Vol 12 No 6
SPECIALISED TEXTILES ASSOCIATION INC.
November • December 2012 • January 2013
Large market for
geomembranes Fabric Structures Committee
sets the standard
Aussie Tough, Aussie Value, Aussie Made!
Tomorrow’s
industry leaders
unite today All manner of
banners For more information on the Pilbara Canvas range see page 44.
Blend in with your environment using the Pilbara Canvas outback range
www.hvgfabrics.com.au STA member news | industry EVENTS | Members in the spotlight | RTOs
CONNECTIONS magazine is published on behalf of the Specialised Textiles Association Inc. by CommStrat Limited.
Contents
Publisher CommStrat Editor Nicola Card nicola.card@commstrat.com.au Design & production Annette Epifanidis annette@commstrat.com.au National Sales MANAGER Yuri Mamistvalov Phone: 03 8534 5008 yuri@commstrat.com.au
16
Contributors Jamie Howard, Roger La Salle, Beatrice Moonen, Dhani Narejo and co, and Holly O’Dell.
10
COMMSTRAT ABN 31 008 434 802
Level 8, 574 St Kilda Rd Melbourne Vic 3004 www.commstrat.com.au Specialised Textiles Association Suite 201, 22 St Kilda Road, St Kilda Vic 3182 Phone: 03 9521 2114 Local call: 1300 555 787 Fax: 03 9521 2116 www.specialisedtextiles.com.au Disclaimer: Except where specifically stated, the opinions and material published in the magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher or the STA Council.
ASSOCIATION
42 26 ASSOCIATION MATTERS 2 4 16
Report by STA President STA office update Young Leaders Conference Priming the next generation of industry leaders 33 Fabric Structures Committee report by Beatrice Moonen 42 STA welcomes new members
NEWS CORNER 8
Members' news
SUPERB STRUCTURES
subscriptions To subscribe to Connections for just $75 inc GST annually contact Ruth Spiegel ruth.spiegel@commstrat.com.au
12
18 Novel and unique structures Showcasing member talent
26 All manners of banners All that matters: the right ink, print and timely delivery 30 Using geosynthetics to stabilise soils In a remote Pacific location 34 Innovation Roger la Salle uncovers the ‘third eye’ 36 Truck cover and tarp markets pick up speed Banners on the move
SPOTLIGHT ON MEMBERS 44 Members’ products and services
TRAINING AND EVENTS 48 Industry events and RTOs
SPECIAL FEATURES 12 Gargantuan geomembranes The size of the market continues to expand
NOVEMBER • DECEMBER 2012 • JANUARY 2013 · 1
STA MATTERS
A few words from the President Thank you to all who put up their hand to be involved in a committee and thank you to those already working hard in the already well established Fabric Structures Committee.”
Another couple of months have flown past since my last
delivery of the Certificate 2, Installation of Blinds and
missive in this magazine. A lot has been happening in
Awnings Course. STA has received NWDF funding.
STA land and much of it has already been mentioned in
The process took a little longer than expected but with
various newsletters from the office or from me.
the agreement in the bag we should be in a position to
The most notable event of course was the recent
commence the first lot of training in February 2013.
Young Leaders Conference held in Melbourne during the middle weekend of October. Nineteen young leaders attended the event, which was hailed by all who
Fabric structures
attended as a great success. This event is fast becoming
Our Fabric Structures Committee has also been working
a feature of our calendar, an envied one at that.
busily and now the consumer checklist document has
Recently I was travelling overseas on business and our
been finalised it will soon be circulated to members,
Young Leaders Conference and subsequent challenge
along with the licensing document. In addition a letter
was known to my overseas contact (via our STA
to the Queensland Coroner has been prepared and sent
e-newsletters) and very favourably commented upon to
offering technical and expert assistance for the coronial
me and all I was with.
inquiry into the recent tragic fatality at Lismore involving
One comment was along the lines: ‘I wish we had
a shade structure.
something like this here.’ It is rare to find any industry association that does what we do in this regard. Congratulations and thank you to all who attended, Young leaders, Legends and members of COM. None
The Young Leaders’ Conference
of it would have been possible without all of the work and organisation of our hardworking and long-suffering
Much of the work done by the STA is not as high profile
association Manager Ana Drougas. Thank you Ana for
as the expo/convention or the Young Leaders Program
another winner.
but it does not mean it is any less important or valuable. We are very fortunate to have a very dedicated
Sell out success
Manager and COM, who work hard to make the
While we are talking of highs, the Super Expo 2013 on
to be involved with.
organisation something of value, something to be proud
the Gold Coast is selling out fast. Recently an additional
We are getting better all the time and much work is
hall was hired to allow for additional exhibitors. We now
continuing, such as the accreditation program, setting
have four halls at the Gold Coast Exhibition Centre. At
up of various committees, for example the editorial
the time of printing, I understand 85% of the booth space
committee to give direction and ideas to the editor
has been sold. I also understand that all, or at least
who produces the association magazine; and also the
all but the sponsorship on offer, has been taken up. It
awards committee which is tasked to look at the awards,
certainly appears that the industry at large is very keen
categories, judging criterion etc.
on the idea of the combined expo.
Thank you to all who put their hand up to be involved in a committee and thank you to those
Training agreement Other good work has been done (quietly and in the
2 · CONNECTIONS
already working hard in the already well established Fabric Structures Committee. Remember you only get out of any organisation what
background) by Kent Williamson in relation to the
you put into it. Get involved, have your say and reap the
agreement with NSW TAFE and their input and training
rewards of membership of STA.
Backpacks
Marine
Panel Blinds
Fencing
Swags
Bags
Luggage
Grain Covers Blinds PVC Tension Structures
Ground Covers
Tarpaulins Covers
Sports Equipment Cotton Modules
Awnings
Canvas
Polyethylene
Banners Nylon Motor Awnings
Hay Stack Covers
Truck Side Curtains Interior and Exterior Jumping Castles
Window Furnishing Fencing Marquees Tents Structure and Membrane
Signs
Shade Sails Dam Liners Annexes
fabric solutions for australian applications
Roller Blinds
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N AT IONAL D ISTRIB UTORS O F INDUSTRIA L & COMMERCIA L TEX TILES
Contact our team today to find your fabric solution! Ricky Richards (Sales) Pty Ltd 16 Park Road Homebush NSW 2140 Phone: 02 9735 3333 Fax: 02 9735 3311 www.rickyrichards.com.au
STA MATTERS
Our young leaders are an integral part of our industry's future and as an association we are committed to supporting them and guiding them along the way.”
Specialised Textiles Association
The STA diary A recap on recent and upcoming association activities.
Super Expo
Fabric Structures Committee
The Super Expo has generated enormous
The Fabric Structures Committee is
interest and support from sponsors and
committed to keeping our industry clean,
exhibitors. Sponsorship was taken up so
transparent and skilled. To this end the
enthusiastically that it had to be extended -
committee is working on a consumer
and still some may be disappointed. Most of
checklist to facilitate the ‘right’ questions and
the exhibition booth space has been taken up,
comparison of installers.
so an additional (hence fourth) exhibition hall
A properly installed fabric structure is an
will be used to cater for the huge demand.
investment in lifestyle. The committee is
This Expo is shaping up to be bigger than
interested in ensuring that consumers, both
Ben-Hur and clearly what our industry is
domestic and commercial, who invest a lot
clamouring for.
buying a fabric structure, are getting the best
GreeneFox has been appointed project
product built by the best installer. After all a
manager for SuperEXPO 2013 and will
happy customer is the best marketing tool a
handle much of the marketing, bookings
fabric shade installer can have and this in turn
etc. In addition to Greenefox, Exponews
The Young Leaders’ Conference
reflects well on our industry.
the 21st century with some of the initiatives
The Young Leaders Conference is in its
operate and complete work according to
for next year’s Expo.
second year and was an enormous success.
standards, regulations and best industry
Our young leaders are an integral part of our
practise. And deliver a shade product that will
soon be up and running. This is where you
industry's future and as an association we are
exceed expectations.
will find all relative information on sponsors,
committed to supporting them and guiding
exhibitors, events, accommodation etc.
them along the way.
has been engaged to organise and manage registrations, provision of ipad apps, scanners for exhibitors etc. We are really moving into
A dedicated website for the SuperExpo will
During our recent member sessions across the
This year, COM decided to charge a nominal
Presenting consumers the right questions to ask is the critical first step, enabling consumers to secure a contractor who can
If you would like to know more about the work of the Fabric Structures Committee or have any questions, please contact Beatrice
country, a number of members expressed the
fee to attend the YLC, with the bulk of the costs
desire for the STA Awards night to continue as
being met by the association. The YLC is an
an independent event at next year's combined
expensive program to run and we will be
expo. This was discussed with the SuperEXPO
looking at opening the event to sponsorship or
committee and all agreed. However, the
a greater contribution by attendees (members)
overall format may be a little different. We are
in the future. Irrespective of the proportion
establishing an Awards Committee to review the
of costs met by the association it is a very
categories and other administrative details, but in
worthwhile project and one that deserves the
The Connections Editorial Committee is
essence it will be similar to past practices.
support of all employer members. It is so very
now on board and was scheduled to meet in
worthwhile for the young leaders who attend
late October.
The SuperEXPO 2013 program will probably feature a welcome reception on the Tuesday night, the awards night on Wednesday, a free
and is a program that we all can be proud of. Our two Young Leader groups have now
on email beatrice@shadesails.net See Beatrice Moonen’s report on page 33.
Connections inaugural Editorial Committee
The Committee will determine major themes and supporting articles to appear in
night on Thursday and the Gala Dinner on the
started working on their challenge which will
each issue. The 'new look' Connections is to
Friday night. A committee will organise the social
be presented at the SuperExpo 2013.
become effective from issue 1, 2013 and will
See pages 16-17 for a fuller report
set the tone for Connections for future years.
side of the expo. 4 · CONNECTIONS
Looking for a supplier to solve your industrial fabrics requirements...
the answer is
• Blinds & Awnings • Covers & Tarpaulins • Marquee & Tenting • Banners & Billboards • Shade Sails & Structures
• Architectural Fabrics • Motor & Marine • Solar Protection • Sporting Equipment • Fasteners, Fittings & Accessories
We’ve always got you covered! Sydney – (02) 9669 3333 • newcaStle – (02) 4957 7766 • Melbourne – (03) 9545 5588 briSbane – (07) 3387 8500 • adelaide – (08) 8260 1055 • Perth – (08) 9376 2666 darwin – (08) 8981 1555 • www.NolanUDA.com.au
STA MATTERS
The committee is interested in ensuring that consumers, both domestic and commercial, who invest a lot buying a fabric structure, are getting the best product built by the best installer. After all a happy customer is the best marketing tool …”
Update on Accreditation Program
contact our office and join the training committee today.
Work continues on the STA's accreditation program.
meetings to take place via telephone, Skype and email.
The proposed approach and draft model was presented at member information sessions at cities
If you are passionate about training in our industry, Expected commitment: one hour each month with If you are interested in joining this committee, please email me at ana@specialisedtextiles.com.au
across Australia in late July/early August and was well received by members in attendance. Although there was some initial wariness, members on the whole understand the importance of
National Workforce Development Training
encouraging higher standards in our industry and feel positively disposed to self-regulation. Members at these sessions were also provided with a copy of a draft accreditation application form and asked to provide feedback on the proposed areas to
By now, you will all know that we were successful in our submission for funding towards Certificate II in Blinds and Awnings Members who have registered interest to participate
be accredited as well as standards and points to be
in this training will be advised shortly on the
applied to each.
commencement dates and procedure to follow. We
Feedback from these sessions is currently being
are currently working with NSW TAFE on a plan that
collated and used to define and shape further the
will see the first group/s of trainees commence their
content of the detailed accreditation application form.
training early in the New Year.
Once this process has been completed, we will
If your workplace missed out on the first round of
circulate the proposed approach and draft application
expressions and you are now interested in taking up
form to the wider membership base for comment.
the training, we are pleased to advise that training positions have become available. Please contact our
Awards for Excellence committee
office to place your name on the training list. If your company has identified a training need in the installation of blinds, awnings and shade structures, wasn't part of this round of funding and you would like
Three members have volunteered to start this
to know more, please contact me on 1300 555 787
committee which is separate to our judging
(local call) or email me for further information.
committee, and will just be required to revise the award categories, entry process and judging criteria. For this committee to have a good cross section we require two more members, preferably those with
Bright Future campaign for NSW work placements
experience in blind and folding arm awning, tent/ annexe/camping and or trimming product.
The Bright Future Campaign is a NSW Government
The expected commitment is a total of three
initiative established to promote the concept of
meetings of about one hour each between now
school-based apprenticeships, traineeships and
and the end of this year. This committee will then
work placements to employers around NSW. School
'hibernate' until the time or need to resurrect it arises.
Based Apprenticeships, School Based Traineeships
Meetings will take place via telephone, Skype and email. If you are interested in joining this committee, please email me at ana@specialisedtextiles.com.au
and Structured Work Placements are all excellent opportunities for students to gain valuable experience in workplaces while still at school. These opportunities provide a platform for students to explore an industry area and get a
Training committee update
head start in their career while still completing
We have three volunteers so far, representing WA, Vic
employers a chance to start working towards the
and NSW. We are now looking for representatives who
future skills base of their business.
are based in Qld, NT, SA and Tasmania. The training committee will work with training
their Higher School Certificate. They also give
To find out more about the Bright Future campaign or express your interest in gaining a
institutions across Australia to identify gaps and needs
school-based apprentice/trainee student for 2013
in our industry training.
visit www.sbatinnsw.info
6 · CONNECTIONS
STA Council of Management SPECIALISED TEXTILES Association Inc. Suite 201, 22 St Kilda Rd St Kilda, Vic 3182 Ph: (03) 9521 2114 Local Call: 1300 555 787 Facsimile: (03) 9521 2116 Email: ana@specialisedtextiles.com.au Web: www.specialisedtextiles.com.au
ASSOCIATION MANAGER Ana Drougas Email: ana@specialisedtextiles.com.au
President Lance St Hill Fabric Solutions Australia Pty Ltd PO Box 6283 Yatala DC Qld 4207 Mobile: 0400 103 534 Ph: (07) 3807 0200 Fax: (07) 3807 8217 Email: lances@fabricsolutions.com.au
COUNCILLORS Kent Williamson Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) 25 Dawson Street Brunswick, Vic 3056 Ph: (03) 9925 9182 Fax: (03) 9925 9129 Email: kent.williamson@rmit.edu.au www.rmit.edu.au Gary Smith Campbell & Heeps 5/125 Highbury Rd, Burwood, Vic 3125 Mobile: 0419 311 899 Ph: (03) 98086911 Fax: (03) 9808 3148 Email: gsmith@campbellheeps.com.au Tom Gastin Pattons—Textile Fabrication 80 McDougall St, Kirribilli, NSW, 2061 Mobile: 0414 952 007 Ph: (02) 9955 2563 or 1300 799 980 Fax: (02) 9959 3158 Email: tom@pattons.com.au David Burton Ricky Richards 16 Park Road, Homebush NSW 2140 Ph: 02 9735 3333 Fax: 02 9735 3311 Email: David.burton@rickyrichards.com.au Jamie Howard Total Shade Solutions 4 Aldinga St, Brendale Qld Ph: 07 3889 7200 Fax: 07 3889 8865 Email: Jamie@totalshadesolutions.com.au
Connections Magazine Advertising submissions: yuri@commstrat.com.au Ph: 03 8534 5008 Editorial: Nicola Card nicola.card@commstrat.com.au
Member news
HVG appointment Halifax Vogel Group (HVG) has further strengthened its NSW sales team with the appointment of Steven Bell as Account Manager – HVG Fabrics.
Relocating from west to east
Steven brings more than 10 years of
Steven Bell of HVG
Greg Barnett from D&R Tarpaulins
experience in sales, having previously
recently managed to lure Fred
worked in real estate and for the past
Tarbotton over from Western
6 years in the industrial and decorative
Australia, where Fred worked for
fabrics markets in NSW.
Sail City.
Prior to joining HVG, he worked
Fred provided this snapshot of his
as Business Development Manager at Nolans/UDA, where his
career to date, which commenced
responsibilities included maintaining existing accounts and
when he was just 15 years old:
developing new customer relationships.
“I started in the Canvas/PVC
This experience will prove invaluable in his new role as Account Manager
industry in southwest WA in
– HVG Fabrics, as he will be tasked with developing customer relationships
November 1978 and the company
and encouraging sales growth of HVG’s extensive range of fabrics products
was very diverse covering all
for the agricultural, domestic & commercial shade and transport industries.
industry aspects including tarpaulins,
“I am looking forward to building long-lasting relationships with
Fred Tarbotton
customers in NSW and demonstrating the solutions that can be achieved with our cutting-edge range of fabrics products,” Steven said. HVG’s Fabrics products portfolio includes Tarpee® Polyfabric a high
marquees, annexes, blinds, awnings and general covers.
“At the end of 1981 I took three years out of the industry but on return began learning cutting, sewing, welding etc of all the industry had to
grade Japanese woven coated PE fabric for grain and cotton covers,
offer, including liners tarpaulins and blinds etc. I spent four years in
Flex PVC for transport covers including side curtains and roll tarps,
Perth before returning to Bunbury where I was appointed leading hand,
Duraskin® PVC for tension membrane structures, and Extrablock
responsible for up to eight staff and dealing with customers measuring
Shadecloth ideal for both commercial and domestic shade sails.
and quoting etc. From there I accepted a job in Perth as factory
Steve Simiana, National Sales Manager, HVG Fabrics said Steven’s appointment would help ensure the company expanded its fabrics products presence in NSW. “Steven brings to us not only a strong background in customer management and an enthusiasm for the fabrics products market, but also a wealth of experience and knowledge of the fabrics industry in NSW,” Steve Simiana said.
manager in a small Tarpaulin General Canvas manufacturing company. “Having moved to live near Fremantle, I decided to move closer to my new home and for the next four years managed a department in a large company manufacturing many textile products including awnings, blinds, marquees and some specialised bedding and medical products. “I convinced the company to become more involved in the industry and its association, then called ACASPA, and I was nominated to join the ACASPA Council – one of the best decisions I have ever made. My main focus was training and helping the WA government to set up trainee/
On the move
apprenticeships in the light manufacturing industries. We achieved our goals and now have a fully recognised training/ apprenticeship available through the TAFE system in every state.
Structureflex recently packed its bags and is now in a new location. Details as follows: 7/7 Lakewood Boulevard, Carrum Downs, Vic 3201 Phone: 03 8796 5400 Fax: 03 9708 2797 www.structureflex.com.au Alan Stewart’s email remains unchanged at alan@structureflex.com.au TexConnex/Hiraoka has also upped stumps and relocated to 2/37 Rimfire Drive, Hallam, Vic 3803 Phone: 8795 7322 or 9702 3778 Until recently the premises was occupied by Australian Solar manufacturers – which promotes itself as the only manufacturer of solar panels. Bob secured the site as it is bigger and better placed as a base for his expanding operations (see Bob's insights in the Geomembranes feature). 8 · CONNECTIONS
“During this period I launched my own general canvas manufacturing business in Fremantle which I successfully ran for two decades.” Fred recently crossed the continent to take up an exciting new role at D&R Tarpaulins. D&R Tarpaulins is located at Shed /84 Anton Road, Hemmant in Queensland and Greg can be contacted on 07 3393 3477 or by email greg@drtarps.com.au | www.drgroup.com.au
Y E! R R H U PA C
L
TE IMI
DS
SUPEREXPO2013 Inspiration in design & textiles!
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Specialised Textiles
Shade Products
Machinery
Equipment
Components
Accessories
Services
5-7 June 2013 Gold Coast Convention & Exhibition Centre Showcase your business at Australia’s largest trade exhibition for the window furnishings and specialised textiles industries. Ensure your company is on show by booking your space today. contact Brett Greene on 07 3262 3114 or email info@superexpo2013.com.au
superexpo2013.com.au
Presented by
BLIND MANUFACTURERS’ ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA
ASSOCIATION
Member news
MakMax makes a splash … Southside Memorial Pool MakMax Australia proudly announced its contribution to the redevelopment of Rockhampton’s landmark Southside Memorial Pool. The $17 million Federal, State and Regional Council funded project will feature a 4000 square metre tensile membrane roof over the main 50 metre pool manufactured and installed by Brisbane based MakMax. Partnering with Brisbane’s Liquid Blu Architects and Rockhampton builder JM Kelly (Project Builders) Pty Ltd, MakMax will manufacture the Architectural Membrane roof in Serge Ferrari® PVC (Poly-Vinyl Chloride) fabrics , providing both shade and rain protection over the 50m pool and 650 seat grandstand. Fabrication of the membrane is scheduled to take place at MakMax’s Brisbane facility later this year with installation of steelwork scheduled for January 2013 and membrane to follow. The new state of the art facilities will service Central Queensland as the only facility of its kind in the region equipped to handle State and National swimming events. The Liquid Blu designed pool will comply with the highest FINA rating “Olympic and Championship Standard”. International swim teams are expected to be seen at the site during the Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast. MakMax Australia’s Director of Sales Daniel Cook says “We are
New Lambton Bowls Club gets sun smart Early in November MakMax Australia started work at New Lambton (Wests) Bowls Club in Newcastle, New South Wales. As part of a
extremely pleased and excited to be awarded this contract; it was very
complete redevelopment of the club house and facilities MakMax will
much a team effort. The knowledge that our project team demonstrated
supply more than 2600 square meters of tensile membrane roofing in a
throughout the tender and post-tender process was second to none and
variety of applications.
converted into a successful outcome. Now the real work begins”.
Partnering with Graph Building and Altis Architecture, MakMax will
The project team is currently detailing workshop drawings for
provide three separate structures on site. The key feature to this project
manufacture of the steelwork, membrane and hardware. The structure is
will be the main roof structure over green number one - a 1,600 square
scheduled for completion March 2013.
metre leaning arch/bowstring arrangement.
10 · CONNECTIONS
Wire balustrade regulations stay put Miami Stainless has advised that the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) recently announced it will no longer be supporting proposed changes to wire balustrade provisions in the National Construction In addition to the large PTFE membrane structure over green number one, the site will feature an inverted, semi-conical, double cantilevered PVC walkway structure surrounding green number two, additional
Code (NCC) for 2013. This means the wire balustrade regulations will again remain unchanged. The proposed changes detailed in NCC 2013 draft included
cantilevered PVC awnings which interface with the main roof structure,
provisions that would see the implementation of an offset rail design
and a custom designed PVC membrane structure to provide coverage
for horizontal wire balustrades between two to four metres above the
to the outdoor BBQ area adjacent to the clubhouse. It is anticipated that
surface beneath.
the project will be complete by mid January 2013. For more information visit www.makmax.com.au
The ABCB has acknowledged there were significant stakeholder concerns with the new regulations including deficiencies in injury data, assumptions used in the RIS, the potential negative impact on industry, lack of targeted consultation, underestimation of the cost impacts, and
Connections correction
problems associated with the proposed balustrade solutions. The ABCB has indicated there is a need for further analysis and careful review of the concerns raised in the public consultation process
On page 42 of the September/October issue of Connections we ran a piece about
before any changes can be introduced. “Although this is great news for the industry there will still be the
MakMax’s creative installation at Cairns
need for further involvement in the consultation process … and Miami
airport car park.
Stainless has and will continue to work closely with the ABCB through
It turns out that the fabric was supplied by Serge Ferrari, not Mehler. Ruwini Perera who is Marketing Services
future consultation and decision-making processes,” Matt Gisler said. Mark of Miami Stainless would like to receive any feedback or opinions as well as hear from anyone who may be interested in the
Manager with Innova International said MakMax
ABCB’s public consultation process. He can be contacted on 1800 022
has acknowledged and apologised for the mix-up.
122 or by email at info@miamistainless.com.au.
NOVEMBER • DECEMBER 2012 • JANUARY 2013 · 11
Special Feature
Captivating business Spurred by increasingly stringent environment regulations in mining, agriculture and landfill, the market for geomembranes is enjoying a stellar trajectory. By all accounts the market looks set to remain healthy, and some savvy businesses are reaping the rewards of moving into the sector. By Nicola Card
Life in the fast lane
Testing times
The shape of the world has shifted considerably during the past four
That snapshot helps illustrate why the ExcelPlas Laboratory is
years. A black man was sworn in as US president, waves of recession
constantly conformance testing plastics, polymer and geomembranes
reverberated across the globe, a nuclear plant was uprooted in Japan,
(HDPE, LLDPE, fPP, PVC, EIA-R, EPDM) for properties such as tensile
Greece went bankrupt, several dictators were toppled, and the world
strength, weld strength, tear strength, puncture resistance, stress
population hit seven billion.
cracking resistance, oxidative induction time (OIT), UV ageing
And in that same time frame, the geomembrane market has moved apace. In the words of Dr John Scheirs, Principal Consultant of ExcelPlas “The geomembrane market is very much the hot topic …
resistance, multiaxial burst strength, truncated cone puncture, carbon black content and carbon black dispersion. Why the need? Given that many materials are manufactured in hot,
things have moved swiftly due to the mining boom, coal seam gas and
humid non air-conditioned plants in the tropics (including Thailand
landfill … for example the Victorian EPA mandated double linings for
and Malaysia) it is not always possible to maintain consistencies and
landfill following the Cranbourne disaster.”
that affects the properties of the material which invariably come with a
Remember that debacle? Built decades ago, the large landfill was devoid of any form of polymer lining. “They just used sand and as
design life of 50-100 years. “There’s a saying by engineers that ‘It is always the two dollar
the weight decomposed the methane generated migrated through
component that lets down the million dollar project’. Not unlike the ‘o’
the sand and accumulated in underfloor cavities of new houses in the
ring on the space shuttle,” Scheirs said.
nearby community,” Scheirs explained. “It was a costly process – the
Much is at stake, given the magnitude and function of geomembrane
fire brigade took gas samples and found that lower explosive limits
applications: water management/irrigation, coal seam gas and
were exceeded which meant houses were at risk of blowing up if there
associated water/containment ponds; acid leaching of base and precious
was an ignition source, so residents had to be evacuated.”
metals and other mining applications, as well as landfill plus energy or
The EPA which lacked data bases relating to older landfills then had to establish a register and double liners for landfills was mandated;
biogas capture from landfill and sewerage treatment plants. While each sector is booming, coal seam gas is steaming ahead.
predominantly high density polymeric material separated by a leak detection system. This has increased demand for quality membranes. Soon after, Best Practice Environment Management was published,
Streaming gases
setting rigorous standards and higher reliance on conformance
During the past four years Queensland has seen “unprecedented
(pre-installation testing). Also Construction QA placed demands on
levels of activity” in coal seam gas (CSG), with Max Brady of Darling
welds, leak testing, holes and tears. Other states have taken note of the
Downs Tarpaulins stating the geomembrane industry is “still very
tightening of controls.
much driven by the coal seam gas sector.”
12 · CONNECTIONS
“There is lots of competition but the risk of low-cost producing countries is short-cuts taken with raw ingredients … it is important to use high grade resins in the design of geomembrane applications otherwise product will not last long enough to give satisfactory performance in the field.” Bob Cahill of Tex Connex
Along with extraction of gas from wells comes salty sub-terranean
the flow of water as well as erosion.” Whatever the weather, it’s a win-win for the lining industry with a
water from aquifers. The toxic hypersodic or hypersaline water destroys matter in contact, hence enactment of legislation for water
flurry of activity surrounding channel upgrades or remediation of
containment and treatment via large container dams and brine ponds,
existing infrastructure involving millions of square metres of liners.
with desalinated and potable water then pumped back into the aquifer. Thus the strong demand for polyethylene liners. The tally of Australian CSG wells is believed to be around 2000
Reflections on a watershed
but within 15 years the number is likely to swell to 20,000, creating
The past four years have been a watershed with many activities
enormous demand for water management – and subsequently, a strong
underpinning the use of geomembranes, hence pressing demand for
flow of orders for geomembranes.
ExcelPlas services in Construction QA and testing fusion welding, load
Scheirs explained the processes surrounding leachate collection
testing and more.
process for iron ore enrichment which involves containing and
Keeping a keen eye on all local and global developments, John
separating acids from the environment through a series of processing
captures and collates notable events through his monthly newsletter
ponds. Suffice to say huge areas – hectares – are involved, spawning
GSN geosynthetic news (visit www.excelplas.com). One avid reader is
enormous demand for leach pads.
newcomer Graham Brown of Garden City Geotech.
Lisa Doolan of Tex Connex stated that the mining industry, from base metals to nickel, copper, gold and all in between, has to be particularly careful to avoid negative publicity in a world far more conscious of environmental damage.
Very proudly Australian made Australian family business Garden City Plastics invested millions developing
“Mining companies are increasing their demands; these days two
Garden City Geotech manufacturing facilities in Heatherton, Victoria.
or three layers of geomembrane systems are being installed, instead
Business Development Manager Graham Brown explained the
of one or two,” said the trained civil engineer. “They may have a leak
business was reviewing avenues for diversification and up popped
protection layer such as a geonet and another liner to detect damage
geomembranes on the radar; a market surveyed on behalf of the think-
with methods of picking up leaks in a liner.”
tank Industry Capability Network (ICN) Victoria.
Wet or dry, a flood of work
market, and settled on the flat T-die dual extrusion calendared process
Strong demand also stems from the shift in weather patterns from
machinery is massive, each of our three rollers weighs 25 tonnes, is
drought to floods, with Scheirs saying “In the past irrigation channels
nine metres wide and one meter in diameter enabling widths of up to
were collecting precious water, but in times of excess rain they manage
eight metres,” Brown explained.
“We considered which types of membranes would be best for the …only two places in the world make the calendared sheet lines; the
“There’s a saying by engineers. ‘It is always the two dollar component that lets down the … million dollar project.’ Not unlike the ‘o’ ring on the space shuttle.” Dr John Scheirs of ExcelPlas NOVEMBER • DECEMBER 2012 • JANUARY 2013 · 13
Special Feature Equipped with a Honeywell gauge control system and Zumbach
“The geomembrane industry is still very much driven by the coal seam gas sector and mining generally.” Max Brady of Darling Downs Tarpaulins
“Landfill is significant too, with municipal tips requiring a double
pinhole detector, materials are mixed in Moretti gravimetric
lining to help prevent toxins seeping out; also dams are big business
weigh scale blenders to ensure even dispersion of stabilisers and
… but our first break was in the northern Victoria irrigation program in
carbon black. The advantages of flat sheet extrusion process for
the sandy channels from rivers to the Murray Darling food bowls area,”
geomembrane is gauge control to within +/- 3% compared to the
Brown, a chemical engineer, explained. “They were losing lots of water
blown film process thickness variations of up to 10%.
as the river flats are sandy and we won the tender to line the channels.”
Tech specs: Garden City Geotech sources Chevron Phillips K307
The family company has invested several million dollars in machinery
natural resin for the GRI GM13 HDPE geomembrane, due to its
and upgrades. “Had we bought via the United States we may have secured
“excellent stabiliser package and outstanding stress crack resistance”
slightly higher quality equipment but timing was a consideration, it would
and the company claims the broad fusion range results in more
have taken two years to arrive and we wanted to move more quickly to
consistent welds than with most other materials.
secure our position as the first in Australia to produce this line.”
“The standard is the Geosynthetic Research Institute’s GM 13 and we
It did not take long for Garden City Geotech to gain a foothold in the
easily exceed that benchmark which is used in mining and by landfill
geomembrane market whose import statistics clock in at 60,000 tonnes
and authorities for water channel lining and other applications,” Brown
annually. The company has the capacity to produce 20,000 tonnes a
told Connections.
year and their operations “Have the benefit of removing dependence
Australian made carbon black masterbatch (M248) – with its very fine milled particle size which provides long term UV resistance – is used in the black geomembrane. “This is quite thick material; it is flexible to a degree but basically strong
on imported material which reduces uncertainty associated with imported supply and shipping delays,” Brown said Few would disagree that in a nation whose manufacturing base is fast shrinking it is refreshing learning about a quality, home-grown start-up
material … previously this type of material was all imported,” he said.
that has quickly forged a significant presence.
Heavy transport
On a roll
Shipping containers or contract carriers criss-cross the continent
About the time Geotech first flicked the switch on its giant rollers,
transporting Geotech rolls, each weighing one and a half tonnes.
newcomer Tex Connex was rolling up its sleeves for business, with
Representing around 60% of business, traditional mining and coal seam
Bob Cahill appointed agent for world renowned geomembrane
gas form the bulk of Geotech’s three markets.
manufacturer Layfield Environmental in mid 2011.
14 · CONNECTIONS
With his qualifications in Agricultural Science, experience with a
Cahill notes a bank’s recent upbeat advisory on agribusiness, with
polypropylene company and years spent dealing with fabricators,
demand for farm commodities anticipated to bolster the economy for
Cahill was a natural for the role and in common with Geotech found a
several years, and good long-term opportunities stemming from healthy
ready market helped by the three-decade strong reputation built by
crops after years of drought. The welcome term “bumper harvest” is
Layfield which is regarded as a leader in the field, supplying top quality
being bandied around.
products from superior grades of parent resins. “The risk of low-cost producing countries is short-cuts taken with raw ingredients, it is important to use high grade resins in the design of
The crew at Tex Connex have certainly jumped on the bandwagon at a timely moment and are set to enjoy the journey. “It’s a diverse market and there is lots of competition. But whether it’s
geomembrane applications otherwise product will not last long enough
mining or molasses each project is treated on an individual basis and
to give satisfactory performance in the field,” Cahill told Connections.
we carry out a detailed assessment of what the material is trying to
“Ours is a mix of HDPE and LLDP which has slightly different
contain, for example certain chemicals may be aggressive toward the
properties so it can be moulded and prefabricated. That is our market
liners and shorten their life, otherwise a normal lifespan would be up to
niche, we can supply material that can be fabricated in the workshop
25 years.”
which gives the fabricator greater control of the welding conditions,
> continues page 23
but realistically some work has to be done on site. Our materials just provide more flexibility,” said the man who until last year had limited involvement in geomembranes. “It’s not too far a stretch from tank liners to dam liners,” quipped Cahill who is now immersed in effluent and waste control at piggeries and dairies, dam liners and floating covers for water storage/reservoirs (which reduce evaporation and maintain water quality and keep blue green algae at bay through reduced sunlight) and in mining and coal seam gas applications for salt water containment. Also liners for molasses and other crops.
CSG Advisory Committee An Independent Scientific Committee on Coal Seam Gas and Large Coal Mining Developments was recently developed to equip governments with “the best scientific advice available” when making decisions about coal seam gas and coal mining projects, and to scope and advise on bio-regional assessments with scientific analysis of the ecology, hydrology and geology to assess the potential risks to water resources as a result of the direct and indirect impacts of coal seam gas development For more information visit www.environment.gov.au/coalseam-gas-mining
Left: Lights flash when a silo runs empty, alerting operators to change the pipe-work to a full silo. Top: Geomembrane stock ready to be exported. NOVEMBER • DECEMBER 2012 • JANUARY 2013 · 15
Young leaders II
Young Leaders rise to the Challenge Get ready, get set … the seeds have been sown for the next Young Leaders Challenge with younger members of the association going head to head - brainstorming a structure that will be crafted over several months and on display at next year’s appropriately titled SuperExpo.
In mid-October during yet another weekend of mixed Melbourne
Team A: The Green Textiles Team
weather an eager group assembled to be presented with a ‘top secret’
Alberto Del Arco
MakMax
mission. The precise nature of the challenge will remain under wraps until
Sam Duggan
MakMax
the unveiling in early June next year, however Jamie Howard provided an
Damien McDonald
Darling Downs Tarpaulins
insight by saying “Overall the challenge this year is about giving back to
Dwane Ricard
Shann Australia
the localised community and re-igniting the true Australian spirit.”
Ben Thorburn
Thorline Products
Despite his relative youth, Jamie Howard has fast developed a name in
Brendan Saunders
Buz Software
STA circles. Last year he led one of the Young Leaders teams and now he
Amanda Saunders
Buz Software
is project instigator and mentor, saying “The challenge this year is a little
Michael Young
Nolan.UDA
different from last … and it focuses on innovation, creativity and effectiveness.
Team B:
“Details of this year’s challenge were revealed to the new Young
Justin Esdaile
Triax
Leader teams at the Novotel St Kilda, during a fun filled, educational and
Max Hayman
Pattons
very rewarding Young Leaders Conference,” Jamie said.
Michael Guinea
Sail Structures Townsville
Scott Bartlett
C E Bartletts
where an in-depth brief of the potential project was presented. This
Chris Smith
Campbell & Heeps
brief went through aspects such as engineering, design, marketing,
Brad Clark
Sail City
fabrication, installation, sponsorship and project management. Bearing
Linda Bester
Nolan.UDA
in mind all of these aspects, or only some, might be required. Judging
Brendan Allen
Ricky Richards
criteria was presented, along with rules and guidelines to ensure a fair
David Splatt
HVG Fabrics
“All of the young leaders were cordoned into the conference room,
and equal approach to the challenge. A maximum budget was set and will be revealed when appropriate. “The Young Leaders will be tested and will need to step up to the plate to truly impress those that will be judging ... You!”
Young Leaders Challenge 2012/2013
In this context, the names Ben Thorburn, Justin Esdaile, Michael Guinea and Chris Smith will be familiar as they were heavily involved in last year’s challenge. Each has pledged more time to lend their expertise to this year’s challenge, and will be playing a pivotal role in the success of their team. Conference photographer and mastermind of last year’s challenge,
The Young Leaders were divided into their respective teams to discuss
Bob Cahill told Connections that the two teams “have chosen very
an approach they would take and to designate a team structure.
different tacks”.
16 · CONNECTIONS
Left: STA Leaders – young and not quite so... Right: Ana Drougas on the trumpet Far right:The Green Textiles team.
“It is only when you step out of your everyday comfort zone that you develop and grow.” Kick off
Dining with Masters
The weekend kicked off with a working lunch at which STA
Duplicating last year’s successful format, industry ‘legends’ addressed
representatives presented a trend update, detailing the association's
the younger set over dinner. Well known to most in the industry, John
busy agenda over the past 12 months, an update that set the set the
Bartlett, Max Brady, Bob Cahill and Des Tebb were those masters, and
scene for the weekend’s workshop.
John commented that the Young Leaders' Challenge was a welcome
After lunch all participated in a ‘Mingle for success’ session, described by someone as “a bit like speed dating only handing out
and overdue initiative that he wished had been around in his heyday. “Harnessing a passion for the industry into a successful – and
business cards instead of personal numbers”. This was followed up by
enjoyable - career is the overriding theme,” says Bob Cahill, “It is only
‘Creatively marketing your image to clients and the media’ delivered
when you step out of your everyday comfort zone that you develop
by Craig Brewster who is a Business Coach with high-profile outfit
and grow.
Action Coaching. The focus of his session was on maximising company exposure
“It is very timely to focus on the younger members of the association as many of the baby boomers are looking at retiring and fresh talent
through the press and other means, and complemented his next dynamic
needs to be nurtured to fill the voids that will inevitably occur in the
presentation which covered the ins and outs of digital media; the fine
highly specialised and skilled field of fabrication.”
balance between tapping into the right mix in achieving the most from all prongs of digital media, illustrated by several successful case studies.
Young Leader
A new day, a fresh approach
Jamie Howard advised that the conference was the second held so far and by all accounts, it lived up to the hype. “Working on last year’s
Sunday’s presenter was Scott Mackay of ‘Mischief, Motivation,
project was a rewarding experience for me. In the beginning you are
Attitude’ who addressed the ‘Go Zone’, recommending workers boost
working with a team that you don’t know very well, or at all. By the end
productivity by divvying up the work week into 1) A ‘go zone’ 2) a ‘slow
you are speaking regularly, joking with one and other and growing
zone’ and 3) a ‘no zone’ ... essentially recognising that different things
together in areas that will enhance your current career path.
can be slotted into different times. Following this method, workers can strike a better balance between
“From this challenge the Young Leaders will learn and become stronger in their career. Confidence and ability will grow in areas
productivity and expectations while remaining fresh and in the sales
such as teamwork, problem solving, strategic thinking, manufacturing,
context “make your faith stronger than your fears”.
communication and management, to name just a few.” Left: Meet and greet Far left: Team B Bottom left: Scott Mackay in the 'Go Zone' Below: Mastermind Jamie Howard
NOVEMBER • DECEMBER 2012 • JANUARY 2013 · 17
SUPERB
STRUCTURES
Here we look at some of the more diverse entries to the 2012 STA Awards for Excellence.
Unique projects and products Landmark garden shelter Company: Project Title: Location: Fabric: Supplier:
Toowoomba Shade and Canvas True Blue Garden Centre Toowoomba Qld Monotec Designer Collection Ricky Richards (Sales) Pty Ltd
Our team put forward a proposal to use 100% round monofilament shadecloth to slow the rain water with a fair portion still servicing the plants, while offering good shade protection during the summer months to the more delicate stock. It was proposed to design the hail netting to blend with the shade sails for the overall appearance
This project was undertaken for a local specialised nursery which
which proved to be the complex component of the project due to
provides quality grown plants to the domestic and commercial markets.
the characteristics of point loading the hail netting. We did various
After more than 20 years of operating from small premises without
trials on the floor with respect to stretches and joining of the hail
adequate space and protection for their stock and customers, the
netting and this paid off with the hail net being install first time
clients decided to purpose build a facility to allow for the expansion of
without modification.
their business. The client approached us before the land was purchased to help
The finished result has exceeded the client ‘s expectations because we meet the initial brief even after all the design changes throughout
with the overall planning of the site for the local council planning
the planning stage. We have delivered exceptional sun protection for
submission. They knew little about shade sails other than they wanted
both the stock as well as our client ‘s customers, maintained natural
them to be a landmark in the local area to help with the relocation
rain water for quality of the stock, 50/50 coverage, shade cloth 222m2
marketing as well as the protection of plant stock and customers.
to hail netting 225m2 and it has proven to be a landmark for the local
Our staff spent close on 100 hours working with the client on different designs and colours to ensure the costs were within their budget but still maintained regular sun and shade variations throughout the day and seasons. Hail netting was to be used in a conjunction with shadecloth on a 50/50
area which has allowed our client to enjoy a lot more walk in traffic than they were previously experiencing. The client's thank you letter reads as follows: “Thank-you for your involvement in constructing our beautiful but functional ˜lime fizz ‘ shade sails and hail net area to help us realise
ratio, but the client didn’t want steel framing to detract from the overall
our dream of expansion and purpose built premises for the relocation
streetscape and needed as much light as possible to specific locations
of our garden centre … It is obvious you have an excellent team and
within the plant area, while maintaining protection. Direct rain water was
procedures in your business which create workmanship and customer
also an important factor for the client. They required as much rain to fall
service second to none. While most businesses aim to be exceptional
directly onto the plants without damaging the potted soils.
not many actually achieve levels to the extent you have.”
18 · CONNECTIONS
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SUPERB
STRUCTURES
Witness this Company: Project Title: Location: Fabric: Supplier:
BDM Leather and Canvas Temporary Registration Office no fixed address Naizil Nolan.UDA
Although we did not make the frame, we consulted with the frame maker as to what the final outcome should provide. The frame is made of 50mm aluminium tubing and is easily erected as all horizontal sections are interchangeable as well as the gables. Securing bolts cannot be misplaced as they are secured by swagged stainless
The client is engaged in building and renovation of Kingdom Halls of
wire and located in threaded sockets in the tubing when not in use.
Jehovah’s Witnesses. Typically, their halls are completed over four days.
Performance of the fabric was critical, so in consultation with our client,
The carpark, kerbing, concrete floor pad and steel wall framing are in
a European made 680gsm PVC was chosen. The choice of colour was
place prior. Then, over four days the Hall is brought to total completion
also appreciated as the lighter roof colour of cream provides sufficient
with the first meeting held on the Sunday afternoon. As the name of the
light for the staff to adequately see their computers.
project suggests, the Registration Office is to be temporary. It needs to be assembled quickly and dismantled quickly. It will be used throughout Western Australia and is stored in bags
One of the major benefits to the client is the ability to completely erect the unit in a short time. Their previous marquee required the cover to be laced on, which was extremely time consuming. This
and placed in a shipping container with other construction equipment
design featured walls that are zipped onto the roof and eyelets at
when not in use.
the base which can be secured by tent pegs if required. Another
Criteria to be taken into consideration in the whole design included:
major feature is, that should site space be limited, the Office can be
• Able to be erected & dismantled by two people
shortened to half the length using existing wall panels on a half length
• Weather protection
roof. Also, should a wall panel not be required for some reason, they
• Ventilation
can be easily removed. Providing ventilation and vision was another
• Visibility for occupants
feature which required us to not only insert clear windows, but also
• Natural light
for them to be able to roll up. Zips are used to keep the windows
• Security
closed. For their Safety Signs, welded to each end of the gable, are 3
• Limited space on building sites
pockets which seal closed with Velcro. Also, for ease of use, the access
• Ability to display signage
doors open sideways as opposed to traditionally rolling up. Before its
• Easy entry & exit for workers
‘ first use, the client viewed the office fully set up at our premises and expressed the thought that it surpassed their expectations.
20 · CONNECTIONS
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Commercial Shadecloth P: 1300 854 811 F: 1300 658 889 fabrics@hvg.net.au
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ALNET
SUPERB
STRUCTURES Satellite cushioning … Company: Project Title: Location: Fabric: Supplier:
E H Brett & Sons Pty Ltd Satellite Canvas Bags Mobile DX12 Wax Converters Textiles
Our client, a communications supplier approached us to design a series of
The client requested a series of bags to house all of the components
padded canvas bags to act as protection to their sensitive mobile satellites
including painted quarters of the satellite dish, various bags for the
used for providing communications to remote areas including sporting
powder coated stands, cables, receiver’s power supply units, computers
events and during times of disaster.
tie down gear and more. The challenge was when designing the bags, all
When these satellites are mobile, they are split up into approximately
of these components had to be made as snug as possible to each item
80 pieces and the client was not satisfied with their current form of
ensuring that the space of each bag was utilised as efficiently as possible
transportation … wooden crates. Which not only made the transport of
and at the same time offering as much protection to the components.
these satellites bulky, heavy and difficult to manoeuvre, it also wasn’t
The satellites dish broke down into four unequal quarters which had a
the ideal protection for their fragile components. So it was our mission
challenging concave curve to it. In order to achieve the correct shape of
to design a more practical method of protecting and transporting these
the bag we had to make moulds up so we could shape the foam padding
components with custom canvas travel bags.
to enable the bag to house such a heavy item. To minimise space during
The client requested a series of protective bags to allow the unassembled components of the satellite to fit into the back of a 4WD and also be able to be used as check in luggage on board an air craft. The custom made canvas bags were manufactured to enable our client and their mobile satellites to safely reach more remote locations across Australia. The work was measured off site and manufactured in our factory from drawings and measurements taken. All with the exception of the satellite dish which involved manufacturing a mould to ensure the curved satellite panels were supported evenly.
transportation we were able to get two of the similar shaped quarters into each bag. Another challenging task of the project was that once the bags were manufactured, they all had to fit perfectly in the back of a 4WD Nissan Patrol. We had to organise the bags in a ‘Tetris’ fashion to make sure that everything fit, whilst still keeping the items in some sort of logical order for quick and easy assembly. Another important part of the design criteria was to make sure all the bags were within certain weight and size restrictions to ensure the bags
A unique opportunity arose as we had to learn how to assemble and
could be used as checked in baggage aboard a commercial flight. This
dismantle the satellite to be able to determine the most efficient way to
was all achieved by careful planning on commencement of production.
pack the satellite bags into the back of the 4WD. We needed to have an
Some innovative techniques were utilised in the production of some of
understanding of what parts went where and what they were referred to,
these bags such as PVC storm water pipe. The pipe was fitted with a
so that the bags could be correctly labelled and constructed.
snug canvas cover used to keep items like aerials and fragile measuring
This project was quite complex due to the satellite being composed of many different parts in multiple size and shape. There were 50 different
instruments secure. We approached this job one bag at a time then tried to limit the amount
bags made up in total in 11 different designs. Some of which housed more
of different size and styles of bags to make it more economical for the
than one component. This is also where the knowledge of assembling the
client and more efficient whilst in production. In the end there was 50 bags
satellite became a useful tool.
consisting of 11 different shapes, styles and sizes, all consisting of different
The most complex of the bags that we designed were the individual dish quarters as they had a concave curved shape that were not even quarters. In order for the bags to fit like a glove as well as protect the dish we had to make up moulds of the actual dish to work off. The selection of padding material was unique as we had to choose something that was dense enough to protect the item but not too ridged
material and components including two different grades of canvas, PVC fabric trimmings, foam, soft felt, thin plywood and PVC storm water pipe. Our client is extremely happy that we were able to solve their mobile satellite transportation issue with a series of high quality padded canvas bags. Remote destinations that were merely impossible for their satellite to
that the bags had no give in them, potentially causing damage to
reach in the past are now attainable due to the bags that we designed and
surrounding items, such as the car interior and windows if they became
manufactured for them. They have even had multiple successful trips to the
dislodged whilst in transit.
Simpson Desert!
22 · CONNECTIONS
Special Feature < continued from page 15 Tex Connex Colleague Lisa Doolan who boasts years of experience
Max Brady of DDT says “Despite the negativity that assails us through
in geomembranes and geosynthetics added that when solvents or
the mainstream media these days I’m a little surprised and impressed
oil based products are involved great care needs to be applied in
by the apparent resilience and strength of the mining and energy
matching lining to product and that “When anything is questionable
sector.” He reckons there is still “plenty of ongoing investment by
we get testing done before getting approval. Either Layfield or
the mining and energy sector – which includes coal, CSG, and base
independent testing lab such as ExcelPlas, who are gurus in testing.”
metals,” and observes only a minor downturn in mining margins.
The years ahead
in base metals but not in the area of CSG with gas exported to India,
What sort of a future awaits? Cahill believes the tighter regulatory
than manufacturing. And environmental safeguards for bio-gas are very
controls in livestock management coupled with a strong agribusiness
strong so it is still a good time for membranes.
Dr Scheirs concurs, saying “There is now a little softening of demand China and elsewhere for use in domestic heating or cooking rather
sector and need to tighten up waste collection practices paint a relatively
“It is like a perfect storm – and that puts demand on supply. Hence the development of new manufacturing plants here and overseas. More
rosy picture. “With our 15 years of drought followed by two good years of rain it has
plants will continue to be built, until we reach oversupply.”
looked like a boom, but that will drop off with drier weather [anticipated] over the next two years. However lots of momentum is being generated
For more information:
around Australia becoming a major food supplier to the Asia Pacific
www.gardencityplastics.com
region, hence the strong signs of agricultural investment.”
www.gseworld.com
For his part, Graham Brown of Geotech “Cannot foresee a stalling
www.layfieldenvironmental.com
in the mining market and China is still growing at an enormous rate,
www.excelplas.com
growth may be steadier rather than frantic, but lots of orders are still
www.ddt.com.au
coming through the pipeline.”
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NOVEMBER • DECEMBER 2012 • JANUARY 2013 · 23
flags & banners special feature
All manner of
banners Banners are very much part of the surrounding landscape. Ranging from small to massive and all in between, they broadcast a series of messages and images. But how have processes evolved and what does the future hold? We talk to some prominent STA members to gain insight and perspective. By Nicola Card Wandering around Berlin a couple of decades ago, a large imposing
“Crest mesh is a proven product; at 350 grams per square metre
Georgian building on a prominent street corner caught my eye. But a
it is heavier in weight than other materials, and it has fire retardant
gust of wind kicked up and something didn’t look right – the building
characteristics, These two key features set it apart … the material has
appeared to wobble. It turned out the façade was not structural but
never failed in any job, the product is very consistent.”
vinyl, sporting a life sized image of the building’s original splendour. Residents and visitors to Sydney over the next few months will experience a similar surreal moment, with the iconic sandstone clock tower on the Town Hall (pictured) undergoing a multi-million dollar restoration project. Many thousands of metres of mesh membrane were used in the project, and Ricky Richards was the supplier. Print Media Sales Manager
The name Ricky Richards is all but synonymous with digital print media which today comprises around 25% of business. Not bad given their digital print operations commenced just 12 years ago. “We got into it more by chance than by plan … the industrial textiles we supplied could be printed on so it landed in our lap,” Matt said. “Most of the digital print media has been done on PVC but there is
Matt Evans told Connections that the ‘Crest Mesh’ product has been in
a greater trend toward rigid materials, that is printing straight onto
demand for large scale wrap jobs for the past ten years, from the Sydney
boards like core flute and expanded PVC, and also a move to more
Olympics, to the ‘Cathy Freeman job’, the ANZ building and more.
natural environmentally friendly textiles like polyester which does not
26 · CONNECTIONS
“The world is becoming more PVC conscious; it is not seen as the most eco-friendly product. I think eventually we will move away from PVC … it will take a long time but any steps in that direction will certainly help the industry and the environment.”
Wide format printing According to Andrew Wells who is Shann Product Manager for digital print media, demand for wide format printing is fast moving at present, driven by demand for large mesh banners in the building sector as well as in housing and mines. “These banners help prevent dust building up and provide privacy while promoting company names and logos. Most of the mesh is polyester and PVC coating open weave which comes with a lifespan of several years, by which time the images which are solvent-based fade but the resolution is getting better now
Printing process Print dynamics is the forte of Jason Rewse who is a screen-printer by trade. “Initially it was all solvent based … in simple terms solvent ink that almost imitates paint. Wide format digital printers are like a big oversized ink jet printer; the sort of technology where they fire dots of cyan, magenta, yellow and black. Effectively it’s a bit like newspaper printing or what a color photocopier does with segments of dots which is not unlike offset printing,” he explained. “Different technologies have come into play, most of the newer platforms have moved to UV dryable inks whereby the inks are put through UV lamps which cures them rather than relying on heat to dry the solvent. This has made a big pitch of late and many of the large format printers are using just UV or a combination of both.” Left and below: Stonemasons were recently seen abseiling the 55-metre Sydney Town Hall clock tower to wrap it in a special photograph mesh featuring the landmark clock face.
contain so many noxious chemicals like lead and VOCs. It is lighter and easier to transport and install. Jason Rewse who is National Specifications Manager with HVG Graphics Media concurs, saying “The world is becoming more PVC conscious; it is not seen as the most eco-friendly product. I think eventually we will move away from PVC … it will take a long time but any steps in that direction will certainly help the industry and the environment. [Alternative] polyethylene can be recycled, reworked, reused. Halifax Vogel Group – which currently imports anything from lower widths of 1.3 to 2.5 metres for the general banner market and everyday signs, right up to five metre widths for billboards and large structural banners or meshes – was consulted over Sydney’s clock tower restoration. Jason Rewse said the mesh façade of the clock tower was printed by Cactus Imaging, which is reputedly just one of a few wide format digital printers in Australia. NOVEMBER • DECEMBER 2012 • JANUARY 2013 · 27
flags & banners special feature
Flying the flag Wayne Viner of Crew Products in Cheltenham, Victoria says 20 years ago it was “not so cool” to plant a flag in your front yard but today there is a surge in acceptance and popularity – which as a flagpole maker suits him down to the ground. “These days you see more flagpoles – flying predominantly Australian flags – in people’s private homes and in holiday homes, also in government departments and corporations, with some aboriginal flags or corporate flags. But some fly Collingwood flags of all things!” he joked. Crew Products has built a strong reputation over the years and among other large projects was the name behind the flagpoles carrying large Australian flags seen flapping along Melbourne’s Westgate Bridge. The series of flags which are spaced several metres apart are rotated every two months in the bid to even out the wear on fabrics that have to withstand gusts of up to 120 km/h. “We’ve sewn edges and repaired tracks and put weights in … but making the flag heavier makes the tail flick harder so it has the reverse effect in that it increases the wear,” Wayne said. The four sets of flags are made by Flags of All Nations in Woolloongabba, Queensland, which uses a woven synthetic that was once produced by local manufacturer Bradmill. All materials used today are imported.
From shopping centres to corporate promotions, brand launches, conferences, exhibitions, trade shows and awards nights to building sites, beaches and board rooms – all manners of banners and textiles are seen in all walks of life.
Jason went on to say that the UV process is faster and provides an instant dry whereas solvent based inks take time as the oxides need to dry. “If you do not dry the ink it causes lots of issues – the biggest challenge for any printer is to dry the ink prior to fabricating and rolling the banner. That is why UV provides the advantage – you can work with the banner right after printing. “Wide format digital printing is similar to what happened with screen printing years ago … similar technological steps are involved.” For local companies speed to market is a big advantage. “Not that many [print] jobs are done in China. And we (locally) can act quickly with short lead times and there are no communications gaps. “What is keeping the local printing industry alive is fast reaction to jobs and short lead times,” Jason said.
Fast paced execution Many of Ricky Richard’s clients in the signage industry are working 24/7, seven days a week on all elements from pre-press to fine tuning all colour files and computers. Matt Brown agrees that speedy turnaround is high on the agenda.
28 · CONNECTIONS
“Digital print has taken things into the computer age. As a result the speed of work – of output – is so fast now. And beyond the printing there is lots of finishing required with fabrication and lamination and other weird and wonderful things they do afterwards and then it needs to be installed. The turnaround times are expected to be lots faster,” Matt said “That is the industry as a whole. Our customers are printers and sign people whose customers are quite literally anyone in businesses, from retailers to corporate offices or even members of the public. “Everything is customised – there is no such thing as a stock product.” Nerada Martin of Adelaide based Martin Canvas Products says while there are still many digital printers in Australia she doubts the industry will grow a lot as “Sign companies can get banners printed and finished in China and shipped out in a week … and that is where the industry is headed.”
Quality matters Other factors come into play. Richard Gill of The Banner Lady describes the banner industry as “very price competitive” but believes better quality products will always win out. That means that each of the three basic ingredients: inks, print and fabric – needs to be high quality. He commented that South Korea is “going gang-busters” in terms of material quality improvements, and more widely “there is a shift toward better quality printing … competition is heavy and people are trying to find an edge in everything they do because so much changes in the market place, and very quickly … brands are having to reposition themselves to ensure they are at the forefront of people’s minds and businesses wanting to present themselves as high quality are looking toward higher processes of printing processes and technologies, to ensure colours are spot on. They need quality printing.”
“What is keeping the printing industry alive [in Australia] is fast reaction to jobs and short lead times.”
Façade A facade is generally one exterior side of a building, quite often the front, hence the use of the french word meaning ‘frontage’ or ‘face’, derived from the Italian facciata, from faccia meaning face. Figuratively speaking: façade describes the "face" people show others, as opposed to what they really think or do.
Recent history – and how things have changed Despite the ubiquitous nature of banners, digital printing is a relatively new phenomenon. In earlier days craftsmen hand-painted words and images on banners, hence the term ‘sign write’ but this changed once vinyl cutters hit the scene, about three decades ago. Brown explained that “Vinyl cutting was an early sign of automation; self adhesive coloured vinyl was cut into shapes and letters and stuck on which from a distance looked printed”. About ten years ago digital printing took over and Matt estimates just 10% of banners today are prepared using vinyl cuts. “But there is still a place for that speciality; if they market themselves they can still do well [and] those that are left pride themselves on their work and can even
Seemee is the high end fabric range used in back-lit signs such as those adorning fast food chain KFC. The fabric is flex faced; stretched over a back-lit box to create a good lookin’ image unencumbered by visible structures. Being a semi-translucent fabric, during daytime the sign appears solid but at night the light shines through to provide an eyecatching, vibrant look.
charge a premium!”
The future Many in the industry have commented on the next big shift toward back-lit fabrics/textiles which by all accounts present a rather clean, smart look. But word on the street is that over time back-lit banners will be challenged by electronic signage as costs reduce. “So much happens – we have to be constantly tracking emerging technologies and maintaining up to date products, some have a very short shelf life due to technological advances,” Matt said. “I have difficulty predicting what will happen just in the next six months! “In time electronics will definitely take over more but there will always be a place for print as it has unique features and it will continually adapt.”
Marking time Fast paced change. What a contrast to Sydney’s iconic 2.5-metrediameter timepiece whose mechanism was created 120 years ago and has been has chiming on the hour since 1884. With restoration underway – and literally under wraps – the clock is taking a well-earned rest. Had you ‘clocked’ up 120 years of service, you might like to do same! NOVEMBER • DECEMBER 2012 • JANUARY 2013 · 29
special TechNical feature
Using geosynthetics to stabilise soils in a harsh environment Erosion control in mining applications By Dhani Narejo, Bruno Hay, and Bryan Wedin
A photo of general terrain of ultrabasic soil region of the island (www.tranquillity.net). Photo courtesy of the authors.
Mine site erosion problems
Soil, topography, weather
One of the largest nickel mining sites in
Ultrabasic soils
the world is located on the island of New
cover about
and mountainous. Slopes vary continuously
Caledonia in the South Pacific. Due to the
one-third of New
from steep to gentle and from fully vegetated
size of the mining project and the terrain of
Caledonia, where
to barren. There are numerous water runoff
the site, significant cut-and-fill work for civil
large deposits of
features on the island. There are large areas of
engineering structures was unavoidable.
nickel are found.
unstable soils and mass movement as shown in
Periodites and
Figure 2. As a result, soil erosion is a challenging
protecting the structures from erosion can
serpentines—the
engineering problem in this region.
be enormous. Inaction is not an option due
parent rocks of
to the sensitive nature of the structures,
these soils—
cyclone dumping up to 800mm (31in.) of
environmental concerns, and a keen desire
formed 1.5–65
rain within 24 hours. Significant rainfall from
by the owners to protect the environment.
million years
at least three major events has affected the
A typical example of the erosion at the site
ago during the
island during the past 50 years. Tropical
is he slope in Figure 1. Such slopes require
Tertiary period.
Cyclone Anne dropped 714mm (28in.) of
For such a large site, the challenge of
continuous maintenance if the erosion
structure and easily erodible, especially when the dense vegetation at the surface is disturbed by fires, mining, or construction activities. The topography of the site is generally hilly
The weather pattern is cyclonic, with a single
rain within 24 hours in 1988. In 1969, Tropical
The chemical
Cyclone Colleen recorded 214mm (8in.)
problem is not addressed. In some cases,
weathering of
erosion can cause interruption in the mobility
these rocks over
of materials and personnel at the site.
thousands of
Cyclone Vania brought a rainfall of 50mm
years and subsequent erosion have resulted
(2in.) per hour for several hours. The rainfall
successfully used at the site, including riprap
in a soil formation of the general nature shown
intensity for a 6-hour, 100-year storm is on
and concrete. An alternate erosion-control
in Figure 2. Ultrabasic soils are rich in iron and
the order of 400mm (16in.) in this region. The
system was desired by the owner that would
magnesium—and also contain nickel, cobalt,
annual number of cyclones can range from
meet the following objectives:
and chromium—yet are deficient in nutrients
2–10. Table 1 presents the 10 wettest storms
• cost-effective,
to support vegetation. These soils are fragile in
recorded on the island (through 2010).
Several erosion-control measures had been
• require little or no maintenance, • use local labor and materials, • have a design life exceeding 50 years.
Figure 1
30 · CONNECTIONS
Table 1
Figure 2
of rain in 4 hours. In January 2011, Tropical
waste material at no cost. The installation could be performed by local labor with little technical support and training by the manufacturer. However, the owner required that an independent design engineer prepare a design for the proposed solution. The primary design considerations included: • minimum thickness of the geocell, • veneer stability, • type of the separation geotextile, • hydraulic response during a storm, and • infill procedures. Due to length constraints for this article, only the thickness and veneer stability are discussed here. Important design conditions for the site related to thickness and veneer stability included: • maximum slope angle of 45 degrees, • 6-hour probable maximum precipitation of 39mm (1.5in.), • maximum slope length of 20m (65.5ft), and • clay soils. The geocell thickness was the most challenging factor during the design phase because of the long slope lengths and steep angles. As the thickness of the geocell increased, the driving force due to the infill weight increased, which led to higher anchorage requirements. Alternatively, as the geocell thickness was decreased, more water could penetrate the clay soil, which could potentially jeopardize the effectiveness of the geocell system. After a detailed analysis, a geocell thickness of 100mm (4in.) was selected to provide
Figures 3 & 4
effective coverage and minimize anchorage The unstable nature of the soils, together
with geocells, a 3-D HDPE product designed
with the hilly terrain and cyclonic weather,
to contain and stabilize infill material. The
presented unique engineering challenges for
recommended infill material consisted of a
the soil erosion problems.
byproduct waste aggregate from the mining operation. A nonwoven, needle-punched
requirements. The anchorage requirements are explained with this veneer stability equation:
cu=fc CBRsg
Sustainable solutions
(NW-NP) geotextile separation layer was
The contractor had a long and successful
the proposed gravel infill and the geocell,
instability, Cr = required anchorage (kPa),
relationship with the mining company at the
respectively.
h = thickness of the geocell (m), β = slope
site installing liner systems and was aware of
also recommended. Figures 3 and 4 present
The owner accepted the contractor’s
the challenges of protecting the slopes from
proposed solution as a more cost-effective
erosion in this environment.
answer than previous methods. The
Where FS = factor of safety against veneer
angle (degrees), δ = geotextile-subgrade friction angle (degrees). A factor of safety of 1.4 was used, which
geosynthetic solution would require little
is typical for slope stability analysis. The
geocell applications to develop a conceptual
to no maintenance during the effective
friction angle between the geotextile and
solution to the erosion problems. The
design life and was visually appealing. The
underlying site clay was based on GRI
solution consisted of covering the slopes
proposed gravel infill was available as a
Report #30 (Koerner and Narejo, 2005).
The owner suggested the potential of
NOVEMBER • DECEMBER 2012 • JANUARY 2013 · 31
special TechNical feature
Figure 5 provides the relevant figure from this eport. A friction angle of 28 degrees was used in the calculations. Density of gravel, γ, was 20 kN/m3. Slope angle, β, varied from 26–45 degrees. The required anchorage, Cr, depends on the slope angle β for the known or assumed values of FS, h, δ and γ. For a β value of 45 degrees, the required anchorage is 1.2 kN/m2.
Figure 6 Figure 5
Performance In 2011, just weeks after the completion of the
For geocell installations, two anchorage
first phase of the project, Tropical Cyclone Vania
methods that include stakes and tendons
dropped a total of more than 600mm (24in.) of
are typically evaluated. In the design phase,
rain within a 24-hour period. The site was further
galvanized No. 4 rebar provided the most
affected when, within 24 hours of Vania’s impact,
cost-effective solution. The rebar spacing was
a magnitude-7 earthquake hit a nearby island.
determined based on actual site load tests.
This was a real-life test for a geocell installation
Fifteen locations were identified for the field
on steep slopes, some up to 45 degrees.
load tests. The rebar intended for use was hammered
The slope coverage performed as designed,
Figure 7
The engineer’s experience with the proposed
with little or no erosion even on the steepest
design solution, that of the contractor with the
into the slope and a downward pull load was
of the slopes as shown in Figure 7. These
site, and that of the manufacturer with previous
applied parallel to the slope. The load was
successes were in keeping with previous
projects in the region all contributed to the
increased until either maximum load capacity
results experienced by the manufacturer’s
project’s success. The decision to use waste
was reached or the rebar broke or pulled
customers around the Pacific Rim—that the
material as the infill during the design phase
out of the ground. Testing determined that
cellular confinement performs consistently
was crucial and limited project costs.
a maximum anchorage of 100kg or 0.98kN
under wet and seismic conditions.
could be used for a single rebar anchor. From this value, the spacing of the stakes was determined.
Installation The contractor recontoured the slopes where
The materials installed on the initial phases of the slopes have already experienced dozens
Project summary
of heavy rainfalls and at least one earthquake.
For difficult and complex site conditions, cellular
be engineered to solve complex problems at
confinement applications can provide powerful
a significantly lower cost when compared to
protection against soil erosion.
traditional solutions.
This case history shows how geosynthetics can
The concept is simple and is based on the
there was significant damage caused by
soil-containment function of the geocell and
This article is reproduced from Geosynthetics
erosion. A 6oz. NW-NP geotextile was installed
the separation function of the geotextile. A thin
of February 2012 by permission of IFAI
on the slope as a separation layer between the
layer of overburden soil contained within the
existing subgrade layer and the gravel infill
cell is enough to protect unstable slopes. This
material. Cellular confinement sections were
protection is possible even on steep slopes if
installed over the geotextile.
proper engineering procedures are followed
Starting from the top of the slope, the sections
and, most critically, provided that engineering
were expanded down the slope and filled with
design solutions are used only for the specific
waste aggregate (Figure 6). The installation
material and manufacturing characteristics of a
was completed within the target time.
cellular confinement material.
32 · CONNECTIONS
Dhani Narejo, principal at Caro Engineering LLC in Conroe, Texas, is a member of Geosynthetics magazine’s Editorial Advisory Committee. Bruno Hay, is business manager at FLI Pacifique SNC in New Caledonia. Bryan Wedin is chief design engineer with Presto Geosystems in Appleton, Wis. George Koerner and Dhani Narejo, “Direct Shear Database of Geosynthetic-to-Geosynthetic and Geosynthetic-to-Soil Interfaces,” Geosynthetic Research Institute, GRI Report #30, June 14, 2005.
fabric report
Maintenance is not a dirty word In this report Beatrice Moonen who chairs the Fabric Structures Committee spells out the importance of upkeep as a means of averting problems down the track.
exceeded its warranty period maintenance is
5. An expert may identify problems
overdue, even if the structure appears fine on
which a layperson may not
the surface.
As experts in the field, installers are more likely
know what to look for and understand how
In conjunction with installing locking gates,
components of a structure behave. Repairs can
anti climbing plates etc, where there is a risk
be made quickly and effectively. Offering a
of vandalism such as in schools, inspections
maintenance service is the start.
The Fabric Structures Committee of the
and maintenance can ensure the structure
STA believes maintenance is a big deal for
remains sound.
providers of fabric structures. Maintenance
to identify maintenance problems. Installers
4. Vandalism and unauthorised access
Your comments on this article or the safety and maintenance of structures are always welcome on office@specialisedtextiles.com.au
will become so much more important as older structures start to show signs of wear. The committee comprises senior people within the fabric structure industry and a representative from the Cancer Council. Members of the FSC strive to raise standards and promote the fabric structure industry with guidelines, advocacy and resources so that members can offer the best service and a high quality product and in turn be rewarded by opportunities available. Installers promoting maintenance as part
Elizabeth Machines are the authorised Australian distributors for Miller Weldmaster equipment.
of their service will benefit from new work opportunities, customers responsive to after sales service and long term quality of products.
If you have a product that needs to be welded, we have the complete range of standard and automated custom models to meet your needs.
This collectively reflects well on the industry. Flexibility of design, price, aesthetics and
VERSATILITY AND RELIABILITY, THAT’S WHY MILLER WELDMASTER IS THE FIRST CHOICE!
shade comfort have made fabric structures popular over the years. While there are many instances of solid shade structures 10 or 20 years on, regular maintenance allows more shade structures to stand the test of time.
So why maintain a shade structure? 1. Weather will affect a shade structure Wind, rain, hail and sun can damage a structure no matter how well it has been made. Nature can be destructive quickly or slowly. 2. Good practice will minimise risk A well maintained fabric structure is safer. A loose thread, a broken fitting or a small rip should be fixed or before becoming bigger and riskier. Consider community public places such as playgrounds where safety and enjoyment must work together. 3. Warranties are limited Warranties on fabrics are five years and more. Once the roof fabric on a structure has NOVEMBER • DECEMBER 2012 • JANUARY 2013 · 33
Innovation
The third “eye” Roger La Salle takes a closer look at the all-too-familiar face of the workforce and says step back to take a closer look at every day practices.
Too close to see the business
presentation, your signage and even the overall presentation of your facility. Here’s a thought: would you prefer to visit a dental surgery or a
Often those of us involved in business are simply too close to
restaurant whose premises were beautifully maintained with lovely
daily issues to see the potential for real value adding innovations
gardens as you enter, or instead one where the gardens were a
and opportunities or indeed to appreciate some of the things our
mangled mess with absolutely no interest in presentation at all being
businesses and people do really well.
shown by the business operator?
Even in the case of business plans, which seldom play-out as forecast, the so called independent “third eye” to review the plan before it is finalised is always a good idea. The transfer “catalyst” of the “Opportunity Matrix” thinking platform asks us to see if we can transfer this so called “third eye” used on business plans to other aspects of our business. Following this idea we may implement a formal “third eye” across the business on a periodic basis.
Obviously, the clean and beautiful presented premise inspires confidence. With your network now briefed conduct a tour of your business and ask each person to take a note pad with them and write down three things that they individually observe that you do really well. Also ask them to write down three things that they believe are lacking or need attention and can be done better. Thus we now have three plus three innovation initiatives we can explore in an endeavour to innovate or improve our business.
The third “eye” innovation initiative
The cost is nothing
Network with a group of your peers and invite them on a tour of your facility to view in their own minds what you are doing and how you go
A “Third Eye” tour need only take a few minutes and will provide
about your business.
invaluable third party or “independent third eye” insights. More
This does not have to be limited to just the physical or operational aspects of your business but can include your telephone answering technique, your staff presentation and manner, your business card 34 · CONNECTIONS
importantly it will assist in identifying your strengths and weaknesses. This simple third eye can be a real innovation eye opener and can be done at no cost at all.
Solve your employees’ No.1 cause of stress! Paradigm shift: staying at home to go to work, by Roger La Salle
The changing paradigm
Numerous studies have been undertaken on the subject of home workers, or so called
Any reader who is familiar with the TV series hit
“telecommuters” and most show the cost
The Office (English version, please) would notice
benefits in productivity and reduced cost of
people crouched over computer screens doing
employment in many ways, including office
who knows what, but all very engaged.
space, energy, consumables and many other
In fact if you walk into almost any office today, the places where city commuters most often work, you will find precisely the same scene.
3. Suitable KPIs that can be used to measure
almost hidden on-costs. For the worker there
the performance of home workers
are also huge benefits.
4. IT infrastructure at the office and worker’s
A study in the USA* found that the
home, and
People privately engaged in their work while
total number of US telecommuters (one
crouched over a computer. So prevalent is this
day per month at home) grew from some
activity that we are being warned about the perils
17 million in 2001 to almost 30 million by
of continuous close focused vision, keyboard RSI
2008. It is clear that there is a growing trend
and lack of exercise just to mention a few.
towards this sensible alternative to full office
Given this is working life for so many these
5. Trust from management for workers to be accountable
The potential benefits are profound
based work.
days, let’s turn that into an opportunity.
*Data by The Dieringer Research Group Inc. February 2009
"Innovate" your workplace to reap multiple benefits
Envisage the future
The benefits are huge and can lead to much higher productivity and reduced worker stress in travel to and from work. Indeed when surveyed in the USA many workers cited the
For sceptics who think this may not work,
stress of travelling to and from work as their
Many “birds can be killed” with this one stone
just image a computer with a screen that
biggest concern.
if we embrace change:
showed every member of your team as a
1.
Productivity improvement
screen shot, perhaps an overhead view of the
staff to put in an extra 30 to 60 minutes a day
2.
Traffic congestion and the huge expense
office environment. To meet or speak with
if you remove the normal one to two hours
of building new road infrastructure
any member you simply click on the image,
commuting time, not to mention the cost.
3.
A real use for the NBN – more than just
to engage with a group, simply click on the
home movies
people required and all come to each other as
4.
Green house emission reductions, and
virtual 3D interactive images with high quality
5.
Cost of living in travel time and cost
audio: a virtual office.
Can you foresee these huge gains if most
In such a high definition virtual environment
Perhaps it may even be possible to ask
Where to from here? Perhaps now is the time with traffic snarls on the increase to the point of frustration,
people did not have to travel to an office
there is little difference from having staff
public transport running at capacity and real
everyday to do their jobs?
physically present. In fact to meet or speak
productivity falling?
Do we need to have staff present?
with a team member in such an environment would be easier and faster than getting up
Embrace this new paradigm and reap the benefits. Start off slowly and track the results.
from your desk and walking to their office based workstation.
Social interaction in the workplace has huge benefits, both for the well-being of workers, the cross pollination of ideas and the building
What is required to achieve this utopia?
of a team environment. However, in most cases there is absolutely no need for people to attend an office every day. Perhaps one day each week would be sufficient to allow for social interaction and general catch up.
1. An acceptance of the worker to take on the liability of providing their own safe workplace 2. High-speed, two-way internet connectivity
Roger La Salle is the creator of the "Matrix Thinking"™ technique and is widely sought after as an international speaker on Innovation, Opportunity and business development. He is the author of four books, Director and former CEO of the Innovation Centre of Victoria and as a number of companies both in Australian and overseas. He has been responsible for a number of successful technology start-ups and in 2004 was a regular panellist on ABC TV’s New Inventors. In 2005 he was appointed to the "Chair of Innovation" at “The Queens University" in Belfast. Matrix Thinking is now used in more than 26 countries and is licensed to Deloitte, one of the world’s largest consulting firms. www.matrixthinking.com
NOVEMBER • DECEMBER 2012 • JANUARY 2013 · 35
technical feature
Truck cover and tarp markets pick up speed In the United States there is renewed demand for the niche markets of truck covers and tarps which is helping support growth, says Holly O’Dell. Like many industries, the trucking industry has had to deal with the
in EPA emission regulations is driving higher new truck sales before the
effects of the slow economy. American Trucking Association recent
effective date, and new trailer sales are following suit.”
statistics indicate that truck tonnage fell just 0.7 percent in May 2012 after
Economic challenges have put price pressure on the industry, too. “The
dropping 1.1 percent in April. The numbers, however, show improvement
tarp market is very commodity based,” Brown notes. “Everything is all
over the same period in 2011, and that could spell good news for an
about price, so all of the fabric suppliers have been forced to cut to the
important segment of the roadway freight market: truck covers and tarps.
bone to reduce costs.”
Fabric suppliers and manufacturers of load covering systems have
Despite the economic downturn, some tarp suppliers and
weathered the economic storm, responding to renewed demand and
manufacturers report improving conditions. Dean Hammond, owner
finding niche markets to support growth.
of Cardinal Canvas Products in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, admits to a difficult 2009, but the news has been good ever since. “The market
Price pressures
came back in 2010, and 2011 was excellent for us,” he says, adding that
End users of truck load covers have been careful with expenditures, which
for load tarps. “It all depends on how busy the truckers are, and they
led to belt-tightening throughout the supply chain. However, BondCote
have been busy.”
Corp. of Pulaski, Virginia, a supplier of vinyl-coated polyester for truck
the demand is so great that Cardinal Canvas has a backlog of orders
As a distributor of tarp fabrics throughout North America, Atizapán,
tarps, has seen improvement since late 2011, noting that users had been
Mexico-based Grupo Piessa also has noticed a shift among its
repairing their tarps instead of buying new ones through the recession.
customers. “We can see the purchasing volume has decreased, but
“I’m not sure if it’s because the economy is improving that much or the
customers have been adjusting the orders, buying products with less
fact that users finally have to buy new tarps. I think it’s a little of both,”
weight or changing the specs in order to get better prices,” says Yadira
says Eric Brown, BondCote’s national sales manager. “Also, the change
Moreno, export manager for Grupo Piessa.
36 · CONNECTIONS
Load Covering Solutions Ltd., Burlington, Ontario, Canada, contracts with a print shop to offer customers the value-added option of delivering a message along with their load with digitally printed soft-sided curtains. Photo: Load Covering Solutions
IFAI feature
A decrease in tarp demand has some companies rethinking how they
dump truck tarp systems and trailer tarp systems. If the construction
do business. “Industrywide, when you have these sorts of challenges, it
industry experienced another big downturn, Ciferri says they would
becomes tougher for some companies to maintain their size,” says Ken
certainly feel it, but for Donovan, that scene is fading in the rearview
Harp, president of Harp’s Tarps in Tucker, Georgia. “In our case, we
mirror. “The last couple of years we have seen some rather steady
have had to work harder to grow. We are in an extremely competitive
growth,” he says.
industry, and [a poor economy] forces you to become more efficient and stronger.” Another hurdle comes in the form of end users’ expectations. “A lot
Growth areas
of times the end users don’t always see the value in higher quality or
Tarp and truck cover manufacturers have diversified their offerings—
the total cost of ownership over the long run of the product,” Harp adds.
sometimes in unexpected market areas. Harp’s Tarps, for example,
In particular, a slowdown in construction has taken its toll on the truck
has completed custom projects unrelated to the freight industry. The
cover market.
company created a huge tarp bladder that was inserted into a sunken
“We are construction driven because trucks that haul building debris
ship off the coast of Florida, then inflated with air to raise the vessel.
need tarps,” notes Michael Ciferri Jr, vice president and product
The fabricator also has made octagons and hexagons for mats used
manager for Donovan Enterprises in Stuart, Florida, a manufacturer of
in mixed martial arts fighting. “When you get these new niche markets, you have higher margins,” Harp says, “and it is fun doing something different from squares and rectangles all day.” Ciferri also recognises the importance of diversification. “When you have a bunch of time and you aren’t selling a lot of truck tarps, you have got to find something else to do,” he says, but Donovan Enterprises did what it had to do to survive, particularly in the especially lean years of 2007–2009. “Do I want to go out and sell sandbags today? No. But have I gone out and sold sandbags for a year? Yes. You are making quarters, but you have volume, and if you have the time and the distribution, it’s important to look at such opportunities,” he says. Donovan Enterprises also has its eyes on worldwide growth. “International markets have been strong for us,” Ciferri notes. The company has a division in the United Kingdom and a master distributor in France, and it has sold product into Mexico, Australia and South Africa.
38 · CONNECTIONS
“Some countries are much more difficult to work in than others
Industry representation
because they have all these requirements, and they think it should be easy to meet all of them,” he adds. “Then there are some countries that
The Tarp Association, a division of IFAI, offers industry participants
just want to cover the load and keep rocks from falling out.”
information, advocacy and support. Visit the association’s website to learn more about covering laws, safety tips, care and maintenance of
Market impacts
truck covers, new products and special events.
Although there haven’t been monumental changes in the composition
This article is reproduced from IFAI publication Specialty Fabrics
of tarp fabrics, some suppliers are experimenting with different
Review of August 2012
components. “We have been looking for new and better substrates that allow us to increase the resistance of our materials, like fabrics 14 x 14 1000
Holly O’Dell is a freelance writer based in Pine City, Minnesota.
D and heavier,” says Piessa’s Moreno. “Also, we have developed with our suppliers UV-resistance additives and fire-retardant additives to accomplish the highest levels of quality requested by international regulations. We have produced some tarps that are phthalate-free to meet international regulations, too.” BondCote’s Brown notes, “We can make a superior truck tarp fabric if the industry would pay for it, but once again, it is all about price. It very much limits what you can do to provide superior, innovative fabrics when the market will not pay for them.” As long as government bodies continue to demand regulations for truck covering systems, suppliers and end product manufacturers will always have a place in the freight industry. “Load covering is becoming a bigger concern to shippers and transport companies on a regular basis,” says Brian Petelka, president of Load Covering Solutions Ltd in Burlington, Ontario in Canada, which also has US offices. “To be able to cover the loads so that they are weather protected and
Well established business for sale in the Hunter Valley, NSW The owners of NAGGS CANVAS (established in 1986) wish to retire from their highly successful business. The business fabricates a wide range of canvas goods and shade products. It has a very good reputation for high standard of work, and services the local mining industry & interstate branches, local councils & schools, & service industries. It is well known for vehicle canopies and caravan annexes/walls for roll-out awnings. Repair and alteration work is constantly requested by the general public. With a staff of the 2 owners (working manager, secretary), 2 full-time employees and 2 casual workers, the annual turnover of this small business is around 1 million per annum, achieving excellent profit margins. There is much scope for expansion for an enthusiastic person. The sale includes a large range of stock, machinery, welders, sewing machines & intellectual property (engineering of structures & sails, and templates for the mining industry). Leasing of the current premises is possible.
FOR MORE DETAILS, PLEASE CONTACT HEROLD GELDERMAN 02 4930 7394 OR PHILIP JOHNS 02 4993 3333
doing it all safely at ground level is a growing need,” Petelka says. NOVEMBER • DECEMBER 2012 • JANUARY 2013 · 39
The advantages of becoming a member Learn, share and network with others in the industry who have a similar passion for our industry at national and state based events held throughout the year. Have your say about the direction of our industry and association through involvement on Council of Management, industry focus groups and special interest groups.
Educate and inform others using Connections Magazine to communicate to a niche market hungry for knowledge and news about our industry. Members can use Connections to advertise their products and services to their target markets. Get listed in our comprehensive member and product directory - published in hard copy and searchable online.
Connect with buyers and suppliers by exhibiting, presenting or attending one of the premier exhibition and conference events in this region.
Differentiate yourself from non members by making use of the Specialised Textiles Association logo on your stationery and other collateral.
Be acknowledged for your great work by entering your projects into the Awards for Excellence, an annual competition, designed to recognise excellence and innovation in our industry.
Access expert information and advice by accessing the specialist knowledge and expertise of our member fabricators, installers and suppliers. Specialised Textiles Association is also a member of Australian Industry Group with access to comprehensive range of information and member advices on employee and industrial relations, occupation health and safety issues and much more.
Take advantage of event discounts by enjoying reduced fees on a variety of events such as the annual trade exhibition and advertising in Connections Magazine. Your membership also gives you access to IFAI bookstore at discounted rates.
MAM8919
Manufacturers, installers and suppliers. Together we cover the world.
ASSOCIATION
Specialised Textiles Association Inc. Suite 201, 22 St Kilda Road, St Kilda Vic 3182 Phone 03 9521 2114 n Local Call 1300 555 787 Fax 03 9521 2116 n office@specialisedtextiles.com.au ABN 83 594 171 330 n Registration Number A0010895W www.specialisedtextiles.com.au Association
Specialised Textiles Suite 201, 22 St Kilda Road, St Kilda Vic 3182 Phone 03 9521 2114 Fax 03 9521 2116 www.specialisedtextiles.com.au n
Specialised Textiles Association Inc. Suite 201, 22 St Kilda Road, St Kilda Vic 3182 Phone 03 9521 2114 Local Call 1300 555 787 Fax 03 9521 2116 office@specialisedtextiles.com.au ABN 83 594 171 330 Registration Number A0010895W www.specialisedtextiles.com.au n
n
n
Membership Application Form
Current from 1st April 2012 to 31st March 2013
Company / Business Name ABN or ACN #
Please supply proof of business registration with this application
Does your business trade under any other name?
n Yes n No
If yes, what is the other trading name
Address State
Postcode
Telephone (
)
Fax (
)
Mobile
Web
Name of Business Owner
Position held in business
Name of second business contact/representative
Position held in business
Has this business or any other business owned by you (either now or previously) ever been reported to the ACCC? (Australian Competition and Consumer Commission) If yes, please provide details to accompany this application What area of the industry are you involved in? n Blinds and Awnings n Marine n Motor Trimmer
n Flags and /Banners n Sailmaker n GeoSynthetics
n Shade Sails installer n Shade Sail Fabricator
n Yes n No
n Supplier to the industry (specify) n Other
What Products do you manufacture, design or supply?
Full Membership Category n n
n n
FABRICATOR Construction/Manufacture from prepared components SuPPLIER Material/Component/Equipment /Services
Do you belong to any other Industry Association?
n Yes n No
ASSOCIATE Individuals interested in STA objectives AFFILIATE Organisations affiliated with STA
If Yes, please list
All membership applications are required to be proposed and seconded by 2 existing Specialised Textiles Association Members â&#x20AC;&#x201C; If you do not know of any Members, please contact our Office for further assistance Proposed by
Company Name
Telephone
Seconded by
Company Name
Telephone
I, (name of business owner) agree to abide by the Statement of Purposes and Rules of the Association and its Code of Ethics. I understand that should at any time any of the information supplied by me is found to be false/ incorrect, my membership will be immediately withdrawn from the Association. Signature (of business owner)
Date
Annual Membership Fees
Payment Details
Tiered fee structure based on average number of employees (Prices are inclusive of GST)
n n
n n n n n
1 to 5 Employees
$510
6 to 15 Employees
$855
16 or more employees Associate Affiliate
$1155 $160 $190
(pro-rata Rate applies July through to March plus $100 processing fee. This will be calculated by STA office)
Amount $
EFT - Payments to Westpac BSB # 033047 Account # 549608 Cheque
n
Mastercard
Credit Card Number Expiry Date Name as it appears on card Signature Date
n /
/
Visa /
/
new members Specialised Textiles Association would like to welcome several new members (and one who is returning) to the fold. Following is a brief description of each. Shade Australia Unit 7, 86 Heathcote Road Moorebank NSW 2170 Paul DeLucca paul@shadeaustralia.com.au 02 9601 0883 www.shadeaustralia.com.au The vision statement for this company includes its stated aim: To be ‘World Leaders of the Sunshade Age’. Energy exudes from the website. They state that within a decade, the way Australians, and eventually the rest of the world participate in outdoor activities must significantly change, and the crew at Shade Australia call this The Sunshade Age®.
Eyelets Supply Company 11 Newcomen Rd Springvale Vic 3171 Luke Dowsing luked@eyelets.com.au 03 9558 5400 www.eyelets.com.au Eyelets Supply Company has been manufacturing eyelets, metal pressings and other deep drawn stampings since 1924. Its range of products extends across multiple industries, delivering solutions for banner and promotional product manufacturers, curtain
The following business has returned to the association:
Eastman Machine Company Buffalo New York USA Robert and Wade Stevenson EMcGruder@eastmancuts.com sales@eastmancuts.com www.eastmancuts.com
makers, and manufacturers of marquees, tarpaulins and awnings. The company’s main focus is delivering a
Eastman Machine Company is a cutting machine manufacturer, providing custom
quality product at a competitive price which is
engineered solutions and innovative
achieved by balancing local manufacturing and
technologies for a variety of industries.
direct importing of specific products.
Eastman services customers in almost every country from its world headquarters in Buffalo, New York, and through an international network of sales, support and engineering staff. Eastman offers the industry's widest range of classic, hand-held and manuallyoperated fabric cutting machines; as well as a comprehensive line of fully automated, computerised cutting and plotting systems. Manufactured with high quality materials, built to precise specifications, and subject to rigorous testing, Eastman's cutting systems have been setting the standard since its origins over a century ago.
42 · CONNECTIONS
Shade Sail Engineering Ashmore Qld Matt Hutchings matt@shadesailengineering.com 0404 306 925 www.shadesailengineering.com
installation of shade structures in Australia and overseas. The strategic location on the Mediterranean, close to Europe, is the result of years of research into the global shade market. Potential emerging markets in southern Europe and growing markets in the Middle East has become the focus of Shade Sail
Shade Sail Engineering is a fabrication
Engineering as well as the established market
company based in Tunisia, North Africa.
in Australia.
The new facilities incorporate a production
The combination of quality raw materials
area of over 1500m2 manned by a staff of 10
(Polyfab, Alnet and Multiknit), strong product
specialist fabricators.
knowledge and proven performance in the
Australian Director Matt Hutchings has 15 years of experience in design, fabrication and
field provide Shade Sail Engineering with a competitive edge.
NOVEMBER • DECEMBER 2012 • JANUARY 2013 · 43
SPoTlight on members Blend in with your environment using the Pilbara Canvas outback range from HVG HVG Fabrics is pleased to announce the addition of Pilbara Tear Stop Canvas to its already extensive range of agricultural and industrial fabrics. Pilbara Tear Stop Canvas is made specifically for HVG, a 15oz Australian made acrylic coated polyester/cotton canvas fabric that can be used in a myriad of external applications. HVG Business Manager John Wood said the addition of Pilbara Canvas would complement
The canvas features a 50+ UVF Rating, mildew
and expand on HVG Fabric’s existing range of
resistance, ultrasonically sealed edges to
industrial products. He explained that is was
prevent fraying, excellent lay flat characteristics
“Developed to withstand the extremes of the
and Tear Stop construction.
Australian climate, while offering a good balance
With a range of eight colours selected for the
of strength, durability, exceptional breathability,
Australian market, Pilbara Tear Stop Canvas
waterproof qualities and a natural textile appeal.”
is ideal for a variety of applications. Yellow
was developed with fire retardant qualities to a “Self Extinguishing” standard making Yellow Pilbara Canvas the first choice for high visibility requirements such as mining and work site applications. Pilbara Tear Stop Canvas is an ideal, value for money solution for campervan/tenting/ marquee/tepee roofs and walls, trailers and stall covers, swags, satchels, temporary shelters and agriculture covers just to name a few! Customers can order the new Aussie made Pilbara Tear Stop canvas range from HVG offices and distribution centres in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth. For more information visit www.hvgfabrics.com.au 44 · CONNECTIONS
Ricky Richards launches new PVC fabric Tarpex Tarpex PVC coated fabric is the latest addition to the Ricky Richards range. Competitively priced to meet the needs of the more budget focussed segment of the industry, Tarpex is ideal for general PVC applications including tarpaulins, camper trailers and sporting equipment. Tarpex has a roll width of 250cm and also 320cm in select colours, and is UV treated and fire retardant. The gloss acrylic lacquer finish on the front and reverse sides of the fabric makes Tarpex easy to clean and with a nominal weight of 680gsm, it is a long lasting, durable PVC fabric.
SPECIAL OFFER! The first two
For further information about Tarpex or any
customers to call and mention this
of our other products in the extensive Ricky
Richards in the following colours: white,
product announcement when ordering
Richards PVC fabric range, please contact
yellow, orange, red, royal blue, dark blue,
a minimum of 30 metres of Tarpex will
the office by phone: 02 9735 3333 or
green, grey and black.
receive a $50 Myer Gift Voucher.
email: sales@rickyrichards.com.au
Tarpex is available now from Ricky
SPoTlight on members Radins introduces its new RADFlex PVC range The continuing demand for a general purpose premium PVC has prompted Radins Australia
RADFlex available in a range of colours.
about Radins is in the catalogue including all
There are four different fabrics in the
the top fabric brands and an extensive range
to introduce RADFlex to its already extensive
RADFlex range available in different weights
range of PVC fabrics.
from 550gsm to 900gsm to suit every need.
There are fabrics for Window Furnishings,
Choose from RADFlex 550 FR, RADFlex 610
General Canvas & PVC, Shade Sails, Marine
that this range is ideally suited for many
FR, RADFlex 650 FR Tearstop and RADFlex
& Motor Trimming from top local and
applications including general purpose
900 FR.
international brands including VistaRange,
Radins Managing Director Tony Bond says
outdoor, truck and farm tarps, grain covers,
Fabric samples and information is available
of hardware and accessories.
Dickson, Sunbrella, Brella, Bradmill, WCT,
banners, camper trailers, hire tarps, container
for the new RADFlex range of PVC coated
Hunter Douglas, Synthesis and much,
covers, transport side curtains and all heavy
fabrics from Radins on 03 9551 6000 or email
much more.
duty applications.
service@radins.com.au The Catalogue has been designed to be
The RADFlex range of premium PVC coated
informative and to be of assistance in selecting
quality resins, UV stabilisers and fire retardant
Radins launches its new catalogue!
inhibitors and are finished with high gloss
Radins has just released its new 2012 Product
and can be obtained from Radins on 03 9551
acrylic lacquer on both sides. They are
Catalogue. Everything you need to know
6000 or service@radins.com.au
fabrics are developed using the highest
the right fabric or hardware for all installations
Just the ticket for reaching more potential customers … … and spreading the word about your business
6
Did you know? By advertising
Number of issues each year
Featuring the latest and greatest industry developments, Connections is the voice of the specialised textile industry and enables all who are involved in the industry to showcase their business developments, news and views.
Readership estimated at
in Connections you are reaching as many as 10,000 people who are actively involved in the specialised textiles industry.
Circulated to thousands in all facets of the textile industry, Connections casts a wide net by encompassing the geosynthetic, awning, shade sail, blind maker, and marine and motor trimmer sectors. It does not stop there: also covered are flags and banners, caravan and camping, canvas, cutting equipment, umbrellas, tarpaulins, side curtain and more … distributors of industrial fabrics and all related components suppliers.
46 · CONNECTIONS
10,000 Circulation
2500 “Connections magazine is the key communications tool for a large and diverse range of businesses encompassing the specialised textiles industry”
to advertise Call Yuri at CommStrat on 03 8534 5008 or 0419 339 865 to secure your place in Connections. Choices Your advert can be a quarter page, half page, full page, front or back page, horizontal or vertical – you call the shots. Yuri would be happy to email you the Connections Media Kit outlining all specifications and prices. Located at 8/574 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne Vic 3004, CommStrat is the publisher of Connections on behalf of the Specialised Textiles Association.
Advertisters' index ABC Products
15
Austech Welders
Outside back cover
Miami Stainless
Inside back cover
Naggs Canvas
39
Bartlett CE
37
Nolan UDA
CJ Loftus
48
Ozrig 42
Darling Downs Tarpaulins
43
Plastral 43
Dasec 23
Radins 19
Elizabeth Machines
Ricky Richards
Gale Pacific
33 Inside front cover
5
3
Sewing Perfection Machine Co.
45
Hiraoka 7
Triax Systems
11
ICL (SA)
Wax Converters
Halifax Vogel Group
Front cover, 23
47
TM
CHANNEL - IT Side Channel Awning System
24-25
BACK TO BASICS auto arms
auto guides l brackets universal brackets 5 sided endcaps
4.0mt BOTTOM BAR
SPECIAL BULK PRICE ON ANY ORDER
pulldown rings springs keyway tube hooding spline
FITTING S S STAINLE ND I L B P T DRO GH I A STR
S
Distributed in Qld, Vic and WA by PASKAL Ph: 03 95888 8800 E: paskal@paskal.com.au Distributed in New Zealand by W. Wiggins Ph: 9282 2771 E: mark.d@wwiggins.co.nz
ICL (SA) pty Ltd 3A Wirriga Street, Regency Park, SA 5010 ph: 08 8352 9400 fx: 08 8352 9494 e: sales@iclsa.com.au www.iclsa.com.au
EVENTS & RTOs June 2013
Super Expo 2013 STA and BMAA have joined forces to stage one big Super Show
When: Wednesday June 5 to Friday June 7 Where: Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre This is shaping up to be the biggest and best Expo yet … more exhibits, more delegates, more visitors, more variety than ever. Awards for Excellence night, social events, the Young Leaders’ structures. Lots to see and do!
www.specialisedtextiles.com.au
January 2013 Heimtextil Frankfurt 2013 January 9–12, 2013 Frankfurt am Main, Germany Heimtextil is promoted as the biggest international trade fair for home and contract textiles. Taking place in Frankfurt, Germany, this event is a “must see, must be there” for all involved in textile manufacturing, retailing and designers. IFAI Tent Expo 2013 January 20–24, 2013 Caribe Royale Resort and Conference Center, Orlando, Florida
April 2013 Geosynthetics 2013 April 1–4, 2013 Long Beach Convention Center Long Beach, California IFAI’s biannual geosynthetics conference is co-locating with the annual Southwest Geotechnical Engineers Conference. The event is sponsored by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and state transportation departments from the southern and western US. The Geosynthetic Research Institute’s conference will be incorporated as two half-day sessions.
Registered Training Organisations NSW, NT, SA & QLD
via Sydney Institute of TAFE Ph (02) 9217 4601 Fax (02) 9217 4963 Contact: Lawrence De Paoli lawrence.depaoli@tafensw.edu.au www.sit.nsw.edu.au/sailmaking
Tasmania
Tasmania Institute of TAFE Ph 1300 655 307 Fax (03) 6233 7830 www.tafe.tas.edu
Victoria
RMIT University Ph (03) 9925 9182 Fax (03) 9925 9129 Contact: Kent Williamson kent.williamson@rmit.edu.au 25 Dawson Street Brunswick Vic 3056 www.rmit.edu.au
Western Australia
POLYTECH WEST Textile Fabrication Training Ph: 08 9207 4412 Fax: 08 9207 4399 Gary McCormick Balga Campus Gate 1 Lockwood Road, Balga WA
FOR SALE Demtech ceramic wedge welder Never used. Still in box $7500 + GST ex Adelaide Approx 20 M galv track included
Enquiries 08 83495633 48 · CONNECTIONS
SP36 Pedestal
Digital Graphics Triad Austech Welders are proud to announce being appointed as the Australian distributor for the Smartseal by Seamtek range of hot air welders and seam tapers.
SP36 Side Arm
Seamtek are industry leaders in rotary hot air welding and seam sealing. Their welders/tapers feature Smartseal digital control technology. As the first rotary hot air welder to use a touch screen controlled PLC (a standard feature for over 10 years) the Seamtek welder/taper makes it easy for the operator to control on the fly speed adjustments and differential wheel speeds, repeat complex shape patterns and precisely control production variables.
6 inch Pole Pocket Triad
For ease of use and the ability to change from one type of weld to another quickly and easily nothing beats the SP range of welders. The one welder can be configured with a pedestal, side arm and quick arm. The operator can change between these by simply swinging one out of the way and swinging the new one into place.
SP36 Quick Arm
For more information on the new Seamtek call Greg on 0418 771 600. Austech Welders Pty Ltd Managing Director — Greg Schmidt Ph: 0418 771 600 Fx: (08) 9498 3015 Email: info@austechwelders.com
www.austechwelders.com NSW Rep – Robin Pethybridge Ph: 0413 744 315 Email: gosew@optusnet.com.au Vic Rep – Mick Jewel Ph: 0417 352 130
Acrylic Triad