Florence

FLORENCE constructing a new perspective CONSTRUCTING A NEW PERSPECTIVE

PASSION PROJE PROJECT Johanna Griggs

ISSN 2652-0044

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9 772652 004002 > FLORENCE | ISSUE 1 | $9.95

William Inglis & Son Hotel and Equine Facility

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fdcbuilding.com.au

CLIENT & DESIGN MANAGER

PROJECT MANAGER

SENIOR PROJECT MANAGER

BID COORDINATOR

ADMINISTRATION ASSISTANT

EVENTS MANAGER

CLIENT ENGAGEMENT MANAGER

SENIOR ESTIMATOR

LEADING HAND

ON SITE OR IN OFFICE OUR TEAM ARE ON POINT At FDC our mission is to consistently deliver high quality projects to our incredible clients.

Diversity in our workforce gives us the best advantage and allows us to think outside the box. We to our pool and are therefore are best placed to deliver on our high standards.

A NATURAL FIT FOR HARDWORKING WOMEN Available where hard work is taken seriously.

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ONTHE COVER

16 Our cover was shot by Neil Bailey Photography and is graced by the incredible Johanna Griggs on site at her new home build in Collaroy.

INSIDE

REGULARS

FEATURES

Executive Director’s Welcome...........................08 Leading Lady............................................................10 Health & Wellbeing ................................................24 Mental Health...........................................................25 Personal Finance ....................................................26 Q&A 5 minutes with...Dani Wales......................40 Legal...........................................................................42 Business ....................................................................43 Tradie Talk.................................................................44 Apps & Software.....................................................56 Technology ...............................................................57 Day in the Life..........................................................58 Calendar of Events ................................................64 Insta Sistas ...............................................................66

14 FEMALE FUTURE Funding win for women in construction 16 PASSION PROJECT Johanna Griggs talks passion for the industry 22 THE CHALLENGE OF FITTING IN Dr Natalie Galea shares some challenges faced by women in the sector 32 BUILDING THE FUTURE Simona Henley’s personal project to get more girls into building 36 SUCCESS ALL IN THE PLAN Diana Brajuha’s career inspired by her family 54 TAKING A BREATH AND A JUMP Rebecca Newman takes a leap of faith

Editor: Josie Adams; Writer: Alyssa Welke; Design: Angela Carroll; Cover image: Neil Bailey; Custom Publishing Manager: Brooke Gardner. Advertising inquiries: 07 4690 9309 Editorial inquiries: 0437 819 696 Email: josie.adams@newsregionalmedia.com.au Subscriptions: 07 4690 9360 News Corp Australia is the exclusive Publishing Partner of Florence magazine, in conjunction with the Master Builders Association of New South Wales. ABN: 63 009 820 035 Phone: (07) 4690 9309; Website: www.newscorpaustralia.com. PRINTED BY: APN Print, 56 Kenilworth St. Warwick, QLD 4370. This publication is copyright. No part of it may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means including electronic, mechanical, microcopying, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the permission of Master Builders Association of NSW or News Corp Australia. Disclaimer: The information contained within Florence magazine is given in good faith and obtained from sources believed to be accurate. The views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. APN, News Corp and the Master Builders Association of New South Wales will not be held liable for any opinion or advice contained herein.

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FLORENCE CONSTRUCTING A NEW PERSPECTIVE

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elcome to the very first issue of Florence.

The magazine where we celebrate the smart, courageous, game-changing women working and thriving in what is often considered one of the last bastions of male-dominated industry — building and construction.

Our first issue delves into the professional life of Florence Taylor. Australia’s first female architect, engineer, publisher, rebel and the inspiration behind Florence magazine.

We talk to the gorgeous (inside and out) Johanna Griggs (page 16), whose passion for the industry goes beyond her television presenting duties, while checking out her latest personal project.

Columnist and UNSW Sydney Professor Dr Natalie Galea writes of her years of experience as the only woman on a work site, on page 22.

And writer Alyssa Welke chats to Lipman Project Engineer, Simona Henley, about her role in co-ordinating the construction of a multi-million dollar project, and her personal mission to encourage young women into the sector on page 32.

Reading the statistics (Female Future on page 14) it’s obvious there is a long way to go in the industry. Not only does there need to be a significant cultural shift outside and within the building and construction industry, but support must come from government, HR policy and business.

But as Florence goes to print, I feel inspired and optimistic. The change-makers are breaking stereotypes and pushing ahead. And the industry is ready to celebrate and support these incredible women. It’s an exciting time for the industry and an exciting time for the women dedicated to working in it.

I hope you enjoy the first issue of Florence.

Josie Adams

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WELCOME TO FLORENCE AMELIA SEIDLER Master Builders Association of New South Wales’ executive director Brian Seidler is thrilled to be involved with the launch of Florence magazine. A magazine dedicated to promoting women in the construction industry, but felt he wasn’t the best person to be welcoming readers to it.

That is why Brian has asked his 17-year-old daughter, Amelia Seidler, to write the welcome address…

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s a student in my last year of high school I am now trying to work out what is my pathway – where am I going, and where will I end up?

What professions will disappear over time due to increasing artificial intelligence, what professions will be outsourced overseas?

Coming from a family where both parents have worked, and dedicated themselves to the building industry, I must say there are many and varied opportunities – and interestingly there are many opportunities for women.

Some time ago I recall speaking with my mother, who was working on a particular project that involved trying to attract women into the building and construction industry.

The project involved identifying the barriers that

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restricted young people entering the industry – particularly young women.

I clearly remember asking my mother “why are you doing this project” and “why are there barriers - can’t anyone with the right skills work in the industry?”

The answer I received was, "of course you can", but the industry has certain ways – I think she was trying to be diplomatic so as not to disenchant me.

My parents told me the building industry has many opportunities.

It is the third largest sector of the Australian economy, it engages more than 1.1 million people and employs and trains more apprentices than any other industry in Australia. So opportunities abound.

You know it’s interesting that some time ago I had a conversation with my father who told me about the concept of a magazine specifically for women in the building and construction industry – telling the stories of ordinary women, of highly successful women, of women with families who run small business (not to mention the local netball club).

It’s great to hear their stories and acknowledge those who go unmentioned, but clearly are the back bone of the industry. Welcome to Florence.

GRAND DAME BUILDS LEGACY Florence Taylor paved the way for women in construction

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lorence Taylor was a pioneer of women in the construction industry and her legacy is still being felt.

As an architect and publisher, Florence believed in the notion that “a woman to marry, get into the confines of the home and never be articulate in public affairs is a disgrace” and her achievements in the male dominated architectural industry proves that.

She was known for her energy, determination and outspoken nature, a nature which distinguished her well throughout her colourful career, first as a draftsman and ultimately as a publisher of trade journals including Master Builders publications.

She was widely respected, even if her questions and criticism irritated some of her professional colleagues.

Her achievements within both of her fields had an indelible impact on the public acceptance of women in the professions.

She was a tall striking woman, with blonde hair and blue eyes, and was known for dressing (even in the 1930s) in long sweeping skirts and a picture hat decorated with ostrich feathers.

She was born on December 29, 1879 at Bedminster, Somerset, England and was the

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eldest daughter of John and Eliza Parsons.

The family emigrated to Australia in 1884, where her father worked in the sewerage construction branch of the Department of Public Works, which gave Florence her first taste of working in the construction industry, as she assisted her father with his engineering calculations.

It was her father’s death in 1899 which pushed Florence into the architectural industry when she decided to become a draftsman to support her family.

She learnt her trade under architect Edmund Skelton Garton, and simultaneously attended night-classes at Sydney Technical College until 1904.

During her time with Garton’s office she was promoted to chief draftsman.

Once she completed her training she became chief draftsman to J. B. Clamp, who nominated her in 1907 for associate membership of the Institute of Architects of New South Wales.

Despite his defence of her talent (she “could design a place while an ordinary draftsman would be sharpening his pencil”), the nomination was defeated.

But this did nothing to deter Florence from

pursing her career, and she continued to build a thriving practice designing homes.

It wasn’t until 1920 that Florence was eventually invited to join the Institute of Architects, which she accepted.

On April 3, 1907 Florence married George Augustine Taylor.

Florence and her husband were founding

...SHE “COULD DESIGN A PLACE WHILE AN ORDINARY DRAFTSMAN WOULD BE SHARPENING HIS PENCIL”... members of the Town Planning Association of New South Wales in 1913 and she was its secretary for many years.

Together they started the Building Publishing Co Ltd, which produced trade journals, three of which Florence edited: Harmony, Young Australia

and the Australian (later Commonwealth) Home.

Through their journals they campaigned for urban planning, improved construction methods and better materials; they also promoted the interests of engineers, architects and builders.

When George Taylor died suddenly in 1928, Florence was determined to carry on their business and although eight of the 11 journals the business was publishing was forced to cease, she maintained Building (later Building, Lighting and Engineering) (1907-72), Construction (1908-74) and the Australasian Engineer (1915-73), and edited them herself.

She continued to produce town planning schemes but relied on others to draw them as she was unable to spare time from publishing.

She drew inspiration from her travels to Europe, the Americas and Asia, bringing back ideas on urban and rural planning which informed her writings and speeches.

Architect and publisher Florence Taylor; one of the periodical’s Florence published during her career.

PHOTOS: COLLECTIONS OF THE STATE LIBRARY OF NEW SOUTH WALES.

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We are committed to creating a more diverse and inclusive workplace, not only for our people but also for future generations.

CATHAL O’ROURKE Managing Director, Australia Hub

LAING O’ROURKE ENGINEERING THE FUTURE Laing O’Rourke is a $6 billion international operation with 50 years of involvement in Australian construction and infrastructure including more than a decade under the Laing O’Rourke banner.

In Australia, our industry remains the most male dominated sector in the country and the representation of women, especially in leadership and senior management positions, has remained unacceptably low.

As we strive to become the industry’s recognised leader of innovation and excellence, we understand the importance of building a workforce that reflects the diverse communities in which we live and work. We have embarked on a journey to tackle the low levels of female representation in our business and in the industry from a number of different, yet equally important angles.

Denita Wawn says the industry is ready for change.

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

FEMALE FUTURE JOSIE ADAMS

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etermined to see more women working in the nation’s third largest industry, Master Builders Australia CEO Denita Wawn, just had a win.

It’s a surprise announcement on International Women’s Day, as the Minister for Jobs, Industrial Relations and Women Kelly O’Dwyer announces funding of $675,000 for Women Building Australia, the Master Builders Autralia-led program to increase the participation of young women working in the sector.

The grant follows from the successful Women Building Australia Pilot Program where the association tested initiatives to improve awareness of jobs for women and to help them in their transition into the industry.

“The program raises awareness among young women, their parents and career advisors of the huge range of rewarding careers,” Denita says.

“What we have found in our research is that there seems to have been a breakdown in communication. That girls still see the industry as not ready. They see it as old-fashioned and not family-friendly.

“This may have been true previously.

“But that has shifted over the past decade. It’s just that the industry hasn’t been smart in marketing the fact that they are open to change.

“The truth is many companies would prefer to employ a woman – if they could just find one.”

With a focus on recruitment, Denita says the program includes Master Builders Australia staff attending career expos across the country promoting careers for women in the industry.

“We certainly need to start at entry level, targeting particular groups such as schools and

sporting groups.”

Most important, is increased participation in school STEM fields; science, technology, engineering and mathematics, she says, which underpin the professional skills necessary for career progression in the industry.

The Women Building Australia program additionally offers mentoring to women who have already made a start in the industry.

Denita says this can help women to navigate the culture both outside and within the industry, enhance their communication skills and give insight into the reality of being a working woman in the industry.

“Even with my job I get a lot of ‘but how do you travel?’” she says of balancing a full flight schedule with school-age children.

“We tend to still assume that women are the primary caregivers, but you know that’s not how our family rolls and it isn’t how a lot of families roll. Three-quarters of women in the workforce have school-age children,” she says.

“We have a young woman currently doing a carpentry apprenticeship in group training. She has a three-year-old and a one-year-old. She’s dropping her children off at their grandparents’ house at around five in the morning so she can start work. She’s making it work and she’s breaking new ground. But she does need systems in place and people around her to support her.”

Which will come, Denita says, because the industry is willing to work together for change.

“Despite the extraordinarily fierce competition in building and construction, we can rally and get together as an industry for things that we are passionate about.”

DECONSTRUCTING THE INDUSTRY Overall Workforce Composition of the Building and Construction Industry 2014 – 11% women 2018 – 12% women Women in Trades 2014 - 1% 2018 – 2% ABS figures.

Current Workplace Gender Equality Agency Data – Women in Building and Construction Industry This data is based on 124,862 employees within 202 organisations of any size within the building and construction industry.

Female CEOs 2014 – 3.6%

2018 – 4.4% Female Managers 2014 – 10.8% 2018 – 12.1% Female Trades and Technicians 2014 – 2.6% 2018 – 2.8% Female Labourers 2014 – 10.5% 2018 – 12.7% Female Professionals 2014 – 24% 2018 – 21.2% Females in Administrative Roles 2014 – 73.8% 2018 – 78.2%

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PASSION PROJECT Johanna Griggs’s passion for the building industry stretches beyond her public profile. With a keen eye for detail, she finds inspiration in the unlikeliest of places.

JOSIE ADAMS

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“ON MY PHONE I HAVE PICTURES OF MY GRANDSON, MY DOGS AND ABOUT 80 MILLION HOMES. PEOPLE ARE ALWAYS JOKING WITH ME ABOUT IT.” Johanna Griggs

“

I’M going to cop it from these guys tomorrow, that’s for sure,” Johanna Griggs says trying not to smile, as her make-up artist dusts a final layer of powder on the television personality’s face.

“Gonna get your make-up done for work today Joh?” she mocks, her smile now broad as fingers brush through her hair.

One of ‘the boys’ walks past her carrying a circular saw. It is Johanna’s youngest son Joe, a carpenter. He shakes his head and laughs.

It is 9am on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. It’s already hot and eight of us stand in the centre of what looks like an impressively-large, white bunker of concrete and paint, while a photographer checks light levels and shadows.

Around us, the team at Collaroy Constructions, the company Johanna helps run alongside her husband Todd Huggins, works quietly and methodically, only occasionally raising an eyebrow or smiling at the heavily-caffeinated and chatty bunch of intruders.

Todd is at the top of the site, inspecting what will eventually become the couple’s new home.

“Honestly, I’m bit of a fan-girl when it comes to what Todd does every day. He’s been in the (building) industry for twenty-seven years, straight out of school and he still loves it. He can be working on a site, managing and co-ordinating over 60 tradies at a time. It’s amazing the amount of concentration and communication needed to do that.”

It’s a difficult work site on a 370sq m block of land. It started with the arduous task of removing more than 1400 tonnes of earth. The only access for the excavators is a very steep, narrow road.

“I first looked at the site and thought to myself ‘No this is too hard’.”

“Then Todd took me to the top of the block and I immediately said, ‘Oh OK... we’re buying it,’ ” she recalls, laughing.

The views are exceptional. The trucks were brought in.

This is the couple’s fifth home within 400 metres of Collaroy, only 22 kilometres from Central Sydney.

Johanna says the already-approved plans for the multi-level home, bought with the land, suited the couple’s lifestyle perfectly. The open design

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captures ocean views and there is room for the couple’s trucks, a necessity for a construction company, particularly in an area where parking is at a premium.

Inside, she envisions a neutral colour palette of polished concrete and timber.

“I don’t struggle to make those decisions,” Johanna says, when considering her favoured design elements, admitting she’s “obsessed” with a good grain structure and indoor plants.

“I really appreciate a good timber,” she says with a smile.

She points out that the passive design of the home proved appealing too. An advocate for sustainable building practises, Johanna says the company will always try to recycle as much as it can during a build, even if it involves additional labour. This was the case when renovating the couple’s last home, where she proudly recalls the long and painstaking task of removing the roof tiles one by one so they could be recycled.

For Johanna, this build is particularly interesting.

Not only is the home oriented to capture natural

PREVIOUS PAGE: Johanna Griggs on site in Collaroy; ABOVE: (from left) Amanda Kelly, Johanna Griggs, Brooke Gardner and Josie Adams; OPPOSITE: The Collaroy Constructions team (from left) Clay More, Joe Sweet, Johanna Griggs, Todd Huggins and Lee Cooper.

PHOTOS: NEIL BAILEY

light and breezes, it has the additional benefit of being built into the earth.

“With so much of the home surrounded by earth, I’m hoping it will provide some insulation,” Johanna says, “but we’ll see.”

Experimenting and finding more efficient or sustainable ways of doing things certainly interests her. And as a host of Seven’s Better Homes and Gardens and House Rules, Johanna is rarely stuck for ideas.

She has already put her hand up for a trip to Abu Dhabi with Better Homes later this year, with the intention of learning as much as she can about sustainable design.

At a local level, being invited into people’s homes, she says, is an honour and a source of inspiration.

“You get to see and appreciate true craft.”

Not to mention, indulge in her passion for innovative products and design.

“I take a lot of pictures of taps on my phone,” she says laughing as she describes what might really be happening during the quick trip to the bathroom in between shoots. “It’s true, on my

phone I have pictures of my grandson, my dogs and about 80 million homes. People are always joking with me about it.”

“Your job is not to be the expert,” she says of her television host role, “your job is to be the facilitator.”

To an extent, this also fits Johanna’s job description at Collaroy Constructions.

While she admits much of her time is spent assisting with the behind the scenes aspect of the business, including invoicing, the part of her job she has enjoyed most in the past is being able to help clients make decisions on a build in terms of design or materials.

“A lot of what we do with our clients is managing expectations,” which can include hard conversations around products and price. A challenge sometimes she says, when you consider a home build is the biggest financial investment many people make in their lifetime.

Johanna is right at home on site too, when her schedule allows. With a truck licence in hand she >>

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<< says she enjoys the work and doesn’t mind the title of lackey “I’m very good at cleaning up a work site,” she adds, laughing.

She describes the culture at Collaroy Constructions as inclusive and friendly and sees the industry as a whole changing significantly, particularly when it comes to having women on site. In recent times she sees a shift towards an appreciation for truly skilled tradespeople regardless of gender.

“A good bricklayer or concreter are the rock stars of the industry these days,” she says.

And this, Johanna believes, offers an opportunity for women to shine.

She says Todd has discussed with her how he believes female tradespeople pay more attention to detail and precision in their work.

“I know Todd would love to employ a female tradie on site,” she explains. “The difficulty is finding one.”

I ask Johanna if there is a secret to successfully

I THINK THE ONLY ADVICE I COULD GIVE TO ANYONE STARTING OUT IS THAT HOW YOU START IS HOW YOU FINISH.

working in male dominated industries. After all, the champion swimmer, turned sport commentator, turned construction business owner seems to be drawn to them. She laughs.

“Well as you can see I’m a bit of a tomboy,” referring to the banter between her and the team on site. “But I think what it comes down to is communication.”

Previously working with some of the “best and bluntest” in the sport media business, Johanna says that “telling it like it is” in an honest and straightforward way can’t be overrated. She recalls doing live crosses with other commentators and being told “you're going to cop it after that.”

But Johanna is convinced the ability to own it, move on and keep doing what you're doing, is the key, particularly in high pressure environments.

“Everyone has to dig in, there’s no time to be precious.”

“I think the only advice I could give to anyone starting out is that how you start is how you finish.”

And that is in any industry, Johanna says.

“No-one is perfect.

“But don’t compromise on your values, stay true to who you are.”

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PHOTO: NEIL BAILEY

Johanna Griggs

ODD WOMAN OUT DR NATALIE GALEA UNSW SYDNEY

THE CHALLENGE OF FITTING IN Navigating the In/visibility paradox

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t the beginning of my construction career I was eager to fit in and tried to ignore the constant reminders of my gender and difference.

I was 25 years old and I had just finished competing at the Olympic Games. I had been attracted to construction because it offered a wide range of careers and it was well paid. I had grown up in a construction family; my parents ran a successful plumbing business.

My first job was as a construction cadet, on a large construction project in the CBD, and it was not what I expected.

I attended meetings in site sheds where explicit pornography wallpapered the walls, I was called ‘girl’, wolf whistled at, assigned “female” tasks like minutes taking, mistaken for a secretary, and told my career would be finished once children came along.

These acts were delivered in a seemingly offhand manner, and with little thought. Although I reasoned many times about pulling a colleague up for sending me an email addressed to the “Gents”, I knew this could be construed as petty and worse still, “over-emotional”.

I tried not to dwell on this stuff, especially in the early part of my career. I was eager to fit in and get on with my construction career. At one point I even thought it was an advantage to stand out and be the only woman on the team. As the years

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rolled on, being routinely reminded I was a woman – like I didn’t know – wore me down and took the gloss off my job.

Over time I realised that despite being highly visible, often the lone woman on site, it actually meant I was completely invisible when it came to being taken seriously or being granted opportunities that would accelerate my career.

For much of my 20-year career, I felt like I was performing or play acting.

In 2012, I left construction, the career I had worked so hard to establish, and started researching the sector in an effort to shift the dial on gender parity in construction and improve the lives of women and men working in the construction sector.

I discovered I was not alone.

My research of women in the Australian construction sector shows that this paradox of being more visible at work, and yet invisible when it matters, is alive and well. Wendy Faulkner from the University of Edinburgh calls this the “in/visibility paradox”.

While some men and women might deny this is the case, women in construction have a hard time fitting in, and being “seen” and treated as “real” builders, engineers, carpenters, plumbers or whatever their field. It is one way women experience gender inequality in construction.

Stereotyping plagues women in construction; it

Dr Natalie Galea has started researching the construction sector in an effort to shift the dial on gender parity in the industry.

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

NEGOTIATING THE IN/VISIBILITY PARADOX I asked a few female veterans of the construction sector how they navigate the in/visibility paradox.

Here’s what they said: ● ‘It comes down to me now knowing I do deserve to be where I am, and I’m comfortable to call out behaviours I see that are inappropriate. I also ensure I treat everyone with respect.’ ● ‘Promotions don’t come automatically from hard work! You’ve got to ask for a promotion.’ ● ‘Form strong alliances in the industry. Find a mentor or coach or sponsor or even a peer that can be a sounding board for you day to day.’

STEREOTYPES WEAKEN WOMEN’S LEGITIMACY AS CONSTRUCTION PROFESSIONALS. Dr Natalie Galea

clings to them and is most obvious when women are new to a construction site or a team. Even in positions of power, sidestepping stereotypes is difficult for women.

I remember tagging along to a site meeting during my research. The room was full of men, apart from one other woman. As everyone found their place, a young chap asked the woman, “Did you bring the biscuits?” She ignored him, and I was intrigued. Was this woman known for her biscuits? As it turned out, the young man had never met the woman but assumed she was from human resources. The meeting itself was to introduce the woman to the site team. She was a new employee, appointed to lead a critical company division.

Stereotypes weaken women’s legitimacy as construction professionals. They are false assumptions that undermine how women are

accepted and treated in construction, and ultimately, whether women will choose a career in construction, stick around and flourish — or call it quits and leave.

In my case, I survived by working hard to challenge stereotypes. The lack of progression was why I left.

If we want to shift the dial on gender parity in construction, we need to focus on what construction is doing to retain and progress women.

There are many reasons why women remain under-represented in the construction sector.

Some reasons get more airplay than others. I am often told that girls are not interested in a career in construction. It’s hard for girls and their parents to visualise women having a successful career in construction when so many women can’t find their place in the industry and quickly leave for a new environment where fitting in is easier.

Once upon a time we thought men’s work on a construction site included holding a lollipop stick and directing traffic. Now, more often than not, it’s a woman.

The great thing about stereotypes is that they change.

Dr Natalie Galea is a postdoctoral fellow in the Australian Human Rights Institute, UNSW, who delivered construction projects internationally for almost two decades.

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HEALTHY LIVING

ANTHIA KOULLOUROS FOUNDER OVVIO ORGANICS WWW.OVVIO ORGANICS.COM.AU

HOW TO PREVENT BURN OUT Negate the effects of stress

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tress is insidious; constantly drawing on our health reserves, and – from years of clinical observation – underscores or contributes to the vast majority of modern illness.

In a healthy individual, acute stress, which can manifest as anxiety, irritation, panic attacks, lack of sleep, sensitivity, overwhelm, pain, fatigue, forgetfulness, anger or impatience, is speedily resolved. It’s when stress evolves into a long-standing, chronic condition that it becomes detrimental.

By implementing these 10 daily self-care practices you can drastically reduce the effects of stress on your body.

Nourish yourself by replacing processed foods, devoid of nutrients with fresh, organic, seasonal foods such as vegetables, fruit, pastured (grass fed) beef, lamb, poultry and pork, wild sustainable fish and seafood, dairy, grains, beans, nuts, seeds, fresh and dried herbs and spices, olive oil and natural salt.

Chew your food until liquid and eat in a relaxed state to get the most nutrients from your food and increase energy.

Hydrate with non-caffeinated organic herbal teas and clean water. Drink 1-2 glasses upon rising, 1-2 glasses 15 minutes before each meal, minimise coffee, alcohol and avoid soft drinks and sports drinks.

Wind down with the sun, sleep by 10pm and wake at sunrise for restoration and rejuvenation of your circadian rhythms - your natural day and night cycle.

Move your body gently each day. Start small and work up to 20 minutes daily. Exercise not only improves fitness and strength it also fosters happiness and self-confidence. Avoid over

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exercising and be considerate of injuries, poor posture or underlying stress.

Bathe in natural sunlight for a boost of energising and immune-balancing vitamin D. Harness nature’s pharmacy. Herbs possess an array of calming, stress-reducing, antioxidant and pain-relieving properties - and taste delicious too.

Even the ritual of making tea - with a whistling kettle, favourite teapot and loose leaf herb demands mindfulness and a moment of repose.

Don’t underestimate the humble cup of tea.

MOVE YOUR BODY GENTLY EACH DAY. START SMALL AND WORK UP TO 20 MINUTES DAILY. EXERCISE NOT ONLY IMPROVES FITNESS AND STRENGTH IT ALSO FOSTERS HAPPINESS AND SELF-CONFIDENCE. Learn to resolve emotional conflict and deal with fear. Develop awareness, insight and skills allowing you to weather life’s challenges. Seek support from a qualified psychotherapist, counsellor or psychologist.

Become mindful of breathing. Through the nose, mouth closed and deep diaphragmatic breathing. Healthy breathing offers oxygenation for energy, detoxification and regulating acid/alkaline pH. Overcome factors that inhibit healthy breathing such as sinusitis, excess mucous, hayfever, allergies,

MENTAL HEALTH

CAROLYN ALESSI

MATES IN CONSTRUCTION

PART OF THE SOLUTION Can women make a difference when it comes to suicide prevention?

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uicide is complex. It is rarely a single event or situation, it is more likely a culmination of life events that pile up which finally causes someone to reach the tipping point. We do know that certain factors such as relationship problems, substance abuse, financial issues, mental illness, social isolation and loss increase the risk but the fact remains that some people kill themselves while most others in similar circumstances do not. A person considering suicide will often send out warning signs or “invitations”, whether this is consciously or subconsciously. Most people do not really want to die, but the pain of living simply becomes too great. Suicide is rarely an impulsive act and is often planned in detail.

In 2017 Australia lost 3128 people to suicide, 2348 males and 780 females according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics. Each year these figures are increasing, so this problem is not going away.

Women attempt suicide at a higher rate than men, so this is a big issue not only for men.

Is there a problem in the construction industry?

Unfortunately, the answer is yes. We lose a construction worker to suicide every second day and they are not only men. A major study conducted by the Australian Institute for Suicide Research and Prevention (AISRAP) revealed that the industry does have a problem. Workers, according to this study are six times more likely to suicide than to die from a work accident. Even though women make up a small percentage of the construction industry, they are not immune to the effects of suicide. There are many reasons why suicide is escalated. They include long working hours, alcohol/drug abuse, financial instability, bullying and a culture of “harden up” or “have a cup of cement” which is not helpful to an individual who is struggling.

How can the industry try to tackle this?

Suicide prevention is about connection, mateship

and support. If individuals can talk to others about their issues or concerns the feeling of being overwhelmed can feel a lot less. The support of work colleagues, supervisors etc is crucial for someone to feel like they matter. Education within a workplace is the key to achieving this more successfully.

MATES in Construction has worked to achieve this by way of a three-layered community development program in a workplace. Firstly, we raise awareness by conducting General Awareness Training, otherwise known as a GAT. From this training, workers are able to volunteer to become a “Connector”. These workers learn the skills on how to keep someone safe, and connect them to help. Finally, we train workers in suicide first aid, known as ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training) so that a safe plan can be established.

For these volunteers, experiencing the power to make a real difference in another’s life is life changing. After 10 years, MATES are seeing the results.

Suicide rates in the industry are falling – we are one of only a few programs associated with a reduction in suicide rates in a target community.

How can women contribute to reducing suicide rates in the industry?

In general, females are not that different to their male counterparts besides the fact that women are better help-seekers and will more often talk to someone when they have problems. In my experience, men tend to prefer having a chat with a female rather than a male about their personal issues.

For whatever reason this is, and there are probably many. I believe that women actually can “soften” a relatively “blokey, rough and tough” site in some instances. Maybe also women are more alert emotionally. The MATES program delivers practical education, that can fill this gap.

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MONEY MATTERS

HELEN BAKER

ON YOUR OWN TWO FEET WWW.HELENBAKER.COM.AU

FIVE FINANCIAL FOUNDATIONS EVERY WOMAN NEEDS

Y

ou know the story of the three little pigs, right? The hard work, diligence and skill of the third little pig, who built a solid house of bricks with consistent joint thicknesses and well-mitred corners, that was able to withstand gale-force hot air, paid off when the slapdash efforts by his two mates failed to protect them from a pork-hungry big bad wolf.

It’s a good analogy for your personal financial planning too. Women yearn for security and it’s achievable when five financial foundations are all in place: a spending and investment plan, insurance, estate planning, superannuation and an emergency fund. While they sound like common sense, I’ve rarely met a woman who, without advisement, can honestly tick every box as being in place to the degree necessary for her age, life stage and goals.

So, let’s look briefly at the five foundations for financial health.

Emergency fund An emergency fund is a sum of backup money that is yours and only yours. While it can be your means of escaping a relationship it may enable you to pay bills if you suddenly lose your job.

Spending and investment plan The reality is we spend money to pay for groceries, rent/mortgage, petrol etc. Instead of imposing hard and strict rules, denying yourself living, you need a way to balance your income against your expenses in a way that still leaves money left over to look at investing for your long-term future. Understand good debt, bad debt and smart debt: not all debt is equal.

Superannuation While superannuation is one of the most

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tax-effective ways to build your investments for the future, it’s unlikely you have enough to bank on to see you through retirement. According to the Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia the average superannuation balance for women who retired in 2016 was $157,000 while men had $271,000.

Insurances There are three forms of insurance that I believe every woman needs to consider and control: private health insurance; general insurance (eg home, contents, car, jewellery, luxury items, business); and personal insurance (life, total and permanent disability, income protection and trauma). While insurance needs do change with age and life events, it’s fair to say women are mostly under-insured. Value yourself.

Estate planning There’s more to estate planning than just having a Will – and given that many Australians don’t have a valid up-to-date Will, that’s a great place to start. Estate planning also gives you a voice if you lose your decision-making faculties and protects assets in your “bloodline” from beyond the grave.

With all five financial foundations in place, you’re well placed for a strong future, no matter what life deals you.

Helen Baker is a qualified and licensed Australian financial adviser and author of two books, On Your Own Two Feet: Steady Steps to Women’s Financial Independence and On Your Own Two Feet Divorce: Your Survive and Thrive Financial Guide available for purchase through book stores or online at www.onyourowntwofeet.com.au

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Using the Buzon Pedestal replaces the use of sand and cement when laying pavers, therefore eliminating efflorescence and algae and reducing weight-bearing loads on the building structure. In addition the pedestal also improves thermal insulation and reduces sounds transmission.

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In commercial urban environments where space is at an ever-higher premium, a building’s roof level is potentially a rich source of usable space. Buzon say their Pedestal System can be used to maximise a roof’s potential, both hiding all manner of services and protecting roof substrates from the elements, maximising integrity and longevity.

The pedestals are extremely strong as they are precision-engineered from high strength, UV resistant, recycled polypropylene and capable of supporting loads of more than 1000kg each. At roof level, this load is evenly spread by the wide base area of each unit, making them ideal for installation on any waterproofing membrane without causing damage, they can even be used directly over insulation material.

The Buzon Pedestal System is also simple to install. Desired height is achieved by thread adjustment, which is lockable when reached and a range of interchangeable spacer tabs of 2mm, 3mm, 4.5mm, 6mm, 8mm and 10mm, allow for precise gaps between pavers and provide positive drainage without any concern of ponding or flooding.

The Buzon Pedestal System is available in New South Wales through Ausdrain.

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www.pasco.net.au

GOING FOR GOLD Alexandra Kidd Design reimagines a Hunters Hill family home

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Get the look A 01

02

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lexandra Kidd Design created this gorgeous interior after the clients approached her to reimagine their family home.

This home was her first large-scale commission after she started Alexandra Kidd Designs in 2002 and, when her clients invited her to revisit the home she had designed for them, she was delighted.

“The new brief was to reimagine their family home for the next phase of their life, which now included a brood of gorgeous grandchildren.

“There was no need to start from scratch, instead we redesigned the spaces with respect and empathy for the renovation that had gone before.”

The design of this Hunters Hill home has a strong focus on gold, which is forecast to be a big trend in 2019.

Photographer Pablo Veiga and stylist Megan Morton helped to create the photos in this spread.

01: Minetta, small decorative bowl (Freedom, $34.50); 02: Beaker Gold Floor Lamp (Domayne, $379); 03: Grey & Gold Luxe lounge chair by Harper & Hindley (Temple & Webster, $979).

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SIZZLING STYLE Embrace the hottest new interior looks 30 | | FLORENCE

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or over 35 years Jetmaster Fireplaces Australia has been a leader in providing the best quality fireplaces for Australian homes.

Our expertise in properly understanding the conditions, needs and the warm environment you are seeking to create sets us apart.

It’s also why we offer one of the most complete ranges of leading fireplaces to suit Australian living.

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The wood fires are stringently tested and designed to comply with the most current certifications required and work beautifully with Australia’s unique wood species, while the range of gas fires offer the most advanced technologies and modern design conveniences creating beautiful environments in your home.

01: Heat & Glo 6X; 02: Heat & Glo SLR-X with pebbles; 03: Heat & Glo 5X; 04: Jetmaster 850 wood insert; 05: Heat & Glo 3X. PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

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BUILDING THE FUTURE Project provides opportunities for girls ALYSSA WELKE

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S

eeing the excited students of all-girls MLC School walk through the doors of the newly-opened Senior Centre on the first day of school this year brought home to Simona Henley just how lucky she is to work in the construction industry.

Simona, who works for construction company Lipman Pty Ltd, said being involved in the project from beginning to completion was one of the most rewarding experiences of her career.

The building took 16 months to complete and consisted of five levels including a basement for plant rooms, storage and a general purpose hall.

The remaining four levels comprised an amphitheatre, teaching classrooms, cantilevered pop-out meeting rooms, seminar spaces and collaborative learning areas.

The project was designed to create a building that fostered questions and learning.

All of the services in the building were left exposed and not hidden in a ceiling, showing hydraulic pipes, mechanical ventilation, electrical cables and the fire systems.

Off-form concrete was left as a feature in the building, showing raw materials which would encourage students to ask questions about the building process.

Simona was the project co-ordinator and by the end had been promoted to project engineer.

Her main role at the start of the project was to read and understand the project drawings, work out what trades would be required for the project, write their scope of works, tender out the works to different companies and finally engage the best subcontractor for the job.

There were 52 subcontractors engaged throughout the project and once all the trades were awarded to subcontractors, her role shifted to managing the budget of the project, and dealing with day-to-day issues that arose on site.

Simona was responsible for helping subcontractors solve any execution problems, ensuring Lipman’s strict safety standards were adhered to, as well as getting on the tools to learn each construction process on occasion.

“I would spend part of my day on site engaging with the subcontractors and sorting out design issues and the rest in the site office forecasting the budget, paying the subcontractors and looking at changes on the drawings and working out their impact on the construction program, cost implications and who would be affected,” she said.

Simona said one unexpected, but welcome, by-product of the project was educating the students at MLC School.

“As we were building in a girls school, Lipman wanted to take the opportunity to engage with the students to educate them about careers within the construction industry,” she said.

“Together with Alison Mirams (CEO of Roberts Pizzarotti) I spoke at a careers conversation breakfast for students, parents and teachers.

“One hundred people attended the 7am event, which just shows there is certainly an interest for females to pursue careers within

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construction.

“After the breakfast we had three students in Year 12 do work experience with us, one of which is now at university studying construction management and property.

“We also ran a work experience program for Year 10 students and plan to continue the relationship with MLC School.

“Watching the excited students walk into their new Senior Centre and hearing the girls that did work experience with us telling their friends how they helped build the building and how excited they were to tell their friends about all the different materials and construction techniques that were used was very rewarding.”

Simona said the industry needed to be more proactive in educating young women in high school about careers in construction.

“I believe the main reason for the lack of females is an absence of knowledge of the careers that are available to them,” she said. “Even if they are aware of the positions available they may not know that they can have a very promising and exciting career which is not just for men.”

LEFT: MLC School’s new Senior Centre.

ABOVE: Simona Henley. PREVIOUS PAGE: Simona Henley with the Lipman MLC work team.

PHOTOS: CONTRIBUTED

THE INDUSTRY IS SLOWLY CHANGING AND THERE IS DEFINITELY A SHIFT TOWARDS A MORE INCLUSIVE ENVIRONMENT. The construction industry is still male dominated but this is slowly changing. While working in a male-dominated industry presents challenges, Simona doesn’t let it get under her skin.

More often than not she is the only woman on site and thus sometimes feels there is a “boys club” culture, a culture which means it takes her longer to be accepted on-site.

“You need to have the right attitude to work in a male dominated industry and try a little harder to earn the respect you deserve,” she said. “Getting people to understand you are not the secretary is the first battle.

“Working on the MLC School project I was the only female surrounded by 10 males from my

company and then a range from 20 to 110 male subcontractors working on site.

“Throughout the project the only other females that ever came through site were some traffic controllers, cleaning trades and one female tradesperson working in water-proofing.

“The industry is slowly changing and there is definitely a shift towards a more inclusive environment. However, there is still a long way to go.”

Simona says the male-dominated environment is centred on working long hours, usually six days a week, with presenteeism paramount.

“For women to be attracted to the industry there needs to be more flexibility,” she said.

“Having women role models is another extremely important factor. It’s been difficult to find women in senior positions within construction companies who have gone down the same path as I have.

“Starting out in the unknown with few people to look up to is very difficult. Despite this, I love my job and am so happy I’ve found such a rewarding and exciting career path and I wouldn’t change it. for anything.”

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SUCCESS IS ALL IN THE PLAN With a stellar 20-year career in town planning and development, Diana Brajuha draws inspiration from her family JOSIE ADAMS

D

iana Brajuha is a busy woman.

The head planner for EG Group is working on several state significant development applications and re-zoning projects. These include a proposed industrial warehouse and logistics hub close to the new Western Sydney Airport, a student accommodation project and rezoning a new Greenfield release area. They are all significant urban renewal projects.

And as if big-city business isn’t enough, Diana is juggling a new-house build with her husband Paul, her brother George and father, Michael, as well as raising her two-year-old daughter, Emilia.

“I definitely feel like there are two Dianas; corporate Diana and then mum,” she says, “It’s a balance, but I think women are good at balancing.”

Diana’s expertise is unique, specialising in both town planning and property development. She says her passion for the industry comes from her father, Michael, a builder with more than 50-years of experience and a Master Builder for over 35 years.

“I grew up talking about planning and building, so the fact that the building and development industry is male dominated was something I’ve always been comfortable with.

“The industry is just something I have always known, ever since I stepped on to a building site at the age of two.”

Her father has been a strong influence on Diana throughout her life; he encouraged Diana to pursue a career in town planning as he saw a real value in understanding the system and in developing strategies for the future growth of Sydney.

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“I think that comes from the way he was raised.

He came to Australia when he was 19, with no knowledge of the English language and forged a career in building. He’s made a good living from his hard work by setting up a small construction business with my mother, Radmila. Even to this day he still has such a passion for it,” she says.

“He’s now 72 years old and still works every day, while my mother attends to the administration of the company. He loves to talk to me, George and Paul about the industry.

“I know I get my work ethic from my father, it’s a work ethic centred around a broad knowledge of your industry.

“I think I have been lucky to have been exposed to planning, property and construction all at once. And that is what makes me a better planner.”

After finishing a Bachelor of Town Planning at UNSW, Diana started an internship at the former South Sydney City Council, which gave her invaluable experience.

“That particular council area offers a lot of very dynamic land uses, so from a town planning

ABOVE: Diana at the age of two on a building site.

PHOTO : CONTRIBUTED MAIN: Diana in her work environment.

PHOTO: NEIL BAILEY

perspective it was diverse and interesting. A lot of the mentors I have had throughout my career started out there.”

She then moved to the City of Sydney Council, where she specialised in both strategic and statutory planning.

“There was a lot of media attention because many of the projects were related to prominent buildings in the Central Sydney District.”

In 2002, Diana received the Planning Institute of Australia’s Young Planner of the Year for her work on the development assessments for Sydney’s Gateway Projects, which at the time were complex for a young planner, and for implementing the Heritage Floor Space Scheme.

Diana, who was in her early 20s at the time, says the award opened doors for her and was a highlight of her career and a stepping stone to bigger and better things.

“It was a significant and beautiful moment in my career,” she says. “Suddenly people were asking me for advice on projects, or to be on a panel of judges for scholarships or awards.”

Diana subsequently held planning manager posi-

tions at Australand and later an international, multidisciplinary consulting firm, while completing her master’s degree in property development.

“I was the only town planner in these companies which were comprised of a broad range of property professionals such as development managers and construction managers and it was in development companies where females were under represented.”

Diana says with endeavour, passion and unwavering focus, anyone can excel in their chosen career.

“For me it’s always been about the content - so that is all that matters in the end. People always respect you if you are good at what you do.

“My motto has always been do your very best, then once you’ve done that - do better!”

Diana says a town planning career offers a diverse range of opportunities for women, allowing flexible arrangements including working parttime or on smaller planning projects from home.

She finds the challenge of working for large companies rewarding, as they often encompass an element of complexity.

“I’m lucky to have a great boss at EG who understands and allows me to spend time with my family, who are also very supportive. Because the truth is, if you ask me the thing I’m most proud of in my life it’s my daughter,” Diana says of Emilia, who is already showing construction skills building towers with Lego.

“In the end it all comes down to that.”

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FDC has a strong commitment to gender equality.

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

FDC COMMITTED TO EQUALITY Diversity drives innovation

L

eading construction company FDC prides its strong commitment to gender equality and recognises the importance of having a gender balance at all levels within its company.

In a traditionally male dominated industry, FDC maintains a higher than industry-average female participation, but the company is always looking to improve.

At FDC they understand that a more diverse workforce drives innovation and helps push the boundaries of what the company can achieve.

Women are employed throughout the business in roles such as: • Leading hands • Senior project managers • Design managers • Tender and bid managers • Senior client manager • Client engagement manager • WHS managers • Executive assistants • Divisional and team assistants • OHS & QA site co-ordinator • Business capability manager • National events manager

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• Training and development coordinators; and • Accounts FDC are also avid supporters of investing in education and driving diversity in its future leaders.

FDC has collaborated with Western Sydney University to create the FDC Scholarship Empowering Women in Construction which supports female students involved in any course within the School of Computing, Engineering and Mathematics, and aims to inspire female students to graduate and apply for positions in construction.

FDC believes strongly in developing all of its staff in both their strengths and weaknesses to support them in achieving their career goals; and they consciously provide equal opportunities for all employees at all levels of the business.

The company leads the way when it comes to celebrating the role of family values in business and people management.

It promotes flexible working arrangements that enable staff to work varied hours and to care for sick family members when required and offers generous paid parental leave provisions.

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Q&A

5 minutes with…Dani Wales

GRAB ALL CHANCES Career happiness means chasing dreams

Dani Wales and Dan Reilly, The Block alumni and co-founders of R

What’s your role in the Red Door Project?

As co-founder and creative director I look after all of our construction tender and off-site management, as well as assess prospective projects to ensure they fall in line with our business goals and values.

We say no to many projects as they just don’t fall in line with what we believe in as individuals or the direction we are taking Red Door Project.

I am also looking after our interior design arm, strategic growth and client management.

What’s your favourite part of it?

I have a project management and analytical background so I really enjoy sinking my teeth into that type of work.

I really love the initial/research stages of any project as they’re all so unique and brilliant in their own way and it’s a chance to really create something special.

Also the final stages of any project are extremely exciting as we start to see the vision really come to life.

Some projects take only a few months, whereas others can take a year or more for construction only, so when you add the interior design development to that, a project can be in the works for a number of years.

What’s the most challenging aspect?

Managing client expectations can be a tricky one.

Many clients come to us with inspiration from multiple different sources, and sometimes what they want for a project unfortunately doesn’t fall

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in line with the project budget.

The cost of construction has sky-rocketed in recent years so it’s up to us to help a client achieve a certain look and feel without letting the costs blow out.

The beauty of having a design and construct offering is that we have a fairly solid understanding of material costs across the board so we can avoid over-specification.

When we are working on construction projects that have come through another architect/interior designer, there is often a lengthy value management stage as the project has either been in development for a number of years or the budget has not been considered as the most important aspect.

We always like to educate people where we can that your actual overall project budget is approximately 25 per cent less than you thought when you factor in GST and builder’s margin.

Do you have any tools/programs to make running a business simpler?

I basically have Xero open in a browser for the entire day.

Whether it be raising invoices, payroll, super, tracking jobs or creating project quotes, it’s a necessary tool to keep us running how we need to be.

It’s particularly good to have the peace of mind that we’re compliant with new legislations.

Aside from that we are also currently migrating across to a new project management software that integrates with Xero so we can manage jobs

Red Door Project.

But good things take time and I feel like we may have been a little too green way back to then.

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

through one tool, rather than multiple.

What do you want to achieve in the future?

We have a big desire to one day live in the US and do what we do here, over there.

We have a great base of friends and fellow entrepreneurs stateside so even though we’d technically be starting from scratch, it wouldn’t really feel that way for us.

We get one shot at this life so it’s a priority for us to ensure that our work life and business goals fall in line with or complement our personal goals.

Aside from our US goals, we are striving to be one of Melbourne’s preferred end-to-end interior design, architecture and construction offerings.

We currently offer the ID and construction side of things, but have a little way to go before we can offer the architecture/drafting side.

We both have other business interests that we are keen to explore and develop further in the future so Red Door Project may not be forever but as long as we are happy and passionate about what we are currently doing, then we are exactly where we should be.

If you could go back in time what is something you’d change about your path in the industry?

I would have got my interior design diploma straight after we finished The Block All Stars and commenced an MBA after that.

We mulled around for a couple of years not really knowing the direction we wanted to take so if we had just bit the bullet and knuckled down, we could be a few years ahead of where we are now.

What advice do you have for other women in the industry/girls wanting to get into the industry?

We can often be our own worst enemy … if you want to do something, don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t.

People often say “you’re so lucky” but that is absolute rubbish. We make our own luck and those who work seven days a week and make the sacrifices to build something they are proud of are not lucky, they are dedicated, and they hustle.

There is a little thing called Tall Poppy Syndrome which has made people feel like they can’t be proud of their achievements and success (in whatever form that might be).

I once cared deeply about what other people thought of me and it only inhibited my own personal growth, relationships and professional life … the second I stopped caring and started doing things just for me, the positive effect it had on every aspect of my life was truly incredible.

In terms of getting in the design/build industry specifically, I think it’s important to work out what part of the industry excites you most.

I dabbled in blogging and homewares retailing prior to launching Red Door Project with Dan and even though I had a certain amount of drive for those areas, nothing sparks joy more than what I am currently doing.

A good way to get a feel for the industry is to intern or do work experience with multiple different places to get an overview of the day-to-day.

You might think something is all glamorous but when you deep dive into the daily operations, it can be vastly different to what you first thought.

Doing short courses is also a great way to develop skills in different areas so that you have something to offer a prospective employer.

Lastly, don’t be shy. Opportunities rarely fall in your lap, you need to go out and grab them.

What do you do to maintain your health and wellbeing? Both physical and mental.

I exercise (a combination of cardio and reformer Pilates) five to six times per week and eat a vegetarian/pescatarian diet.

Exercise is an essential part of my daily meditation as it clears my mind of all work-related or personal thoughts. I simply cannot count reps or focus on Pilates combinations if I have other things occupying my headspace (haha).

In addition to this I like to go to the movies. This is the only way I truly switch off for an extended period of time (aside from sleeping).

Lastly, I love to travel. It’s where I’m my most happy, productive and mentally sound.

I’m also fortunate that I can do 95 per cent of my work remotely, which means I’m never 100 per cent disconnected.

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LEGAL TIPS

HANNAH SHEPHARD ASSOCIATE AT FIELDING ROBINSON LAWYERS, A SPECIALIST CONSTRUCTION FIRM IN NORTH SYDNEY

CUTTING THROUGH THE JARGON Solving disputes takes expert advice

W

hen I was first offered a job nine years ago as a junior solicitor working at the Master Builders Association of New South Wales, my prospective employer called me and said: “Are you actually interested in working in construction law?”

“Oh yes,” I said.

“My brother is an engineer, and one of my best friends is a carpenter and it definitely is something I am keen to do.”

I left out the part about not being able to build anything to save myself, but luckily for me, this was not a requirement of the job.

I was convinced that I was suited to construction law, because I liked the idea of being (indirectly) involved in creating structures and being associated with people who built and renovated houses and skyscrapers and everything in between.

As the years went by, I proudly collected a couple of hard hats (which I haven’t worn to date but am determined to one day) and got excited every time I walked past a construction site.

“That’s my industry!” I would proclaim to whoever I was walking with at the time.

Only yesterday, I was walking down a laneway and it backed on to a huge site which had been excavated a long way below ground level, presumably for a carpark.

I stopped and had a good look, finding it fascinating how a hole in the ground can eventually be turned into an apartment block where people eat, and sleep and live.

I have spent a fair bit of time on Google understanding what various construction terminology means.

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Even though the advice we give is legal advice, and revolves around general principles which apply across the board, in construction the disputes are quite often of a technical nature.

When the building experts are called in, they provide their opinion on issues like whether an item of work complies with the National Construction Code or whether works were completed within reasonable time.

We read expert reports and make sure the expert has explained why he or she holds that particular opinion.

At first, I found it tricky to visualise the problems being discussed in expert reports however I soon realised that if I looked at pictures of various aspects of the building, or if clients and experts drew diagrams for me, things soon became clearer.

I have had a lot of clients who don’t like administration and contracts and simply want to get on with building what they haven been asked to build.

Especially the builders and contractors who are on-site all day and then have to get their paperwork done at night.

Gone are the days, however, when whole unit blocks were “built on a handshake”.

People have to protect themselves with properly tailored contracts and, on occasion, deal with disputes.

This is where we help out.

If I can make understanding their rights and obligations clearer for someone involved in a construction project, then it feels like I am somehow helping to build things too.

BUSINESS MATTERS

VERITY HARE

WWW.TRADIEWIVES.COM.AU

ASK, ASK AGAIN Help is at hand when helping your tradie

I

once saw something that said “marry a tradie and instantly become a bookkeeper, marketing manager, admin manager and accounts manager”.

I’m sure a lot of wives and partners out there can relate to this (and hats off to all the tradies doing everything on their own because there is a lot of work involved).

In my case it was something I wanted to do. I have a background in marketing and advertising and felt like I could add value to the business.

As our business picked up, I left my full-time job to help run the business and try to build it up to its full potential.

My husband went from a sole trader to a company and we started to build a great team, so we were able to have a few jobs running at one time.

I set up social media, updated the website, did a crash course in Xero, spent endless hours researching the best apps/software to use, and put a few procedures in place to help the business run as seamlessly as possible.

When I first took on this role I had no idea where to start.

I didn’t have any prior experience in running a small business and it was quite overwhelming. So, let me share with you three things I wish I knew when starting out.

1. Get a good accountant.

I cannot tell you how valuable this is.

Don’t just grab the first accountant that pops up in a Google search – you need someone who fits the business.

We have had accountants in the past that just

didn’t suit us.

You need someone who you can easily talk to so you don’t hesitate to pick up the phone and call when you have a question — someone who you can relate to and someone who offers their advice and supports you in improving your business.

2. Get your systems and procedures in place.

You should build your business as if you were going to sell in the future.

Think about what potential buyers may want to see. Think about how you can demonstrate the value of your business.

Client databases, business management software, terms and conditions, accounting programs and business plans that outline the potential of your business will all contribute to showing you have a professional business.

3. Choose the right accounting program.

There are a number of them out there such as Xero, MYOB and Quickbooks to name a few. There are many different factors to consider when choosing one – price, functionality, and how easy they are to navigate.

For me, Xero has proved to be the most user-friendly and made my life much easier, particularly as this was the part of the business I was most concerned about assisting with.

The wrong program will only cause you premature grey hairs.

Whether you are assisting your partner in running the business, or you have a trade business and are doing everything yourself, I hope sharing my experience will help make your life as a business owner a little less stressful.

FLORENCE | | 43

Qualified builders and tradespeople are being sought to share their passion and experience.

PHOTO: AGENCY

TEACHING THE NEXT GENERATION Train tomorrow’s builders, tradespeople

A

t Master Builders Association we are seeking expressions of interest from qualified builders and tradespeople who would like to share their passion and experience by training the next generation.

Because of increasing demand and the skill shortage in the industry, Master Builders Association New South Wales is seeking additional trainers and assessors to deliver qualifications and courses at any of its training office locations.

Qualified and experienced people are needed in: • Certificate IV and Diploma of Building and Construction; • Carpentry Apprenticeship training; • Civil Construction and Plant Operations; • Demolition; • Asbestos; • Waterproofing; • Work Health and Safety; • Trade qualifications including Concreting, Cabinet Making, Painting, Bricklaying, Tiling, Wall and Ceiling Lining and others.

Trainers and assessors must be certified and qualified to work with the Master Builders

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Association. If you don’t have any formal Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, don’t worry - if you are the right candidate we will help you in taking the next step.

In order to qualify as a trainer and assessor, you will need to: • Ideally, have a minimum of five years experience in the building and construction industry; • Hold current industry qualification/s; • Hold a TAE40110 or TAE40116 Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, or higher; • Hold current licence/s (if applicable); • Be a clear and effective communicator; • Be personable and approachable; • Be patient and work as part of a team; • Be a capable mentor and teacher; • Complete a Working with Children Check.

Previous experience delivering training and assessment for a Registered Training Organisation will be highly regarded.

The roles are on a contract basis, with variable training workload. Contact our Master Builders Education Centre at Norwest on 02 8586 3588 and speak to Andrew Turner.

FIND THE JOB YOU REALLY WANT

B

eing made redundant is a bit like being asked for a divorce when you don’t want one! The setback of losing your job coupled with worrying about financial commitments can mean you are tempted to take the first job offer, even if it isn’t necessarily the right choice.

Here are some tips to find the job you’re looking for:

Research – Use your existing industry contacts to get a feel for the culture of a potential employer.

What do their clients say about them? What is staff retention like? How are they perceived by subcontractors?

You spend more time at work than you do at home. If you can’t find any common ground do you really want to work there? Try to think of a new job as an investment in your future.

Prepare – Carefully prepare your CV so it is up to date and interview ready. Make sure your social media profile is current and professional. Don’t send generic cover letters, specifically address

the position you are applying for with a tailored introduction.

Spend a considerable amount of time investigating an organisation, its history and culture. Try to ascertain why you think you will personally add value to an organisation. What is motivating you to be part of their team?

Engage – An interview is a two-way process.

Really think about what you need to know, and ask important questions that will help you make a good decision.

If nerves are making you anxious practise mock interviews with a friend. Get used to talking about yourself out loud.

People often get criticised for exaggerating their capabilities in interviews but equally frustrating are those who vastly undersell themselves, something that is common among females. Don’t be afraid to celebrate your successes and highlight your achievements – it might give you the competitive edge to get the job you really want.

Constructing Relationships That Last

®

Clinton Recruitment is a boutique Recruitment Agency based in Sydney that specialises in the recruitment of Building and Construction professionals throughout Australia.

At Clinton Recruitment the focus has always been on quality rather than quantity. Clinton Recruitment is the preferred Recruitment Agency of the Master Builders Association of New South Wales and is proud to be a sponsor of the annual Construction Awards in Sydney.

Managing Director, Louise Clinton has over 20 years experience of recruitment within the Building and Construction sector and is a passionate advocate of women working in construction.

If you are seeking a new career opportunity within the Construction Industry or looking for key members of staff to join your team, let’s talk.

T: 02 9664 8653 E: louise@clintonrecruitment.com.au W: www.clintonrecruitment.com.au FLORENCE | | 45

WORK IT Blundstone’s new women’s safety range offers form and function

D

esigned and made specifically for women, the 892 and 897 are Blundstone’s latest offerings in protective footwear.

Packed with features to withstand tough environments and zip sided for easy-on easy-off accessibility, the boot is designed to keep you safe and comfortable all day long.

Features include: • Water-resistant wheat nubuck leather upper or premium black leather upper.

• Padded collar and tongue and a breathable, anti-bacterial lining.

• Moulded TPU toe guard for added abrasion protection.

• A tough outsole that’s oil, acid and organic fat resistant and can withstand temperatures up to 300°C. Comfort is key – the PU midsole provides excellent shock absorption and added XRD® layers in the heel and forepart, as well as the footbed, to ensure maximum satisfaction.

A steel shank ensures torsional stability, keeping your joints safe while the steel toe cap can withstand impacts up to 200 joule.

Light-coloured boot: Blundstone #892 Wheat Nubuck Leather; Black boot: Blundstone #897 Black Premium PHOTOS: BLUNDSTONE

46 | | FLORENCE

FLORENCE | | 47

DRESSED FOR SUCCESS Online Workwear takes you from office to work site

W

hether you’re in the office or on a work site, you want to be dressed to suit conditions.

The team at Online Workwear have a wide variety of clothing to cater to the needs of all construction industry workers, from office managers, engineers and architects to carpenters, electricians and plumbers, and many more.

There is a smorgasbord of brands to choose from, including Biz Collection and Syzmik Workwear, all at competitive prices.

You can also have your logo embroidered, screen-printed or vinyl heat transferred to any apparel ordered from Online Workwear.

To check out the range simply go to www.onlineworkwear.com.au.

01: Ladies’ Detroit flexi-band skirt $33.50; 02: Ladies’ Regent long-sleeve shirt $43.20; 03: Ladies’ Galaxy polo $21.50; 04: Ladies’ Jagger ¾ sleeve shirt $37.30; 05: Ladies’ Audrey dress $83.90; 06: Women’s outdoor long-sleeve shirt $45.30; 07: Lightweight tradie shirt – short sleeve $36.10; 08: Women’s FR front hooped taped spliced shirt $135.90; 09: Women’s day only zone polo $23.50.

PHOTOS: CONTRIBUTED

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Women are being recognised in the male-dominated construction industry, but more needs to be done to close the gender gap.

PHOTO: AGENCY

WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION: MAKING THEIR MARK D

espite still being a male-dominated industry, women in building and construction are making their mark.

By demonstrating business acumen and bringing a fresh, valuable perspective to the companies they work in, females in construction today are helping to drive business growth while acting as inspiring role models for the next generation.

According to 2018 figures from the Australian Government’s Labour Market Information Portal, women occupy 12 per cent of the overall construction workforce, with only 2 per cent of the overall building and construction workforce occupied by female tradespeople.

There’s certainly work to be done to improve this gender gap and when considering the staffing challenges builders face daily, women represent an under-utilised resource.

Recent research shows gender-diverse companies are more innovative, productive and profitable; women in the construction industry today say they enjoy the enormous variety of roles within the sector.

As Australia’s third largest industry, the diversity of job opportunities is endless, with many women

drawn to sales, design and customer liaison roles.

Independently owned building materials supplier and truss and frame manufacturer Dahlsens, with 142 years’ experience servicing residential builders, works with many pioneering women in its day-to-day service and supply role to builders in Victoria and NSW. General manager Jamie Dahlsen sees females being pivotal leaders in our industry.

“Many of our most successful residential building customers remain independently run by their director team of male/female duo,” Jamie said.

“We are increasingly seeing females driving the home designs, marketing, customer communications and post-handover customer support functions.

“With entrepreneurial spirit, and a passion to truly deliver a unique customer experience to their clients, we are excited to see our industry evolve.”

Organisations including the National Association of Women in Construction are also trialling programs to encourage more women to consider such a career.

FLORENCE | | 53

TAKE A BREATH AND JUMP Couple make bold move and open business ALYSSA WELKE

R

ebecca Newman, co-founder of Newmark Constructions, knows the value of taking a leap of faith and putting in the hard yards to turn a dream into a successful business.

Her and partner Mark Newman took a leap of faith and created their company in July 2009 — at the height of the GFC — a move that would make even the boldest entrepreneur draw breath.

But their bold move has paid dividends, with the company entering its 10th year, and the business going from strength to strength.

Their mission as a residential construction company is to build beautiful houses people love from the moment they set foot in them; that magical feeling a home owner gets when they step over the threshold and feel immediately at home.

Equally important was to set a new standard — a new mark above the benchmark — of customer experience in the residential sector, one project at a time.

Through grit, determination and playing to each partner’s strength, Newmark has grown into a multi-award winning company and expanded into commercial construction.

Rebecca says the business was able to flourish by drawing together Mark’s trade apprenticeship experience in high-end residential with his commercial construction experience, and her experience in the infrastructure sector working on the business growth side to create a service offering which brought together their individual

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smarts in a relevantly scaled way for the residential sector.

“We also brought to the table, client side, experience, having done a couple of property developments of our own, including an award-winning project which also smashed suburb price records, twice,” she said.

“I was moonlighting in the Newmark business in its early days, while Mark worked full time.

“In our partnership, I’m more the architect of the business, and he is the builder who brings it to life. We play to our strengths — mine in strategy and relationships with partners and architects, him in execution of design intent, craftsmanship and business operations.

“We had some start-up working capital of our own we were willing to put on the line, we didn’t have any dependants for the first 18 months of the business, we actively sought out mentors and advisors to help us be constantly on the front foot, and honestly figured it was worth a go seeing if our combined experiences could bear fruit.

“The financial pressure and risk was also reduced because I was in a senior role in an infrastructure company, taking pressure off living expenses directly in the business while we learnt the ropes.”

Taking the leap from employees to business owners wasn’t without apprehension, with Rebecca saying their biggest worry in building a residential business was the reputation of many

Rebecca Newman and her husband Mark started Newmark Construction in 2009.

PHOTO: SISTER SCOUT STUDIO

of the people involved in the sector, and knowing their standards were different to commercial and infrastructure, for all different cultural, market, and financial reasons.

“While it isn’t the bulk of the industry, we knew the impact it could have on the business, the energy it’d take to build a lot of high trust relationships, and being able to sleep at night delivering projects we were proud of with clients who could even enjoy the experience.”

Rebecca’s career speciality has been growing high performance project teams and business lines in high pressure and often transitional environments.

The highlights reel of her career starts with the Sydney Olympics, flows into the business arm of the Australian Institute of Sport and Australian Sports Commission, and then moving on to Corrs Chambers Westgarth Lawyers, before working on the front end of multi-million and billion dollar infrastructure projects in Australia and the Pacific, in joint ventures with companies like Macquarie, as well as most of the big contractors and consultants (such as John Holland, Multiplex, Baulderstone, Theiss, PB, GHD), in the water, energy, transport, and buildings, sectors before spending time in-house at Laing O’Rourke across sectors.

It is this experience of having built projects and business lines for others that has set her up for creating Newmark Constructions.

And if having one successful business wasn’t

enough, Rebecca has gone on to establish a business consultancy company in the past five years.

Her motivation in The Grow Project was to take all the things which are “normal” to her, be them learned personally or through people way smarter than her, and curate them in a way others can grow their business, energise their health, and get their life back, at the same time, essentially, to have the unstoppable feeling . This came about when the penny dropped that many people didn’t have foundational skills she had, which transferred across business, health, and life.

As well as achieving professional success that would make most people envious, Rebecca has learnt some valuable life lessons.

“I’ve learnt through these experiences how to work less, earn more, re-introduce health and play to my life,” she said.

“I now have the two businesses, three young children, work 100 days each year, and I’m healthier than I’ve been since my teenage years.

“I’ve honestly had the most wonderful evolving career, ever since I started working.

“This somewhat eclectic collection of experiences has created such a rich life and myriad opportunities, mostly unpredicted, but all incredibly valuable, and true to my core values.

“Values that I wasn’t necessarily always aware that were there, which started within me and at home, and these days carry through in everything I do.

“This all came to full fruition when my passions collided when having babies came on the scene in 2010 - the most incredible growth hack I’ve ever experienced.

“I wouldn’t say that it’s because I set out to seek so much variety, it’s more like a series of stepping stones which have built a solid foundation which allowed me to grow.

“Foundations are incredibly important to me, be they a physical building and what that building can bring to its owners (and their community and also more broadly, society, if I’m honest), the foundations of a fulfilling life, or the connecting pieces which bring the foundations to life —human desire and behaviour, performance, communications, relationships, and teams.”

FLORENCE | | 55

STAY ON TRACK Software helps manage workload

P

roject management software helps construction companies bring all aspects of their business together is one system.

This one system approach helps increase control of operations and financials.

The ability for project managers to view live project data means real-time insight into financial performance.

This level of data helps them track trends and forecast financials to make better future decisions as well.

Software solutions also allow control of multiple business units, projects and teams, which helps foster a more collaborative culture, and an increase in visibility and accountability across all areas of your business.

Business owners can utilise to the software to streamline the processes in the following areas:

• Estimating and tendering • Project management • Scheduling • Budgets • Stock management • OH&S • Payroll • Taxation • Sales CRM • Contracts • Invoicing; and • Payments There are a number of software suites on the market and all of them offer different benefits, so it’s important to find the suite that best meets your needs.

A key point is to look for simplicity and functionality in a software suite, which helps you deliver the best outcomes time and time again.

APPS & SOFTWARE

Smarter Time Smarter Time tracks your time, and adapts to your personal goals and needs, to boost productivity, focus and happiness.

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HealthEngine Find and book a health appointment with a specialist near you with more than 11,000 trusted practitioners available 24/7.

Invoice Simple Invoice Simple is a fast and easy invoice app for sending invoices and estimates to customers. It is perfect for small business owners.

Spotify Stream free albums and hits, find a song, discover music, and download songs and podcasts with the Spotify free streaming and music player app.

TOOL TECH Keep ahead of the competition with quality tools

MILWAUKEE M12 SOLDERING IRON SKIN Heats quickly and maintains optimised temperature.

Price: $120

IRONAIR 3HP 100L AIR COMPRESSOR BELT DRIVE A professional compressor for site or workshop.

Price: $899

MILWAUKEE 12V POP RIVET TOOL SKIN ONLY Pull up to 3/16” Stainless Steel Rivets.

Price: $249

MILWAUKEE 18V RADIO BLUETOOTH CHARGER SKIN The M18 Jobsite Radio/Charger brings the power of bluetooth to the jobsite.

Price: $336

STANLEY FATMAX CHISEL SET Features 6mm, 12mm, 18mm, 25mm and 32mm chisels with quality blades for exceptional performance.

Price: $105

STELLAR STORAGE Versatility durability key to Packout system’s appeal WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: Milwaukee Tool revolutionises tool transportation, organisation, and storage for the trades with the new Packout Modular Storage System.

Designed to provide users with the ability to interchange and interlock a wide assortment of heavy duty tool boxes, organisers, and storage totes in multiple different configurations, Packout is the most versatile and durable modular storage system in the industry.

You can build your storage system the way your want, with the first multi footprint system, which allows you to stack and lock boxes, organisers and totes in any configuration which works for you.

The base of the Packout system is the rolling toolbox that has

been designed to rollover a variety of surfaces on any job site.

All boxes are made of impact resistant polymer and IP65 rated seals to prevent damage from water and debris.

Organisers are designed to connect to any Packout system components with removable bins to maximise organisation, which can also be mounted to job site materials with integrated screw slots.

The totes have been designed to attach to the top of storage boxes or organisers.

The totes can store accessories, hand tools or power tools.

The Milwaukee Packout is billed as the industry’s most versatile and durable modular storage system.

Priced: from $329 for Packout rolling toolbox

FLORENCE | | 57

DAY IN THE LIFE

AMANDA KELLY

SPECIAL PROJECTS OFFICER WITH MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF NEW SOUTH WALES

IT’S A JUGGLING ACT Balance key to meeting family and work commitments

I

nitially, I declined when offered to contribute this column to Florence, I just see my life as boring. I suppose I do what every other working mother does – juggle family and work commitments. The morning routine is repetitive. I wake up and make lunches; while still waking up.

How I hate making lunches. The pressure of the lunchbox is ridiculous. I make coffee for my husband and Mum who lives with us – Yes, my husband is the luckiest man alive to live with his mother in law.

As my boys are eating breakfast, we all sit together. The conversation is rapid fire and scattered. We work out the day, organise dinner times, the boys interrupt with talk about Fortnite, school work, pick on each other and more Fortnite. Somewhere in all of this are jokes and fun.

Our boys started at a new school this year which is considerably closer to where we live. This means no drop-off’s and pick up’s, which has eased the pressure just that little bit. I really love this 10 minutes in the morning. It’s the only time during the week where we are all together.

I have been with the Master Builders Association for nearly 20 years and in that time have taken on a number of different roles. EA to the Ed, starting up the Training Department, Special Projects such as educating our members on GST and CPD through to my current role in the Events Department.

I enjoy speaking to members who are interested in entering our Excellence in Housing & Construction awards. I have seen many complete their journey from apprenticeship and Certificate

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IV in Building & Construction through to entering their amazing projects into our awards.

I am blessed that I am allowed to juggle the work hours that suit my family. In my 20 years at the MBA I have had two children, hopefully one of them will work in this amazing industry. I finish work just in time to take my boys to their many after school activities. Music, sport and tutoring, it never ends. I just love the days when the boys both have activities at the same time but in different locations. Hmm it’s the best.

I decided last year that since I was taking my boys to these activities and often just sitting watching them that I would start getting involved. So I dusted of my guitar and started taking guitar and singing lessons with them. So they now have to sit around and watch and wait for me. I like to think they enjoy it as I am showing them that I can do it to, but know I am being delusional.

Then it’s a rush home to prepare a healthy dinner that the whole family will eat. Although every now and then we sneak in dinner out at one of our local clubs or restaurants or take away. This is usually at the end of the week when we start running out of food and I can’t be bothered to go to the shops or simply because I’m too tired to cook. After dinner its homework for the boys and sometimes TV watching while doing the millions of things around the house.

It’s a cycle. It’s the choice I’ve made and it works for me. I wouldn’t change too much from these past 20 years as when I think about it, this has shaped me to who I am. I just wouldn’t mind a bit more time.

WOMEN CONNECT AND GIVE SUPPORT Service offers exchange of ideas WIBAS provides an opportunity for women in construction to connect.

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

B

ased in Newcastle, the Women in Building & Associated Service group provides an environment where women can network with their colleagues, exchange ideas and experiences that will support and mentor the other women, while obtaining relevant, specialist industry specific information.

The group was initially created to represent women who work in the building industry or a related service to the industry.

WIBAS is supported by the Master Builders Association, the leader in Australia’s Building and Construction Industry for housing, commercial and infrastructure projects for more than 130 years. The Master Builders recognises and supports the enormous contribution women make to the building and construction industry and provides ongoing professional development through the WIBAS Forums.

The group has 149 members and membership allows you access to network with a range of women from the same industry as yourself, as well as providing up-to-date information about

the current happenings within the building industry.

For a small one off payment of $50 per individual person, $200 for a company (up to five persons) membership includes: • Membership Certificate to Women in Building & Associated Services • Continuous membership with WIBAS – no renewal fees each year • 50 per cent discount for your first forum for you and a colleague • Members discounted rate to all forums held by WIBAS • Personalised name badge, recognising you as a WIBAS Member • Electronic Newsletters • Free access to a Business Brag at a WIBAS Forum WIBAS host business forums quarterly, which have been designed for women within the industry to add value to their businesses and keeping up to date with all levels of the industry.

For further information visit www.wibas.org.au/.

Architecture Heritage Interiors Urban Design w w w. e j e . c o m . a u

JOHN HUNTER CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL NICU

BALLINA COAST HIGH SCHOOL

ejearchitecture | ejeinteriors

FLORENCE | | 59

SUCCESS STORIES

WIDAC BUILDS CULTURE CHANGE Women lifting each other up ELISE HONEYMAN, WIDAC GENERAL MANAGER, NSW

O

n any given week across Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne, you will find a community of women from the design, construction and related industries having powerful discussions among laughter, good food and wine.

Hosted within beautifully designed spaces, often having been delivered by the members themselves, Women in Design and Construction events have a certain je ne sais quoi and warmth that can be attributed to its community, who come together to celebrate each other and their successes.

Women in Design and Construction is the brain child of national directors Althea Papinczak and Erin Oxley, a dynamic duo whose relaxed approach set the tone for the events and community.

The organisation was founded in Brisbane in late 2016 after Althea, looking to broaden her

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network, attended a series of industry events that didn’t quite fit.

Each event either felt too formal, unaffordable or uncomfortable and didn’t cater to the diversity of professional female interests in an authentic way.

Althea was moved to create her own group, where women from the design and construction industry could meet to share projects, tips and tricks and have space to discuss issues they are faced with at work.

Althea and Erin have grown WIDAC from within the industry, where they work at Shape Australia as design manager and project co-ordinator respectively.

WIDAC was born out of the desire to create something that felt natural — starting out as a night in a bar with 20 friends from the industry.

WIDAC has since gained a life of its own and developed into what the girls refer to as an

TOP RIGHT: Founders of Women in Design and Construction Althea Papinczak and Erin Oxley.

PHOTO: CURDIN WULLSCHLEGER

“accidental business” that is grounded by its original values.

It appears the essence of Women in Design and Construction is contagious as in two years the community has grown to 5000 women across Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne.

Within each city, the ideals of WIDAC are protected by a team of passionate women, who are driven by the collective ambition to create inclusive, innovative and approachable events for women across all built environment disciplines.

The individual experiences of the members are WIDAC’s greatest asset and the events have women from all levels presenting to keep content relatable to a wide audience.

Industry workshops are offered to develop technical skills, while key events are carefully curated to explore broader themes which are

generally relevant to all professionals.

With an emphasis on culture, collaboration and support the WIDAC community hopes to lead by example and impact the industry from the ground up.

Building on the full schedule of events, workshops and social sessions, already booked for 2019, the WIDAC team are looking to expand the offering by introducing initiatives to make an impact and create tangible changes in the industry.

The organisation has come a long way since its humble beginning, yet still holds true to its underlying values.

The real magic of WIDAC lies in its community — an evolving group of women who as peers, empower one another, create pathways to leadership and improve as a collective.

FLORENCE | | 61

FLORENCE FITNESS

ALEEA MOODIE

HULA HOOPING YOGI

MORNING ROUTINE Set yourself up for a great day

I

t is said that what you do in the first hour of your day will determine the rest of it.

A morning routine can really help set yourself up to be the best version of you.

As we know, life can get overwhelming and chaotic sometimes, there is so much information on self love, and a morning routine is one of the things I do daily for myself.

I’ve made it fun and it definitely doesn’t feel like a chore.

When I gave myself a morning practice years ago, I had to be strict because, if you know me, you know I am, still to this day, a “I don’t know what I am doing tomorrow let alone on the weekend”, “go with the flow” type of person.

I’m not going to advise you to make your bed each morning, because I don’t, but I do make sure it is made before I get into bed each night.

I will be straight, I definitely had to set an alarm earlier and I had to stop making excuses for myself.

Naturally I’m going to tell you what I do, this is what works for me and is dependent on seasons, the weather and has had many trials and errors.

Factors are time, what day of the week it is, how much I have got on and how I am feeling energetically.

I just wanted to create something I could stick to 95 per cent of the time no matter what mood I was in, for example if I’m not feeling well.

I wake up and meditate, be it for an hour or five minutes.

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I tongue scrape and oil pull for mouth and gut health.

Make a lemon, ginger, honey drink as this helps activate my digestive system.

I write my gratitude list, then I will read some pages of a book, or do a little bit of exercise, if that means a quick walk, yoga, squats or bike ride, whatever I feel I need to do on that day.

When your mind is taken care of so is the rest of the day and you make better, healthier decisions.

So I encourage you, as everyone is different and what works for some doesn’t always work for others, to consider what are some things you can do in the first hour of the day to start off fresher.

To be able to have the best day, every day, better conversations with your co-workers, family and friends.

Filling up your own cup so it overflows everywhere else, start off with implementing one or two things and see what else you can do once you are into a groove and stick to it.

Eventually it just happens.

Also I would love to hear your suggestions, ideas and what works for you.

Aleea Moodie is an animated and energetic hula hooping yogi. She is a huge animal lover and her hobbies include playing around with fire twirling or the fire hoop, playing various musical instruments, skateboarding, surfing, embracing naturalism and seeing the beach and sky as much as possible, not necessarily all at the same time.

Are your showers ticking time bombs?

Despite builders best efforts, leaking showers are consistently listed in the BSA’s top ten defects.

Sadly, sometimes this is due to substandard workmanship, but most of the time it is the design of the shower itself which is creating the potential for disaster.

Most contractors are at a complete loss as to why, but detailed testing has shown how, by the action of expansion and contraction, water is “pumped” along glue cavities to escape the shower enclosure, no matter how well it is water-proofed.

The best way to prevent the problem is to seal the screen directly to the membrane, and NOT to the tiles.

Waterstop Streamline provides: •

Positive connection between screen and membrane

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Maximises floor area

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Provides a template for following trades

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Ensures correct fall to waste

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Modern, cost effective, one-piece design

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Minimum change for maximum benefits

My business has expanded rapidly since we star ted using the Waterstop Streamline ho b and I now have tilers recommending the Waterstop Streamline system – and me – to othe r builders.

Everyone that uses it loves it.

Mr Fred Medd ings, Managin g Director Watertight Austr alia (Water-proo fers)

Remove the doubt. Fit Waterstop Streamline ... and forget about leaking showers.

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Water path

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Water escapes shower enclosure

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For more information, visit www.waterstopstreamline.com.au Phone 07 5426 3700 • Fax 07 5426 3711 • Email sales@gleda.com.au

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EVENTS APRIL-AUGUST

AVOID THE BURN OUT

When: July 18, 2019, 6pm Where: WIDAC Sydney These days it seems like we are constantly busy and at times feel on the brink of utter exhaustion.

The key speaker will illustrate the circumstances that can lead to burnout and coach on methods to manage your physical and mental health to avoid undue stress and pressure from both work and life.

For more information on this event go to www.widac.com.au.

KEYS TO PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT

JULY 18-19 LEADERSHIP SYMPOSIUM

When: July 18 to 19 Where: Shangri-La Hotel, Sydney Women and Leadership Australia The Australian Women’s Leadership Symposiums are a national series of events focused on the experiences of women leaders in the contemporary workforce.

Held annually, in every state and territory, the Symposiums have been running for over ten years and have become the most highly attended women’s leadership events in the country.

ABOVE: Leigh Sales will be guest speaker at the Australian Women’s Leadership Symposium in Sydney.

64 | | FLORENCE

When: Tuesday, June 11, 8.30am to 4pm; Where: MBA Port Macquarie, Unit 3, 12 Jindalee Road, Port Macquarie When: Thursday, June 27, 8.30am to 4pm Where: MBA Norwest, 5 Burbank Place, Norwest NSW 2153 Master Builders New South Wales The Master Builders presents leading figures from across the property development and construction industry via this informative training seminar.

The purpose of this seminar is to give the participants the opportunity to tap in to the knowledge and secrets from the presenting industry experts.

JUNE 11

NATIONAL CONFERENCE

When: June 20 to 22, early bird registration closes May 10 Where: Melbourne Australian Institute of Architects Featuring renowned local and international speakers, the conference provides unrivalled networking opportunities and continuing professional development to keep you at the forefront of practice.

JUNE 20-22

DECOR + DESIGN SHOW

JULY 18

JULY 18-12

When: July 18 to 21, opening at 10am daily Where: Melbourne Exhibition Centre Take the opportunity to get inspired, source the latest products, stay up to date on the trends and developments in the industry and network with peers from both the trade show and a full program of Show features.

Decor + Design is co-located with Australia’s largest Furniture tradeshow, Australian International Furniture Fair.

It is a free trade only event.

DESIGNBUILD EXPO 2019

AUG 12 2019 ENGAGING WOMEN IN THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT

When: Tuesday, August 12, registration from 6.15pm; public lecture: 6.30pm sharp and networking reception: 8pm to 9pm Where: Sydney Lower Town Hall, 78 Druitt St (entry opposite Queen Victoria Building), Sydney, NSW, 2000 University of New South Wales Built Environment Further info: www.be.unsw.edu.au/event/2019-engaging-women-built-environment

When: May 14 to 16, 2019 Where: Level 5, International Convention Centre, Darling Harbour, Sydney DesignBuild brings Australia’s most enterprising architects, developers and construction professionals together.

Not only to connect in the most efficient way possible, but to raise industry standards as a whole.

An invaluable opportunity to connect with peers, source quality materials, hear about legislation updates, and get insights into property trends, DesignBuild is the cornerstone of the industry.

Register in advance for free visitor entry – visit www.designbuildexpo.com.au.

MAY 14-16

FLORENCE | | 65

INSTA SISTAS

@MELBOURNECHIPPYCHICK

@CREATEDBYS

Stefanie Dahaby Apostolidis Qualified carpenter/site manager/future builder creator of Lady Tradie Club Pty Ltd Insta: melbournechippychick

Steph Le Poidevin Qualified furniture maker Moving from Australia to UK April 2019 Portfolio @tulipandchisel Insta: createdbys

@BETHBUILDS

@AIMEE.ADVENTURES

Beth Moresi Builds Qualified carpenter and maker Building my pipe dreams into a reality Insta: bethbuilds

Aimee Stanton Plumber | adventurer | speaker and presenter Ambassador for @tafevic Insta: aimee.adventures

@SHEBUILDSBRO

@TRADESWOMEN_AUS

She Builds Bro Chelsea | 25 RMT Builders | Queenstown, New Zealand Graphic designer turned carpentryaApprentice Insta: shebuildsbro

Tradeswomen Australia Tradeswomen Australia Podcasts find them on your favourite podcasting app or www.tradeswomenaustralia.com.au Insta: tradeswomen_aus

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2019 APPLICATIONS OPEN NOW

VULNERABLE WOMEN PROJECT SUPPORTING WOMEN FROM DISADVANTAGED BACKGROUNDS INTO EMPLOYMENT AND BEYOND

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