Character Competitive Advantage
C o o l
B r e e z e
AE Smith’s quarterly newsletter for staff and friends brisbane cairns gold coast mackay melbourne perth sydney tasmania townsville new zealand
This issue marks the first anniversary of the Cool Breeze. Thanks to your support and willingness to contribute, the little newsletter designed to keep you up-to-date about things happening in and around AE Smith has grown in both size, distribution and popularity.
Cool Breeze is distributed electronically or in limited edition (100% carbon neutral) print to all AE Smith employees. If you are a friend or customer of AE Smith and would like to receive your very own copy of Cool Breeze, subscribe online today at www.aesmith.com
First and foremost, the Cool Breeze is about sharing your good news with other AE Smith teams around the country. At last count you are part of a team of more than 700 AE Smith employees from across Australia and New Zealand. Choosing what not to include in each edition is getting harder and harder. Our friends and customers too are starting to read the Cool Breeze. Through it, they get to see the great people and real character of the company they have chosen to partner with a competitive advantage I encourage you not to underestimate.
AE Smith 21-29 Miles Street Mulgrave VIC 3170, Australia t. +61 3 9271 1999 coolbreeze@aesmith.com.au www.twitter.com/ae_smith www.aesmith.com.au
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Cool Breeze by AE Smith
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Andrew Permezel, CEO Cool Breeze is a newsletter published by AE Smith & Son Pty Ltd ABN 54 004 274 793 for its staff and customers. Subscription is free and available directly from AE Smith.
Winter 2009:
> ©2009 AE Smith & Son Pty Ltd. Important Notice: The information contained in this newsletter is given in good faith. To the maximum extent permitted by law, neither AE Smith, its employees or contractors accept any liability for loss or damage arising as a result of any person acting on information contained in this newsletter. This newsletter should not be used or relied on as a substitute for detailed professional consultation with AE Smith.
& printed on 100% recycled paper
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Another Safety Milestone No Time for Complacency Taking the Stress Out of Being Green New Aspect to Advanced Building Controls Interoffice Rivalry - Brisbane V’s Melbourne Trans Tasman Triumph RACAH AE Smith Joint Venture New Bright Spark in Townsville AE Smith Amongst Australia’s Best Team Winning Formula Mackay Apprentice Induction Night Health & Science - Partners of First Choice Perth Office on Show Character Competitive Advantage
a i r c o n di t i o n i n g
m e c h a n i c a l se r v i c e s
b ui l di n g t e c h n o l o g i e s
e n e r g y se r v i c e s
Winter 2009
Another Safety Milestone The commitment to acquiring more energy efficient transport is a small but important contribution to AE Smith’s overall vision to help change our own greenhouse footprint by supporting Greenfleet.
proudly supporting
“At every level we can help,” says Graeme Stewart, whose efforts add to the 160 AE Smith vehicles nationally that are offset with Greenfleet. “From how we educate our customers on being more energy efficient to arriving at a customer’s site, it’s all steps towards the bigger picture of reducing our environmental impact,” he adds. Sara Gipton, CEO of Greenfleet agrees industry support for environmental action is a key driver for change in the community. “AE Smith are inspiring other companies to support Greenfleet and start taking action to reduce their emissions,” comments Sara. AE Smith is one of the first mechanical services contractors to have a safety management system in place certified to Australian and New Zealand Standards. AS/NZS 4801 certification of the AE Smith Workplace Health and Safety Management System provides valuable credentials to AE Smith and formally recognises our commitment to occupational health and safety excellence.
“Investing in more efficient technology is a key part to reducing an organisations greenhouse impact – and converting a fleet of company cars to LPG means 30% less emissions,“ adds Greenfleet’s Sara Gipton. The first and only air conditioning company to be a member of Greenfleet, AE Smith is also adding to their association with the not for profit organisation by combining traditional vehicle offsets with a special tree planting program. The partnership has already seen AE Smith achieve a goal of planting 10,000 trees by 2010 as part of a bid to help reduce the impacts of the air conditioning industry on the environment. Using Bikes to Power Australia’s Earth Hour Concert
The rigorous AS/NZS 4801 Standards certification sets out strenuous requirements for health and safety systems and assesses how an organisation manages risk and hazards.
The Earth Hour Concert on 28 March was unique in Australian history because it was literally “people powered” by staff and friends of Greenfleet in the Future Spark Team Challenge. Sara Gipton (pic above, cycling far left) and her Greenfleet team rode bikes for the 3.5 hrs concert mounted on a special trailer hooked up to custom made electricity generators. Unfortunately (or fortunately as the case might be) volunteers from AE Smith were unavailable to participate on the day. But there’s always next year... Did you know Ford is the only Australian manufacturer to offer a dedicated LPG vehicle, reducing global warming potential by up to 20% per vehicle compared with petrol-powered vehicles. In the dedicated Ford LPG vehicle, the entire standard fuel system has been removed - including the fuel tank, fuel lines, pump, injectors, fuel rail and charcoal canister. In its place is a system optimised for LPG operation, which offers significant greenhouse benefits.
For more information visit www.futurespark.com.au
Source: Ford Motor Company of Australia
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AE Smith continues to claim Safety Milestones The last few months has seen further positive advances against Company Safety Milestones with AE Smith Service in Victoria breaking through the 1000 Loss Time Injury (LTI) Free Days Milestone in March. Victorian Service General Manager, Peter McCarthy, congratulated his team at a celebration event last month. Victoria Service now joins the ranks of previous 1000 LTI Free Day achievers: Tasmania Construction, Building Technologies and Corporate Office. Success abounds this year with Townsville, Gold Coast & Tasmania Service branches joining with Mackay in passing the greater than 500 LTI Free Days milestone. At the Project level the RACAH AE Smith Joint Venture has picked up two “Best on Ground” safety awards at the new Royal Children’s Hospital project in Melbourne. These ‘BoG’ awards are presented by the principal contractor Bovis Lend Lease in recognition for innovation and best practice in on-site safety endeavours.
Perth Office on Show
Main pic (L to R): Ryan Starkey, David Bassett, Blake Seaward, Bradley Emerson, Gideon (Skiep) Van Niekerk & Norman Ball.
“There are always plenty of distractions if you are not solidly focused on Safety, so these achievements means our training is paying off,” he says.
“We’re keen to lead by example and show our local customers how simple measures can be taken to reduce energy and emissions,” comments AE Smith Perth General Manager, Graeme Stewart.
“We are looking forward to implementing our next training focus which will address ‘sprains & strains’ at our workplaces.
Working in close partnership with the AE Smith Building Technologies team, Graeme will oversee a retrofit of their Perth office using the latest web enabled Auto-Matrix building control systems to ensure energy use is reduced by 20%.
Additionally, the AE Smith team in Perth have gone one step further and purchased an entire service fleet of dedicated LPG vehicles to replace their previous fleet.
Cool Breeze by AE Smith
AE Smith National Safety Manager, Danny O’Reilly, is obviously very pleased with the recognition various branches are earning:
AE Smith in Perth has implemented a number of initiatives within their own business to showcase how easy it is to “go green”.
“We’re using our own office retrofit to demonstrate how various controls can significantly reduce energy use and ultimately the costs associated with heating and cooling offices,” adds Graeme.
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And there is more… Brisbane site manager Neil “Zac” Pennycook can add another achievement to his list after picking up the quarterly ‘IIF’ award, again by Bovis Lend Lease, for his contribution to keeping the 275 George Street project ‘Incident & Injury Free’.
“When we conduct specific training and incident analysis – such as the recent focus on prevention of lacerations – we really notice success in prevention of those type of injuries,” says Danny. Watch this space for updates and progress reports. For more information on safety issues and training, contact Danny O’Reilly on +61 (0)413 153 838.
The Victorian AE Smith Service team celebrate their 1000 days LTI free milestone together over social drinks on a Friday evening in late May. Pic top (L to R): Trent Gregory, Stephen Rooke & Peter Ferguson Jr. Pic above (L to R): Brad Disher and Peter McCarthy.
What is a Loss Time Injury (LTI)? An LTI is a work injury or disease where the injured party has at least one complete day or shift off work.
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and maintenance of the landmark facility that will significantly boost the future of Australian science. For more information contact Steve Jackson, General Manager, AE Smith Construction Brisbane on +61 (0)7 3332 0333.
An Air of Success North Lakes Health Precinct, Brisbane North Lakes Health Precinct is specifically designed to support new models of care, promoting health, managing chronic disease and reducing need for hospital treatment through early intervention. Reflecting this high standard is the air conditioning and mechanical services installation by AE Smith for Hutchinson Builders. ‘As you’d expect, air quality is of vital concern in a hospital environment. The wellbeing of hospital staff and patients was of paramount importance in the overall design of the complex air conditioning system,’ said Steve Jackson, General Manager, AE Smith Construction Brisbane.
No Time for Complacency Energy Efficiency Still on the Government’s Short-term Agenda The recent decision by the Federal Government to delay the start of the Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme (CPRS) is disappointing. However, there are five key measures being introduced to drive growth in the number of highly energy efficient homes and commercial buildings across Australia as part of the National Strategy on Energy Efficiency: >
Increasing the stringency of energy efficiency requirements for all classes of commercial buildings in the Building Code of Australia from 2010.
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Phasing in the mandatory disclosure of the energy efficiency of commercial buildings and tenancies from 2010.
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Increasing energy efficiency requirements for new residential buildings to six stars, or equivalent, nationally in the 2010 update of the Building Code of Australia, as well as introducing new efficiency requirements for hot-water systems and lighting.
David Odd AE Smith Energy Engineer Emerald Sustainable Performance
David Odd, Energy Engineer with the Emerald Sustainable Performance team is the first of many across AE Smith to become a “NABERS Accredited Assessor”. To have your building assessed and obtain a NABERS Energy star rating contact David today on +61 (0)400 351 564.
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Phasing in mandatory disclosure of residential building energy, greenhouse and water performance at the time of sale or lease, commencing with energy efficiency, from May 2011.
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Reforming current building energy efficiency standard and assessment processes to achieve consistency across the nation.
In addition to the air conditioning and mechanical services (pic below), AE Smith also installed piped medical gas associated with gas medical services. ‘It has been a pleasure working with the AE Smith team. The level of professionalism towards the project is something I commend them for,’ said Daniel Cooper, Project Manager, Hutchinson Builders. For more information contact Robert Anderson, Project Manager, AE Smith Construction Brisbane on +61 (0)73332 0333.
Read the AE Smith feature in the June 09 issue of “Construction Digital” magazine at www.constructiondigital.com Construction Digital is a 280+ page monthly internet magazine sent electronically to over 355,000 construction executives across Australia, South Africa, USA, UK and Canada. AE Smith was one of only five Australian companies selected by the US based magazine publishers for inclusion in their inaugural Australian issue. Watpac Ltd is the lead story with a picture of their CEO on the front cover. You’ll see a new AE Smith advert on p. 48 celebrating the work Brisbane’s AE Smith Construction team is delivering in partnership with Watpac on the Ecosciences Precinct at Boggo Road Urban Village.
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The first of these five measures to be implemented will be mandatory disclosure of energy efficiency for commercial office buildings with a planned start date of 1 July 2010. From that date building owners will be required to disclose the energy efficiency of commercial office buildings larger than 2000 sqm – or any part of a commercial office building larger than 2000 sqm – that is being sold, leased or sub-leased. The energy efficiency will be measured by the NABERS Energy star rating system excluding any GreenPower. AE Smith Emerald Sustainable Performance is ideally positioned to help building owners manage a lot of the practical implications flowing from this planned legislation, particularly around the collection and validation of twelve months operational data required to underpin the initial NABERS rating assessment as well as the providing the official NABERS star rating. Validation protocols under the NABERS system are very strict and our experience to date has shown that many building owners are not maintaining the right records to allow the best NABERS rating and in some instances will not allow any rating to be issued at all. AE Smith Emerald Sustainable Performance is also in a great position to show building owners how to improve their NABERS star rating by improving the energy efficiency of their building.
Health & Science - Partners of First Choice
For more information contact Doug Binns at AE Smith Emerald Sustainable Performance on +61 (0)2 8754 3326.
Significant Boost for Australian Science The Ecosciences Precinct (pic above) will harness the intellectual power of over 1,000 research staff from four Queensland Government agencies and CSIRO to help solve some of Australia’s biggest environmental issues.
An ASX-listed company, Watpac Ltd is one of the fastestgrowing companies in Australia, with a diverse portfolio catering for a vast clientele. Their business includes construction, property development, specialty services (refurbishments), civil landscaping, civil infrastructure, civil engineering, and mining. Watpac has offices in Brisbane, Townsville, Perth, Adelaide, Sydney, and Melbourne, and an office Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
If you are a building owner or property professional that will sell, lease or sub-lease commercial office space greater than 2000 sqm, proposed new Government legislation will affect you. Legislation like this cannot be ignored, particularly during a period of high market volatility with increasing vacancy rates and declining property values. Current trends see a shift in power towards tenants with building owners having to provide even more incentive to retain and attract premium tenants – including green incentives like NABERS. Any market advantage a building owner can create for their property could help protect them from current and future market volatility. If you’re serious about protecting your commercial property investment, you must act now:
Ecosciences Precinct at Boggo Road Urban Village, Brisbane
Watpac Limited
Mandatory Disclosure of Commercial Office Building Energy Efficiency
The four State agencies are Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries, the Department of Natural Resources and Water, and the Department of Mines and Energy.
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Research into climate change, water management and managing Australia’s unique ecosystems are some of the world leading science to be conducted at the Ecosciences Precinct due for completion in 2011.
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The Ecosciences Precinct comprises three blocks of five levels, separated by covered courtyards and linked at each level. The roof is occupied by glass house and shade house facilities.
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Working together with Watpac Ltd - the Managing Contractor of the $330 million project - AE Smith is proud to be the mechanical services contractor responsible for the construction, installation, commissioning
Current trends see a shift in power towards building tenants with building owners having to provide even more incentive to retain and attract premium tenants – including green incentives like NABERS. The Property Council of Australia recently reported the financial and strategic rewards that can come from implementing NABERS. Properties with above average NABERS star ratings delivered higher increases in annual rental values and lower vacancy rates; in turn driving faster increases in capital values.*
Source: www.watpac.com.au
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Does your building have a NABERS Energy star rating? Do you have 12 months of useable data that meets NABERS validation protocols? Does your existing energy metering system comply with the requirements of NABERS? If you have mixed use tenancies are they correctly sub-metered? Are you looking to merely comply with or strategically benefit from this new legislation?
* Property Council of Australia 2009, ‘The Missing Link’, Property Australia, 19 Feb.
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Winter 2009 5
Taking the Stress Out of Being Green Main pic: “AE Smith Angels” showing Green Cities delegates one sure fire way to take the stress out of being green at the AE Smith Business Centre & Internet Café. Above: Free internet access and 3 minute massages weren’t the only thing in demand at the AE Smith Business Centre & Internet Café. AE Smith soft toy mascots dressed in miniature 6 inch jerseys proved to be valuable barter currency with Green Cities delegates and exhibitors alike. Top right: Heidi Becker, then from the Brisbane AE Smith Service team, helps AE Smith Baristas serve “real coffee” - a smash hit with coffee queues at times more than 10m long. See more Green Cities 09 pics on AE Smith’s Facebook site.
AE Smith Stands Out at Green Cities 09 Conference The 2009 Green Cities conference in Brisbane has provided the perfect launching pad for AE Smith’s new business unit that’s designed to help building owners improve their building’s efficiencies. Emerald Sustainable Performance (Emerald ESP) was the focus of AE Smith’s sponsorship at the two day conference – where over 700 delegates and special guests including Federal Environment Minister, Peter Garrett interacted with AE Smith’s Business Centre. AE Smith made a splash with their new brand look and Emerald ESP energy services business – with “taking the stress out of being green” the company’s theme for the Green Cities event. “We wanted to highlight to building industry professionals that charting a course for improving environmental performance for buildings is not difficult,” comments AE Smith’s Emerald ESP General Manager, Doug Binns. Feedback from delegates attending the conference highlighted how many building managers and property professionals are still concerned about how to translate their commitment to being efficient with energy and water management of their property assets into reality – particularly in this economic climate.
“We have delivered air conditioning to the Mackay Marina (pics left), Mackay Entertainment Centre, both hospitals and are currently working on the Convention Centre. “It gives the boys a feel for the company and a chance for them to realise that the next four years is all about learning their trade.” Guest speakers included McDonald Meteors coach Leonard King and Woolam Constructions Director Craig Percival who spoke about what it means to give everything a go and that hard work does pay off. Mike said that even in today’s tough economic climate the company wanted to give these apprentices a chance to kick start their careers.
Main pic: (Back row L to R) Leonard King (coach of McDonald Meteors), Craig Percival (Director of Woolam Constructions), Susan Wright (ACE Apprenticeships), Mike Mulherin (AE Smith Mackay General Manager), David Seedsman (representative from AE Smith Melbourne), (Front row L to R) Ryan Dodds, Luke Sangiorgio, Lukey Harvey and James Patterson.
“We want to make sure they receive the best training and have a chance to train in all facets of the company. “Many of our apprentices stay on with the company and move into management positions. “We want them to expand with us and that is what it is all about,” Mike said. For more information contact Mike Mulherin on +61 (0)7 4952 5442. Source: www.dailymercury.com.au
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Mackay Apprentice Induction Night AE Smith played a significant role in the construction and continued maintenance of air conditioning and mechanical services at one of Australia’s top 10 Marinas. The 479 berth Mackay Marina (pic top) also comprises a residential village of luxury apartments and townhouses, state-of-the-art boat maintenance and repair facilities, commercial precinct of restaurants and shops plus a thriving Yacht Club, and a luxury 4.5 star hotel, the Clarion Hotel Mackay Marina (pic above). For more information visit www.mackaymarina.com
Every year AE Smith recruits new apprentices, and for General Manager Mike Mulherin he wasn’t going to let the economic crisis stop four eager young men from learning their chosen trade. At a formal event in late February, each apprentice was welcomed and inducted into the company with staff and parents present. Ryan Dodds, Luke Sangiorgio, Luke Harvey and James Patteson were proud as punch when they were told they had received an apprenticeship with a company like AE Smith. Mike said he and a panel of management staff had the tough job of choosing the perfect candidates for the positions of two air conditioning technicians, an electrician and a sheet metal apprentice. “It was a wonderful evening where the boys had to sign their contracts in front of members of staff and parents. “It was a welcome to the company which is the largest privately owned air conditioning company in Australia, with some of our offices in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane – which means they can have a future career anywhere in Australia.” Mike said the induction evening was a chance for the new apprentices to learn more about the company and some of the projects the company has undertaken in the past.
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“Many people are now concerned that creating new energy efficiencies would cost too much – but there’s a lot that can be achieved by working within existing operating budgets and not committing significant capital,” adds Doug Binns. In line with keeping the stress out of being green, AE Smith’s new energy services business has established simple benchmarking processes to monitor energy use and easy to follow road maps for achieving NABERS star ratings that can be rolled out at your own pace. “Green Cities also provided a great chance to showcase to the industry how Emerald ESP can help reduce costs and have other business benefits – important in the current business environment.” For more information contact Doug Binns at AE Smith Emerald Sustainable Performance on +61 (0)488 698 160.
Above: Tom Roper, president of the Australian Sustainable Built Environment Council (ASBEC) and former Victorian State Government Minister takes time out to relax at the hands of an AE Smith Angel.
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“More so than ever, we believe strongly that AE Smith helps our customers reduce the total owning and operating costs related to their HVAC. For many this means converting their variable costs into fixed costs. For others this means developing a proactive preventative maintenance strategy to help defer capital costs,” added Aldo Cevaal, AE Smith Service Group General Manager.
Project Champions Two Melbourne Project Managers are championing new sales to record levels for AE Smith Service With over 20 years at AE Smith, Trevor McAllen (pic below, standing left) has set a benchmark for how proactive relationships with customers can translate into happy customers and sales results. Working with relative newcomer, Brad Gemmell (standing right) – the two Project Managers have earned a reputation for delivering great service and generating new levels of sales for future maintenance and capital expenditure projects.
New Aspect to Advanced Building Controls Latest web enabled technology gives new intelligence to building controls
AE Smith is the exclusive Australian “Master Dealer” for American Auto-Matrix building control systems. American Auto-Matrix (AAM) develops and manufactures a complete family of microprocessor-based, applied, networkable controllers. AAM products are used in a broad range of applications including facilities management, building automation, temperature control, direct digital control (DDC), process control, and integrated fire, security, and life safety management.
AE Smith Building Technologies has adopted the latest web enabled controllers from Auto-Matrix called ‘Aspect’ - helping deliver new breakthroughs when it comes to managing building control systems.
“Trevor and Brad are great examples of how AE Smith can deliver on service, maintenance and construction – not just operate as separate business units,” comments Melbourne, AE Smith Service General Manager, Peter McCarthy. “Through their service style, they ensure our maintenance agreements are always retained as well as work with customers to proactively identify longer term service or construction issues,” says Peter. “The results from this approach are not only high sales figures for future projects, but very happy, loyal customers who appreciate how AE Smith help them plan their future capital expenditure needs,” he adds.
Lucky Ladies Win AE Smith Trotters Trophy AE Smith has just presented our first winner’s trophy in the AE Smith Trotters Handicap. Now a sponsor at Cranbourne Harness Racing, the Trotters Handicap event was won by an all ladies affair.
“The latest generation ‘Aspect’ technology by Auto-Matrix opens up a new level of flexibility and capabilities for controlling any Direct Digital Control (DDC) Building Management System (BMS),” comments Adam Bek, AE Smith Building Technologies General Manager.
Horse Hilton Gemma, ridden by Lisa Miles and owned by Betty Lewis took out the AE Smith trophy.
Released this April out from the USA, the new Auto-Matrix hardware has the advantage of integrating across a broad platform of existing calendar programs such as Google Calendar and Microsoft Outlook – so regulating building environmental controls can now be done anywhere there is an internet connection; including from web enabled Smartphones like the BlackBerry Bold and Apple iPhone.
AE Smith Construction Victoria’s Sales Manager, Bob George presented the inaugural trophy to Betty Lewis at the May 2 event.
“Offering time poor building managers the flexibility to meet the needs of demanding tenants at late notice has productivity and efficiency benefits for all parties involved. Peter also sights their strong technical knowledge and ability to collaborate well with AE Smith’s service technicians as a key ingredient in the outstanding results Trevor and Brad deliver for the company. “They are certainly quiet achievers in our midst – and very valuable members of the AE Smith Service team,” adds Peter.
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“Turning on the air conditioning from the comfort of your own home using a Smartphone has its advantages, particularly if you have demanding premium tenants that schedule last minute videoconference calls well outside normal business hours with little to no notice,” adds Adam Bek. The Group Scheduling feature of the new program also presents another unique capability says Adam (pic below): “There’s an Easy Calender linked to this new technology – so just as you might book a common meeting room and send electronic meeting invites using Microsoft Outlook, this program allows multiple tenants to schedule their own building control needs in the same building through one easy program, just like booking a meeting room.” The Auto-Matrix technology not only adds the flexibility to override program settings remotely via the web, but can also help reduce energy use via its interface with real-time weather data. Bureau of Meteorology data can be accessed automatically via this program on the web, adapting building controls in light of forecast weather conditions.
Team Winning Formula Training Sales Team to Save Specialised training workshops with US industry expert Sales training is usually focused on how to make more money for the company, but AE Smith are encouraging their sales team to save money for their clients.
Main pic: AE Smith Service NSW Sales Manager, Daniel van der Ent (right) ensures Brad Jovaag (left) gets an uninterrupted view of the world famous Sydney Opera House from on top of the equally famous Sydney Harbour Bridge. Pic above: Brad Jovaag joins AE Smith General Managers and their Sales teams for Italian food and social dinner drinks in Brisbane.
Cool Breeze by AE Smith
“Intelligent building controls like Auto-Matrix are vital in realising the energy efficiency levels desired by both property professionals and high calibre tenants in the ever tightening real estate market,” says Adam. For more information contact Adam Bek at AE Smith Building Technologies on +61 (0)3 9271 1852.
Building Technologies recognised at international awards AE Smith Building Technologies was recently presented with the “A-Team Award” at the annual Auto-Matrix international sales conference.
Twelve of AE Smith’s service and sales associates from all over Australia and New Zealand recently undertook an intense three day sales training workshop with US based industry guru, Brad Jovaag with the theme of reducing costs.
Recognised for sales excellence in 2007 and 2008, Adam Bek (pic above standing centre) accepted the award on behalf of his Building Technologies team in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
In an exclusive seminar created for AE Smith, Jovaag encouraged the team to focus on how working with customers to reduce costs and save expenditure is the key ingredient for success in tough economic times. As both a sales training coach and HVAC industry expert, Jovaag used the seminar to demonstrate how working with new and existing customers to turn their variable costs into fixed costs - and defer their capital costs - is a vital sales strategy as expenditure budgets are being reduced. “We’ve always partnered with our longstanding customers to highlight how maintenance and service helps reduce overall costs,” says Geoff Binns, Business Development Manager with AE Smith in Perth. “But the sales training highlighted how this is even more important in today’s economic climate,” he adds.
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“Applying the flexible nature of this technology really makes sense when you’re able to automatically feed in forecast weather data, have the system override ‘normal building operations’ and take advantage of tomorrow’s weather by adjusting itself accordingly.
Aspect by Auto-Matrix delivers advanced, but simple to use features such as Group Scheduling. Group Scheduling makes it even easier for multiple users in the same building to control what they want, when they want via electronic calendar tools they already use and are familiar with.
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Mooloolaba Triathlon is the second largest triathlon in Australia behind its famous Noosa counterpart. The Olympic distance (1.5km swim, 40km cycle, 10km run) Mooloolaba Triathlon is the centrepiece of a 3 day multisport festival that celebrates the best of the Australian summer lifestyle, at one of the world’s premier beachside resort locations.
Pic right (L to R): Stuart Gibson, Stewart King and Matthew Younger of Team Melbourne celebrate their achievement in the Mooloolaba Triathlon. Pic far right: Triathlon debutant, Simon Brown cycles at the Nissan / BRW Corporate Triathlon on the Gold Coast.
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Cool Breeze by AE Smith
Interoffice Rivalry - Brisbane V’s Melbourne
AE Smith Amongst Australia’s Best
Mooloolaba Triathlon, Queensland Sunshine Coast 27-29 March 2009
Bean Media Group has presented AE Smith a special Silver Profile Award in their 176 page launch edition of “Australia’s Best Building Construction & Mining” magazine.
AE Smith Construction teams in Brisbane and Melbourne often work side by side on major projects, but for the recent Mooloolaba Triathlon the teams were pitted against each other. With each office fielding triathletes, Melbourne and Brisbane teams completed the testing course in even more testing weather conditions – combining a 1500 metre open water swim, 40km cycle and a 10km run. “Organising for the two Construction offices to participate is a great way to create some team work between us, despite the geographic distance,” says Martin Ross, Brisbane’s Team Captain. Stuart Gibson, Melbourne’s Team Captain said, “We had been following the Queensland team’s results in the Cool Breeze and saw the Mooloolaba event as an opportunity to test ourselves against the best on their home turf.” “Its certainly the start of some friendly rivalry. Team Melbourne really delivered with their time, setting an impressive benchmark that will take some really serious effort to match!” adds Martin. For the record, Team Melbourne (pictured right) beat all comers from Team Brisbane at Mooloolaba with Matthew Younger (swim), Stewart King (cycle) and Stuart Gibson (run) finishing in a combined time of 2:14:55.
The awards are designed to recognise pioneers in the building and construction industry that go above and beyond when it comes to supply chain management. Magazine publisher, Bean Media Group commented that AE Smith was an obvious inclusion in a list of Australia’s Best: “When I initially spoke with Peter Staedler (AE Smith Construction Victoria General manager) I was enlightened by his attitude and remarkable pride when he was discussing his suppliers,” says Natalie Kent of Bean Media Group. “He never failed to reiterate the importance of supplier relationships to their company.” Other accolades were presented to Brookfield Multiplex and Hansen Yuncken. In being considered for the award, AE Smith’s successful employee relations over its 111 year history as a family business, stewardship of environmental and community initiatives together with innovative supplier and customer relations were praised.
Peter Staedler & Raymond Lee (R to L) accepting the Silver Profile Award in the launch edition of Australia’s Best Building Construction & Mining magazine.
Australia’s Best is a high-quality, full colour, A4 publication sent direct to named decision makers throughout businesses in Australia. The publication features profiles on notable companies within each particular industry. These profiles provide valuable exposure and insight into successful supply chain management strategies. For a limited period, a subscription to Australia’s Best is completely free of charge. To subscribe visit www.australiasbestmagazine. com.au
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Special mention to Martin Ross, Peter Sawyer and Nick Mortensen from Team Brisbane who raced in the solo event completing the swim, cycle and run disciplines in succession rather than in relay like the others.
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New Bright Spark in Townsville Nominations and applications for the 2009 AE Smith National Training Achievement Award open now! The special Award is designed to recognise and reward the efforts of AE Smith trainees and apprentices. Assessment is focussed on their academic performance over the past 12 months and potential for professional development with AE Smith. Nick Daley (pic above) from Bris Construction won the Award in 2008. He received a $1000 cash bonus plus a perpetual trophy in recognition of his outstanding achievement. Speak to your General Manager about applying for or nominating someone else today. Alternately, visit the AE Smith intranet and download an application form.
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AE Smith Townsville has welcomed its first female apprentice – electrical technician Kristie McQuilty. 18 years old Kristie was first inspired to become an electrician after completing work experience at Phosphate Hill Mine – where working in a few different fields saw her enjoy general electrics the most. Ensuring her Year 12 subjects were selected to help further her goal of becoming an electrician, Kristie completed her final year of school with a Certificate 1 in Building – and eager to take on an apprenticeship. “I was thrilled to be offered an apprenticeship with AE Smith,” says Kristie, who has just completed her three month probation with flying colours. The variety of work so far – as well as the team she’s working with – is what she’s enjoying most: “There’s been so much variety in the job – I’ve helped with maintenance, new installations to energy efficiency conversions,” adds Kristie. “AE Smith really looks after you and I know I am going to learn so much in a really interesting industry,” she adds. And for those that are wondering what it’s like being the first female apprentice sparky at AE Smith Townsville: “I’m loving it!’ beams Kristie.
Swim
Cycle
Run
Finish
Team Melbourne
0:26:23
1:13:55
0:34:36
2:14:55
Team Melbourne
Matthew Younger / Stewart King / Stuart Gibson
Team Brisbane #1 Team Brisbane #2 Team Brisbane #3
0:27:37 0:29:05 0:26:26
Team Brisbane #1 Team Brisbane #2 Team Brisbane #3
Ben Higgins / Leigh Graham / Brett Morrison Peter Cahill / Bill Wiseman / Mark Jacobson Nick Friend / Gary Salkowski / George Sundac
Martin Ross Peter Sawyer Nick Mortensen
0:34:13 0:36:16 0:27:45
1:19:33 1:23:22 1:21:42
1:16:08 1:18:25 1:24:28
0:47:12 0:50:45 0:50:17
0:48:27 0:48:08 0:51:05
2:34:22 2:43:13 2:38:26
2:38:49 2:42:49 2:43:19
With Mooloolaba done and dusted and Melbourne going one-up in the first interoffice head-to-head, Team Brisbane challenged Team Melbourne to a rematch at the Gold Coast Triathlon World Championships in September. Stay tuned to see if Team Brisbane can even the score or face a Two - Zero deficit. For more information visit www.worldtriathlongoldcoast.com or contact Martin Ross in Brisbane on +61 (0)7 3332 0333 or Stuart Gibson in Melbourne on +61 (0)3 9271 1999.
Team Brisbane christened their new 2XU AE Smith Race Team Wear by competing in the Gold Coast leg of the Nissan / BRW Corporate Triathlon on 26 Apr 2009. Perfect training in preparation for their attempt to even the score with Team Melbourne at the Gold Coast Triathlon World Championships in Sep 2009.
Main pic (L to R): Nick Daley, James Carmody, Jordan Cahill, George Sundac, Gary Salkowski, Brett Morrison, Tim Flanigan, Nic Mortenson, Peter Cahill (kneeling), Simon Brown, Leigh Graham, Denis O’Mahony, Mark Jacobson, Ben Higgins, Paul McTigue, Billy Wiseman. Missing-in-action (not pictured): Simon Gardner, Martin Ross, John Thompson, Oisin Grennan, Dennis Mahoney, Shane Donoher, Peter Sawyer, Peter Illott, John Ramajoo.
Winter 2009 11
Trans Tasman Triumph The New Royal Children’s Hospital The new Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH) will open in 2011 right next door to the existing site on Flemington Road in Melbourne. The $1 billion major renovation and expansion project presented a unique opportunity for creating a joint venture to deliver a highly specialised and significant mechanical services contract. Purpose built for kids and the way we care for them today and into the future, the new RCH is designed to be: > > > > > Pic above: Andrew Felton finally reaches his goal - to finish! - in 14 hrs 53 mins 59 secs. “My obsession with fitness and triathlons first started back in 2006 when I was asked to go to Curtis Island and train with ‘Chopper’… I went over there thinking I had a certain amount of fitness and how wrong was I! I struggled for 4 days and on the Saturday night I made a vow to get fit and back into triathlons,” said Andrew.
>
More comfortable for sick kids, their families and carers and the people that work there; Surrounded by parkland (see pic right) with great views and lots of natural light Friendly to the environment; Family-centred including improved accommodation and facilities for parents; A fun, child-friendly place with lots of interactive indoor and outdoor play areas; and Easier for families and visitors to find their way around.
There will be lots of space dedicated to finding out why kids get sick and teaching others how to make them better. It will also include: > > >
More single bed rooms, neonatal cots and operating theatres; A 2,000 space underground carpark (almost twice the existing number), and 500 spaces for bikes; and Additional shops, cafes and other amenities for patients, their families and staff.
Source: www.newrch.vic.gov.au
“After many triathlons, duathlons, thousands of laps in the pool and some 8000km riding and hundreds of kms pounding the pavement, a close friend of mine who has done eight Ironmans put the idea into my head that I should give an Ironman a go… I set myself a goal that If I could run a half marathon in under two hours I would sign up and on the 15 Dec 2008 I did it. That night I applied to enter the NZ Ironman, was accepted and the Monday morning my first training run for an Ironman started…” To read the rest of Andrew’s amazing story visit www.aesmith.com
12
Cool Breeze by AE Smith
The building’s external façade has been designed with the park environment in mind, reflecting shapes and colours from nature and the trees that will surround it. It will take full advantage of its park location. The new hospital will have the highest percentage of single rooms of any public hospital in Australia, with 85% of all rooms in the new RCH being single bed rooms. Source: www.newrch.vic.gov.au
Following the devastating Black Friday bushfires that ravaged Victoria earlier this year, RACAH donated a truck load of wheelbarrows, shovels, rakes, axes and mattocks to the bushfire victims (pic above). Some of the RACAH team inspect the equipment before the donated items head off to King Lake to help in the clean up. Winter 2009 17
The Ironman from Mackay Not every office can claim they have a genuine Ironman working in their midst At AE Smith Mackay, Andrew Felton is setting his sights on yet another Ironman challenge after recently completing a 15 hour grind in the picturesque setting of Lake Taupo in New Zealand’s North Island. An obsession with triathlons, duathlons and hours of fitness training was inspired after an AE Smith visit to Curtis Island to train with “Chopper”. Then, late last year a seed was planted to compete in his first Ironman. “I love to challenge myself and wanted to see what an Ironman would be like – it’s the ultimate triathlon,” comments Andrew. With an extremely supportive wife and family, Andrew’s extensive training paid off, completing the monster 3.8km swim, 180.2km bike ride and 42.2km marathon at the event in March. Congratulations Andrew! Next is an event in August at the Yeppoon Half Ironman and then to Western Australia for the Bussleton Ironman in December.
RACAH - AE Smith Joint Venture
AE Smith Run for the Kids honour roll:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
16
Cameron Huynh Colin & Debbie Bishop Esmir Skopljak (above R) James Kinsella Leonard Alvarezhernandez Peter & Wanda Staedler Peter Kinsella Phoung Nguyen Raymond Lee Rod & Pat Lloyd Steve Kozsik Stuart King Tira Morgan (above L) Tom Atherton
Cool Breeze by AE Smith
Footy Fans Unite for a Good Cause The Brisbane AE Smith team swapped suit, ties and safety vests for footy jumpers in April to raise money for Beyond Blue
Running for the Kids
The charity that provides services for Australian’s battling depression, created Footy Jumper Friday on April 24 and thousands of people – including Prime Minister Kevin Rudd – participated.
Running 5.7km or 14.1km to raise money seemed a fitting way for AE Smith to continue its association with one of Australia’s leading children’s hospitals.
The event caused quite a stir at AE Smith Brisbane, where disputes over League, Union or AFL and the Wallabies versus The All Blacks ensued.
RACAH – the joint venture between AE Smith and AG Coombs to deliver air conditioning and mechanical services to the $1 billion new Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne – fielded 35 runners in the annual Run For Kids event that’s one of the largest fundraising events for the Royal Children’s.
Footy Jumper Friday; AE Smith Team Brisbane (front cover and pic above): (Back row L to R) Rob Anderson, Tim Flanigan, Nick Daley, Rob Irlam, George Sundac, Nic Mortenson, Bryan Little, Danny O’Reilly (in head lock), Eric Roessler, Kevin Kent, Nathan Knight, Vinnie Corbett. (Front row L to R) Peter Cahill, John Ramajoo, Charles Dearling, Lisa Wilson, Beth Anderson.
For many participants, it was a chance to test their fitness after signing up to AE Smith’s Team Fitness program conducted over the past 12 months. While for others, being involved in their first major Fun Run event by completing the walking route was equally as satisfying. “It was a great buzz to take part and complete the course through Melbourne – and do our bit for the Royal Children’s Hospital,” says Peter Staedler, AE Smith’s General Manager of Construction in Victoria whose wife also joined the AE Smith team. Bitten by the fun run bug (some harder than others), several AE Smith Run for the Kids participants have recruited others and will run again on 28 June in the 5, 10 and 25km Run Melbourne event.
Raising money for Beyond Blue was the real aim of the game - National Safety Manager Danny O’Reilly (above right) and AE Smith Service Projects Consultant Bryan Little (above left) dared to swap national jerseys in the spirit of the cause. Winter 2009 13
Welcome to the “Centrefold”! New to the Cool Breeze, each issue will showcase a random selection of pictures sent in by you - the reader. So be sure to have your camera handy next time you’re at an AE Smith event. Email your best pictures to coolbreeze@aesmith.com.au then keep a look out in future issues to see if you’re in the Centrefold.
14
Cool Breeze by AE Smith
Winter 2009 15
Welcome to the “Centrefold”! New to the Cool Breeze, each issue will showcase a random selection of pictures sent in by you - the reader. So be sure to have your camera handy next time you’re at an AE Smith event. Email your best pictures to coolbreeze@aesmith.com.au then keep a look out in future issues to see if you’re in the Centrefold.
14
Cool Breeze by AE Smith
Winter 2009 15
The Ironman from Mackay Not every office can claim they have a genuine Ironman working in their midst At AE Smith Mackay, Andrew Felton is setting his sights on yet another Ironman challenge after recently completing a 15 hour grind in the picturesque setting of Lake Taupo in New Zealand’s North Island. An obsession with triathlons, duathlons and hours of fitness training was inspired after an AE Smith visit to Curtis Island to train with “Chopper”. Then, late last year a seed was planted to compete in his first Ironman. “I love to challenge myself and wanted to see what an Ironman would be like – it’s the ultimate triathlon,” comments Andrew. With an extremely supportive wife and family, Andrew’s extensive training paid off, completing the monster 3.8km swim, 180.2km bike ride and 42.2km marathon at the event in March. Congratulations Andrew! Next is an event in August at the Yeppoon Half Ironman and then to Western Australia for the Bussleton Ironman in December.
RACAH - AE Smith Joint Venture
AE Smith Run for the Kids honour roll:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
16
Cameron Huynh Colin & Debbie Bishop Esmir Skopljak (above R) James Kinsella Leonard Alvarezhernandez Peter & Wanda Staedler Peter Kinsella Phoung Nguyen Raymond Lee Rod & Pat Lloyd Steve Kozsik Stuart King Tira Morgan (above L) Tom Atherton
Cool Breeze by AE Smith
Footy Fans Unite for a Good Cause The Brisbane AE Smith team swapped suit, ties and safety vests for footy jumpers in April to raise money for Beyond Blue
Running for the Kids
The charity that provides services for Australian’s battling depression, created Footy Jumper Friday on April 24 and thousands of people – including Prime Minister Kevin Rudd – participated.
Running 5.7km or 14.1km to raise money seemed a fitting way for AE Smith to continue its association with one of Australia’s leading children’s hospitals.
The event caused quite a stir at AE Smith Brisbane, where disputes over League, Union or AFL and the Wallabies versus The All Blacks ensued.
RACAH – the joint venture between AE Smith and AG Coombs to deliver air conditioning and mechanical services to the $1 billion new Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne – fielded 35 runners in the annual Run For Kids event that’s one of the largest fundraising events for the Royal Children’s.
Footy Jumper Friday; AE Smith Team Brisbane (front cover and pic above): (Back row L to R) Rob Anderson, Tim Flanigan, Nick Daley, Rob Irlam, George Sundac, Nic Mortenson, Bryan Little, Danny O’Reilly (in head lock), Eric Roessler, Kevin Kent, Nathan Knight, Vinnie Corbett. (Front row L to R) Peter Cahill, John Ramajoo, Charles Dearling, Lisa Wilson, Beth Anderson.
For many participants, it was a chance to test their fitness after signing up to AE Smith’s Team Fitness program conducted over the past 12 months. While for others, being involved in their first major Fun Run event by completing the walking route was equally as satisfying. “It was a great buzz to take part and complete the course through Melbourne – and do our bit for the Royal Children’s Hospital,” says Peter Staedler, AE Smith’s General Manager of Construction in Victoria whose wife also joined the AE Smith team. Bitten by the fun run bug (some harder than others), several AE Smith Run for the Kids participants have recruited others and will run again on 28 June in the 5, 10 and 25km Run Melbourne event.
Raising money for Beyond Blue was the real aim of the game - National Safety Manager Danny O’Reilly (above right) and AE Smith Service Projects Consultant Bryan Little (above left) dared to swap national jerseys in the spirit of the cause. Winter 2009 13
Trans Tasman Triumph The New Royal Children’s Hospital The new Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH) will open in 2011 right next door to the existing site on Flemington Road in Melbourne. The $1 billion major renovation and expansion project presented a unique opportunity for creating a joint venture to deliver a highly specialised and significant mechanical services contract. Purpose built for kids and the way we care for them today and into the future, the new RCH is designed to be: > > > > > Pic above: Andrew Felton finally reaches his goal - to finish! - in 14 hrs 53 mins 59 secs. “My obsession with fitness and triathlons first started back in 2006 when I was asked to go to Curtis Island and train with ‘Chopper’… I went over there thinking I had a certain amount of fitness and how wrong was I! I struggled for 4 days and on the Saturday night I made a vow to get fit and back into triathlons,” said Andrew.
>
More comfortable for sick kids, their families and carers and the people that work there; Surrounded by parkland (see pic right) with great views and lots of natural light Friendly to the environment; Family-centred including improved accommodation and facilities for parents; A fun, child-friendly place with lots of interactive indoor and outdoor play areas; and Easier for families and visitors to find their way around.
There will be lots of space dedicated to finding out why kids get sick and teaching others how to make them better. It will also include: > > >
More single bed rooms, neonatal cots and operating theatres; A 2,000 space underground carpark (almost twice the existing number), and 500 spaces for bikes; and Additional shops, cafes and other amenities for patients, their families and staff.
Source: www.newrch.vic.gov.au
“After many triathlons, duathlons, thousands of laps in the pool and some 8000km riding and hundreds of kms pounding the pavement, a close friend of mine who has done eight Ironmans put the idea into my head that I should give an Ironman a go… I set myself a goal that If I could run a half marathon in under two hours I would sign up and on the 15 Dec 2008 I did it. That night I applied to enter the NZ Ironman, was accepted and the Monday morning my first training run for an Ironman started…” To read the rest of Andrew’s amazing story visit www.aesmith.com
12
Cool Breeze by AE Smith
The building’s external façade has been designed with the park environment in mind, reflecting shapes and colours from nature and the trees that will surround it. It will take full advantage of its park location. The new hospital will have the highest percentage of single rooms of any public hospital in Australia, with 85% of all rooms in the new RCH being single bed rooms. Source: www.newrch.vic.gov.au
Following the devastating Black Friday bushfires that ravaged Victoria earlier this year, RACAH donated a truck load of wheelbarrows, shovels, rakes, axes and mattocks to the bushfire victims (pic above). Some of the RACAH team inspect the equipment before the donated items head off to King Lake to help in the clean up. Winter 2009 17
Special mention to Martin Ross, Peter Sawyer and Nick Mortensen from Team Brisbane who raced in the solo event completing the swim, cycle and run disciplines in succession rather than in relay like the others.
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> > >
New Bright Spark in Townsville Nominations and applications for the 2009 AE Smith National Training Achievement Award open now! The special Award is designed to recognise and reward the efforts of AE Smith trainees and apprentices. Assessment is focussed on their academic performance over the past 12 months and potential for professional development with AE Smith. Nick Daley (pic above) from Bris Construction won the Award in 2008. He received a $1000 cash bonus plus a perpetual trophy in recognition of his outstanding achievement. Speak to your General Manager about applying for or nominating someone else today. Alternately, visit the AE Smith intranet and download an application form.
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Cool Breeze by AE Smith
AE Smith Townsville has welcomed its first female apprentice – electrical technician Kristie McQuilty. 18 years old Kristie was first inspired to become an electrician after completing work experience at Phosphate Hill Mine – where working in a few different fields saw her enjoy general electrics the most. Ensuring her Year 12 subjects were selected to help further her goal of becoming an electrician, Kristie completed her final year of school with a Certificate 1 in Building – and eager to take on an apprenticeship. “I was thrilled to be offered an apprenticeship with AE Smith,” says Kristie, who has just completed her three month probation with flying colours. The variety of work so far – as well as the team she’s working with – is what she’s enjoying most: “There’s been so much variety in the job – I’ve helped with maintenance, new installations to energy efficiency conversions,” adds Kristie. “AE Smith really looks after you and I know I am going to learn so much in a really interesting industry,” she adds. And for those that are wondering what it’s like being the first female apprentice sparky at AE Smith Townsville: “I’m loving it!’ beams Kristie.
Swim
Cycle
Run
Finish
Team Melbourne
0:26:23
1:13:55
0:34:36
2:14:55
Team Melbourne
Matthew Younger / Stewart King / Stuart Gibson
Team Brisbane #1 Team Brisbane #2 Team Brisbane #3
0:27:37 0:29:05 0:26:26
Team Brisbane #1 Team Brisbane #2 Team Brisbane #3
Ben Higgins / Leigh Graham / Brett Morrison Peter Cahill / Bill Wiseman / Mark Jacobson Nick Friend / Gary Salkowski / George Sundac
Martin Ross Peter Sawyer Nick Mortensen
0:34:13 0:36:16 0:27:45
1:19:33 1:23:22 1:21:42
1:16:08 1:18:25 1:24:28
0:47:12 0:50:45 0:50:17
0:48:27 0:48:08 0:51:05
2:34:22 2:43:13 2:38:26
2:38:49 2:42:49 2:43:19
With Mooloolaba done and dusted and Melbourne going one-up in the first interoffice head-to-head, Team Brisbane challenged Team Melbourne to a rematch at the Gold Coast Triathlon World Championships in September. Stay tuned to see if Team Brisbane can even the score or face a Two - Zero deficit. For more information visit www.worldtriathlongoldcoast.com or contact Martin Ross in Brisbane on +61 (0)7 3332 0333 or Stuart Gibson in Melbourne on +61 (0)3 9271 1999.
Team Brisbane christened their new 2XU AE Smith Race Team Wear by competing in the Gold Coast leg of the Nissan / BRW Corporate Triathlon on 26 Apr 2009. Perfect training in preparation for their attempt to even the score with Team Melbourne at the Gold Coast Triathlon World Championships in Sep 2009.
Main pic (L to R): Nick Daley, James Carmody, Jordan Cahill, George Sundac, Gary Salkowski, Brett Morrison, Tim Flanigan, Nic Mortenson, Peter Cahill (kneeling), Simon Brown, Leigh Graham, Denis O’Mahony, Mark Jacobson, Ben Higgins, Paul McTigue, Billy Wiseman. Missing-in-action (not pictured): Simon Gardner, Martin Ross, John Thompson, Oisin Grennan, Dennis Mahoney, Shane Donoher, Peter Sawyer, Peter Illott, John Ramajoo.
Winter 2009 11
Mooloolaba Triathlon is the second largest triathlon in Australia behind its famous Noosa counterpart. The Olympic distance (1.5km swim, 40km cycle, 10km run) Mooloolaba Triathlon is the centrepiece of a 3 day multisport festival that celebrates the best of the Australian summer lifestyle, at one of the world’s premier beachside resort locations.
Pic right (L to R): Stuart Gibson, Stewart King and Matthew Younger of Team Melbourne celebrate their achievement in the Mooloolaba Triathlon. Pic far right: Triathlon debutant, Simon Brown cycles at the Nissan / BRW Corporate Triathlon on the Gold Coast.
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Cool Breeze by AE Smith
Interoffice Rivalry - Brisbane V’s Melbourne
AE Smith Amongst Australia’s Best
Mooloolaba Triathlon, Queensland Sunshine Coast 27-29 March 2009
Bean Media Group has presented AE Smith a special Silver Profile Award in their 176 page launch edition of “Australia’s Best Building Construction & Mining” magazine.
AE Smith Construction teams in Brisbane and Melbourne often work side by side on major projects, but for the recent Mooloolaba Triathlon the teams were pitted against each other. With each office fielding triathletes, Melbourne and Brisbane teams completed the testing course in even more testing weather conditions – combining a 1500 metre open water swim, 40km cycle and a 10km run. “Organising for the two Construction offices to participate is a great way to create some team work between us, despite the geographic distance,” says Martin Ross, Brisbane’s Team Captain. Stuart Gibson, Melbourne’s Team Captain said, “We had been following the Queensland team’s results in the Cool Breeze and saw the Mooloolaba event as an opportunity to test ourselves against the best on their home turf.” “Its certainly the start of some friendly rivalry. Team Melbourne really delivered with their time, setting an impressive benchmark that will take some really serious effort to match!” adds Martin. For the record, Team Melbourne (pictured right) beat all comers from Team Brisbane at Mooloolaba with Matthew Younger (swim), Stewart King (cycle) and Stuart Gibson (run) finishing in a combined time of 2:14:55.
The awards are designed to recognise pioneers in the building and construction industry that go above and beyond when it comes to supply chain management. Magazine publisher, Bean Media Group commented that AE Smith was an obvious inclusion in a list of Australia’s Best: “When I initially spoke with Peter Staedler (AE Smith Construction Victoria General manager) I was enlightened by his attitude and remarkable pride when he was discussing his suppliers,” says Natalie Kent of Bean Media Group. “He never failed to reiterate the importance of supplier relationships to their company.” Other accolades were presented to Brookfield Multiplex and Hansen Yuncken. In being considered for the award, AE Smith’s successful employee relations over its 111 year history as a family business, stewardship of environmental and community initiatives together with innovative supplier and customer relations were praised.
Peter Staedler & Raymond Lee (R to L) accepting the Silver Profile Award in the launch edition of Australia’s Best Building Construction & Mining magazine.
Australia’s Best is a high-quality, full colour, A4 publication sent direct to named decision makers throughout businesses in Australia. The publication features profiles on notable companies within each particular industry. These profiles provide valuable exposure and insight into successful supply chain management strategies. For a limited period, a subscription to Australia’s Best is completely free of charge. To subscribe visit www.australiasbestmagazine. com.au
Winter 2009 19
“Turning on the air conditioning from the comfort of your own home using a Smartphone has its advantages, particularly if you have demanding premium tenants that schedule last minute videoconference calls well outside normal business hours with little to no notice,” adds Adam Bek. The Group Scheduling feature of the new program also presents another unique capability says Adam (pic below): “There’s an Easy Calender linked to this new technology – so just as you might book a common meeting room and send electronic meeting invites using Microsoft Outlook, this program allows multiple tenants to schedule their own building control needs in the same building through one easy program, just like booking a meeting room.” The Auto-Matrix technology not only adds the flexibility to override program settings remotely via the web, but can also help reduce energy use via its interface with real-time weather data. Bureau of Meteorology data can be accessed automatically via this program on the web, adapting building controls in light of forecast weather conditions.
Team Winning Formula Training Sales Team to Save Specialised training workshops with US industry expert Sales training is usually focused on how to make more money for the company, but AE Smith are encouraging their sales team to save money for their clients.
Main pic: AE Smith Service NSW Sales Manager, Daniel van der Ent (right) ensures Brad Jovaag (left) gets an uninterrupted view of the world famous Sydney Opera House from on top of the equally famous Sydney Harbour Bridge. Pic above: Brad Jovaag joins AE Smith General Managers and their Sales teams for Italian food and social dinner drinks in Brisbane.
Cool Breeze by AE Smith
“Intelligent building controls like Auto-Matrix are vital in realising the energy efficiency levels desired by both property professionals and high calibre tenants in the ever tightening real estate market,” says Adam. For more information contact Adam Bek at AE Smith Building Technologies on +61 (0)3 9271 1852.
Building Technologies recognised at international awards AE Smith Building Technologies was recently presented with the “A-Team Award” at the annual Auto-Matrix international sales conference.
Twelve of AE Smith’s service and sales associates from all over Australia and New Zealand recently undertook an intense three day sales training workshop with US based industry guru, Brad Jovaag with the theme of reducing costs.
Recognised for sales excellence in 2007 and 2008, Adam Bek (pic above standing centre) accepted the award on behalf of his Building Technologies team in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
In an exclusive seminar created for AE Smith, Jovaag encouraged the team to focus on how working with customers to reduce costs and save expenditure is the key ingredient for success in tough economic times. As both a sales training coach and HVAC industry expert, Jovaag used the seminar to demonstrate how working with new and existing customers to turn their variable costs into fixed costs - and defer their capital costs - is a vital sales strategy as expenditure budgets are being reduced. “We’ve always partnered with our longstanding customers to highlight how maintenance and service helps reduce overall costs,” says Geoff Binns, Business Development Manager with AE Smith in Perth. “But the sales training highlighted how this is even more important in today’s economic climate,” he adds.
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“Applying the flexible nature of this technology really makes sense when you’re able to automatically feed in forecast weather data, have the system override ‘normal building operations’ and take advantage of tomorrow’s weather by adjusting itself accordingly.
Aspect by Auto-Matrix delivers advanced, but simple to use features such as Group Scheduling. Group Scheduling makes it even easier for multiple users in the same building to control what they want, when they want via electronic calendar tools they already use and are familiar with.
Winter 2009 9
“More so than ever, we believe strongly that AE Smith helps our customers reduce the total owning and operating costs related to their HVAC. For many this means converting their variable costs into fixed costs. For others this means developing a proactive preventative maintenance strategy to help defer capital costs,” added Aldo Cevaal, AE Smith Service Group General Manager.
Project Champions Two Melbourne Project Managers are championing new sales to record levels for AE Smith Service With over 20 years at AE Smith, Trevor McAllen (pic below, standing left) has set a benchmark for how proactive relationships with customers can translate into happy customers and sales results. Working with relative newcomer, Brad Gemmell (standing right) – the two Project Managers have earned a reputation for delivering great service and generating new levels of sales for future maintenance and capital expenditure projects.
New Aspect to Advanced Building Controls Latest web enabled technology gives new intelligence to building controls
AE Smith is the exclusive Australian “Master Dealer” for American Auto-Matrix building control systems. American Auto-Matrix (AAM) develops and manufactures a complete family of microprocessor-based, applied, networkable controllers. AAM products are used in a broad range of applications including facilities management, building automation, temperature control, direct digital control (DDC), process control, and integrated fire, security, and life safety management.
AE Smith Building Technologies has adopted the latest web enabled controllers from Auto-Matrix called ‘Aspect’ - helping deliver new breakthroughs when it comes to managing building control systems.
“Trevor and Brad are great examples of how AE Smith can deliver on service, maintenance and construction – not just operate as separate business units,” comments Melbourne, AE Smith Service General Manager, Peter McCarthy. “Through their service style, they ensure our maintenance agreements are always retained as well as work with customers to proactively identify longer term service or construction issues,” says Peter. “The results from this approach are not only high sales figures for future projects, but very happy, loyal customers who appreciate how AE Smith help them plan their future capital expenditure needs,” he adds.
Lucky Ladies Win AE Smith Trotters Trophy AE Smith has just presented our first winner’s trophy in the AE Smith Trotters Handicap. Now a sponsor at Cranbourne Harness Racing, the Trotters Handicap event was won by an all ladies affair.
“The latest generation ‘Aspect’ technology by Auto-Matrix opens up a new level of flexibility and capabilities for controlling any Direct Digital Control (DDC) Building Management System (BMS),” comments Adam Bek, AE Smith Building Technologies General Manager.
Horse Hilton Gemma, ridden by Lisa Miles and owned by Betty Lewis took out the AE Smith trophy.
Released this April out from the USA, the new Auto-Matrix hardware has the advantage of integrating across a broad platform of existing calendar programs such as Google Calendar and Microsoft Outlook – so regulating building environmental controls can now be done anywhere there is an internet connection; including from web enabled Smartphones like the BlackBerry Bold and Apple iPhone.
AE Smith Construction Victoria’s Sales Manager, Bob George presented the inaugural trophy to Betty Lewis at the May 2 event.
“Offering time poor building managers the flexibility to meet the needs of demanding tenants at late notice has productivity and efficiency benefits for all parties involved. Peter also sights their strong technical knowledge and ability to collaborate well with AE Smith’s service technicians as a key ingredient in the outstanding results Trevor and Brad deliver for the company. “They are certainly quiet achievers in our midst – and very valuable members of the AE Smith Service team,” adds Peter.
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Cool Breeze by AE Smith
Winter 2009 21
Mackay Apprentice Induction Night AE Smith played a significant role in the construction and continued maintenance of air conditioning and mechanical services at one of Australia’s top 10 Marinas. The 479 berth Mackay Marina (pic top) also comprises a residential village of luxury apartments and townhouses, state-of-the-art boat maintenance and repair facilities, commercial precinct of restaurants and shops plus a thriving Yacht Club, and a luxury 4.5 star hotel, the Clarion Hotel Mackay Marina (pic above). For more information visit www.mackaymarina.com
Every year AE Smith recruits new apprentices, and for General Manager Mike Mulherin he wasn’t going to let the economic crisis stop four eager young men from learning their chosen trade. At a formal event in late February, each apprentice was welcomed and inducted into the company with staff and parents present. Ryan Dodds, Luke Sangiorgio, Luke Harvey and James Patteson were proud as punch when they were told they had received an apprenticeship with a company like AE Smith. Mike said he and a panel of management staff had the tough job of choosing the perfect candidates for the positions of two air conditioning technicians, an electrician and a sheet metal apprentice. “It was a wonderful evening where the boys had to sign their contracts in front of members of staff and parents. “It was a welcome to the company which is the largest privately owned air conditioning company in Australia, with some of our offices in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane – which means they can have a future career anywhere in Australia.” Mike said the induction evening was a chance for the new apprentices to learn more about the company and some of the projects the company has undertaken in the past.
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Cool Breeze by AE Smith
“Many people are now concerned that creating new energy efficiencies would cost too much – but there’s a lot that can be achieved by working within existing operating budgets and not committing significant capital,” adds Doug Binns. In line with keeping the stress out of being green, AE Smith’s new energy services business has established simple benchmarking processes to monitor energy use and easy to follow road maps for achieving NABERS star ratings that can be rolled out at your own pace. “Green Cities also provided a great chance to showcase to the industry how Emerald ESP can help reduce costs and have other business benefits – important in the current business environment.” For more information contact Doug Binns at AE Smith Emerald Sustainable Performance on +61 (0)488 698 160.
Above: Tom Roper, president of the Australian Sustainable Built Environment Council (ASBEC) and former Victorian State Government Minister takes time out to relax at the hands of an AE Smith Angel.
Winter 2009 7
Taking the Stress Out of Being Green Main pic: “AE Smith Angels” showing Green Cities delegates one sure fire way to take the stress out of being green at the AE Smith Business Centre & Internet Café. Above: Free internet access and 3 minute massages weren’t the only thing in demand at the AE Smith Business Centre & Internet Café. AE Smith soft toy mascots dressed in miniature 6 inch jerseys proved to be valuable barter currency with Green Cities delegates and exhibitors alike. Top right: Heidi Becker, then from the Brisbane AE Smith Service team, helps AE Smith Baristas serve “real coffee” - a smash hit with coffee queues at times more than 10m long. See more Green Cities 09 pics on AE Smith’s Facebook site.
AE Smith Stands Out at Green Cities 09 Conference The 2009 Green Cities conference in Brisbane has provided the perfect launching pad for AE Smith’s new business unit that’s designed to help building owners improve their building’s efficiencies. Emerald Sustainable Performance (Emerald ESP) was the focus of AE Smith’s sponsorship at the two day conference – where over 700 delegates and special guests including Federal Environment Minister, Peter Garrett interacted with AE Smith’s Business Centre. AE Smith made a splash with their new brand look and Emerald ESP energy services business – with “taking the stress out of being green” the company’s theme for the Green Cities event. “We wanted to highlight to building industry professionals that charting a course for improving environmental performance for buildings is not difficult,” comments AE Smith’s Emerald ESP General Manager, Doug Binns. Feedback from delegates attending the conference highlighted how many building managers and property professionals are still concerned about how to translate their commitment to being efficient with energy and water management of their property assets into reality – particularly in this economic climate.
“We have delivered air conditioning to the Mackay Marina (pics left), Mackay Entertainment Centre, both hospitals and are currently working on the Convention Centre. “It gives the boys a feel for the company and a chance for them to realise that the next four years is all about learning their trade.” Guest speakers included McDonald Meteors coach Leonard King and Woolam Constructions Director Craig Percival who spoke about what it means to give everything a go and that hard work does pay off. Mike said that even in today’s tough economic climate the company wanted to give these apprentices a chance to kick start their careers.
Main pic: (Back row L to R) Leonard King (coach of McDonald Meteors), Craig Percival (Director of Woolam Constructions), Susan Wright (ACE Apprenticeships), Mike Mulherin (AE Smith Mackay General Manager), David Seedsman (representative from AE Smith Melbourne), (Front row L to R) Ryan Dodds, Luke Sangiorgio, Lukey Harvey and James Patterson.
“We want to make sure they receive the best training and have a chance to train in all facets of the company. “Many of our apprentices stay on with the company and move into management positions. “We want them to expand with us and that is what it is all about,” Mike said. For more information contact Mike Mulherin on +61 (0)7 4952 5442. Source: www.dailymercury.com.au
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The first of these five measures to be implemented will be mandatory disclosure of energy efficiency for commercial office buildings with a planned start date of 1 July 2010. From that date building owners will be required to disclose the energy efficiency of commercial office buildings larger than 2000 sqm – or any part of a commercial office building larger than 2000 sqm – that is being sold, leased or sub-leased. The energy efficiency will be measured by the NABERS Energy star rating system excluding any GreenPower. AE Smith Emerald Sustainable Performance is ideally positioned to help building owners manage a lot of the practical implications flowing from this planned legislation, particularly around the collection and validation of twelve months operational data required to underpin the initial NABERS rating assessment as well as the providing the official NABERS star rating. Validation protocols under the NABERS system are very strict and our experience to date has shown that many building owners are not maintaining the right records to allow the best NABERS rating and in some instances will not allow any rating to be issued at all. AE Smith Emerald Sustainable Performance is also in a great position to show building owners how to improve their NABERS star rating by improving the energy efficiency of their building.
Health & Science - Partners of First Choice
For more information contact Doug Binns at AE Smith Emerald Sustainable Performance on +61 (0)2 8754 3326.
Significant Boost for Australian Science The Ecosciences Precinct (pic above) will harness the intellectual power of over 1,000 research staff from four Queensland Government agencies and CSIRO to help solve some of Australia’s biggest environmental issues.
An ASX-listed company, Watpac Ltd is one of the fastestgrowing companies in Australia, with a diverse portfolio catering for a vast clientele. Their business includes construction, property development, specialty services (refurbishments), civil landscaping, civil infrastructure, civil engineering, and mining. Watpac has offices in Brisbane, Townsville, Perth, Adelaide, Sydney, and Melbourne, and an office Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
If you are a building owner or property professional that will sell, lease or sub-lease commercial office space greater than 2000 sqm, proposed new Government legislation will affect you. Legislation like this cannot be ignored, particularly during a period of high market volatility with increasing vacancy rates and declining property values. Current trends see a shift in power towards tenants with building owners having to provide even more incentive to retain and attract premium tenants – including green incentives like NABERS. Any market advantage a building owner can create for their property could help protect them from current and future market volatility. If you’re serious about protecting your commercial property investment, you must act now:
Ecosciences Precinct at Boggo Road Urban Village, Brisbane
Watpac Limited
Mandatory Disclosure of Commercial Office Building Energy Efficiency
The four State agencies are Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries, the Department of Natural Resources and Water, and the Department of Mines and Energy.
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Research into climate change, water management and managing Australia’s unique ecosystems are some of the world leading science to be conducted at the Ecosciences Precinct due for completion in 2011.
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The Ecosciences Precinct comprises three blocks of five levels, separated by covered courtyards and linked at each level. The roof is occupied by glass house and shade house facilities.
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Working together with Watpac Ltd - the Managing Contractor of the $330 million project - AE Smith is proud to be the mechanical services contractor responsible for the construction, installation, commissioning
Current trends see a shift in power towards building tenants with building owners having to provide even more incentive to retain and attract premium tenants – including green incentives like NABERS. The Property Council of Australia recently reported the financial and strategic rewards that can come from implementing NABERS. Properties with above average NABERS star ratings delivered higher increases in annual rental values and lower vacancy rates; in turn driving faster increases in capital values.*
Source: www.watpac.com.au
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Does your building have a NABERS Energy star rating? Do you have 12 months of useable data that meets NABERS validation protocols? Does your existing energy metering system comply with the requirements of NABERS? If you have mixed use tenancies are they correctly sub-metered? Are you looking to merely comply with or strategically benefit from this new legislation?
* Property Council of Australia 2009, ‘The Missing Link’, Property Australia, 19 Feb.
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and maintenance of the landmark facility that will significantly boost the future of Australian science. For more information contact Steve Jackson, General Manager, AE Smith Construction Brisbane on +61 (0)7 3332 0333.
An Air of Success North Lakes Health Precinct, Brisbane North Lakes Health Precinct is specifically designed to support new models of care, promoting health, managing chronic disease and reducing need for hospital treatment through early intervention. Reflecting this high standard is the air conditioning and mechanical services installation by AE Smith for Hutchinson Builders. ‘As you’d expect, air quality is of vital concern in a hospital environment. The wellbeing of hospital staff and patients was of paramount importance in the overall design of the complex air conditioning system,’ said Steve Jackson, General Manager, AE Smith Construction Brisbane.
No Time for Complacency Energy Efficiency Still on the Government’s Short-term Agenda The recent decision by the Federal Government to delay the start of the Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme (CPRS) is disappointing. However, there are five key measures being introduced to drive growth in the number of highly energy efficient homes and commercial buildings across Australia as part of the National Strategy on Energy Efficiency: >
Increasing the stringency of energy efficiency requirements for all classes of commercial buildings in the Building Code of Australia from 2010.
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Phasing in the mandatory disclosure of the energy efficiency of commercial buildings and tenancies from 2010.
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Increasing energy efficiency requirements for new residential buildings to six stars, or equivalent, nationally in the 2010 update of the Building Code of Australia, as well as introducing new efficiency requirements for hot-water systems and lighting.
David Odd AE Smith Energy Engineer Emerald Sustainable Performance
David Odd, Energy Engineer with the Emerald Sustainable Performance team is the first of many across AE Smith to become a “NABERS Accredited Assessor”. To have your building assessed and obtain a NABERS Energy star rating contact David today on +61 (0)400 351 564.
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Phasing in mandatory disclosure of residential building energy, greenhouse and water performance at the time of sale or lease, commencing with energy efficiency, from May 2011.
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Reforming current building energy efficiency standard and assessment processes to achieve consistency across the nation.
In addition to the air conditioning and mechanical services (pic below), AE Smith also installed piped medical gas associated with gas medical services. ‘It has been a pleasure working with the AE Smith team. The level of professionalism towards the project is something I commend them for,’ said Daniel Cooper, Project Manager, Hutchinson Builders. For more information contact Robert Anderson, Project Manager, AE Smith Construction Brisbane on +61 (0)73332 0333.
Read the AE Smith feature in the June 09 issue of “Construction Digital” magazine at www.constructiondigital.com Construction Digital is a 280+ page monthly internet magazine sent electronically to over 355,000 construction executives across Australia, South Africa, USA, UK and Canada. AE Smith was one of only five Australian companies selected by the US based magazine publishers for inclusion in their inaugural Australian issue. Watpac Ltd is the lead story with a picture of their CEO on the front cover. You’ll see a new AE Smith advert on p. 48 celebrating the work Brisbane’s AE Smith Construction team is delivering in partnership with Watpac on the Ecosciences Precinct at Boggo Road Urban Village.
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AE Smith continues to claim Safety Milestones The last few months has seen further positive advances against Company Safety Milestones with AE Smith Service in Victoria breaking through the 1000 Loss Time Injury (LTI) Free Days Milestone in March. Victorian Service General Manager, Peter McCarthy, congratulated his team at a celebration event last month. Victoria Service now joins the ranks of previous 1000 LTI Free Day achievers: Tasmania Construction, Building Technologies and Corporate Office. Success abounds this year with Townsville, Gold Coast & Tasmania Service branches joining with Mackay in passing the greater than 500 LTI Free Days milestone. At the Project level the RACAH AE Smith Joint Venture has picked up two “Best on Ground” safety awards at the new Royal Children’s Hospital project in Melbourne. These ‘BoG’ awards are presented by the principal contractor Bovis Lend Lease in recognition for innovation and best practice in on-site safety endeavours.
Perth Office on Show
Main pic (L to R): Ryan Starkey, David Bassett, Blake Seaward, Bradley Emerson, Gideon (Skiep) Van Niekerk & Norman Ball.
“There are always plenty of distractions if you are not solidly focused on Safety, so these achievements means our training is paying off,” he says.
“We’re keen to lead by example and show our local customers how simple measures can be taken to reduce energy and emissions,” comments AE Smith Perth General Manager, Graeme Stewart.
“We are looking forward to implementing our next training focus which will address ‘sprains & strains’ at our workplaces.
Working in close partnership with the AE Smith Building Technologies team, Graeme will oversee a retrofit of their Perth office using the latest web enabled Auto-Matrix building control systems to ensure energy use is reduced by 20%.
Additionally, the AE Smith team in Perth have gone one step further and purchased an entire service fleet of dedicated LPG vehicles to replace their previous fleet.
Cool Breeze by AE Smith
AE Smith National Safety Manager, Danny O’Reilly, is obviously very pleased with the recognition various branches are earning:
AE Smith in Perth has implemented a number of initiatives within their own business to showcase how easy it is to “go green”.
“We’re using our own office retrofit to demonstrate how various controls can significantly reduce energy use and ultimately the costs associated with heating and cooling offices,” adds Graeme.
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And there is more… Brisbane site manager Neil “Zac” Pennycook can add another achievement to his list after picking up the quarterly ‘IIF’ award, again by Bovis Lend Lease, for his contribution to keeping the 275 George Street project ‘Incident & Injury Free’.
“When we conduct specific training and incident analysis – such as the recent focus on prevention of lacerations – we really notice success in prevention of those type of injuries,” says Danny. Watch this space for updates and progress reports. For more information on safety issues and training, contact Danny O’Reilly on +61 (0)413 153 838.
The Victorian AE Smith Service team celebrate their 1000 days LTI free milestone together over social drinks on a Friday evening in late May. Pic top (L to R): Trent Gregory, Stephen Rooke & Peter Ferguson Jr. Pic above (L to R): Brad Disher and Peter McCarthy.
What is a Loss Time Injury (LTI)? An LTI is a work injury or disease where the injured party has at least one complete day or shift off work.
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Another Safety Milestone The commitment to acquiring more energy efficient transport is a small but important contribution to AE Smith’s overall vision to help change our own greenhouse footprint by supporting Greenfleet.
proudly supporting
“At every level we can help,” says Graeme Stewart, whose efforts add to the 160 AE Smith vehicles nationally that are offset with Greenfleet. “From how we educate our customers on being more energy efficient to arriving at a customer’s site, it’s all steps towards the bigger picture of reducing our environmental impact,” he adds. Sara Gipton, CEO of Greenfleet agrees industry support for environmental action is a key driver for change in the community. “AE Smith are inspiring other companies to support Greenfleet and start taking action to reduce their emissions,” comments Sara. AE Smith is one of the first mechanical services contractors to have a safety management system in place certified to Australian and New Zealand Standards. AS/NZS 4801 certification of the AE Smith Workplace Health and Safety Management System provides valuable credentials to AE Smith and formally recognises our commitment to occupational health and safety excellence.
“Investing in more efficient technology is a key part to reducing an organisations greenhouse impact – and converting a fleet of company cars to LPG means 30% less emissions,“ adds Greenfleet’s Sara Gipton. The first and only air conditioning company to be a member of Greenfleet, AE Smith is also adding to their association with the not for profit organisation by combining traditional vehicle offsets with a special tree planting program. The partnership has already seen AE Smith achieve a goal of planting 10,000 trees by 2010 as part of a bid to help reduce the impacts of the air conditioning industry on the environment. Using Bikes to Power Australia’s Earth Hour Concert
The rigorous AS/NZS 4801 Standards certification sets out strenuous requirements for health and safety systems and assesses how an organisation manages risk and hazards.
The Earth Hour Concert on 28 March was unique in Australian history because it was literally “people powered” by staff and friends of Greenfleet in the Future Spark Team Challenge. Sara Gipton (pic above, cycling far left) and her Greenfleet team rode bikes for the 3.5 hrs concert mounted on a special trailer hooked up to custom made electricity generators. Unfortunately (or fortunately as the case might be) volunteers from AE Smith were unavailable to participate on the day. But there’s always next year... Did you know Ford is the only Australian manufacturer to offer a dedicated LPG vehicle, reducing global warming potential by up to 20% per vehicle compared with petrol-powered vehicles. In the dedicated Ford LPG vehicle, the entire standard fuel system has been removed - including the fuel tank, fuel lines, pump, injectors, fuel rail and charcoal canister. In its place is a system optimised for LPG operation, which offers significant greenhouse benefits.
For more information visit www.futurespark.com.au
Source: Ford Motor Company of Australia
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Character Competitive Advantage
C o o l
B r e e z e
AE Smith’s quarterly newsletter for staff and friends brisbane cairns gold coast mackay melbourne perth sydney tasmania townsville new zealand
This issue marks the first anniversary of the Cool Breeze. Thanks to your support and willingness to contribute, the little newsletter designed to keep you up-to-date about things happening in and around AE Smith has grown in both size, distribution and popularity.
Cool Breeze is distributed electronically or in limited edition (100% carbon neutral) print to all AE Smith employees. If you are a friend or customer of AE Smith and would like to receive your very own copy of Cool Breeze, subscribe online today at www.aesmith.com
First and foremost, the Cool Breeze is about sharing your good news with other AE Smith teams around the country. At last count you are part of a team of more than 700 AE Smith employees from across Australia and New Zealand. Choosing what not to include in each edition is getting harder and harder. Our friends and customers too are starting to read the Cool Breeze. Through it, they get to see the great people and real character of the company they have chosen to partner with a competitive advantage I encourage you not to underestimate.
AE Smith 21-29 Miles Street Mulgrave VIC 3170, Australia t. +61 3 9271 1999 coolbreeze@aesmith.com.au www.twitter.com/ae_smith www.aesmith.com.au
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Andrew Permezel, CEO Cool Breeze is a newsletter published by AE Smith & Son Pty Ltd ABN 54 004 274 793 for its staff and customers. Subscription is free and available directly from AE Smith.
Winter 2009:
> ©2009 AE Smith & Son Pty Ltd. Important Notice: The information contained in this newsletter is given in good faith. To the maximum extent permitted by law, neither AE Smith, its employees or contractors accept any liability for loss or damage arising as a result of any person acting on information contained in this newsletter. This newsletter should not be used or relied on as a substitute for detailed professional consultation with AE Smith.
& printed on 100% recycled paper
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Another Safety Milestone No Time for Complacency Taking the Stress Out of Being Green New Aspect to Advanced Building Controls Interoffice Rivalry - Brisbane V’s Melbourne Trans Tasman Triumph RACAH AE Smith Joint Venture New Bright Spark in Townsville AE Smith Amongst Australia’s Best Winning Formula Mackay Apprentice Induction Night Health & Science - Partners of First Choice Perth Office on Show Character Competitive Advantage
a i r c o n di t i o n i n g
m e c h a n i c a l se r v i c e s
b ui l di n g t e c h n o l o g i e s
e n e r g y se r v i c e s
Winter 2009