BGC Bulletin December 2021 by bgcarck

ISSUE 19 - DECEMBER 2021

the

Bulletin Building the future for more Australians

BGC Among Australia’s Best Managed Companies BGC was named one of ten private Australian companies recognised for outstanding business performance by Deloitte Australia. READ MORE ON PAGE 4

BGC Housing Group partners with Kolbang New partnership creates opportunity for first nations people to participate in apprenticeships. READ MORE ON PAGE 6

BGC Award Pallet Supply Contract to WA’s Largest Disability Service Provider BGC award two-year contract for pallet supply to Activ. READ MORE ON PAGE 32

MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

Daniel Cooper, Chief Executive Officer This year has been a busy 12 months for every single employee at BGC. We have all been challenged through this period with supply chain and COVID-19 related issues. Throughout it all though we have continued to improve across the group. Most pleasingly, all our teams have been committed to driving significant positive change in our safety practices and outcomes. We have done this through leadership, increased training and engagement from everyone. This year we have again halved the frequency of injuries at BGC and our number and severity of injuries is at an all-time record low! Thank you for keeping yourselves and each other safe. As we head into the end of the year and Christmas period, I ask that we all remain as

committed to our own personal safety and that we are extra vigilant about the safety of our teammates, our work practices, and our sites. In December, we will complete the final stage of our “non-core” business and asset divestments with the sale of Canning Vale land. This year we have relocated and strengthened our core businesses with some examples being: • BGC Cement completing a large upgrade and move to Naval Base, • Affinity Windows relocating to new facilities at Jandakot; and • The creation of our new multi-product Material Technology Centre at Hazelmere Our future strategy and the incorporation of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) is clear and in November this year we were recognised by Deloitte Global as one of the Best Managed Companies in Australia. As part of our ESG Strategy you would have noted some new programs such as: • Kolbang partnership to employ 15 Aboriginal apprentices • Agreement to purchase 40,000 pallets per year from our friends at Activ Industries; and • FISH Aboriginal housing initiative support.

“As we head into the end of the year and Christmas period, I ask that we all remain as committed to our own personal safety and that we are extra vigilant about the safety of our teammates, our work practices, and our sites.” - Daniel Cooper

BGC has set a target to eliminate our Scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions by 2040. To achieve this there are a range of initiatives requiring your involvement, including our Hydrogen Truck Trial that will be communicated over the coming months. Building the Future at BGC is front of mind and this year we have engaged 29 apprentices directly, plus recruited and placed 62 apprentices for our building contractors. We have another 14 signed up to commence and are currently seeking a further 33 to ensure young talent in our business. If you know someone who may be interested or would like to know more head to our new BGC Website at www.bgc.com.au.

to ensure employees are fully vaccinated by December 31, 2021. Other BGC businesses are required by January 31, 2022. Please don’t leave this to the last minute. Finally, for all of our employees, suppliers, and stakeholders, I wish you and your families a very Merry Christmas and a safe, Happy New Year. I look forward to seeing you back in January for another exciting period as we continue to build the future together.

We are now enjoying some relaxation of borders between states across the Eastern Seaboard of Australia. The high levels of vaccination in these states and declining COVID-19 cases have led to easing of restrictions. In Western Australia we still have some way to go. As you are aware, State Government mandated vaccinations in our WA workplaces require some of our businesses

BGC Bulletin - Issue 19 | 3

BGC NEWS

BGC Among Australia’s Best Managed Companies On 18 November, 2021 BGC was named one of ten private Australian companies recognised for outstanding business performance in Deloitte Australia’s 2021 Best Managed Companies awards. The Best Managed Companies (BMC) program identifies and celebrates privately-owned and managed companies across Australia that set the highest standards of business performance and shines a light on the power of private business as a key driver of Australia’s economy. The program’s judges challenged and evaluated the strengths of the applicants across four key pillars: strategy; culture and commitment; capabilities and innovation; and governance and financials.

Amid the turbulence of the past 12-months in the building and construction industry, BGC has maintained an enviable market position in WA, a robust resource pool, core talents and capabilities in its people, and a safe and high performing organisation. On being named among Australia’s Best Managed Companies BGC Chief Executive Officer, Daniel Cooper, said: “Our portfolio of vertically integrated businesses, and more than 60 years of ambition have given rise to an organic culture of innovation and an organisation focused on continuous improvement.” Natalie Faull, Deloitte Private partner and Best Managed Companies program national leader, said: “Our Best Managed Companies program is about celebrating the passion, focus, dynamism and growth that Australia’s best private companies are

We have a clear plan for the future and an engaged workforce and are pleased that this has been acknowledged by Deloittes Best Managed Companies program.

renowned for. This year, the program has really demonstrated just how well our best managed private businesses, and that includes BGC, have refined their already well-developed strategies in response to the pandemic. They’ve certainly been tested by the COVID environment, but they’ve also stood up to the challenges, and are navigating the future with confidence.” Deloitte Private Managing Partner, Andrew Culley, said: “The past 12-months have been incredibly challenging for the Australian economy, with significant and sustained disruption. But we have seen private businesses demonstrate resilience, agility and decisiveness as they have navigated the turbulence. We have seen these attributes in our Best Managed Company winners that have also demonstrated a meaningful commitment to their people and purpose, and a focus on clear goals and sustained success.”

of ‘The BGC Way’ and the strategic guidance our driving force to build the future for more Australia. The strategic pillars which underpin our operations; safe and high performing organisation, delivering a customer-centric value proposition, and leveraging scale and vertical integration, shone through our submission.

BGC named one of ten private Australian companies recognised for outstanding business performance.

Our submission highlighted the integral role

BGC Bulletin - Issue 19 | 5

BGC HOUSING GROUP

BGC Housing Group partners with Kolbang BGC Housing Group are throwing their weight behind Kolbang, building capacity and opportunity for young first nations people to overcome hardships and participate in a meaningful apprenticeship. In March 2021 discussions began between BGC and Kolbang co-founder Zak Kirkup, to find a way that the two organisations could work together to build better outcomes for industry. Kolbang, Noongar for ‘Go Forward’, is dedicated to making a difference in Western Australia. The joint venture of Zak Kirkup and ADCO, is an Aboriginal-owned licenced electrical contracting company, committed not only to providing the best services to clients, but also leveraging their experience

to improve the wellbeing of the first nation’s community in Western Australia. On Thursday 11 November Executive General Manager of BGC Housing Group Michael Bartier met with Zak and three of Kolbang’s first year apprentices on a BGC site in Beckenham. Alan Williams, Robert Bolton, and Jamie Delacy have all joined Kolbang as electrical apprentices and shared with Michael that they are thoroughly enjoying their jobs, the workplace, and the environment Zak creates at Kolbang. A partnership with Kolbang and BGC has been formalised to support growth and awareness for the initiative; which involves

Above: Zak Kirkup, Michael Bartier, Graeme Dix and Kolbang Apprentices

Above: Zak Kirkup and Michael Bartier

working together to jointly develop workforce attraction, retention and development programmes tailored to Kolbang’s current and future team of apprentices and skilled trades. Having only been operating for six months, Kolbang has almost 20 full-time first year apprentices. BGC Housing Group has these crews working across Now Living sites in Perth. The future looks bright as Kolbang grows their operations, and BGC aims to increase their participation in its residential and commercial construction pipeline.

Partnerships like this are just one way that BGC can find organic opportunities in the community to give back to Western Australians, while overcoming the state’s skills shortage.

BGC FIBRE CEMENT AND PLASTERBOARD

BGC Operations on East Coast and New Zealand successfully navigate lockdown challenges The pandemic has forced businesses across the globe to adopt remote, flexible working with unprecedented speed. In Western Australia, BGC has been fortunate and not had many extended periods of lockdown, however our teams in Victoria, New South Wales and New Zealand have all endured lengthy lock down periods. It was announced in the news recently that Melbourne has become the most locked down city in the world, with Victorians spending 246 days in lockdown over the last 18 months. At BGC Fibre Cement and Plasterboard, many of the Melbourne based team have worked from home for much of the lock down period. It has been a challenging period for the team as they have been away from their colleagues for an extended period and haven’t had the ability to meet with customers face-to-face. Our BGC Fibre Cement and Plasterboard employees in New South Wales have also

been affected by the long-term lockdown from July to October. As is the case for Melbourne employees, some of the Sydney team have worked from home for lengthy periods and team members who were in the office had to be regularly tested for COVID-19 to attend work. While in New Zealand, the hard-working team at BGC Fibre Cement have successfully navigated lockdowns with tough restrictions. With many employees working from home, and trying to, with very tough restrictions, manage different restrictions between the North Island and the South Island. BGC Fibre Cement General Manager Roger Brynjulfsen said he is proud of the Fibre Cement and Plasterboard teams located on the East Coast of Australia and New Zealand for their resilience and determination to get through the lockdowns they have endured. “I am proud at the way they have all just got on with the job,” Mr Brynjulfsen said.

“At certain points in the last 12 months, in all three of these areas, construction has been shut down adding an extra level of uncertainty.”

“We’ve had training sessions and meetings and even a couple of virtual Industry expos have happened online.”

The BGC Fibre Cement and Plasterboard team has risen to the challenges by working together, checking in with each other via MS Teams, Zoom and WebEx. “We’ve all learnt the phrases “Your microphone’s not on” and ‘You’re on mute”!” reported Mr Brynjulfsen.

The BGC Fibre Cement and BGC Plasterboard teams have also had safety at the forefront of our minds with each state working with the BGC Safety team to develop and enact COVID Safe plans to keep staff and visitors safe.

“There have been regular calls between states to check up on friends and colleagues along with the obligatory chats about not being able to get to hairdressers or the pub.

“While the pandemic has been a very challenging experience, it has brought out the best in the BGC teams that have gone through it” Mr Brynjulfsen expressed.

BGC Bulletin - Issue 19 | 9

BGC NEWS

BGC Leadership Forum 2021 In October, we held our annual BGC Leadership Forum with over 120 senior leaders convening to discuss our progress on strategy, challenge our thinking and network with peers. Meeting at RAC Arena (proudly built by BGC Construction) a number of senior executives and leaders across BGC were in attendance to network, discuss their own businesses, and look to the future. Aligning with our vertically integrated business model, this annual forum provides the opportunity for leaders across the group to develop deeper insights into all aspects of BGC’s operations.

This year’s core theme was focused on sustainability

This year’s core theme was focused on Sustainability, a topic that weaves through all elements of our broader BGC Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Strategy. Our ESG Strategy is an essential component to our day-to-day operations to ensure that we deliver on our purpose of building the future for more Australians. The event was energising and showcased the best of the BGC Way.

Above: Will Russell, Larissa Allan, John Sheridan

BGC Bulletin - Issue 19 | 11

BGC PRECAST

BGC Precast supply elements in iconic jetty rebuild BGC Precast have completed supplying all the elements for the Royal Freshwater Bay Yacht Club jetty replacement project, being undertaken by Advanteering.

BGC Precast were contracted to supply the footing abutments only, which are the 11 precast pieces that run along next to the shore. After successfully delivering this component of the project, the business was asked to complete the order for the entire structure. This included 11 shell beams, which jut out from the shore, resting on the footing abutments on one end and a pile in deep water on the other end as well as 10 large deck slabs spanning between these same beams. BGC Precast General Manager Teo Prka said the jetty’s location posed a few issues for the team when they were fabricating the beams slabs and footings. “Due to the high level of corrosion protection required, the reinforcement inside these elements had to be strengthened by fibre glass in place of the usual steel rebar as the jetty is being corroded by salty water,” Mr Prka said. “The challenge of the project location further dictated that the concrete also had to be of an exceptionally high quality.” The BGC Precast team were commended by the Advanteering project team on their delivery of this project.

BGC Bulletin - Issue 19 | 13

MIDLAND BRICK

Midland Brick supports Australian Brick & Blocklaying Training Foundation Ltd (ABBTF) Since October 2020, BGC’s Midland Brick has partnered with the Australian Brick & Blocklaying Training Foundation Ltd (ABBTF) to implement a levy to all clay brick quotations and new orders. ABBTF is a national, industry funded, notfor-profit organisation that was established to address the ongoing need for skilled

bricklayers. The purpose of the ABBTF is to ensure that there is an adequate and competent workforce to support the demand for bricks and blocks as a sustainable and cost-effective construction material. ABBTF develops and maintains industry and community partnerships and programs, which are jointly funded by an industry contribution.

A small levy is applied to the sale of clay bricks matched dollar for dollar by leading brick manufacturers. The levy is $1.50 per 1,000 for clay Standard Brick Equivalents (SBE) or $3.00 per 1,000 for clay two course bricks. Midland Brick are proud to be involved as the funds generated enable the ABBTF to Attract, Prepare, Place and Retain bricklaying apprentices to support the needs of industry as well as improving the overall image of bricklaying. ABBTF State Manager Dean Pearson said that since BGC has become involved, the ABBTF has been able to provide more resources, programs, wages subsidies and career advice to our targets audiences than that which was previously available. “The relationship between ABBTF and BGC has captured significant increases in new Apprentice Commencements.” Mr Pearson said. “This has happened in a very short time which reflects BGC’s fresh thinking around Trade Training and Trade Development.” With high levels of building activity forecasted for the years to come and the availability of high-quality Bricks and Blocks in this State, The ABBTF and BGC’s Midland Brick will continue to work together to capture quality candidates and ensure that our Trade Base grows for many years to come. For more information about the ABBTF please visit: www.becomeabricklayer.com.au

Some recent results from BGC’s relationship with ABBTF include:

ABBTF reached 83% growth nationally and 354% in WA alone in supported 1st Year Bricklaying Apprentices since March 2020 We now have over 118 first year apprentices in WA ABBTF is now supporting over 1500 apprentices around Australia WA supported apprentices have more than doubled from 90 to 185 in the past year ABBTF WA supported 19 Bricklaying Training Programs just in the last quarter ABBTF WA attended 50 Expos and Events including School Presentations in the last quarter

BGC Bulletin - Issue 19 | 15

It is with great pride; we can announce the 2021 ride raised over $100,000. This is the highest amount raised since the first annual Ride Against Domestic Violence.

BGC NEWS

Ride Against Domestic Violence Exceeds Fundraising Record in 2021 Sadly, family and domestic violence is an awful reality for too many women and children in Western Australia. Family and domestic violence impacts on women’s health and wellbeing, social isolation, and economic insecurity, and has a broader impact on families and communities. It is important to shine a light on this issue in our community and remind everyone that preventing family and domestic violence is a whole-of-community responsibility governments, organisations, the media and individuals all have a role to play. The 260km Ride from Busselton to Perth raises funds and awareness of the nature and scale of family and domestic violence. The cause aims to promote consideration of what changes we as community members can make to combat this devastation. In September, nine teams took part in the Ride Against Domestic Violence to raise funds for charities operating refuges for women and children experiencing or at risk of family and domestic violence. BGC and Midland Brick participated and were proud supporters of the charity ride.

BGC Bulletin - Issue 19 | 17

It is with great pride; we can announce the 2021 Ride raised over $100,000. This is the highest amount raised since the first annual Ride Against Domestic Violence. The Ride Against Domestic Violence started in 2016 when Hon Dr Tony Buti MLA (Labor) and Hon Tony Simpson MLA (Liberal) shared a determination to use their influence to create an event that raised awareness of family and domestic violence and funds for refuges facing high and rising demand. Minister for Prevention of Family and Domestic Violence Simone McGurk says while it is not an easy subject to talk about, increasing the understanding of this damaging issue in our community is very important. “The women’s refuges around the state play an incredibly important role in responding in a crisis. They deliver a range of services, but what they are

most known for is providing a safe haven for women and their children to come to when they need to flee violence. The staff in these refuges do an incredible job,” says Minister McGurk. “The McGowan Government does not shy away from the evidence that shows, when it comes to family and domestic violence, women and children are overwhelmingly overrepresented, and we have made stopping the cycle of abuse a priority.” “As WA’s first dedicated Minister for Prevention of Family and Domestic Violence, I remain focused on addressing this issue in our communities, with an additional $60 million committed earlier this year to prevention and support measures that build on the significant investments made in the McGowan Government’s first term.”

Above: Robert Cunningham (Curtin Uni) and Hayden Groves (REIWA)

Above: Chris Williams, Matt Venetis, Daniel Cooper, James Ragan, Graeme Dix, Gene Berry, Brian Adams, Stewart Hart

Above: Gene Berry, Kevin Sneddon, Hon. Dr Tony Buti MLA, Mr Chris Tallentire MLA, Ms Meredith Hammat MLA

BGC Bulletin - Issue 19 | 19

BGC HOUSING GROUP

BGC Housing Group Awarded WA’s Biggest Builder Accolade from HIA BGC Housing Group has maintained its top ranking in the Housing Industry Association (HIA) Top 100 Australian Builders 2021 list, once again being named the largest builder in WA. The annual Colorbond Steel Housing 100 survey, released in September, measures new home starts over the past financial year. Figures show BGC Housing Group had the most 2020-2021 WA dwellings commence construction, with a total of 4,205, up from 2,332 last year. This ranked it as the fourth largest homebuilder nationally, up from seventh place last year. In addition to building more than 32,000 homes for WA residents, over the past ten years BGC Housing Group has:

Built in 300 Perth suburbs Helped 20,000 first home buyers get onto the property ladder Supported 40,000 WA jobs Committed to building energy efficient homes through NatHERS 6 Star homes

BGC Housing Group Executive General Manager Michael Bartier said the 2020-2021 end of financial year results are impressive and reflective of the industry’s recent boom. “This level of success would simply not have been possible without our supportive customers and all BGC Housing Group staff, trades and suppliers who have worked incredibly hard through the pressures of COVID-19 and the stimulus. It has been a busy year for all of us, and this is a wonderful way to see everyone’s hard work acknowledged,” said Bartier. “As WA’s largest builder we have the opportunity to continue giving back to our people, our industry, and our communities. As a proud sponsor of the West Perth Women’s Football Club we get to see more West Aussies kick goals every day, and our support of Tradie HQ is paving the way for a successful future for all trades in WA.”

BGC Housing Group remains committed to supporting the mental health and safety of its staff, sub-contractors, and the wider construction community. In partnership with Mates in Construction and through internal initiatives like the BGC Housing Group Wellness Festival, the company continues to pave the way for progress and conversation around mental health in the workplace. BGC Housing Group continues to support West Australians in the purchase of their dream home. In August 2020, the company launched its BGC Home showroom which has welcomed 12,000 guests in 2021 alone.

BGC Housing Group has built more than 32,000 homes for WA residents over the past ten years.

BGC Bulletin - Issue 19 | 21

BGC CONSTRUCTION

BGC wins at the Southwest Master Builder Awards BGC was well represented at the 2021 Southwest Master Builders Association – Excellence in Construction Awards, with BGC Construction taking out eight awards across a range of sectors. The Excellence in Construction Awards night, held on September 3rd at the Bunbury Quality Hotel Lighthouse, showcased the best of the South West region’s construction projects in the residential, commercial, resource and industrial sectors. BGC Construction’s award haul recognised a variety of its impressive projects including:

Best Public Use Building $5 - $10 Million for the Treendale Farm Hotel Best Aged Care Building $5 - $10 Million for Bridgetown Geegeelup Aged Care Facility Best Health Care Building $1.5 - $5 Million for Bunbury Step-Up Step-Down Mental Health Facility Best Lifestyle Homes for Seniors $1.5 - $5 Million for Bethanie Esprit Stage 2A & 2B Silver Trowel for Bethanie Esprit Stage 2A & 2B Excellence in Brick and Block Paving for Pelican Lodge Augusta 2021 Bankwest Best Regional Project – South West Region for the Treendale Farm Hotel Supervisor of the Year – Brad Italiano for the Treendale Farm Hotel

Above: Peter Izzard, Brad Italiano, Craig Winter, Tamasin Bailey, Paul Tanner, Earl Yates, Jaco Bosman, Anthony Brien, Frank Morabito and Shane McGovern

BGC Construction Regional Manager Ross Marshall said he is extremely proud of the team’s effort to deliver award winning projects during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The judging criteria includes; Quality of Construction Project Management

“Congratulations to Brad Italiano and Tamasin Bailey for winning the 2021 Bankwest Best Regional Project – South West Region for the Treendale Farm Hotel that also earned Brad the prestigious Supervisor of the Year award,” Mr Marshall said. “And a special thanks to Logan Walton who coordinated the submissions and did most of the work to qualify BGC for the awards.”

Value for Money Innovation

Congratulations to the BGC Construction team in the Southwest!

The Master Builders Association Awards for Excellence in Construction are judged by industry peers. The process requires detailed submissions and coordination for access for judging to projects completed within the current year.

BGC Bulletin - Issue 19 | 23

BGC HOUSING GROUP

GO Homes and Aussie Living Homes win at the 2021 HIA Perth Housing Awards BGC Housing Group has been doubly acknowledged at the 2021 HIA Perth Housing Awards, with awards for its brands GO Homes and Aussie Living Homes. GO Homes display home, The Maxwell in Southern River won WA Display Home of the Year in the $250,001 to $300,000 price category. The stunning display home also won best Bathroom in a Display Home within the $250,001 to $300,000 price category. To wrap-up a successful evening for GO Homes, their display home, The Woodman in Mandogalup, won best

Kitchen in a Display Home $300,001 to $360,000 price category. Aussie Living Homes won Display Home of the Year with The Habitat in Southern River in the $230,001 to $250,000 price category. Anthony Staltari, General Manager for Aussie Living Homes, said winning at the 2021 HIA Perth Awards was a wonderful recognition to the quality of the team behind the brand. “The recent HIA awards are a significant achievement by the Aussie Living Homes team,” said Mr Staltari.

GO Homes and Aussie Living Homes take home 4 awards at the HIA Perth Housing Awards.

The Habitat, Aussie Living Homes

The Maxwell, GO Homes

BGC Bulletin - Issue 19 | 25

The awards highlight our continued commitment to our customers, our people and the vision of providing homeownership solutions for all West Australians.

26 The Woodman, GO Homes

“This award is the result of a significant amount of collaboration and consideration from our highly talented team.” “On behalf of Aussie Living, I would like to thank everyone for their input, feedback and exceptional workmanship to create such an outstanding Aussie display home.” “The awards highlight our continued commitment to our customers, our people and the vision of providing homeownership solutions for all West Australians.” Grant Bear, General Manager for GO Homes, said they’re over the moon to be recognised for their outstanding quality and innovative design by the leading industry body, The Housing Industry Association. “At GO Homes we love building beautiful, functional homes designed to help our clients live their best life,” expressed Mr Bear. “While that’s always been our focus, we were so excited to be recognised for our contribution by industry experts. “Over the years we have won multiple awards across various categories and that is definitely a testament of our commitment to quality and service.”

Well done to both GO Homes and Aussie Living Homes on a fantastic and well-deserved achievement.

BGC Bulletin - Issue 19 | 27

AFFINITY WINDOWS

Affinity Windows strengthens connections to support women in construction In 2021, Affinity Windows have had a focus on strengthening relationships with leading industry bodies such as Master Builders Association (MBA), Housing Industry Association (HIA), Australian Glass & Window Association (AGWA) and the National Security Screen Association (NSSA). Affinity Windows were proud sponsors of the MBA WA - Housing Excellence Awards in May, Women Building Australia Lunch in October and Boardroom Luncheon in November. The Women Building Australia Lunch was attended by over 150 people with the keynote speaker and panellists touching on the importance of mindset in overcoming challenges, the important role men in leadership play in making women feel welcome in the

Above: Slobodanka Vranesevic and Annette Pike

Above: Joanna Carson, Astrid Saraswati Vasile, Rachel Hartwig, Paula West

Above: Aarron Bevan, Will Leong, Scottie Feng, Joshua Brown, Ken Courtney, Lyn Bu Jia, Max Jia, Ian Warne, Rachel Hartwig, Scott Wyeth, Jim Moncrieff, Steven Garvin, Courtney Stubber, Karen Iber, Brendan O’Shea, Suchi Mariappa, Ravi Mariappa, Alex Zhou, Simon Patrick

construction industry and tips for aspiring women seeking career progression. Affinity Windows General Manager Rachel Hartwig said, “Affinity Windows is supporting the future of the industry and female participation in the industry by offering a glazier apprenticeship program in collaboration with the Melbourne Eastern Group Training (MEGT).” “Affinity is proud of its strong and diverse workforce and hopes to attract more women into the industry,” Ms Hartwig said. “At Affinity Windows, we are doing everything we can to encourage more female applicants with the vacancies within our business. These roles include management opportunities as well as trade / glazier opportunities.” Affinity Windows, in collaboration with Envirotechnics, Floortech and Plumbtechnics, was also a gold partner of the HIA Perth Housing Awards in October.

Above: Shayne Arpeta Knap-Thom

If you or anyone you know is interested in becoming a glazier, please visit: www.megt.com.au/jobs/18151

BGC Bulletin - Issue 19 | 29

Leaders in focus

Colin Greenhow I have been at BGC Quarries for over 29 years and worked my way up from an entry level role to my current position as Deputy Quarry Manager. My regular day starts at 4:45am with site checks to make sure the quarry is safe before our team arrives, then heading over to the office to assist with processing orders and a wide range of dayto-day tasks. This is the busiest time for BGC Quarries as sealing season is in full swing and there is a high demand for concrete aggregates. To assist in managing the increased volumes, we have been focussing on developing our employees’ skills to position them to grow within the company. Like myself, many of our team members start at Quarries in entry level roles assisting with hosing, shoveling, and helping to change screens. After this initial training period, we teach team members to use the bobcat and the plant control room, then after this they move onto dump trucks and loaders. Personally, I am proud to be involved in training these employees and providing them with new employable skills. Over the years, we have been able to give some of our laborer’s the opportunity to start an adult apprenticeship within our mobile workshop and

our fixed plant workshop. Recently, we have implemented a program with students from Eastern Hills High School and La Salle College. Now, we currently have five apprentices working on-site from these schools with the opportunity to learn wide range of skills. I was at Quarries when we successfully navigated the changeover from Voyager 1 to Voyager 2 which happened in August 2010. BGC Quarries had been operating the original Voyager Lakes Quarry since 1990, extracting and crushing granite for concrete aggregate, paving blocks, asphalt, road seal, road base and general fill. The new Voyager II Quarry is located in The Lakes area, fifty-five kilometres east of the Perth CBD with a lifetime capacity of two million tonnes of gravel, twelve million tonnes of clay and sixty million tonnes of granite resources. The new plant was commissioned in only a couple of months which was an enormous challenge for the team at Quarries. After a few initial challenges to overcome, the team onsite have worked tirelessly to develop a plant that produces a high-quality product. As part of a recent initiative, BGC Quarries have implemented a new system where previous

I am proud to be involved in a business that is currently evolving and adapting to market conditions.

by-product has undergone a transformation process to be able to sell to customers as “quarry sand”, leading to more applications and use in market. The team at BGC Quarries have worked hard to develop alternative markets for use of quarry sand, with new applications now including finer quarry sand being used as fertiliser, surfacing for horse arenas, general fill, and general replacement of sand in many other situations in construction. I have had the opportunity to work on many projects of different scales during my time at BGC. From a personal perspective, I believe the Northlink 2 was our greatest achievement as a business.

We were already supplying 1.6 million tonnes when we were awarded Northlink 2 project, this was an additional 670 thousand tonnes. I don’t believe any other Quarry would have had the size or ability to manage this volume, it was an amazing contribution by all involved. Looking to the future, I am proud to be involved in a business that is currently evolving and adapting to market conditions. As a team, we have many new innovative ideas to continue to drive greater efficiency and provide a high-quality product to our customers.

BGC Bulletin - Issue 19 | 31

BGC NEWS

BGC Award Pallet Supply Contract to WA’s Largest Disability Service Provider BGC have awarded a two-year contract for pallet supply to Western Australia’s largest disability support provider, Activ. Activ provides individualised services for more than 1,900 people with intellectual disability in Western Australia. Activ Business Services is a contemporary Australian Disability Enterprise and creates meaningful employment opportunities for more than 1,000 individuals. Across BGC’s six manufacturing sites in WA it is anticipated that Activ will produce about 40,000 pallets a year

for the company. Key manufacturing sites include Midland Brick in (South Guildford), BGC Cement in (Naval Base) and BGC Plasterboard in (Hazelmere). BGC CEO Daniel Cooper says he is very proud to be appointing such a worthy supplier to support operations in Western Australia. “Activ provide an essential service here in WA and so we are very happy to be bringing them into the BGC supply chain for our manufacturing sites across WA,” says Mr Cooper.

Across BGC’s six manufacturing sites in WA it is anticipated that Activ will produce about 40,000 pallets a year.

Above: Danny Cooper & Amanda Lovelock

BGC Bulletin - Issue 19 | 33

“As a family-owned group here in WA, BGC is a proud member of the WA community. As a member of that community it is our responsibility to find opportunities like this where our business activity can be more meaningful for more people beyond our immediate stakeholders.” Activ’s Executive Manager Operations South, Amanda Lovelock, said Activ is incredibly happy to have been awarded such a significant contract by a leading WA company, with the team delivering their first truck load of pallets to BGC today. “Activ Business Services provide quality products and services to commercial customers like BGC whilst also providing meaningful employment for people with disability,” Ms Lovelock said. “I am very proud that our team have secured this contract, and that our supported employees will be manufacturing goods to support one of WA’s largest and most established building and construction companies. Contracts like this help to normalise our place in the industry, while giving people of all abilities the opportunity to explore their independence at work.”

“Contracts like this help to normalise our place in the industry, while giving people of all abilities the opportunity to explore their independence at work.” - Amanda Lovelock

Above: Daniel Cooper, Amanda Lovelock, Ryan Jensen, Ross Marshall, Dean West and Activ Employees

Affinity Windows has joined forces with ASX listed company Capral Australia to launch a new commercial product range – “The Trend Series”

AFFINITY WINDOWS

Affinity Windows Partners with Capral Australia to launch new product range Affinity Windows has joined forces with ASX listed company Capral Australia to launch a new commercial product range – “The Trend Series”. The Trend Series range is third party tested and compliant, being designed to achieve the ultimate combination of architectural style and performance for commercial and premium residential projects. Uncompromising in design, these products are engineered with superior mechanisms and components for effortless, trouble-free operation. Offering the easy option of choosing single or double glazing, all products contribute to increased energy performance in your home.

BGC Bulletin - Issue 19 | 37

Ken Courtney, Affinity Window’s Technical and Product Development Manager said, “Collaborating with Capral Australia for this new market offer is a win-win.” “As a producer and supplier within the industry for 80+ years, Capral’s products are highly regarded being the brand of choice for architects and specifiers,” Mr Courtney said. “Affinity has the capability for manufacturing and together in partnership, we are able to supply quality Australian made products to the growing WA construction industry.” Affinity and Capral Australia have a longstanding supply relationship of more than 25 years.

The new commercial range ‘Trend Series’ – Sliding Window, Awning Window, Sliding Door and High-Performance Sliding Door’ provides a solution when standard requires a commercial or premium residential specification.

Affinity Windows and Capral Australia have a longstanding supply relationship of more than 25 years.

Features and benefits: Wind rating to suit up to N5 Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) up to 40 Acoustic RW Rating up to 49 Perfect for Class 2 residential buildings Cyclonic Region – C3 Double or single glazing

Product offer highlights: Sliding window up to 1200mm wide with bipart sliding function Awning hinge window up 1800mm wide Sliding door up to 2700mm high with door panels up to 1500mm wide High performance sliding door 3000mm high and up to 2500mm wide per door panel

BGC Bulletin - Issue 19 | 39

BGC PRECAST

BGC Construction and BGC Precast deliver stunning project overlooking Koombana Bay BGC Construction Southwest and BGC Precast have joined forces to deliver Project 31, a stunning complex looking over Koombana Bay in Bunbury. This 5-storey development plus partial basement includes ground level commercial tenancies, level 1 carpark, 9 apartments and 2 penthouses looking north over the water. This stand-out structure was built by BGC Construction Southwest and completed in March 2021. BGC Precast were responsible for fabricating the 288 special panels, showcasing a high level of quality and versatility. BGC Precast General Manager Teo Prka said the project was a challenge as some of the panels were curved to fit in with the building design. “BGC Precast fabricated panels in three colours, these were white, grey and black, and then plain and textured, the latter being achieved by using a specially made neoprene inlay fitted into the precast mould before casting,” Mr Prka said.

“If that wasn’t challenging enough, some of the panels were curved and required galvanising to some of the reinforcement.”

“This building showcases the complete range of features BGC Precast’s architectural team can produce.”

Congratulations to all involved delivering this impressive project.

BGC Bulletin - Issue 19 | 41

Training for the future in Transport BGC Transport are placing a high level of importance on on-going training initiatives for employees within the transport industry. BGC Transport identified the need to ensure employees were up to date with the everchanging laws and legislation to keep WA roads safe for road users and truck drivers. Training and Apprenticeships for new and experienced truck drivers means the BGC Transport workforce better able to cope with the changing rules and expectations within the transport industry and have the opportunity to frequently upskill. BGC Transport have commenced training for the first 10 of 34 drivers, with the outlook for the

course to continue over the next two years. BGC Transport General Manager Geoff Conway said that Main Roads Legislation covers three vital areas of transport, these include Fatigue Management, Load restraint, Chain of Responsibility. “At BGC Transport, we are constantly upgrading our fleet to attain the best in safety, environmental and economic advantages for our drivers and clients so it is imperative that we also give our truck drivers the knowledge and skills to perform at their best,” Mr Conway said. “In the future, transport companies and truck drivers will have to comply with more complicated and intricate rulings, and we want our drivers to be able to meet the challenges with all the knowledge that they need to do their jobs in a safe and efficient way.”

Above: BGC Board Members with the Executive Team

Affinity Windows Welcomes BGC Board to new Jandakot Facility Back in February 2021, Sam Buckeridge and Danny Cooper visited the Affinity Windows facility in Canning Vale where the company had been located since the mid-80s.

Affinity Windows relocation to Jandakot was supported by the BGC Directors, who recognised an expansion was imperative for Affinity to be able to increase productivity and output capacity.

During the visit, Affinity Windows General Manager Rachel Hartwig shared the exciting growth plans for the new Jandakot site including new innovative technology to deliver efficient and optimised manufacturing processes.

Affinity Windows General Manager Rachel Hartwig said, “The relocation to Jandakot has marked a significant milestone in our expansion journey as a Western Australian owned and operated manufacturing business.”

Fast forward to October, and the BGC Board of Directors held their October BGC Board meeting at the new and modern Affinity Windows site in Jandakot. Danny Cooper, Alan Tate, Ryan Hawkins, Jane Harries and Brian Adams were also in attendance.

“This relocation has been many months in the making with a significant amount of time, planning and expertise investment,” Ms Hartwig said.

After the Board meeting, the group were taken on a tour where they had the opportunity to see the new factory and get a better understanding of the process flow that enables Affinity Windows to meet new residential and commercial demand in a far more efficient and safer manner.

“The goal has been to ensure our new factory has the right layout, new equipment to increase capacity and segment growth by using LEAN manufacturing methodology, aligned to our strategic initiatives. We are investing in our people, product innovation, technology, improving the customer experience and most importantly, doing things safely.”

the

Bulletin Head Office BGC (Australia) Pty Ltd 6th Floor, 22 Mount Street Perth, WA 6000 Phone: +61 8 6220 4800 Email: corporate@bgc.com.au www.bgc.com.au

Disclaimer: This newsletter is published in good faith. Although BGC endeavours to ensure that the content is accurate and up to date, no representation or warranty, express or implied, is made to its accuracy or completeness.