification process and provides some simple solutions.

So if spots and stains are being a pain, then follow the simple guidelines and you can help keep your décor looking great. n Col Nation is a carpet cleaning industry veteran with over 30 years of continual hands on experience. He runs a specialty stain removal and upholstery and leather cleaning service “Abbsolve Services” on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast and is also a qualified industry trainer. Colin has his own training company, Nation Training, and does contract training with The Daniels Associates of Australasia Pty Ltd a specialist training organisation in the cleaning and hospitality industries and the WoolSafe Organisation. Colin has written training manuals and has represented the industry on the Standards Australia committees for carpet and upholstery cleaning.

mo |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

19

Manage 25+ booking websites from one location W

ith the number of booking websites increasing at a staggering rate we know you will want to advertise your rooms on as many of these ‘channels’ as possible. But managing these manually becomes almost impossible since you have to log into each website to do a stop sell every time a guest books directly with your property.

This is where a channel manager is so important for your business when selling rooms online. We offer you a one stop solution to manage all of the best known booking websites.

UseROSS allows you to change your rates or availability once and all of the booking websites will update automatically.

Anybody selling online at more than a few locations should take advantage of this new technology to save time and make managing their online inventory easier.

In the past you had to monitor all incoming bookings and quickly log into all of the other booking websites to do a stop sell before you ended up with a double booking. Now with UseROSS you can relax and know that any bookings that come in are automatically updated on all the other websites at lightning speed.

You need never log into a booking website again unless it is to update your pictures or inclusions.

Our subscription rates are the lowest in the industry because we concentrate on the top performing 25 booking websites such as Booking.com and Wotif.com. Other channel managers may offer a lot of unknown channels that almost never bring in a booking so it is hardly worth the effort of setting up your rooms on these channels.

Forget trying to get visitors to book with a contact us page, with our Book Now button you can take commission free bookings directly from your personal website. Visitors are becoming a lot more aware of the cost savings to be made by booking directly from your motel’s website, and now you can offer your visitors a professional and stylish way to book with your property. The Book Now button is integrated into UseROSS so you don’t have to worry about updating your inventory when the bookings come in.

We have dedicated support personnel available to help with any queries you may have. With hundreds of motels and hotels already using our channel manager we are confident that you will have a rewarding and trouble free experience with UseROSS.

20 |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

mo

Some of the feedback we are receiving: “The UseROSS channel manager has been a great service to us, allowed us to find a lot of new channels to connect to and made managing our bookings and avoiding the dreaded double bookings a lot easier. But what’s made them stand out has been their friendly and helpful service, always been happy to help us setup and answer questions and guide us.”

“As for the UseROSS channel manager, we cannot fault it. Our property was one of the first properties to sign up and we were only on the Arra website and Wotif. I don’t know what our fear was for. This channel manager is so easy to understand and operate. We are now on quite a few of the available sites and the number is growing. With that our turnover has also grown considerably. Thank you.”

You can call us on (03) 5143 7888 for a no obligation discussion about the advantages of UseROSS. For more information you can visit www.useross.com for pricing and a full list of channels.

No lock in contracts You will not be locked into any contracts. Simply use the service month by month and you can stop whenever you like. Even if your account is inactive, you can still reactivate it again whenever you wish.

21 day free test drive If you would you like to give our channel manager a try then our free 3 week trial is for you. You will get full access to all our services. At any time during the trial period simply upgrade your account to keep managing your inventory with UseROSS. n

In this day and age it is vitally important to sell rooms online to maximise your profits.

The problem is managing your inventory on all these different booking websites.

Relax, now you can let technology do the work for you.

You can call us on (03) 5143 7888 for a no obligation discussion about the advantages of UseROSS. For more information and pricing please visit www.useross.com

mo |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

21

22 |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

mo

Don’t let the BED BUGS Bite About Bed Bugs & Bed Bug pest control methods

By Glenn DuBois, MCom (UNSW) | Secretary of Australian Pest Controllers Association Inc.

Bed Bugs are blood-suckers

Pest Control for Bed Bugs

and are commonly found in

What you can do: All clothing, bed linen, curtains, fabrics and the like must laundered prior to insecticidal treatment. Wrap mattresses in black plastic bag and place in the sun for several hours. Seal gaps in furniture, floor boards and cracks in wallpaper and other such areas where bed bugs can hide during the day light hours.

motels, hostels or boarding houses where itinerant travellers stay overnight.

B

ed bugs are transported with luggage, clothing and other articles, but not on the person.

It is not practicable to know if boarding guests are ‘bed bug carriers’.

Bed Bugs do bite, at night. In the morning upon waking up, you may see dots of blood in a line on bed linen. The blood has a sickly sweet odour. Also look for dried blood deposits around cracks in the bed, bed-head, flooring, bedside furniture and mattress.

Bed bugs life cycle: From the egg, the bed bug has five nymphal stages before becoming an adult. The adults and nymphs leave their harbourage area to feed every 2 to 3 days. They feed for 3 to 5 minutes at night, in the early morning hours, before returning to their harbourage area, usually located within a few metres from their feeding area. Bed bugs can survive for long periods without a blood meal.

Adverse skin reactions: Some people have an adverse skin reaction to the bite of bed bugs. The bed bug injects an anti-coagulant chemical into the bloodstream of its host which prevents the blood from clotting. This allows the bed bug to suck out the blood until it is fully engorged.

Infection of bite area: The resulting irritancy of the anti-coagulant chemical around the bite site can be severe, particularly to people with soft sensitive skin. Scratching is difficult to resist but this can cause infection of the bite area. If this is a likely problem, you should consult a Doctor or Chemist to obtain appropriate medication.

Cleanliness counts: High standards of hygiene and sanitation will certainly help as an on-going preventive measure.

The entire bedroom and other areas where luggage and clothing are stored, should be inspected regularly for signs of bed bug infestation and thoroughly vacuumed on a regular basis paying particular attention to underside of mattress and nooks and crannies in these areas.

We recommend to use a professional pest controller for periodic insecticidal treatment in any commercial lodgings situation where bed bug infestations are likely to be a problem.

Firstly, a thorough inspection of the area of infestation is carried out before proceeding with any insecticidal treatment or other pest control procedures. All potential daytime bed bug harbourage areas must be located and treated with the low hazard insecticide registered for this purpose.

Remember close co-operation between the property (the owner or maintenance manager) and the pest controller is essential. Both need to be absolutely thorough in carrying out the following recommended procedures in order to achieve effective control.

Do NOT attempt do-it-yourself pest control using a surface spray on bed-linen or mattress. Such a use could be a DANGER to the health and safety of the occupants and will most likely result in ongoing infestation.

recommended to be used against bed bugs. Where a spray cannot be used say near electricals we recommend Permethrin dust be used. Treatment is required in all likely and observed bed bug habitat areas, such as underside of base of bed, legs of bed, frame, plastic moulding around edge of mattress, skirting boards, floor boards, picture rails, curtain fixtures, picture frames, light switches, power points, wardrobes, bedside tables and other gaps in furniture or fixtures and the like.

In addition, it may be essential for the entire room to be treated using pyrethrum insecticide dispensed through a fogging or misting machine, in order flush the bed bugs out of their hiding areas and into contact with the Permethrin dust or Temprid surface spray.

The cost of professional pest control for bed bugs using the recommended low hazard insecticides, will depend upon several factors, including the size of the property, the extent of infestation and ease of access to treatment areas.

Bed bug control requires extensive time, effort and expertise to solve a severe infestation. Service warranties may vary depending upon the circumstances and risk of reinfestation.

CAUTION: There are many of the older style insecticides for bedbug control on the market that are far cheaper but will not give such certainty of total elimination of the infestation. Make sure you ask the pest controller if they use these leading new generation products. They are safer and much more effective. For further information go to pestcontrol.org.au or contact Glenn DuBois at Australian Pest Controllers Association Inc – phone 1300 660 200.

Another excellent source of information is The Bedbug Code of Practice which can be viewed at www.bedbug.org.au n

A new product recently released by Bayer, namely Temprid insecticide spray is highly

mo |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

23

Steam, Sanitise & Vacuum with ONE machine Clean upholSTery • Deep Clean • Kill BeD BuGS • SpoT Clean CarpeT Large range of steam cleaners available: MenTion ThiS aD & reCeive a free STeaM wiTh MiCrofiBre Mop KiT wiTh any MaChine purChaSeD

• • • • • •

Steam clean & sanitise Kill bed bugs without chemicals Detail clean every nook & cranny Clean upholstery • Mattresses Bathrooms • Showers Tiles & grout

offer availaBle unTil July 31 2012

When you want REALLY clean, not nearly clean Contact Steam Australia 1300 79 5050 24 |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

Visit our website for photos, video and much more www.steamaustralia.com.au

mo

How to kill BED BUGS without chemicals –

Steam

By Steve Robards | Full Steam Ahead

For a wingless insect Bed Bugs can sure get around. They would have to be the experts on hitch hiking from anywhere in the world to anywhere else in the world and with their main host, humans, can do it faster than any other animal or insect.

B

ed Bugs have now ranged further than our beds and can be found anywhere humans congregate. Motels, backpackers, B& B’s, cinemas and aircraft are just some of the places they are found. They can change hosts mid transit hopping from clothing and baggage in the search of your blood. There are plenty of clinical reports and information on Bed Bugs including identifying the two main species found in Australia, their preferred habitats, feeding and breeding cycles here.

Bed Bug infestations can be treated either by an expensive pest controller using approved insecticides, mainly synthetic pyrethroids that have a residual activity and they may not be effective and can even repel the bugs without killing them. They simply up stakes and move to an untreated area. Other chemicals used are carbamates and organophosphates that are far more effective but may not be recommended for use on mattresses and in most cases need several follow up treatments to break the breeding cycle.

Some people may not be tolerant to chemicals like asthma and allergy suffers (like myself) and will need a chemical free

approach to the problem.

I personally clean all my bedding including blankets, pillows and doonas with steam and vacuum on a regular basis.

Not only to remove dust and pollens, dead skin and smells but also any bed bugs, fleas and other little nasties I have picked up in my travels. I have found myself more venerable than most people as I often pick them up in my course of work and bring them home.

Treating bed bugs with steam is very effective as it only requires temperatures of 55 deg C to kill them, but it requires a complete and detailed approach using the correct accessories.

It is not a job that can be rushed and every conceivable hiding spot must be treated. This includes under bed frames and wardrobes and other furnishings.

Gaps around skirting boards and power points should be sealed. Use a steam accessory that will help encapsulate the steam allowing it to penetrate deep within the mattress and bedding as well as the carpet and curtains. Use a detail nozzle to treat around the piping and handles of the mattress and edges of furnishings and other tight to reach areas. Pet bedding should also be treated in the same manner.

A steam cleaner with a built in vacuum and water filtration system is preferred. Even a small unit will be suitable but the higher the pressure and temperature the deeper the steam can penetrate into the mattress and achieve a higher and faster kill rate.

Adding a small mixture of ‘bio remedial’ to the vacuum waste water tank, made up of eucalyptus and tea tree oil will also be

of benefit. On completion, suck a small quantity of hot water through the vacuum hose, flush the contents of the waste bin down the toilet, treat all tools and the waste bin and any foam filters with steam and rinse with hot water.

If you have been travelling do not wait until they appear, as soon as practical treat all your clothes by hot wash and hot drier. Treat your luggage with steam. A pre emptive treatment may help to save you from a early morning Bed Bug attack.

Accommodation operators cannot be blamed for outbreaks of Bedbugs as they easily hitch a lift from anywhere in the world via baggage and clothing. The arrival of summer usually sees an increase in Bedbug complaints as the warmer temperatures promotes breeding as well as an increase in people travelling. Bedbugs arriving in our winter from the warmer northern hemisphere can after arrival lay dormant until our summer begins.

Steam is by far the best and most efficient method of treatment to kill bed bugs, hence the recommendation for steam in the bed bug code of practice.

mo |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

25

With pest control companies charging up to four hundred dollars for each application, the cost of purchasing a steam unit for in house treatment is easily justified with the purchase price covered in treating several rooms.

Steam More Than Just Bed Bugs Steam can be used to clean an entire room either by itself or in conjunction with regular cleaning methods. Some operators may have several rooms that are only cleaned with steam for customers that suffer from Asthma or have other negative chemical reactions.

The high temperature of steam provides a greater degree of sanitation for cleaning

areas such as toilets and bathrooms again with little or no chemical use.

Carpets can be vacuumed then treated with steam to remove odours from pets, urine and vomit. Residual smells from tobacco can be removed from all areas including curtains.

Windows and mirrors are quickly cleaned along with fly screens and window tracks.

Toilets can be cleaned and sanitised including those hard to get at areas with little personal contact.

Hard floors can be treated with the floor mop attachments eliminating the traditional and so ineffective dirty water, mop and bucket tradition again without the use of harsh chemicals. Users of steam have found an overall cost saving in chemical

purchases not to mention the negative short and long term affects on those doing the cleaning health.

Steam quickly cleans all areas in kitchens from ovens, range hoods, racks, trolleys and fridges and this is where steam units fitted with detergent injection can be of great benefit. Harsh cleaning chemicals are replaced with environmentally friendly detergents that with the high temperatures of steam break down the grease and grime and effectively kill all bacteria anywhere in a working kitchen.

But more importantly it is the consumer who demands the highest level of cleanliness and hygiene particularly when your facility becomes their home for the night. n

No.1 In hotel fitout and refurbishments

Specialists in Resort & Motel

1300 500 815

admin@resortinteriors.com.au www.resortinteriors.com.au

AUSTRALIA | USA | NZ | SINGAPORE | CHINA | UK | FIJI | INDONESIA

26 |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

mo

Upgrade & boost motel value for zero cost

By Ian Crooks | Managing Director, Resort Brokers Australia

What if we told you your motel rooms could be beautifully refurbished, that it would result in a significant boost to your business value, and that it wouldn’t cost you a cent?

It’s true. It can be done,

An extra $12 per room per night, at 60 per cent occupancy (average occupancy level Australia-wide), means your motel will generate an additional $2,628 revenue per room per annum.

If you were selling your motel lease, based on demonstrated figures achieved with the new tariff structure, the value of your motel business would be $175,000 higher than it was before the rooms were refurbished.

If you were to apply all of those additional earnings directly to your chattel mortgage repayments, you would probably pay off the refurbishment in three years!

Remember, the refurbishment project hasn’t cost you a cent. But now, your motel is worth $175,000 more!

and here’s how.

And, once the loan is repaid, the additional revenue goes straight to your bottom line.

T

The result is a much improved motel, commanding higher tariffs, and the project will have been entirely self-funding. Not only that, but you may well attract more business and lift your occupancy rate by virtue of offering a much improved product.

here really is no trick to this.

It is a genuine, proven strategy for business improvement that can be implemented by any motel owner whose rooms could do with an upgrade.

We have obtained, from major accommodation design and fit-out specialists Resort Interiors, a breakdown of how motel units can be fully refurbished for a cost of $5,000 per room.

There are finance companies that will lend you the funds for such an upgrade by way of a business finance product known as a ‘chattel mortgage’ The total cost, repaying principal and interest over a five-year term, would be approximately $7,000 per room.

But there is an even more important upside, and it relates to the value of your business.

For the sake of this illustration, let’s assume your motel is a 20-unit complex.

So, the additional $2,628 per room revenue adds up to a $52,560 per annum increase in net profit.

If you sell before your chattel mortgage is paid out, you are still way out in front You simply need 12 months trading to demonstrate the increase in net profit to be able to achieve the $175,000 boost in value.

Then, should you sell and pay out the refurbishment finance – even if it is the full $100,000 loan at $5,000 per room – you are still $75,000 better off.

Think about the potential. You’ll soon be looking for another motel in need of room refurbishment, so you can apply the same bottom-line boosting strategy all over again! n

Now, by raising the standard and appeal of your accommodation facilities, you should be able to command an extra $10 to $15 per room per night. For the sake of this illustration, we will assume you are able to charge an additional $12 per night for the upgraded rooms.

mo |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

27

Sydney Water Study

By Wendy Hird | Greenbriar

A Sydney Water study on large hotels (5 star, 300 room plus) found water had been reduced by an average of 241 L/guest/ night or over 40% from 2005 to 2010. So what does that mean for smaller hotels and motels.

T

he issue is how they did it. Simply and cost effectively by paying attention to maintenance and low cost retrofits.

So What Has Changed Since 2005?

There were two significant areas of improvement between the audits.

1) Better maintenance In the 2005 study the overnight base flow (leaks) averaged 30 percent, in the 2010 study the average was eight percent: a significant reduction and 5 hotels had zero overnight leaks. Anecdotally hotel engineers attributed that to better use of main meter monitoring equipment, installing and reading sub-meters and having staff report leaks.

For small hotels and motels: a) Read your water meter every week, and track in a spreadsheet. b) Know your cost/kL of water, as opposed to the service charges. It should be on your bill or ask your water provider. c) Make sure your cleaning staff know how to report leaks? d) Hot water leaks cost more then cold water leaks. See chart 1 for comparison of cost/kL for cold and hot water.

28 |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

mo

2) Guest room retrofits There has been an increase in the use of more water efficient fittings. Table 1 shows the change to water efficient device over those five years. Technological improvements mean that hotels who installed water efficiency devices in 2005, could install even more water efficient fixtures now.

For small hotels and motels: a) The payback on low flow taps and showers was generally from 1 to 8 months. b) Pay back of newer toilet can be from 4 years up, so concentrate on maintenance. c) Low flow taps never both anyone, low flow showers can annoy people, particularly misting or needle like sprays.

Shower performance is dependent upon the right pressure for the low volume, so try one and make sure you like it before you fit the whole place out.

Even after all the work done on these hotels in the last 5 years, auditors still found some leaks. •T he highest individual leak captured on the audit was 17kL/day, due to a solenoid valve failure on a urinal cistern tank which caused it to overflow and flush continuously. •O ne hotel had leaks in cold water (from roof tank) to guest room overnight at a rate of 39kL/day. The main culprit was leaking toilet cisterns.

Below are examples of paybacks for some of the recommendations in the 2010 hotel audit study. Note these were for large hotels, so there may be benefits for higher volume purchase orders/contract).

Showers: One hotel, with 15L/min shower heads, would save 30kL/day by installing 9L/min showers heads. Payback 0.9 years (water, sewerage, heating costs).

Guest room fittings

Flow/flush volume

2005

2010

Shower

>=9L/min

20%

40%

9-12L/min

20%

30%

12-15L/min

20%

30%

=<15L/min

40%

−

A mixed combination of 6, 9, 12 and 15 L/min

40% <=6 L/min

4.5/3L dual flush

−

50%

6/3L dual flush

50%

46%

11/5.5L

−

4%

11L single flush or larger

50%

−

Basin

55% 8 to 12L/min 4% 12 to 20L/min flow

Toilet

Table 1: hotel fittings comparison from 2005 to 2010 hotel audits.

Basin taps: One hotel with 12L/min flow rate basin taps, would save 4.1 kL/day by installing 6L/min taps. Payback 0.6 years.

So What Does it Mean to My Hotel?

You can make some very real and cost effective savings by improving maintenance and fitting low flow showers and basins

fittings. If you haven’t lowered your water use, tracked best as L/guest/night, in the last 5 years, you are missing out on some very easy savings. n The study “Water efficiency in business hotels’ by Wendy Hird is copyright of AWA, and results are also at the Sydney Water website http://www.sydneywater.com.au/ Water4Life/InYourBusiness/EDCPublications/ CustomisedWaterMgmtTool.cfm

mo |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

29

Colour Trends 2012 USA

By Amanda Beazley | Managing Director and Designer, John Beazley & Co Pty Ltd

After a visit to America’s Design Market in January

THE GREEN PALETTE:

this year, we noted the Colour Trends for the year 2012 and whilst we are almost half way through the year it has to be said that Australia takes it’s lead often from the states all be it a little delayed.

We are starting to see the Trends we noted filtering into our own market here in Australia.

- Mother Earth

So straight from the States, here are a few of the

- Green originally meaning – to ‘Grow’

Colour Trends and the influencing factors that

- Environmental

you will see in the not too distant future.

- Bringing Outdoors in - Using landscape for inspiration – patchwork field

THE INSPIRATION: Due to the changing world and fast pace Computer Technical Age, it is interesting to see that Design is providing the vehicle to ‘even up’ the scales a little. Taking the lead and Inspiration from the Earth, Eco-Sustainability and Organic Colours and Textures. One thing apparent is that Texture is the new Bling! Interior Design Trends are not so fashion forward but instead becoming an act of balance with Technology by using Colours from the Earth and Organic fibres.

These Colour Palettes are what were launched as the Colour Trends for 2012 – 2013 and where they derived from;

- Kelp, Algae, Leaf, Japanese Tea - Lettuce, sea, forest and foliage - Canopy, Cash and Camouflage - Oregon; Africa and the Emerald Isle “Part Yellow, Part blue, we lived Generations without Purple, never lasted long without You”.

NEUTRALS:

THE BLUE PALETTE:

-H ow we all get along, taking charge of a situation with just a Whisper – being Neutral - When we say Neutral we mean TRUST - Wade into deeper water - Delivering into wild blue yonder - Oceanic, Tidal, Celestial - Water – Eco Consciousness - Simplicity – Summer Sky - Trusty – Denim

“What’s more Royal than Blue”.

Vol 13 No. 1 |

- Natural Linen flapping on a line - Tranquil - Porcelain cooling beside the kiln - Wheat, pear, khaki, cream - Self Sufficient, complement, confident, gentle

- Azure, Cobalt, Cerulean

30 |

- Sound of Sunlight falling across grass drying in a field

mo

THE RED PALETTE:

- The first Pigment brushed on a cave wall - Ground from the Earth - An ancient handprint - Aboriginal, Neolithic, blood, fire, danger and victory - Warm heat, the V on a Masai warrior’s chest - The Kiss of a Hollywood Starlet - Flickering of a firelight warming the walls “The eternal mystery is how the easiest pigment to make remains the hardest to forget”.

PATTERN TRENDS: Again taking the lead from the Earth and getting back to Heritage, many of the patterns that are appearing in fabrics, rugs and wallpapers are derived from Ancient Persia, Indigenous prints, Uzbek culture and most common is the oversized Ikat print.

FABRIC TRENDS: One element that was obvious in most of the fabrics being launched was an Organic feel and textures that were more natural in fibre such as Linen. Whilst Linen is not necessarily a great Commercial Fabric option as it is often not robust enough, too light in colour and being a Natural Fibre tends to shrink and wrinkle if not laundered with utmost care. However the Colour can still be used in Fabric with a Linen Look and feel. This is now balanced with the use of Colour as opposed to the “Neutral on Neutral” look of recent years. Yeah for the return of Colour I say! Denim was also prominent and this is due to the strong reliance and Inspiration of Earth, Water, Trusty favourites… hence Denim, again another fabric with texture.

COMMERCIAL APPLICATION: All in all I have to admit this can seem very ‘airy fairy’ and whether we rely on what generates these trends or whether we just admire the new colours and go with it, I have to say the Colours coming through are beautiful, vibrant, earthy and fresh and easily adapted into our life and environments.

mo |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

31

32 |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

mo

BUT: Whilst it’s important to inform ourselves on the trends and what the rest of the world is doing, in a Commercial Application and especially for the Accommodation Industry that should not be what decides what Colours to use in your property. As always, my advice is to look at your guest, your property, the climate and environment and use that as the reasons you choose a particular Colour Palette.

Make your design specific to you and your property and not the ‘Trend of the Moment’ and then it will have longevity.

Most of the Colours of 2012 Forecast are actually very sensible colour choices due to their inspiration from the Earth and so are less likely to become dated quickly. A good approach, if you want to incorporate some of these Colours, is to select colours from the palette that have a relationship with your property. Use the Red’s in a cold climate for example, or the blues in a resort property.

Whatever Colour palette you choose, and whatever your budget, be true to the type of property you have. Draw inspiration from the elements outside your door. n Photos obtained for this Editorial are from literature given at the Design Market January 2012 and Sherwin-Williams Color mix two-thousandtwelve Literature.

It is easier to stay up to date with trends by splashing colour at an otherwise Neutral Colour Scheme. A feature painted wall, throw rugs and cushions, artwork on the wall and bedding are great elements to use with your “Trend Colour” and can completely transform your Colour Scheme giving your property an overall lift.

For further advice or free consultation please contact John Beazley and Co, Commercial Design + Fitout Specialists.

refurbishment specialists www.johnbeazley.com.au p 02 9642 6622 f 02 9642 5991

H Y D E PA R K I N N - N E W S O F T R E F U R B I S H M E N T A N D B AT H R O O M S

Leaders in the field of Hospitality design and Fitout for over three decades. From small country motels to large hotels, guest rooms to public areas. From one-off items to full fitout packages. We offer a turn-key service taking a project through Interior Design, Manufacture, Project Management and Installation. Call for a free quote and consultation about your refurbishment or fitout.

hospitality commercial agedcare C

R

E

A T

I

N

G

E

N

V

I

R

O

N

M

E

N

mo |

T

S

Vol 13 No. 1 |

33

’Appy travels Mobile phone apps and their role in the tourism industry

By Alex Cook | Resort Brokers Australia

Up until a few years ago, the array of

visit, some reading material, a couple of cameras,

paraphernalia crammed into your average holiday

flight and accommodation bookings and perhaps

maker’s backpack could be quite awe-inspiring.

a mobile phone, to name but a few.

Invariably, there would be several badly folded maps, some dog-eared guide books, a misleading phrase book (destined to be more of a hindrance than a help), an out-of-date currency converter, a note book crammed with people and places to

GroutPro tile & grout restoration specialists

Want grout that never stains? need a shoWer makeover? got dirty tiles and grout?

Before

after

• Makes your grout look like new • Fraction of the cost of replacing tiles or re-grouting • Ensures uniform colour throughout • Professional and natural finish • Maximum stain protection available!

• Ease of maintenance & no more scrubbing • 89 different colours (or we can custom mix to match) • Expected wear of up to 15 years guaranteed • Perfect for kitchens, bathroom, showers, laundries & more • Most jobs may be completed in a day Just some of the benefits

GroutPro is a Specialised Tile & Grout Restoration Company, with fully trained and certified Specialists across Australia.

Before

after

Call 0435 932 709 or 9705 2694

www.groutpro.com.au 34 |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

mo

N

owadays, all of the holiday essentials listed above can be easily accessed via one small hand-held device (or tablet, if you prefer a bigger screen). You can download the latest book by your favourite author, take great quality photos with the built-in camera or browse through any map you need via Google Maps. As such, the way in which people access information whilst travelling or on holiday is changing... and changing fast. Many of these elements are increasingly being accessed through specific purpose built applications, known as ‘apps’.

Many tourism apps are quite generic and are aimed at assisting travellers in whatever far flung destination they might find themselves. The Lonely Planet has produced a series of phrasebooks apps, spanning 17 languages such as Spanish, Swahili, Japanese and Vietnamese. Each is armed with 600 common phrases for everyday situations. Although spelt phonetically, you can hit an audio button to hear the phrase read in the local dialect. Priced at $9.99 each, these are some of the most popular tourism apps on the market.

Other popular apps include ‘XE’, the mobile versions of xe.com, the world’s most frequently accessed currency convertor website. Wherever the user can find an internet connection, they will have access to up-to-date currency conversion rates. ‘FlightTrack Pro’ is a clever app that imports real-time data directly from airlines, allowing the organised traveller to track the progress of a flight itinerary wherever they may be. There is even an app called ‘Packing’ that aims to take the stress out of holiday preparation by providing lists of essentials to ensure you don’t leave anything important behind.

Major hotel chains, including Hilton, Marriott, Holiday Inn and Mandarin Oriental, were amongst the first the get involved in producing tourism apps on a corporate level. Almost all international brands now have mobile apps, aimed primarily at maximising a user’s interaction and usage with that particular brand. These apps allow you to browse through a group’s various locations, find out information on individual hotels, check availability and book rooms.

At a more advanced level, users can share stories of their stay,

look up information on surrounding attractions, log-in to incentive programmes, check out the latest deals and contact front desks directly. These apps are increasingly regarded by these chains as an essential way of maintaining customer loyalty.

So what are we doing in Australia to keep up with this increasing trend? Tourism Australia has an in-house digital marketing team that is embracing mobile technology to assist would be travellers in planning an amazing trip to Australia, and also to help them when they get here. To date, they have produced 2 interactive, fun and highly usable apps.

Travellers using the ‘OzPlanner’ app to plan their trip can access 16 suggested Australian journeys and either navigate through the journeys to see highlights, images and suggested activities, or search a range of destinations and experiences and get suggestions for their trip. The app also uses mapping technology to give users direct access to tourism product listings like tour providers, accommodation and car hire. The ‘Nothing Like Australia’ app is similar in purpose and design, but uses 3,500 annotated photos created by Australians in every corner of the country to give users a more ‘localised’ experience.

Andrew McEvoy, the managing director of Tourism Australia, stated, “Mobile platforms are a great opportunity for Tourism Australia to extend its presence beyond traditional advertising and marketing to showcase the country’s diverse tourism experiences. Users of our new iPhone app will also be able to easily keep detailed holiday plans in their phone, making travel so much easier once they are here plus they will also have access to more than 20,000 tourism products and services throughout Australia.”

Tourism Australia will also use the app technology to gain new insights into mobile user behaviour to tailor its marketing to this audience.

Whatever your opinion, the use of mobile apps by holiday makers and travellers is on the increase and will play an increasingly important role in the success of holiday based organisations.

Although most accommodation booking sites have ‘mobile enhanced’ web-sites, these are set to become even more usable and accessible through the development of purpose built mobile apps. ‘Wotif’ have stated that there first mobile app will be released soon.

As holiday makers convert to these instant and mobile mediums of booking accommodation, surely the nature of booking accommodation will also change. Rather than booking well in advance, holiday makers might simply check their favourite mobile apps when they arrive at their destination to see what the best deals are and where the best spots are. Owners of holiday accommodation will have to work even harder to keep prices competitive and provide incentives. However, for those that grasp this new technology well, there is a great opportunity to get ahead of the competition. n

mo |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

35

Employing overseas workers and 457 visas – beware of the pitfalls

By Trish Babu | Workplace Relations Advisor, Accommodation Association of Australia

O

perators in the accommodation sector frequently encounter situations where a job applicant mentions they are only visiting Australia, presents a foreign passport, provides overseas qualifications and refuses to provide any documentary evidence to support a claim of Australian citizenship.

It is a criminal offence under the Migration Act 1958 for a person to knowingly or recklessly allow an illegal worker to work or refer an illegal worker for work with another business. The possibility of a prospective employee being an illegal worker will exist whenever there is information to suggest that the person might not be an Australian citizen.

If a job applicant refuses to cooperate with the check, you should explain that you will not be able to employ them until their work entitlement can be verified.

The validity period of the: • sponsorship is three years.

• nomination is 12 months.

• visa is between one day and four years.

From 27 June 2009, there has been a requirement for sponsors under subclass 457 visa program to attest that they have a strong record of, or a demonstrated commitment to employing local labour and non-discriminatory employment practices.

Your 9 Requirements as a 457 Visa Sponsor 1) Cooperate with inspectors as and when required.

2) Ensure that sponsored employees are offered equivalent terms and conditions to Australian citizens or permanent residents.

In order to verify a person’s entitlement to work in Australia, employers can use Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO).

VEVO can be accessed at the Department of Immigration and Citizenship’s website: www.immi.gov.au

3) Pay the travel costs to enable sponsored persons to leave Australia when their employment ends.

If you wish to sponsor overseas workers on a temporary basis, a 457 visa or the Temporary Business (Long Stay) – Standard Business Sponsorship (Subclass 457) is the most commonly used program available to employers.

5) Maintain records of employment of the sponsored employee.

This visa can be used by employers to fill nominated skilled positions in Australia. Only certain occupations are covered under a subclass 457 visa. Occupations covered and relevant to the accommodation industry include, but are not limited to – Head Chef/Chef, Hotel/Motel Manager, Caravan Park and Camping Ground Manager, other Hospitality and Accommodation Managers, Human Resource Manager, Accountant, Landscape Gardener etc. The employers can be either Australian businesses or overseas businesses.

7) Inform immigration when certain events occur (i.e. when a sponsored employee ceases employment).

With this visa the workers employed from overseas can: • work in Australia for a period of between one day and four years;

4) Pay costs incurred by the Commonwealth to locate and remove unlawful non-citizen.

6) Provide any records or information as requested by the department of immigration.

8) Ensure that the primary sponsored person does not work in an occupation other than an approved occupation.

9) Must not recover certain costs from a primary sponsored person or secondary sponsored person.

Be careful – You will not necessarily be relieved of these requirements if you cease employing the sponsored person. For instance, you have an obligation to keep records about sponsored employees for 2 years after they cease employment with you.

• bring any eligible secondary applicants with them to Australia – secondary applicants can work and study; and

A recent case has shed some light on why it is so important to keep proper employment records for all workers employed on subclass 457 visas.

• after entering Australia, have no limit on the number of times they travel in and out of Australia.

In Fair Work Ombudsman v Orwill Pty Ltd & Ors [2011] FMCA 730 (28 September 2011) the Federal Magistrates

36 |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

mo

Court ordered two companies and their directors to pay a total of $28,820 in penalties after failing to keep proper employment records for three 457 visa workers at a Perth cafĂŠ in 2008.

The employers failed to make and keep proper employee records, and did not record the proper details of each employeeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s employment (such as the rates of pay for each employee) and failed to provide the employees with payslips.

Both companies and their directors claimed ignorance of this requirement.

Each company was ordered to pay $12,100 and the directors were fined $2,200 and $2,420 respectively for being knowingly involved in breaching the Workplace Relations Act 2006.

Fair Work Ombudsman Nick Wilson commented that these penalties were amongst the highest ever for a case only involving improper record-keeping and pay slip violations â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and if the breaches had been committed under the Fair Work Act, they could have been even higher.

Under the Fair Work Act, the maximum penalties for breaching record-keeping laws are higher than they were under the Workplace Relations Act, so it is important to be aware of your obligations when it comes to 457 visa holders now, more than ever.

Applying for this Visa If the employer and employee are eligible, willing and able to meet their obligations under the visa, they can commence the 3-step application process.

1) The employer must complete an application to become a sponsor.

2) The employer must nominate the position to be filled.

3) The employee must apply for a visa to be allowed to work in Australia.

Applying for a New Visa If you have an employee who wants to apply for a new visa (where their current visa is about to expire), the employee must lodge a new visa application.

From 14 September 2009, 457 visa holders who want to change sponsors or nominated positions (within the validity of their current visa) will not be required to apply for a new Subclass 457 visa.

Regional Employer Concessions Employers in regional Australia are no longer be eligible for concessions in meeting the minimum salary and skill level requirements for their nominated positions under the Subclass 457 visa program.

Requirement to Pay Market Rates From 1 January 2010, sponsors of existing Subclass 457 visa holders will be required to pay market salary rates. The requirement to pay market salary rates means that sponsored Subclass 457 visa holders will benefit from the same terms and conditions of employment as are provided to an Australian worker undertaking equivalent work in the same workplace at the same location.

Where there is an equivalent Australian worker in the workplace, the market salary rate will be determined by the industrial arrangement that applies to this worker. The Subclass 457 visa holder must be provided the same terms and conditions that are provided to the equivalent Australian worker.

Examples of industrial arrangements include enterprise agreement, modern award, award conditions with over award salary rates and common law contract.

Where there is no Australian worker performing equivalent work in the same workplace, the employer may demonstrate the market salary rate by reference to the applicable modern award or enterprise agreement. In absence of an award or enterprise agreement the employer must provide the department with a range of evidence to substantiate the market salary rate. n

mo |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

37

38 |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

mo

Introducing Job Support

By Sam Cheadle

Phil Tuckerman AM started the Jobsupport service in 1986, back then it was just a demonstration project to see if open employment could work for people with a significant intellectual disability.

Up until this point there were no services available to help people gain employment.

Generally the only way someone could get paid work is if a family member or family friend gave an individual a go.

T

oday Jobsupport works with over 560 employers across Sydney and Melbourne and the barriers to employing people with disabilities have lessened considerably with the success of Jobsupport.

Jobsupport is a leading Disability Employment Service with federal government rating of 5 stars across every employment service area in Sydney.

This year Phil Tuckerman AM has been awarded into the Australian Order for his service to people with a disability.

The foundations of the service have not changed since 1986. It’s a proven formula that works for this client group. Jobsupport uses an error free training model and provides onsite training as well as ongoing support to clients and employers.

Employing someone with an intellectual disability is still a foreign world to many and the unknown can often prevent someone

getting an opportunity. The onsite vocational training and ongoing support to employers is important for the individual to learn their job correctly, but the non-vocational training is equally important for a successful placement.

Jobsupport trainers are onsite for a number of weeks during the initial training period and model appropriate interactions between client, staff and supervisors.

Jobsupport is one of the few services that provides ongoing support following an initial one to one training period. This gives employers confidence knowing they have support for the entire time someone is employed.

Employing people with an intellectual disability is more than a ‘feel good’ and can produce benefits such as: • Stabilise high turnover positions and lower new staff induction costs, loss of productivity • Release under utilised experienced staff • Ensure routine or repetitive tasks are completed to your specified standards People with intellectual disabilities are part of a minority group of people who really want to work. These are people who love Mondays and hate Fridays, they always greet you with a smile and get enormous satisfaction being one of the team. It’s a great opportunity to give someone with an intellectual disability the chance to have a satisfying job, and greatly improve an individual’s quality of life and in turn makes good business sense. The wider community respects and appreciates companies that give a person with an intellectual disability a chance to succeed.

Employers who are looking to explore an opportunity for someone from Jobsupport should contact Sam Cheadle 02 9150 8888. n

Brooke Self and The Sebel Resort and Spa 7 years ago The Sebel Resort and Spa Hawkesbury Valley started a relationship with Jobsupport employing Brooke to work in Housekeeping. They identified a suitable role for someone restocking the mini bars in guest’s rooms each day. The candidate also needed to add information for used items into the reception computer system ready in time for checkout.

Jobsupport staff spent time breaking down the tasks into teachable steps and then matched Brooke to the role. Brooke lives locally and had requested hospitality as a suitable option for her.

A couple of years on Brooke’s role changed and new tasks were introduced. A role was identified working within the laundry folding sheets and towels, pressing pillow slips, as well as using the industrial washers and dryers. Prior to starting her new duties Jobsupport completed a detailed analysis of her new role and then increased their support to facilitate the training.

More recently Jobsupport are assisting Brooke clearing rooms, restocking housekeeping trolleys and vacuuming corridors.

“I love my Job because I get to meet new people and make new friends. I enjoy learning and I like to earn money so I can buy things” says Brooke.

Sam Cheadle of Jobsupport said “Its employers like this who are willing to give someone a go that really makes the difference. Our clients wouldn’t normally get be able to access open employment that make Jobsupport the leading service that it is today”.

mo |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

39

ADVERTORIAL

The best companion for your guests in the shower

N

o matter what type of accommodation you provide, your biggest single use of fuel in commercial industrial operations is for heating water.

With rising energy costs it can be a balancing act keeping costs down and productivity and guest satisfaction high. LPG is an extremely cost efficient method of water heating with little energy loss from its production or use. The fast recovery rate of LPG hot water units means the hot water storage tank size can be kept to a minimum. Because LPG is cleaner burning, lower exhaust emissions make it far healthier for the environment and lowers maintenance costs for your equipment.

In your accommodation business you have a enough to do without worrying that there is enough continuous hot water 24 hours a day for your customers.

ADVERTORIAL

From the moment your guests open their door LPG can provide them with cosy central heating at the best available cost. They can enjoy a relaxing swim in your pool, heated by economical LPG or dine al fresco in the warm comfort of a patio heater fuelled by LPG. And those superb meals your chef provides so efficiently using quick responding LPG gas!

There are also huge savings to be made in your laundry with washers and dryers run on LPG while your backup generators are far more efficient with gas.

At 95% pure, Elgas LPG is cleaner, more efficient with minimal waste, minimal maintenance and promotes longer appliance life. It is also far more versatile than either electricity or diesel providing the ideal platform for providing comfort, facilities and service.

And it is so cost efficient. If you are serious about reducing running costs, a smart energy strategy based on Elgas LPG is a solution that

will pay for itself in no time. You could save up to 25% over electricity and as much as 40% on diesel!

Using an Elgas energy smart assessment, your personal account manager will calculate your current energy expenses and calculate where you can reduce costs and provide for your guests energy needs in the most efficient way. This will enable you to make an informed decision on your energy use and needs.

Elgas is Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest supplier of LPG with a wide distribution network, enormous backup of LPG reserves and can provide an optimised energy solution backed by professional advice and expertise.

Wherever you are there is an Elgas representative near you with local knowledge and expertise of LPG and appliances.

For more information contact Ray Squires on 0410 072 651. n

We understand the stress of making ends meet in the current financial climate.

Here is some good news! roomMaster2000 Property Management Software has all the answers and modules to take your business to the next level at the most competitive price for the features on todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s market.

Unlike many budget software products, roomMaster2000 has PCI Compliance built in offering our clients and their guests all the mandatory legal protection from credit card fraud. roomMaster2000 not only offers its own Internet Booking Engine but also provides a link to all the major channel managers for web reservation bookings (Wotif, Bookings.com etc) and GDS companies.

An on-line presence is easy and inexpensive. roomMaster2000 is loaded on your computer, at your site, the data is yours with no external access.

Sleep well at night knowing that your systems can operate without the internet and are secure.

roomMaster 2000 works for properties of all sizes With three editions of our software along with interfaces to all of the popular systems found in the hotel industry, the perfect solution can be created for any property. Best of all, roomMaster 2000 was created by people with many years of hotel experience, so you can be assured it will work the way you expect with the backup and support from people who have worked the industry for many years.

roomMaster 2000 is cost-effective and affordable No other PMS can compete with roomMaster 2000 on both price AND features. Our annual maintenance agreement is priced at a fraction of our competitors. Please visit our web site and check out the features and prices.

www.innquest.com.au Email: ozsales@innquest.com Ph: 03 97282500 Fax: 03 86602912

mo |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

41

Do your Bed Valances fit perfectly?

By Gary Coman | Coman Textiles

Most moteliers from all parts of the world have had “the horrors” at some stage, having to deal with “ill fitting” and shabby Bed Valances. It is the one Bed Covering product that can continually upset your housekeeping staff, motel management and most importantly the paying guest.

Q

Why is it, this seemingly basic bed furnishing product can cause so much grief to so many and bring down the overall presentation of a motel room?

A

Too many people involved in some form of supply to this industry, do not understand what is required to produce a properly fitting Bed Valance, using the correct fabrics which must give many years of hassle free neat and stylish bed presentation. Some of these people do have a certain amount of textile experience, however the hotel Bed Valance has almost nothing in common with the cheaper retail style of product and

42 |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

mo

it can be an expensive mistake in more ways than one, when not chosen correctly Decisions on hotel/motel room decor quite often involve a whole series of people. These can include architects and specifiers, interior designers, FF&E operators, motel management and housekeepers. However, fabric choice and product design are most often decided by people that are after a look and sometimes a price, without fully understanding the function of the product.

Fabric The fabrics chosen are very important because they perform a different function to most fabrics used in hotel furnishings.

The fabric must be heavy duty with a tight construction and it should have a high abrasive resistance to cater for pull along luggage and foot traffic. It should also be washable for boot polish scuffs and to reduce maintenance costs, whilst also being FR where applicable and non creasing for that perfect presentation for every guest.

Style The older style pleated Bed Valance is not so often seen in recent years. One of the negatives with this style was its inability to always sit evenly on the bed base and if it were pulled slightly to one side or end, it would then become caught in the bed castors during the cleaning process. This would eventually shorten the life of the Valance and cause it to look drab and â&#x20AC;&#x153;ill fittingâ&#x20AC;? in too short a time, not to mention the extra time wasted by housekeeping.

Four sided picket quilted bed valance

The Picket Quilted Valance style is becoming the standard for discerning Hotel properties. This simple, yet very neat finish fits in with almost any hotel room decor, from semi traditional to ultra modern commercial and anything in between. A Picket Quilted Valance, when manufactured correctly and properly colour coordinated, should be that silent well tailored bed accessory that tastefully blends in with the whole hotel room decor and not stand out like white socks exposed with short dark suit trousers.

The bed base deck lining should never be exposed, even when guests draw back the bed covers, so a courtesy flange minimum 8 cms wide in the matching Valance fabric is always included. The Valance height should cover half of the castor for ease of floor vacuuming and bed mobility. This automatically takes the eye off the fully exposed castor which is a trait of beds with covered bases that in most cases, are not trying to compete with Hotels requiring the more professional look of a proper Bed Valance. The Picket Quilted style is only made four sided,

to ensure a snug fit (not tight) because the quilting has a degree of give which helps the Valance slide over the base and stay there at all times, even during sheet replacement.

You and your housekeeping staff are under enough pressure to keep to a time limit on room maintenance, a shabby Bed Valance is not something that can be made to look good, no matter how much extra time is wasted on it.

Your guests are definitely more discerning today, with much higher expectations of presentation and cleanliness in their choice of properties they wish to stay in.

Something very obvious like a shabby Bed Valance can be the catalyst for them to be looking for other areas in the room and maybe the whole motel, where they can be more critical of the standard that is not up to scratch and thus another customer is lost.

Hotel and motel management are easily frustrated with the knowledge that their standard and overall room presentation is being let down by something as simple as the incorrect choice of Bed Valances and the associated costs in replacing them. They are also very aware of the expectations of guests as per the above. n

mo |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

43

mo Profiles A ‘great’ life for this Alexander

T

o own and operate a motel and caravan park 693 km east of the South Australia/Western Australia border suggests you would have to be keen on country life, and that very much describes ‘Sandy’ Alexander.

She was born and grew up in Adelaide, though left the city as a teenager and has been a country girl ever since. Sandy has had a few brief spells back in suburbia during her life including living and working in Gawler, north of Adelaide. It was in Gawler that her adventuresome spirit led to ‘Sandy’ taking up a role of courier with Australia Post, then later operating a taxi.

Even though she now lives many miles away, she is still associated with the word ‘Gawler’ having back in 2003 purchased the Gawler Ranges Motel and Caravan Park.

Since then ‘Sandy’ has upgraded the business considerably and is now making her investment well worthwhile.

“The motel and caravan park is situated at Wudinna, on the Eyre Highway (National Highway 1) some 580 km west of Adelaide.

“Being in the heart of the Eyre Peninsula, Wudinna is only a short drive north to the famous Gawler Ranges, a great place for tourists. Many stay with us and take day trips to various interesting places to see,” she said.

For the record, Wudinna has a population of only about 450 with a 23-bed hospital, but if you think the town is small, then consider how it is probably the main centre for the district townships of Warramboo, Kyancutta, Yaninee and Minnipa.

This is no doubt because it is on the main highway linking Adelaide to Perth, and the people of this town maintain healthy sporting associations for tennis and table tennis, football, netball, basketball, bowls, golf, and even darts and Little Athletics.

44 |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

mo

Years earlier when attending an all girl’s school in the northern suburbs of Adelaide, ‘Sandy’ concentrated on subjects that would benefit her for office work and bookwork. When the time came, she moved smoothly into this occupation when going out into the workforce.

In the following years she was never far away from an office, even in 1983 when moving to Kangaroo Island and eventually joining the staff of the well known Ozone Hotel on Kangaroo Island, along with the Barossa Valley, the most popular tourist spots in South Australia.

She would remain on Kangaroo Island working in tourism and hospitality until 1999 when she moved back to the mainland to work initially in the administration department of an aged care facility before managing a mobile phone outlet. She had earlier married and by now was raising two children – a girl and boy. When the kids had grown old enough to stand on their own feet, ‘Sandy’ sold a property she had owned near Adelaide to invest in the purchasing of the motel-caravan park business in Wudinna.

When the marriage broke up, she was not backward in throwing herself into continuing with the improvements of her accommodation business.

Years earlier there had been two motels next to each other on this major Australian highway until they came to be joined together. However, a handful of years on, it seems little had been done to improve the occupancy rate of the business – the bottom line in making any motel a success.

Today ‘Sandy’ Alexander is the proud owner of a 23-unit motel, with a fine bar and restaurant that comfortably seats 35.

But the week we spoke with her, ‘Sandy’ was planning for a forthcoming function there for a visiting car rally that would

cater for around 100 people!

The A La Carte restaurant provides breakfast and dinner, seven days a week.

The occupancy rate of the motel is more than twice what it was when she purchased the business at the right price. ‘Sandy” and Peter, her partner of three years, are kept busy with the major chores, with local help used for the housekeeping tasks.

Nine of the 23 motel rooms are deluxe, with the others designed to cater for a more modest clientele. Her clientele consists of tourists, the usual corporate folk, and backpackers.

All rooms have TV and an ensuite and the usual mod-cons. There is a great indoor pool, and guests have access to a telephone and the internet in their room.

There are 20 sites for caravans, with the property having several on-site vans, along with five cabins.

Being so far between the capital cities of South Australia and Western Australia means that most backpackers will travel by road between the two States, and it should surprise no one that ‘Sandy’ caters well for this type of business.

They even have a large retired bus converted into modest sleeping quarters for travellers keen to keep a tight rein on their expenses.

“Sandy’ Alexander explains how life for her is good, with a profitable business, a district with a great climate, and her still very much loving country life. n

The gold rush has long ended, leaving behind much history

T

he Rushworth Motel 163 km north of Melbourne might only have eight units, but owners Angela Mimmo and her husband Brett are not afraid of working long hours most weeks in this quiet and usually peaceful town.

Rushworth was not always a peaceful place. Following the boom times that gold brought to the areas of Bendigo and to the north east at Beechworth 162 years ago, many travellers between these two centres then found it convenient to stop-over at a spot that would soon become Rushworth.

Then, in 1853, they discovered gold at Rushworth. This find would lead to many rather large nuggets being unearthed.

Within weeks there were seven hotels hastily constructed with an estimated 40,000 people flocking to Rushworth to live in tents.

Today the population there is down to around 1200, with a couple of hotels and the Rushworth Motel being able to cope with accommodation demand for most of the year.

The Mimmo’s prepare a nice breakfast that is delivered to each unit, with Brett then five days a week rushing off to his other duties – the manager of a local pet food business.

Angela from Monday to Friday takes care of the housekeeping chores with one eye on her other role – that of receptionist.

Brett then helps her out after dinner, while at weekends it is his turn to take over the housekeeping and the chores in reception.

It seems a busy life, especially when you take in how the couple have raised two kids – a boy and a girl. But it is not all work and no play for the Mimmo’s.

In the duck hunting season Brett enjoys his expertise with a gun and makes

time to go off hunting. Also, because they have an experienced retired motel worker in the town, they can also call on her assistance in a quiet moment when wanting to go away for a weekend.

Brett Mimmo was no stranger to motel life when he and his wife purchased the Rushworth Motel eight years ago.

Years before, when he was only 10, his parents had purchased the Sun Centre Motel in busy Swan Hill on the Murray River. He came to know what it was like growing up in such an atmosphere in a country city where tourism was so important to the local economy.

When his parents later decided to retire from the daily responsibility of working seven days a week, his father took up an offer to join the Budget Group as an officer whose position was travelling around inspecting the many businesses in this large motel chain.

Rushworth lacks the tourist trade of Swan Hill. However, there are some who may be fond of visiting a little history who will find this town fascinating in it retaining much of its original character through the many early buildings there.

Its diggings back in the 1850’s were quite significant, as several of the mining companies back then where known to have gone down to a depth of some 270 metres.

It was also a valuable district for logging with as many as seven major sawmills operating at one time. These days only one major sawmill remains.

Wiggs Brewery operated there from 1854 to 1898. No brewery is there today, but there is Jones’s Eucalyptus Distillery that can be inspected.

The town does have a fascinating museum, and for bird watchers, a 24,300 hectare State Forest. The thousands of trees there are mainly red ironbark, yellow gums and grey box eucalypts.

More than a hundred different bird species have been identified in the forest.

Seven km to the south of Rushworth is Whroo Historic Reserve which represents what was once a thriving little goldmining town of more than a thousand people along with 139 buildings.

All the buildings have been moved or demolished, though nearby one can observe the 25-metre deep open-cut mine on the hill. The area is well signposted for walkers and visitors.

Back in 1885 a 64 km diversion channel was hand dug from the Murray River at Echuca down to Murchison that would bring water to the Murray Goulburn where it developed a dairy and orchard industries.

Then in 1908 the seven-km Warringa Basin Embankment Wall was erected near Rushworth, again by man and horsepower. The outlet canal now follows the course of that first diversion channel.

Rushworth does have a lot to offer the tourist with time on their hands to look about this once famous gold-mining area.

And mine hosts of the Rushworth Motel, Angela and Brett Mimmo, will be most helpful to look after you when staying with them. n

mo |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

45

mo Profiles A ‘New Lodge’ in an old setting Katanning may have a modest population of around 5,000 people and be some 280 km south-east of Perth, but the accommodation awaiting visitors there includes a remarkable motel and restaurant established within the gardens of a famous landmark that was first built in 1913.

M

ark Steer was a builder and his wife Mandy an experienced caterer when they decided to invest in a motelrestaurant-function rooms business.

And the result three years later is quite spectacular and named New Lodge Motel & Restaurant.

The motel side of the business has 16 units. Each one includes a comfortable double and single bed, with a huge walk-in robe, colour TV, a bar fridge and freezer, tea and coffee facilities; and for families – units that have interconnecting rooms.

As a significant number of their clientele comes from the corporate world, the Steer’s have provided lighting over the table in each unit to brighten this area that is perfect for a work station.

Mark is proud of the manner their well prepared breakfasts are cooked for their motel guests, enabling them to get off to a great start for the day every morning.

46 |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

mo

Mark says the Kimberley Restaurant is an intimate dining room that reflects old world charm.

“We also provide fine food from an excellent a la carte menu along with a great selection of wines and spirits.

“Steeped in history, this room has classic high ceilings, bay windows and lead lighting set in a soft décor.”

Actually, the whole setting that involves the three areas of the New Lodge at Katanning looks elegant.

It was a magnificent looking private home when built in 1913 by a wealthy local businessman, and developed over the years has been impressive gardens surrounding the large home.

The restaurant seats up to 30, also includes a cosy bar. The room has been built with the warmth of wood grain in a traditional style.

For many visitors, it is the large and stylish function room that will take one’s breath away. It seats up to 150, with a spacious dance floor. Mark Steer claims it will provide brides with the chance to have a dream wedding.

It was designed with weddings in mind, but also doubles easily for any kind of business function. A central divider allows for smaller groups to meet in comfort, or the room can be spilt into study groups.

Helping out in the motel units are two housekeepers. The kitchen staff are kept on their toes with the restaurant and the function area, which many Katanning families coming to know well.

Mark and Mandy Steer have four children – two boys and two girls. The elder daughter Julie, has already taken her first step in the business, starting out in the kitchen, no doubt learning a lot from her mother’s experience.

Because of the loyal and hard-working staff, when Mark needs a break, he takes off to the South Coast for a spot of fishing, or takes the family along for some water skiing.

They are also follow the AFL, but both are supporters of two teams across the continent in Melbourne.

Mark, a supporter of the Demons in the WAFL up in Perth, has for some years followed the Melbourne Demons.

“This was because two of the boys from my Perth team (firstly Alan Johnston and later Earl Spalding) went on to do well for Melbourne, though Spalding later crossed over to Carlton.”

Mandy follows the North Melbourne Kangaroos.

Katanning might be more than a threehour drive up to Perth; it is 170 km north of Albany, and a similar distance across to Bunbury.

The Shire promotes the district as being in the ‘heart’ of Great Southern, with the Stirling Ranges being one of the tourist spots in the region.

With so much elegance to be seen and enjoyed when staying at the New Lodge & Restaurant, it is no wonder many a regular from the corporate world looks forward to making this trip into the Great Southern. n

mo |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

47

CARES FOR YOUR GUEST AND THE ENVIRONMENT

• Biodegradable plastic tubes and caps • Recyclable paper packaging • No plastic wrappers • Formulated with Aloe Vera extracts

48 |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

mo

THE NEW GENERATION IN GUEST AMENITIES PO Box 553, Newport Beach NSW 2106 Tel: 02 9979 1500 Fax: 02 9979 2555 info@swisstrade.com.au www.swisstrade.com.au

Top Hotel Technology – Trends in 2012

By Ted Horner

We asked Ted Horner, a well known hospitality consultant to give us his views on some of the technology trends we will be seeing this year in our hotels. Many of these are currently being implemented in our larger 5 start hotels and resorts. With these trends also filtering through to some of the smaller motels.

1. The iPad Revolution This device in my opinion is going to redefine how guests are going to use technology in hotels in the future particularly in the guestroom.

Consider these points: a. It is the fastest selling consumer electronic device in history with Gartner Group predicting that Apple will sell 100 million units by 2012. b. iPad is the first video centric guest internet device. c. It has a very simple GUI (Guest User Interface) and new users both young and old are able to use it almost immediately with little or no training. d. iPad is already placing huge demands on Hotel WiFi systems consuming much more bandwidth and data than in the past with people doing emails etc...

NB. While I have focused on the iPad we cannot forget other tablet devices that are also gaining market share namely the Samsung Galaxy, plus the new Kindle Fire and of course other smart phones that use the Android operating system from Google.

What Does This Mean for Hoteliers? a) Many hotels WiFi systems are suffering from a lack of available bandwidth and as result are getting overloaded as guests wish to download their own content. The result of this is that many guests are complaining about poor download experience and are using sites such as Trip Advisor to express their negative opinions. b) Guests want the same technology experience they have at home or office and if they have a bad experience may not return to hotel. c) With the increasing demand for more bandwidth and the subsequent costs to provide this it is in my opinion going to be difficult for hotels to agree to offer anything other than a limited free WiFi mainly for emails. d) iPads that are made available to guests to use in the guestroom open up a world of new opportunities for hotels to deploy in guestrooms to handle the following applications.

• Room Service ordering (one Five Star Hotel has seen a 13% increase in room service revenue since offering guests the option of ordering room service on the iPad as compared to ordering over the phone. The room service ordering on the iPad is fully integrated with the Point of Sale so once the items are ordered it is automatically sent to the kitchen plus it also posted to the guests folio without any more manual entries required.

This integrated process plus the ability to showcase dishes on the iPad with photos plus preparation notes etc. has in my opinion led to the increase in room service orders.

• Concierge services where the guest has the ability to access the full range of hotel services on the iPad without the need to call down to the concierge desk.

• The iPad can have a range of application software installed on it that is fully integrated with all the in room facilities such as lights, air conditioning, TV, curtains etc. whereby if a guest wishes, can turn on or off these facilities simply by using the iPad application.

• Another advantage of offering in room iPads is the elimination of the printed guest compendiums as these can all be accessed via the iPad. The GM of the hotel I visited believes that he will save between $30-40,000 in annual printing costs as compendiums need to be constantly updated. e) W ith the above application now available on the iPad, it is my belief that these devices if installed, are going to fundamentally impact the guest user interface (GUI). This will make it simpler for guests to access the in room facilities, as many guest find the TV remote control or the buttons on the wall to turn lights on and off too complex. f) As WiFi becomes the dominant platform for guests to access their applications what does the future hold for the historic requirement for multiple Cat 6 cabling to each room? g) Many guests are bringing their own content on the iPad and are happy to watch it on the iPad screen. So does that mean less watching of traditional TV or do hotels need to install expensive IPTV systems at all?

I recently came across this statement which I think sums up the current situation,

mo |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

49

“Customers will arrive at your hotel and will want what they want when they want it and the key for hotels is provide them with the infrastructure and the bandwidth to achieve this”.

revenue generating opportunities? In the future how will this change the relationship between the guest and the hotel?

If this is indeed what guests want then how can hotelier’s monetise the investment they make in new wireless access points, increased bandwidth etc. – The answer I believe is to offer tiered bandwidth where guests are offered a range of fees directly related to the amount of bandwidth they require. In other words the bigger the pipe a guest wants the more they should pay?

3. Cloud Computing

In summary the iPad has changed the way customers are using technology on the road and while it creates a great challenge for hotels, it is now up to the industry to embrace this device so guests can have the same download experience they have at home.

2. Mobility Mobile devices are now part of our everyday life and for many travellers they are now replacing the laptop, PC, telephone, kiosk, and boarding pass as part of the booking activity. A guest’s handheld device is now an integral part of the entire journey, not just from pre-trip planning and booking, but through the actual trip itself.

According to a recent survey that identifies traveller’s attitudes to mobile services, it shows how emerging mobile technologies will revolutionise each stage of the travel experience in the future: 1. Pre-trip (i.e. plan, book and board); 2. At the airport (i.e. lost bags, seating and disruption); 3. On-board (i.e. enhanced services); 4. At the destination (i.e. explore, connect and share experiences) and; 5. Post-trip (i.e. social media for immediate feedback).

These trends will become increasingly important and the challenge will be how hotels and other service providers will meet the expectations of the always connected traveller. Are the smart phone applications that guests can access going to replace the traditional check in experience or the need to use a magnetic card to gain access to a guestroom? Does this now allow hotels to develop new on demand

50 |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

mo

There has been a lot of talk about this subject and I believe 2012 will be when this technology takes off as a number of PMS vendors release their cloud version, where hotels will have the ability to access their major software applications on a web browser. Cloud computing offers many benefits to hotels not the least is a more cost effective way to deploy technology without the large up front capital expenditure and the need for a lot of hardware on premise. Furthermore, hotels that adopt this technology will have the opportunity to enter into Service Level Assurance (SLA) agreements with the vendors offering this service, where if predetermined service levels are not, then the contract can either be cancelled at short notice or financial penalties can apply.

4. Social Media Wikipedia defines Social Media as “media designed to be disseminated through social interaction, created using highly accessible and scalable publishing techniques.”

The reach of Social Media is growing substantially and now hotels are using it more than ever to engage with both new and existing customers.

It is important for hotels to actively monitor comments on Trip Advisor and do not allow negative comments to go unanswered. Also hotels should consider Trip Advisor Apps for Facebook and LinkedIn where they can link up client’s social media platforms and online communities to share information about the hotel where appropriate Facebook has created enormous changes in social networks and now with the release of their latest version it is now possible to use Facebook as a booking channel. Recent research from PhocusWright reveals that 66% of travellers are on Facebook and they spend an average of 46 minutes a day over a 30 day period. So based on this why would you not consider using the Facebook booking App to allow your guests to book your hotel on Facebook.

Another App is Facebook Places and

this provides an excellent tool in providing viral exposure which may assist in generating more web traffic and brand recognition hotels.

Twitter is another social media juggernaut that provides a free tool for guest and hotels to interact with each quickly and effectively.

Hotels need to harness the power of social media in order to stay ahead of their competitors.

5. Hosted PABX For many hotels one of the largest capital expenditure has been the PABX. In the past, revenue from guest phone calls justified this large capital outlay, but the advent of mobile phones and the cost of making calls from a hotel guest room have left hotels reeling from the costs of providing and maintaining this service.

Hosted PABX provides many benefits not the least is that a new PABX requires minimal up-front costs and a monthly subscription based fee which can be based on the preceding month’s occupancy. There are still some challenges in putting this model together but for the first time it offers an alternative to hotel owners who have a very old PABX which has passed its use by date.

6. Energy Management (EMS) With the cost of electricity continuing to raise, hotels have to start looking seriously at more sophisticated systems than the traditional magnetic stripe cards in the slot.

Hotels that have invested in sensor based occupancy systems, or those where the door lock systems are integrated to the PMS, have shown dramatic reductions in energy bills. When a person leaves a room, the EMS via an occupancy sensor, can detect that no one is in the room and then automatically lower the air conditioning to a designated set back position and also turn all the lights off.

ROI on these systems has shown pay back on the investment can be between 2 and 3 years, and can be less if hotels qualify for government rebates on the original investment. n

mo |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

51

BREAKFAST PACKS SNACK PACKS CONFERENCE PACKS Complete Meal in a box • Long Shelf Life

• Ready to Go

• Minimise Work

• Maximise Profit

• No Refrigeration Needed

• Pre Packaged

• Variety of Choice

• Leading brands

• Minimum Order 1 Carton

• Reduce Waste

• Capitalise on

• Free advertising material

Revenue Potential

for rooms and reception

Contact us for a free quote Phone/Fax: (07) 5535 1558 Email: info@lepack.com.au

52 |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

mo

Visit our webpage for prices and photos of all packs www.lepack.com.au

ADVERTORIAL

LePack – The Breakfast and Snack Pack People

By Kim & John Hardcastle | LePack

Pack-It (Qld) Pty Ltd trading as LePack is a family owned company that has a personal approach to doing business.

We attribute our success to a competitive buying ability, consistently high standards, quality of our staff and unequalled personal service.

We operate from our fully HACCP Accredited warehouse at Burleigh Heads.

O

ur products are used throughout the hospitality industry and provide a stylish, high-quality in house catering option.

Innovative, convenient and cost effective our packs provide a simple way to supply a Grab n’ Go Meal.

LePack has been embraced as the preferred supplier for many resorts, clubs, hotels, motels, accommodation venues, tour groups and event planners Australia wide, we service properties ranging from a few rooms to several hundred rooms in five-star hotels.

With prices for our Mini Breakfast Packs starting from as low as $3.50 and Snack Packs $3.25 each (minimum 1 carton) + freight you can’t go wrong. Lepack allows you the flexibility to customise a pack to suit your budget/dietary requirements, let us create the perfect pack for you.

While the guest delivery method may change, the opportunity for revenue generation remains. With early mornings and high costs involved in keeping an inhouse dining option, a breakfast alternative may be the edge required to secure the booking.

For the Hotel/Motel, supplying a prepackaged Breakfast or Snack Pack can be highly lucrative. Research undertaken by a major breakfast cereal company has shown that there are a number of missed breakfast opportunities that can be capitalised on through room service or by providing a takeaway option. With striking point of sale items LePack can help you get packs noticed.

For guests it is simple, fast and effective.

Everything that they need for a wholesome breakfast is right there in the pack. For piece of mind each Complete and On The Go Breakfast Pack are securely sealed in shrink wrap making them totally tamper proof and we use easily recognised leading brand name products.

The statistics were alarming. Nearly 50% of surveyed guest didn’t have enough time to eat breakfast in their hotel, is this revenue potential that you are missing out on?

There are two favoured ways of incorporating LePack into the property.

The first major delivery method was direct sale with a mark up from front reception or in-room through the mini bars. The second was the incorporation of the room plus breakfast option into the tariff rate.

Our packs are easy to use and handle, they have a long shelf life, don’t require refrigeration and are delivered direct to your door. These features can help your business minimise waste and effortlessly monitor stock levels which means that you can manage fluctuating demand with ease.

Lepack can provide you with a cost effective and timely solution for your guests. Contact Lepack on phone/fax (07) 5535 1558, email enquiry to info@lepack.com.au or view our full range of Breakfast and Snack Packs and prices at www.lepack.com.au n

ADVERTORIAL

ADVERTORIAL

Ultra Plus 2124 Air Conditioning remote control

I

f you’re looking for ways to save on energy costs you will be glad to hear of a clever little invention designed to substantially decrease electrical usage – with the Ultra Plus 2124 Air Conditioning remote control. This is a universal remote with smart styling and loads of features. It reduces energy costs by limiting the temperature range a guest is able to use. This temperature range is between 21 and 24 and there is an optional two hour timer that will turn the Air Conditioner off after two hours use.

Rob Livett of Thermo Controls explains how the Ultra Plus 2124 came about.

“One of our customers asked if it was possible to develop a remote with a limited temperature range. This customer went

on to explain a typical situation that occurs in motel operations every day in Australia.

That is a guest checks in, proceeds to the room only, turns the air conditioner on to the lowest setting then leaves for the day.

The air conditioner runs all day in an empty room”. Rob goes on to explain they then started working on the narrow temperature range of 21 to 24 including a timer that will shut down the air conditioner after two hours. This has worked very well but we received comments from the tropical regions saying they love the idea of the energy saving 21 to 24 degrees but we need the air conditioner to say on all night for our guests. Since then the 2124-1 has been released without the two hour timer.

Results have been positive with many installations all over Australia.

Comments include:

•W hat I like about the 2124 is the ease of use. Just change over the remote and start saving. Rex at Varsity Towers Robina (Bond University dormitory uses 300 of the 2124) •G rand Idea, I have been looking for this idea for ages. Jerry Gundy – Star Tourist Park •T he 2124 obviously saves money; there is no two ways about it. It also takes the worry out of things. I don’t have to worry about the cost knowing the temperature will not be over 24 degrees. Geoff Wells Inglewood Motel & Caravan Park If you are looking to save money with air conditioning costs consider the Ultra Plus 2124 with or without the two hour timer.

All you have to do is swap and save, it’s that easy. n

Air-conditioning remote that saves you money

The Ultra Plus 2124 places a timer on your air conditioners and limits their temperature range to between 21°C and 24°C. Simply SWAP your current remote with a 2124 and SAVE!

Start saving now!

Call 1800 300 661 Limited temperature range of 21°C ~ 24°C Compatible with thousands of AC units Works with splits, ceiling and cassettes With or without Two Hour Timer

“What I like about the 2124 is the ease of use. Just change over the remote and start saving.” - Rex Varsity Towers Robina

“Guests cannot turn it down to 16 degrees anymore. It has to make a difference.”

- Alan Mandarin Motel

“Within minutes of installing the batteries the remote was working. Now saving power is easy knowing that I have total control with the Ultra Plus 2124.” - G Cross of Frankston

www.thermocontrols.com.au

1800 300 661

ADVERTORIAL

Underneath it all — clean.

When it comes to making your guests feel comfortable, no detail is too small— and every surface matters. That’s why for over a century, hotels around the world have trusted Diversey to deliver the cleaning, sanitation, and hygiene solutions they need. In guest rooms, public areas, and restaurants and bars, we’re creating safer environments and sparkling interiors that help your guests feel right at home.

We’re Diversey, and we’re leading the world toward a cleaner, healthier future.

Ask us about Green Housekeeping and how we can help you achieve your Sustainability targets.

12711 enAUNZ 03/12

Learn more at www.diversey.com or call: Australia Toll free:1800 647 779 New Zealand Toll free: 0800 803 615

56 |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

mo

Contemporary chic meets retro romance: HOTEL + HOSPITALITY Furnishings returns to Furnitex 2012 HOTEL + HOSPITALITY Furnishings will return as a key feature at Furnitex and Decoration + Design 2012.

Held from 19-22 July at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre, the feature will put a spotlight on the latest products and trends for the hotel, motel and hospitality industries.

T

his event will attract a number of buyers working in architecture, interior design, property development and entertainment venues. HOTEL + HOSPITALITY Furnishings will feature the latest furniture and furnishings collections from some of Australia’s leading manufacturers, brands and suppliers.

Industry leader Satara, known for their high quality, hand crafted, indoor and outdoor furniture, will return to unveil their take on the latest interiors trends. From furniture pieces featuring colour blocking to outdoor accessories designed to complete the perfect ‘outdoor room’, their stand is sure to impress.

Another exhibitor not-to-be-missed will be Globe West, whose contemporary Australian furniture is known for its clean modern lines. Already a favourite amongst the hospitality industry, Globe West is sure to inspire with its latest collection of uniquely Australian

furniture characterised by texture, colour and versatility.

Design aficionados will love Retro and Modern, a wholesaler offering furniture for those with an eye for historic elegance.

With over 30 years of experience, the company has an impressive track record in helping customers select pieces that are more than just furniture.

Visitors looking for more than furniture will not be disappointed. Ambience Eco Fires will unveil their high-quality, Germandesigned denatured ethanol firesmade from sleek glass or stainless steel. Each clean burning, safe unit contains gently flickering flames able to add luxury and romance to interiors and outdoor entertaining areas.

Those with an eye for sleek surfaces will love Albedor, manufacturers of superior cabinet doors. Designed with style and versatility, Albedor is well known in the cabinet making industry, and appreciated by builders and designers for their kitchen, bathroom and laundry ranges. n Media contact: Simone Larmer or Sarah Thompson at Double Edge PR. Tel: 02 9957 1352.

Email: simone@doubleedge.com.au sarah@doubleedge.com.au

ITY Furnishings at What: HOTEL + HOSPITAL + DESIGN FURNITEX and DECORATION

RCE s with ATFA and LIGHTSOU she Fini & Co-located with Flooring

on Centre, Southbank Where: Melbourne Exhibiti 9 am – 5 pm When: Thursday 19 July 20 July 9 am – 5 pm Friday

5 pm Saturday 21 July 10 am –

4 pm Sunday 22 July 10 am –

Exhibitions & Conferences Event organiser: Australian or furnitex@aec.net.au tact AEC, tel: 03 8672 1200 Exhibitor information: Con Web: www.furnitex.com.au

mo |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

57

Choosing commercial laundry equipment

By Brian clarke

Whether coin-operated for guest laundry or manually operated machines for OPL use or to launder mop heads and Microfibre cleaning cloths. As with any equipment purchase, there are many factors to consider including minimising the impact on the environment.

Here is a short guide to some of the things to consider when purchasing Commercial Laundry machinery.

Domestic or Commercial quality: A domestic washer and dryer may seem attractive if you buy on price, but in the long run it will cost you more. Domestic washers are designed for around 3000 cycles on average loads whereas commercial washers are designed for more than 20000 cycles on full loads.

Domestic warranties either do not apply or are reduced to 90 days in commercial applications and downtime and long term maintenance costs will be far greater.

The old adage ‘you get what you pay for’ certainly applies.

Commercial washers are more durably built with heavy duty motors, larger load capacities and offer considerably shorter cycle times than domestic machines meaning that you can wash more in less time.

Capacity and power needs: Larger capacity washers and dryers mean more throughput and greater efficiency in processing your daily wash requirements.

58 |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

mo

An ideal capacity is 10 kg for washers and dryers.

Machines greater than 10 kg capacity are possibly too costly and large for the smaller areas or cleaning rooms.

Before you buy, check your power availability as you may also need heavier duty wiring to supply enough power. Commercial dryers, for instance, are designed to dry large loads in 20-40 minutes but require 20 Amp power outlets.

Water usage: It may be tempting to buy a top load rather than a front load because they are cheaper.

However top load washers use a lot more water – as much as 130 litres per wash cycle more than front loading machines – and generate a significant amount more waste water. Both of these are important factors, especially if you are serious about minimising operating costs and reducing your environmental footprint.

Construction: While the machine may look durable on the outside its the inside that creates the problems. Many commercial washers and dryers have enamelled or galvanised steel bowls, which tend to chip and peel and potentially develop rust spots that can stain or damage your fabrics. Don’t settle for

anything less than a Stainless steel bowl – its costs very little extra and has a longer life and much better wash results.

Spin speed and G-Force: The G-Force generated in the spin cycles is a key factor in machine selection but can vary from 220-420 G between brands.

Basically the higher the G-Force the better the rinsing and fabric is far dryer at the end of the wash cycle, meaning less drying time and a dramatic reduction in energy needed to run the dryer. Look for a washer with over 350 G with programmable spin cycles so that you can program your spin speed and G-Force to suit your fabric or your wash cycle.

Direct Drive Vs Belt drive: New Generation equipment such as the LG Giant C commercial washers feature direct drive motors, which are far superior in operation to the older belt drive type and generate much lower noise levels.

Manufacturer data indicates that belt drive machines use up to 30% more power than direct drive machines and the regular maintenance requirement with belts, pulleys and gearboxes is eliminated in direct drive units, thus driving down operating costs and reducing water and energy consumption.

Programmability: New Generation commercial washers and dryers have programmable cycles and simple one touch operation instead of manually operated buttons and dials. Programming is accessible by the supervisor only and enables customisation of cycle times, spin speeds, no of rinses and water temperature, which means consistent wash outcomes, more throughput and lower overall costs.

Sanitation and chemical management: Manual dosing of powdered or liquid detergents and sanitisers has inherent issues including pilferage, over use, poor cleaning outcomes, detergent residues in fabric, safety issues and higher costs.

All of these issues can be overcome and detergent costs can be slashed by fitting automatic chemical dosing pumps to your machine. However, not all commercial machines are compatible with detergent dosing pumps and fitment may void warranty so it is important to ensure that the manufacturer or supplier can demonstrate compatibility.

Making space â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Stack or stand alone machines: Cleaning rooms are inherently small and it is important that you know the laundry system that you choose will fit and take up minimal space. The easiest solution if you have normal ceiling heights is to purchase stack washer dryers. Stack machines consist of a commercial dryer stacked on top of a commercial washer.

Stacked machines use the floor space

of a single unit and are only available in front loading configurations. Choose stack washers that can be assembled on site as large pre-assembled units may not fit into your doorway.

Service and Parts: As with any machine purchase, it is important to determine the availability and pricing of common consumables. In Commercial washers and Dryers these including filters, door seals on front loaders, door latches, water solenoids, main boards and pumps and the location of suitably trained service agents.

The principles for choosing on-site laundry equipment to maintain your valuable fabrics are the same as choosing any onsite cleaning equipment. They include durability, productivity, reliability, simplicity, repairability and overall value for money.

Follow these simple steps and your choice will be easy. n

100

100

95

95

75

75

25

25

5

5

0

0

100

100

95

95

75

75

25

25

5

5

0

0

mo |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

59

“Australia’s largest motel chain”

Take advantage of our largest National Advertising Campaign yet!

We invite you to become a part of our family.......

Golden Chain’s unique distribution system provides Moteliers with a cost effective marketing solution without hidden fees.

Advertising campaign reaching approx 10 million people across TV, Print & Online No commission on bookings via www.goldenchain.com.au Member Intranet service providing access to National Suppliers at reduced costs and tools to help your business grow More than 300,000 Australian Travel Guides distributed throughout Australia yearly Dedicated Membership Services Team to assist you develop your business International Pass Program Dedicated Marketing and Social Media Team Hot Deals Program distributed online and to a large centralised guest database Gold Link Travel Club card program with more than 1,000,000 members

Contact our team today to learn more about how we can be of service to you and increase your business Phone: 02 6681 1328 Fax: 02 6686 2681 email: email@goldenchain.com.au web: www.goldenchain.com.au

ADVERTORIAL

ADVERTORIAL

Accommodation Chain Benefits

By William Drew | Managing Director, A.S.K Marketing Services Pty Ltd

M

oteliers have been faced with very challenging times over the last few years. The Global Financial Crisis and the rise in the Australian Dollar has led to diminishing international and domestic visitors to the point where some of our greatest tourism destinations have seen reductions in visitor numbers of more than 50% on previous years. As such poor visitation has strained previously strong tourism businesses and in some cases to the point of bankruptcy.

6. D o they provide a Member Intranet providing access to group supplier purchasers and tools to develop your business?

During these economic slow times it’s become more apparent that operators need to be vigil in actively marketing their respective property and sourcing distribution channels to cast their net wider and source alternative business sources.

11. Are the Australian owned and operated? n

7. D oes the chain provide a dedicated sales and marketing team?

8. D o they provide a membership services team?

9. D o they provide a centralised database of guests?

10. Can they offer a travel club program with more than 1,000,000 members?

Accommodation co-operatives such as Golden Chain Motels have seen an overall increase in business for its member properties through these difficult times. The introduction of innovative marketing initiatives such as a commission free web booking engine along with more than a million dollars being spent on a national brand and tactical advertising campaign across a number of mediums including television, targeted print advertising and online (and embracing the power of social media) has dramatically assisted the group maintain a strong brand presence.

It’s anticipated that more than 10,000,000 Australians will be reached throughout the national campaign period!

Golden Chain differs from many Motel chains in a number of ways.

Whilst they charge an annual Membership fee like others they did not charge for additional services such as call centre enquiries or their centralised web-booking portal. Other chains charge an average 10% commission on business generated via the group’s booking services. The result being, more fees are charged to the motelier.

Some of the key areas to look at if you are investigating the option of joining a chain are; 1. A nnual fees vs potential return on investment 2. M arketing and Advertising Activities – what’s planned?

3. T he Chain’s distribution networks. What programs are they involved in and what markets do they focus on? re they active online and do they offer a commission free 4. A booking service?

5. D o they produce a bi-annual Accommodation Directory?

ADVERTORIAL

ADVERTORIAL

Afraid to make your bed Can’t bend or twist?

Afraid of serious injury?

S

tatistics prove back injury from the making of bigger heavier beds has never been higher.

There is an answer... Make bed making a pleasure, not a task, make your bed standing up... No more bending, stretching or twisting, less chance of injury.

Cleaner healthier rooms, combat allergies, dust mite and bed infestations.

The Original Electric Lift with powerful motor and remote control/sensor operation, for lifting the bigger heavier beds, as being used in the hotel industry throughout the world.

The fully automated Ezi-Maid Bed Lifting System is a robust steel frame which fits under existing beds and is operated by an infrared remote control, this activates a powerful Actuator Motor lifting the bed to waist height. This allows the bed to be made in a standing position with little or NO bending, resulting in less injuries. Ezi-Maid does the heavy work, no more pushing and pulling King size or heavy beds... gives total access around and underneath the bed, making cleaning and checking for dust mites and bed bugs a breeze, guaranteeing a cleaner, healthier environment, lifting beds up to 150 kilograms.

NEW... the little brother alternative, especially for lighter single to Queen size hospitality beds. Foot pedal release spring operation for raising bed and optimum weight calculation for easy push down locking. A Side Lift version is available for those difficult corner beds and short rooms area, lifting beds from 35 to 75 kilograms.

The Ezi-Maid Spring Lift Systems are heavy duty and have been designed with an optimum weight function and are available for single, double and queen size beds of standard Hotel, Motel supplied bed weight.

The Side Spring Lift version is for single beds only. As in the fully automated version the Spring Lift system lifts the bed to average waist height and creates clearance around

ADVERTORIAL

the bed allowing the bed to be made in a standing position, giving ease of cleaning in, under, and around the bed.

The manual bed and sofa lift designed to eliminate heavy lifting in industry and home situations, is quick to assemble, easy to use and store. The manual bed and sofa lift helps to reduce back and related injuries and allows ease of cleaning under bed’s and sofa’s. Lifting to four hundred and twenty millimeters high the manual bed and sofa lift then locks in, giving you a safe and secure work area. It is also a valuable accessory for the installation of the Ezi-Maid Bed Lifting Systems, no need to un-make or shift beds, just lift and install.

The multiple award winning Ezi-Maid Bed Lifting Systems, setting standards in

workplace safety, helping to reduce back related injuries, creating happier housewives and cleaner, healthier rooms... Globally.

Who cares about Housekeepers?...

Ezi-Maid Bed Lifting Systems DO!.

Ezi-Maid Bed Lifting Systems, innovative products, designed to guarantee the reduction in injuries, related to bed making.

For further information visit www.ezimaid.com.au or call 1300 88 77 39 n

Sanitising your pool

By Liz Hollingdale | Pool controls

A swimming pool should be the sparkling jewel in any hotel or resort. An attractive pool will always feature in any marketing material – and can be a real asset. In addition to looking the part, the pool should be a pleasure to swim in, and hotel management need to be sure that it is safe and hygienic for guests of all ages.

G

ood sanitation can mean the difference between an aquatic facility being the star attraction – rather than a costly hole in the ground.

The consequences of getting it wrong can be serious. There is the risk of serious infection from waterborne pathogens such as E.coli – not to mention the public relations disaster of an unattractive green and murky appearance.

In addition, public swimming pools and aquatic facilities are regulated by a plethora of laws, regulations and guidelines that vary slightly from state to state. This article aims to shed some light on the key points that need to be addressed to ensure compliance with these laws – and maximise return on the investment in swimming pools and spas.

Choosing a Sanitiser A sanitiser must be able to kill pathogens quickly and effectively, and there must also be a residual effect to protect the pool as it is being used.

Popular (and approved) sanitation methods include the use of chlorine, bromine and ozone, or combinations of these. The most

commonly used chemicals are chlorinebased or bromine-based. Both chlorine and bromine are strong oxidising agents and provide a lasting residual. Some chemicals only do part of the job – for example, ozone is a powerful oxidiser and has a strong initial bactericidal effect, but dissipates too rapidly to provide ongoing residual. A combination of methods may be the best approach – for example, ozone with a chlorine residual.

Choice of sanitiser will also depend on whether the pool is indoors or outdoors.

An outdoor pool will almost always be better ventilated than the best designed indoor pool, meaning that any chloramines present will have less of an impact.

However, ultra violet light from the sun will result in considerable loss of free chlorine which should be protected with the addition of stabiliser (cyanuric acid).

Of all the chemical sanitisation methods, chlorine is undoubtedly the most widely used. Bromine is often preferred for indoor pools and spas because bromamines (produced when bromine combines with nitrogenous compounds) are better tolerated by the human body than the equivalent chloramines, and are sanitisers in their own right.

Monitoring the Situation It’s also important to be able to measure and monitor what’s going on in the pool water at all times. Obviously, you can’t judge sanitiser levels by the naked eye – and by the time the pool looks different, it could have been unsafe for some time.

Most states require that public aquatic facilities have continual dosing systems and also recommend using automatic controllers that are capable of constantly measuring levels of sanitiser. Regular manual testing of pool water is also mandated in most states.

Killing Power So how do these different sanitisers actually operate? Essentially, molecules of the disinfectant are capable of passing through the cell walls of water-borne bacteria and once inside the bacteria cell, set about oxidising the various enzymes found there – resulting in the death of that bacteria.

Because it is oxidation that kills the bacteria, one of the most accurate means is to measure the “oxidation-reduction potential” or ORP of the water. ORP is most easily described as the “bacteria killing power” of the chlorine (or other sanitiser) in water. It is a measure of how quickly the oxidising agent is going to be able to inactivate the bacteria.

ORP is measured in millivolts using an electrode (often referred to as a “probe”).

Research has shown that 650mV is the lowest level required to kill the bacteria in water quickly (in a few seconds). If ORP is maintained at 500mV it will take several hours to kill the same bacteria.

However, state health authorities prefer to measure sanitiser levels more indirectly by measuring parts per million (ppm) of chlorine or other sanitiser. The difference between measuring chlorine content using ORP rather than in ppm is that the ORP reading relates directly to the time it takes to kill bacteria while a ppm reading does not. A ppm reading (usually via a colorimetric test e.g. DPD) will usually provide the same result independent of pH and stabiliser level – whereas the actual effectiveness of that chlorine will vary significantly.

Optimising Water Chemistry It’s really important that swimming pool chemistry be maintained within the correct range. It’s no good having too much or too little of anything – because the overall effectiveness of the pool sanitiser will

mo |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

63

be compromised – not to mention the consequences for human health and the pool infrastructure itself!

State authorities each publish their own requirements and it is worth checking what the specified levels are for your particular state. The table below gives an indicative range that will satisfy most standards: Chlorine

1.0 – 3.0 ppm

pH

7.2 to 7.8

Calcium hardness

90 to 300 ppm

Stabiliser (recommended in outdoor pools)

30 to 50 ppm

Total Dissolved Solids

300 to 1500 ppm

It’s really important that swimming pool chemistry be maintained within the correct range. It’s no good having too much or too little of anything. cell walls and it does not carry an electrical charge.

The Effect of Changes in pH

However, hypochlorous acid will itself dissociate into hydrogen ions and hypochlorite ions in a pH dependent equilibrium. This dissociation will increase as pH is allowed to rise. So, the lower the pH, the more hypochlorous acid will be present in the water and the more effective the sanitisation will be. The pH range of 7.2 to 7.8 will result in good levels of hypochlorous acid, without being uncomfortable to bathers or injurious to pool surfaces.

When chlorine-based compounds are added to water, hypochlorous acid is produced. It is this compound that is the most effective sanitiser, because it is small enough to pass easily through bacterial

pH also affects the formation of chloramines – particularly trichloramines, which are often the culprit in cases of eye irritation. Trichloramines are more likely to result where the pH of the water is below

64 |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

mo

7.2 – another reason for maintaining pH within the specified range.

Stabiliser – “Sunscreen” for Outdoor Pools Stabiliser, also known as cyanuric acid, is widely used in outdoor pools and spas sanitised with chlorine to prevent the UV rays in sunlight from destroying free chlorine residual. Cyanurates bind with free chlorine in complex molecules that are less susceptible to decomposition in UV light. Tests have shown that in an outdoor pool without stabiliser, chlorine residuals are 90% destroyed in six to eight hours, while in pools with stabiliser, only 10-15% of chlorine residual is lost in the same period of time. Without stabiliser, there is a risk that chlorine residuals will

not be adequately maintained – and the expense of additional chlorine required in an unstabilised pool is not inconsiderable.

In water without stabiliser, an ORP of 650mV will give a reading of 0.05-0.5ppm chlorine. If 50ppm of stabiliser is added, the ORP reading will remain at 650mV, but the chlorine ppm will rise to approximately 2.5-3ppm. The sanitiser will kill bacteria quickly and ensure that the ppm levels meet Health Department requirements.

Stabiliser can reduce the effectiveness of chlorine when levels exceed 80ppm (particularly if there are high levels of TDS) and while the addition of stabiliser to an indoor pool may assist in raising ppm levels of free chlorine, it does not really play a useful role in the absence of UV and actually decreases the efficacy of the sanitiser. In NSW and South Australia, regulations preclude the use of stabiliser in indoor public aquatic facilities.

Technological Assistance This has been a brief introduction to some of the key aspects of pool water chemistry.

It is a fairly complex area and it is vital that those responsible for maintaining public pools have a good understanding of how the various components interrelate.

any system is only as good as the person driving it! n

It is also important to have good management systems in place so that chemical levels are constantly within the correct ranges – and a good water monitoring system that will alert you if something needs attention. This is where technology can assist, with automatic monitoring and dosing systems now capable of doing most of the heavy lifting – although it goes without saying that

Australian Standard AS 3633

The possibilities are

References: Government of NSW – Public Swimming Pool and Spa Guidelines 1996 Government of SA – South Australian Health Commission – Standard for the Operation of Swimming Pools and Spa Pools in South Australia Government of WA Department of Health – Code of Practice Aquatic Facilities

endless… pumps / filters / automation / lighting / cleaners / sanitizers / water features / maintenance products Freecall: 1800 664 266

www.pentairwater.com.au

mo |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

65

Robot Cleaning Technology – what’s the fuss all about?

By Dan Kwaczynski | Maytronics Australia

Robotic Pool Cleaning technology is gaining a strong a loyal group of pool owners in Australia market – it is one of the fastest growing product

b. B rushing, Scrubbing – Robots are designed not simply to suck debris from your pool but they actually scrub the surface as well. Some even have extra brushes designed to work independently at high speed. (Picture 1).

category in the pool industry.

With a plethora of new robots entering the market it is worth asking why this is happening and what makes robots better than other cleaning products.

T

he simple answer is value for money. Robots have a significant number of end user features compared to all other pool cleaners So what are these features and why are they superior to their rivals?

Superior Cleaning Ability a. Systematic – Many robot cleaners are systematic. The ones that are systematic have in built electronics, with sensors, logic and controls to enable the robot to navigate the pool, the better ones actually map the pool each time they are installed. This means they provide superior coverage and they don’t get stuck. Check out the amazing scanning pattern of the Dolphin Supreme M5 below.

Picture 0 – Dolphin Supreme M5 scanning pattern

66 |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

mo

Picture 1 – Dolphin Supreme M4 & M5 – triple action brush; Picture 2 –A Dolphin about to climb

c. Independent filtration – Robots have on board their own independent filtering system. This removes debris from the water and filters as it goes. Comparison’s show this to be at a very high level compared to pressure cleaners. d. S trong suction power – Robots have an extremely strong suction power –ranging up to 250 litres per minute – that’s as much as the main filter pump in many pools. e. Wall Climbing and Waterline scrubbing – The enormous suction creates an additional benefit – it enables the robot to climb walls (picture 2), benches and ledges and once at the surface they can be programmed to scrub the waterline as well.

Easy to Use a. Easy to use – Robots are extremely easy to use – simply place in the water and press on. No more hoses, floats and bumps, booster pumps. They are simple and ease to set up and simple and easy to use! b. Reclaim your pool – Because Robots have superior cleaning abilities, they are really only needed to be used once or twice a week for the majority of your

pool can look like a pool again – not like hydraulic factories with pipes and hoses in all directions!

Environment Benefits a. Save Power – Robots operate and filter inside the pool. They are completely independent of the pools main filtration system. The great benefit of this is that water does not have to be pumped 20 metres of piping through bends, elbows, etc just to get filtered. The water is filtered in the pool. Independent studies

by Electrical Companies have shown that annual savings can be around $300 per annum (even after the small running cost of a Robot is taken into account).

Note – pool filtration is still needed – just not to anywhere near the level required by other cleaners. b. Save Water – Because Robots filter in the water, they remove the debris from the system. This in turn means that the main pool filter unit does not become clogged as quickly, which results in fewer backwashes.

Estimates are that backwashing is reduced by up to 50% when using robots compared to all other cleaning methods. c. Save Chemicals – Robots help to reduce chemical requirements. Australia the vast majority of pools have suction cleaners that are permanently in the pool and connected. In this circumstance, the skimmer is completely ineffective – the result is that all debris landing on the surface must slowly go through the water, making the water cloudier but also requiring chemicals to control. When a robot is used – the pool’s skimmer starts working again! Also, by removing the debris rather than storing it in the pool’s main filter the chemical load is reduced.

Don’t be left behind – join the robot revolution! n

Wave 75 - Pools Up to 20 metres

Make your Life Simpler with a Dolphin Pool Cleaner ProX - Pools Up to 25 metres

• Trust the Brand The Dolphin brand is recognised internationally as the Number 1 choice for pool cleaners

• Trust the Company The pioneers of robotic pool cleaning with over 25 years experience

• Trust the Support Maytronics training and service centres in Major Centres around Australia

Please Contact Us for more Information & Demonstration of Cleaners

Liberty Pro - Up to 15 m with islands and obstacles

Why a Dolphin is right for you?

Commercial

maytr nics

Exceptional Pool Experience

1300 MYDOLPHIN or www.maytronics.com.au

mo |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

67

What do all these spectacular pools have in common?...

SPA ELECTRICS

The No.1 in underwater lighting

Spa Electrics have been developing underwater lighting systems for over 25 years – so you can be assured that we have the experience and product range to make your pool look truly spectacular!

We are committed to providing the latest in pool lighting design and technology to deliver unsurpassed performance, reliability and energy efficiency with our lighting systems. We work closely with leaders in the pool construction industry to ensure our products are designed to exceed the needs of both users & pool builders. As a result our products are the preferred choice of many builders & specifiers.

Contact us today to discuss your upcoming pool project.

Atom EM Series

LED - Flush mounting for concrete, fibreglass & vinyl pools

WN Series

LED & Halogen - Flush mounting for concrete & fibreglass pools

GK Series

LED & Halogen - Surface mounting for concrete, fibreglass & vinyl pools

SE3-M

Classic Halogen - Surface mounting for concrete, fibreglass & vinyl pools

Retrofit

LED & Halogen - Models to suit most existing concrete, fibreglass & vinyl pools

Not sure what LED light to choose?

Visit www.spaelectrics.com.au to download “HOW TO GUIDE – Selecting the right LED light for you”

Ph +61 (0)3 9793 2299

68 |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

mo

Fax +61 (0)3 9799 9300

web www.spaelectrics.com.au

“ultra compact, bright, energy efficient, reliable, exquisite colour.”

LATEST RELEASE

The simple Lighting upgrade for your pool.

RETRO

FIT SPA ELECTRICS’ range of ultra-compact, high-performance Retro Fit pool lights are now available!

Available in award winning Ceramic Light Engine or Halogen. Suitable to replace all major pool lighting brands.

Ultra compact Reliable Bright

Slimline designs producing minimal obtrusion into pool area.

Advanced LED technology and IPX8 water-ingress protection means the Retro Fit Series lights will work reliably year after year.

High-intensity single and multi-colour LED’s provide ample illumination for even the largest pools.

Energy efficient

Superior LEDs and Spa Electrics’ patented DUOSINK® and PULSEWAVE® technologies deliver maximum brightness with the lowest power consumption on the market today.

Exquisite colour

In both single & multi-colour options. Multi-colour provides brilliant & seamless transitions between up to 7 colours

Don’t compromise… ask your builder or retailer for SPA ELECTRICS lights for your pool mo |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

69

ECOLINE – 75,000 Hours OF

TROUBLE FREE DISINFECTION FOR YOUR SWIMMING POOL No salt – No chlorine – Just add fresh water & electricity

By Alan Lewis

T

he motel owner could not wish for a better disinfection system than this for the motel swimming pool. This electrolytic system relies on a very expensive, exceedingly effective anode and has been constructed in modular units so that it can be used for the disinfection of any sized body of water. For the swimming pool industry this is a boon in many ways, not the least of which is that it requires very little maintenance and is economical in its use of power, floor space and, most of all – chemicals. There are savings all round. The pool operator is left with little more to do other than to attend to the normal balancing of the main body of water which ensures neither scaling nor corrosion of the body of the pool; the tiles; and the equipment in the plant room.

RECYCLING POOL WATER Since this is a fresh water electrolyser, the water in the pool will always be fit to drink – not just to swim in. When back washing the filter, this water is admirably suited to irrigation of the surrounding gardens and lawns in the motel grounds since the TDS can be maintained around <500 mg/l. This is in stark contrast to all other salt chlorination systems available in Australia today which rely on a level 4000 – 6000 mg/l of salt for the production of the chlorine needed for disinfection. The backwash water from such pools must simply be wasted. Most gardens and lawns cannot be irrigated with such levels of salt and the surrounds and the plants near-by

70 |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

mo

So where this pool is also intended to provide a venue for training of competitive swimmers, there can be no better way of meeting the disinfection requirements than this electrolytic system.

EASE OF INSTALLATION

often suffer severe burns from such levels of salt. Hence the name “ECOLINE”.

SAFETY Importing Chlorine in any of its forms: liquid, granular or gas requires stringent attention to OH&S requirements both in its transportation as well as its storage and metering. The constant attention needed in maintaining the safe storage and handling of the supplies is often exceedingly onerous – particularly in remote areas or off shore islands. Protective clothing and safety equipment is totally unnecessary when the Ecoline system is installed. This in itself represents a huge saving in the running and maintenance of the pool.

FINA (Fédération Internationale de Natation) STANDARDS Where the pool in question is being used for teaching of swimming and/or competitions, the low Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) component will easily meet FINA standards.

Each unit is compact and skid mounted and hence lends itself easily to modular applications as well as retrofitting.

The cabinet which houses the electrical controls is hermetically sealed and internally cooled,to avoid over heating of the transformers. It also has a built in acid wash system for the periodic cleaning of the calcium build up on the electrodes.

MAINTENANCE OF THE ELECTROLYTIC CELL It is well known that electrolytic cells suffer from that build-up of calcium in the cell.

Like most modern electrolytic chlorinators, Ecoline cells are also equipped with automatic reverse polarity devices which descale the cells and reduce the cells maintenance by about 95%.

COST AND ENERGY EFFICIENCY A few years ago Simmonds & Bristow (Environmental Consultants) was commissioned by Australian Innovative Systems (AIS) to conduct pilot testing of the performance of the Ecoline Chlorine Generation System. One of their early experiments was to compare the cost of treating a particular water supply being

treated with a UV facility with the Ecoline system. The result showed that whereas the Ecoline system required 45 KW hours to achieve a satisfactory kill rate of specific pathogens – the UV required 750 KW to achieve the same result. This showed an energy saving of 94%.

The life span of the cathode that produces this fantastic result has been rated at 75000 hours or 81/2 years approximately.

Depending on the size of the unit the cost of replacing the cell every 8.5 yrs ranges from as little as $1000 per year if the unit is working 24/7. The sizing of the unit can be designed to suit the size of the pool and the maximum bather loads expected under peak conditions.

OXIDANT CONCENTRATION PRODUCTION (From Brisbane water) When tested by S&B 2-3 yrs ago, for the purposes of this specific research, Brisbane water had Chlorides in the range of 21 – 232mg/mg/l. One might well ask – how is it possible to disinfect (chlorinate) a pool from such low levels of chlorides??

Much research has been invested in this question, with the aim of finding a clear picture of just how this can be done. It must be remembered that Australian Drinking Water Guidelines (2004) require all water treatments intended for drinking, cooking, showering, bathing etc, to meet fairly stringent guidelines. Amongst these is the requirement to keep drinking water under a TDS of 500 mg/l. Since most states require swimming pool water to maintain their treatments below a TDS of 1000 mg/l above the supply water; this translates to a maximum TDS of 1500 mg/l in any particular pool. Clearly, the salt chlorination industry, up to this point, has ignored that guideline entirely.

Sodium Chloride ( NACl) + H20 + energy ==>> Sodium Hypochlorite (NaOCl) (+ H2 (Hydrogen gas) 1) The Anode oxidises the chloride to produce Chlorine gas which immediately dissolves in the water to form Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) – and depending on the pH – a certain amount of OCl (hypochlorite anion).

2) The cathode reduces the water to produce Hydrogen gas and Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH). In closed circulation systems, the Hydrogen gas dissolves for the most part into the water.

With the Ecoline Electrolyser system, only about 50% of the oxidants created, are actually free chlorine. The other 50% of the oxidants include: dissolved oxygen, oxygen ion (O*); Ozone (O3); superoxide anion (O2-); Hydrogen Peroxide (H2O2); Hydroperoxyl radical (HO2); hydroxyl radical (OH-); Chlorine dioxide (ClO2).

Since the Oxygen Reduction Potential (ORP) is often influenced negatively by some of the radicals produced in the electrolytic cell, and in particular the dissolved Hydrogen that evolves after being produced at the Cathode, – it is essential that this system be controlled by an instrument that measures free chlorine and free chlorine equivalents. Most common controllers such as Blue I and Osmolflo which have in-line photometers, are capable of managing a swimming pool successfully

using the free chlorine equivalent as the critical parameter.

DISINFECTANT BY-PRODUCTS There remains the issue of disinfectant by-products (DPS) produced by Ecoline systems. At this point there is insufficient research to indicate how well the electrolysis breaks down chloramines and chloroform created by swimmers. While it is know that a certain percentage of monochloramine is in fact reduced as it passes through the cell, no research has yet been done to quantify this in relation to given bather loads and residuals. Hopefully it will not be long before this information will be made available to the science of electrolysis.

In view of the in depth research that has been undertaken by AIS to ensure that the Ecoline system ticks all the boxes, the Motel owner can be confident that this is method will indeed prove efficient in saving water; energy; chemicals; and labour as well as the on-going maintenance costs. The Ecoline system is admirably suited to the conditions of outdoor pools, which enjoy the additional advantage of “free Ultra Violet light” photolysis. Indoor heated pools also enjoy an added payback from the fact, that, the higher the temperature of the water, the less demand there is on energy to achieve the same resultant disinfectant. n Correspondence: aquazure34@gmail.com

AIS has proven to Australia and to the world that it is now possible to achieve this quite comfortably with their Ecoline products. What then are the particular achievements that this system has achieved where others have not? The S&B research has extensively analysed the oxidants produced in this process and have arrived at some reasonably reliable and verifiable answers. To understand this a little better we need to remember just what happens to salt solutions when they pass through the electrolytic cell:

mo |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

71

Harmonise your pool Waterco is one of Australia’s largest suppliers of pool products. We asked Bryan Goh, their Group Marketing Director, to give us a run down on their latest products and technology that can assist motel owners in running a more efficient swimming pool.

W

hen it comes to energy efficiency, the products that make up the EnviroPro range of pool equipment from Waterco lead the way. And by making sure all the individual products work together in harmony, motel owners can reach an entirely new level of energy efficiency – which is good news for your budget and the environment.

Over the past 10 years, developments in pool equipment technology have followed the wider consumer electronics trend, pushing towards higher levels of energy efficiency. But unlike other market sectors, the swimming pool industry does not have a mandatory star rating or energy labelling scheme in place, so at times it can be difficult to know where to start.

In order to make the process easier, Waterco has launched the EnviroPro range consisting of high quality, energy efficient and awardwinning water saving pool equipment, from the latest energy efficient pool pump, cartridge and granular filters and MultiCyclone pre-filter, to the latest robotic pool cleaners, LED lights and solar pool heaters.

When installed holistically, these innovative pool products maximise energy savings and reduce operating costs. The EnviroPro range can also help you save thousands of litres of precious pool water each year.

“Domestic and commercial pool owners are increasingly looking for ways to save energy, water and time when it comes to selecting the right pool equipment – and with that in mind we have put together the EnviroPro range,” explains Bryan.

“By combining and operating energy efficient products in the right way, the benefits are enormous.”

Pump and Filter Efficiency Lower, more energy efficient pump speeds mean you use less electricity. Pool water clarity is also improved due to slow flow and better filtration. And not only that, the lower the pump speed, the quieter the pump – which means you can run your filtration system during the night, without disturbing your guests, and make the most of your off peak electricity tariffs.

Waterco’s EnviroPro range features the low flow Hydrostorm ECO pump which uses up to 70% less electricity than a regular pump.

By combining this pump with the EnviroPro Opal XL cartridge filter you eliminate the need for regular backwashing saving you both water and energy.

While granular filters have dominated the Australian pool market for many years, cartridge filters are also increasingly a popular choice, thanks to their real energy and water saving efficiencies.

72 |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

mo

Cartridge filters operate effectively combined with a smaller pump because, unlike granular filters, they do not require high flow rates for backwashing.

Waterco’s water efficient Opal XL and Fulflo cartridge filters are designed to maximise dirt-holding capacity and minimise filter maintenance. The Opal XL has a large filter surface area, which reduces maintenance and water consumption.

Another option is the EnviroPro Micron ECO granular filter, which still allows you to enjoy the convenience of backwashing your pool, whilst using 30 per cent less water than a standard granular filter. The design of Micron ECO also allows the use of lower powered pumps, as it minimises the resistance or pressure drop. Its hydraulic efficiency halves the backwash flow rate of a conventional sand filter, allowing the option to use low-powered energy efficient pumps for filtration flow and backwash flow.

And Waterco’s Glass Beads granular filters offer much finer filtration than other alternatives and also require 20 per cent less water for backwashing compared with sand. Not only do glass beads ensure ultimate purity, the spherical shape also results in low friction levels, thus reducing the need to backwash, saving pool owners both time and precious water. The Micron ECO in conjunction with Glass Beads ensures enhanced filtration and backwashing efficiency.

The EnviroPro range also features the unique MultiCyclone prefilter/filtration solutions, which not only save up to 7000 of litres of water per year, but also reduce the time required to clean your filter and extends the life of your equipment. Fitted to existing pool filters or installed to new pools, MultiCyclone has no moving parts to wear and no filter components to clean or replace.

For the ultimate convenience and maximum water savings, the MultiCyclone Ultra, the newest generation of the technology, is an easy to use, highly efficient pre-filter and cartridge filter all in one.

“In short, the pool water ends up cleaner with less upkeep,” says Bryan. “The MultiCyclone gathers dirt that would normally go into the filter, and drains it out. This cuts 80 per cent of the dirt that clogs your filter and extends the life.”

Sparkling Clean Another big leap forward in terms of swimming pool energy efficiency is the new generation of robotic pool cleaners. Not only do these cleaners use significantly less energy than pressure pool cleaners – up to 90 per cent less in some cases – the latest models act as micro filters, circulating the pool water, reducing filter maintenance and saving precious water and pool chemicals.

The range of EnviroPro Admiral robotic pool cleaners will have your pool sparkling – and effortlessly – clean in less than two hours, using only 80 watts of power, which is less power than is required to illuminate one halogen pool light.

S av e t i m e , wat e r a n d e n e r g y

“Robotic cleaners not only keep the pool floor and walls clean, they also improve water circulation. This helps you maintain correct water chemistry while also reducing the likelihood of algae growth,” says Bryan.

Light Show Lights in and around your pool not only create ambience for pool guests but are also a key safety feature. And when it comes to energy efficient pool lighting, the EnviroPro range also features Waterco’s BriteStream Multicoloured LED lights that not only look great, but operate on a mere 15% of the electrical power required for halogen equivalents. And they have a life span of over 70,000 hours.

“An incandescent bulb wastes a significant amount of energy whilst it is producing light,” explains Bryan. “LEDs do not have a filament to heat, so the electrical power is used simply to generate light, considerably reducing electricity.”

Waterco’s EnviroPro range: pool equipment that not only maximises your time in the pool, but also deliver energy efficiency and water savings

Heating Efficiency Advances in solar and heat pump swimming pool heating technology also mean that it is now possible to extend your swim season – or even allow your guests to swim all year round – thanks to the minimal operating costs involved.

Waterco’s EnviroPro range features the Zane Solar Gulfpanel and the Electroheat heat pump both of which also help you to save on your energy bills.

Solar pool heating has gained in popularity in recent years, not only because the cost of energy to heat the pool water is free, but also because the principals involved are very simple.

“We’ve been working closely with many leading Australian and international resort and hotel brands which have readily adopted solar pool heating technology,” says Bryan. “The benefits are huge in terms of cost and energy efficiency compared to traditional gas or electric pool water heaters.”

The Zane Solar Gulfpanel consists of a multitude of miniature solar absorber tubes to maximise the surface area exposed to the sun and therefore the energy captured. The continued circulation of water through these tubes gradually and effectively heats the pool water increasing its overall temperature.

The Zane Gulfstream, and now the new Zane Gulfpanel systems, both feature a computerised solar controller, ensuring the pool’s temperature is constantly controlled and monitored. The only operation cost is the energy required for the solar pump, so a solar system pays for itself in just a few years.

The EnviroPro Electroheat heat pump extracts heat from the air – similar to a reverse cycle air conditioner – and uses this heat to heat pool water. One of the most advanced heat pumps on the market, the Electroheat will heat your pool even when the ambient air is down to 0°C – good news for resorts, motels and hotels located in cooler, less sunny climates. The LED control panel features a continuous digital pool temperature display and incorporates a self-diagnosis system. n

The EnviroPro range consists of a select number of Waterco’s high quality, energy efficient and award-winning water saving product, from the latest energy efficient pool pump, centrifugal pre-filters, water saving cartridge and media filters, to the latest LED, solar pool heaters, heat pumps and robotic pool cleaner.

NSW (head office) Qld vic 02 9898 8686 07 3299 9900 03 9764 1211 Sa Wa 08 8244 6000 08 9273 1900

www.waterco.com

mo |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

73

74 |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

mo

mo Product News Range of rodent strategies under one roof

P

erhaps more than any other pest, rodents generate concern that extends well beyond professional pest managers and facility owners.

Food safety auditors, quality assurance managers, sanitarians, and many others up and down the supply chain all have a stake in rodent control in and around commercial buildings.

“The main reason for this is because different BASF Pest Control Solutions offers a comprehensive range of rodent control strategies covering a wide range of rodent management challenges and environments.

Scott Kleinschmidt, Technical Manager, Pest Control Solutions, said that “BASF has state-of-theart rodenticide baits, in the form of highly palatable blocks and gels, developed by a team of dedicated

scientists, which marry in perfectly with our equally impressive range of purpose-designed bait stations which offer substantial protection, performance and safety”.

“For example, Stratagem® Wax Block Rodenticide is one of our second generation anticoagulant baits, only a very small amount is needed to kill a rat or mouse, and a lethal dose can be eaten in a single feed” he said.

Scott said “The strength and breadth of our portfolio means professionals across Australia can easily access exactly the right solution every time when servicing both domestic and commercial accounts.”

To view our rodent portfolio visit www.pestcontrol.basf.com.au or call our technical hotline on Free call 1800 006 393.

New Product Release:

TECO Australia

Introduces Bar Fridges to its Range

F

ollowing its successes in supplying Split System and Window Wall Air Conditioners, and LED/LCD TV’s to Mining Camp Accommodation and Common Area Portable Building Units, Student Accommodation areas and Hotel/Motel Rooms, TECO have introduced a range of Bar Fridges specifically designed to cater for the hospitality industry.

Engineered to Perform with Super Quiet operation, Stylish Design, Internal Light, Glass Shelving and handy Drink Can Dispenser in the 117Ltr Freestanding or Under

Bench Bar Fridge is suitable for medium to large rooms, and to cater for Student Accommodation and smaller Hotel/Motel Rooms, that require a small fridge for guest convenience, TECO have also introduced a 50Ltr Bench Top Bar Fridge.

To complement this range, TECO Australia will introduce over the coming months, Vertical Freezers, Chest Freezers and Frost free Refrigerators with Multi Flow Control ranging from 215Ltr to 410Ltr. If you require any further information please do not hesitate to contact us.

WAVE 75

M

aytronics Australia (www.maytronics.com.au) is pleased to announce the launch of it’s newest commercial cleaner – the WAVE 75. This rugged addition to the commercial family compliments the existing range and provides an entry level commercial cleaner for the smaller commercial pool market – including swim schools, smaller hotel pools and unit block pools.

“The Wave 75 is a fantastic addition to our family of cleaners, it really supports those smaller commercial pools that still need the heavy duty aspect of commercial cleaning but don’t quite have the budgets to buy the larger commercial range products like the ProX or ProExpert”, said Cameron McKinlay, Commercial Manager for Maytronics Australia.

Maytronics operates throughout Australia and the world and is regarded as the leader in Robotic Pool Cleaner technology. “We are 100% focused on providing outstanding service, support and the right solutions for customers in the robotic pool cleaner segment”, said Dan Kwaczynski, Managing Director of Maytronics Australia. Maytronics has service facilities in all major centres and local dealers that will support the roll-out of the Wave 75 across the market.

The Wave 75 specification: • 24 m cable

• 2,3,4 hour cycle

• 2 year warranty

• Swivel – YES

• Fine Filtering – YES

• Combined or Wonder brush options

• Remote control – YES

• Caddy – YES

For more information, Maytronics can be contacted on 1300 MYDOLPHIN or www.maytronics.com.au

mo |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

75

mo Product News Jean Charles Holdings

– Hotel Dispensers

Jean Charles Holdings would like to introduce to you a cost effective way of upgrading your current guest amenity products, whilst providing your guests with a high quality range of hair and skin care products.

J

ean Charles Holdings is an Australian owned company that has been manufacturing hair and skin care products for over 25 years. We now hold a world wide patent design for our exclusive bathroom dispensing system, specifically created for hotels and resort. Our dispensers and products are currently in over 12000 hotel rooms throughout Australia.

from the shower or an additional basin, additional dispensers can be installed at no additional cost.

• The system uses cartridges. Once a cartridge is empty your house keepers simply replace it and discard the old one.

• The dispensers are installed on the walls using double sided tape and silicon only. The walls are not drilled. This means that the dispensers can be moved/removed at any time without damaging the tiles.

With environmental awareness at its highest, consumers are becoming more concerned about using products that have high packaging waste. Our hotel dispensers dramatically reduce waste.

• A complete installation instruction manual is provided at no cost.

The response to our dispensing system has been overwhelming.

Feedback has shown that guests are very impressed with this environmentally friendly system and also with the quality of the actual products.

• As the products run out, your housekeeping staff simply rings our office and place an order for the stock required. We arrange for the delivery of the goods directly to your nominated location at no charge.

How the System operates:

• All the products are manufactured in our factory in Sydney, so availability is not an issue.

• We supply the dispensers and an unlimited supply of all six products for one simple cost based on per occupied room night.

The price is calculated on the number of rooms the hotel/motel or resort has and the location.

• During the first week of every month, we will call you and ask for the occupancy for the previous month. We will invoice you for the occupied room nights only.

• Our standard colours are white marble and cream marble.

You choose which of the two best suits your décor.

• Dispensers are provided at no cost to the hotel. Two dispensers are installed per hotel room. If the room has a spa or bathtub separate

Numatic

N

umatic’s range of Nukeeper housekeeping trolleys have been designed to service the many needs of hotels and motels establishing a new standard of style, construction and choice to suit the majority of applications.

Available with either a pull down courtesy cover or solid doors the Nukeeper range offers a completely enclosed cabinet with ample room for linen and towels, along with separate trays and drawers for all those

76 |

Vol 13 No. 1 |

mo

Our system offers six products: Shower unit contains: Shampoo, Conditioner, Shower Gel. Basin unit contains: Liquid Soap, Hand and Body Lotion, Shaving Cream.

We know that hotels strive to provide excellent service and exceed guest’s expectations. Undertaking this new innovation in bathroom amenities will not only increase your credibility as an environmentally aware hotel, but it will save you a great deal of money.

If you require any further information please do not hesitate to contact us.

incidentals such as tea, coffee, soap, shampoos, conditioners and shower hats etc. Its large 200 mm castors makes it easy to manoeuvre both indoors and out and also comes fitted with two 100lt dirty laundry bags.

Other options include cleaning caddies and a tray to sit a vacuum cleaner on plus the choice of either two or three internal shelves.

You could say Nukeeper offers a place for everything and everything in its place.

If you require any further information please do not hesitate to contact us.

Jean Charles Holdings - HOTEL DISPENSERS

CURRENTLY L IN OVER 12000 HOTEL RO R ROOMS OMS FREE DISPENSERS

FREE STOCK

FREE DELIVERY

UNLIMITED SUPPLY OF SIX PRODUCTS

Jean Charles is an Australian owned company that has been manufacturing hair and skin care products for over 30 years. Our system is already in over 12000 rooms throughout Australia.

Save Money on

Bathroom Amenity Products Two dispensers installed per hotel room Six high quality products Easily installed to any wall, tile or mirror (WITHOUT DRILLING THE SURFACE) Greater convenience to your guests by offering unlimited supply of six products at no extra cost

Stress free for your staff, cartridges are easy to replace when stock is low Contamination free NO REFILLING We supply the dispensers and unlimited supply of six products

One Simple Cost Based

on Occupied Room Nights For further information, Please contact: Jean Charles Holdings Pty Ltd 21 Hallstrom Place Wetherill Park NSW 2164 T: 02 9604 6177 F: 02 9725 3503 E: info@hoteldispensers.com W: www.hoteldispensers.com