WIRED Publication of the Fencing Contractors Association of New Zealand Publication of the Fencing Contractors Association of New Zealand
Issue 38 June 2015
Issue 23 ďż˝ September 2011
IN THIS ISSUE: Field Days Review PSA Risk Management Protocol System Stays Profile on McLenaghan Contracting Good v's Bad Northland Basalt
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FCANZ, POPO Box Box 19-389,19 Hamilton, New Zealand. Ph 0508 4 FCANZ 4 32269) www.fencingcontractors.co.nz FCANZ, 389, 3244 Hamilton, 3244 Ph 0508(0508 4 FCANZ (0508 4 32269)
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TOUGH, WIRY AND
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PRESIDENT’S REPORT Welcome to the June edition of Wired.
FCANZ would like to acknowledge the significant financial contribution that WIREMARK makes towards meeting the costs associated with the publication and distribution of WIRED.
This year seems to be ticking along with the National Fieldays fast approaching, fencing competitions and our annual conference. It’s that time of year when you leave to go to work in the dark and get home in the dark.
Mystery Creek Fieldays and we are looking forward to catching up with members and partners. If anyone wants to have a chat please don’t hesitate to track one of us down. You will be able to contact either of us by phone.
Haugh and Nathan Monk. Ben and Nathan won the Fencing competitions at Kirwee earlier this year and are heading to the National Fieldays to compete. It would be good to see as many of you as possible getting along to support the fencers.
There have been a few members that have commented on not being able to get staff and the skill shortage; this is not just a recent problem as I know members have brought this up before. We are trying our best to do what we can. We have been talking to the Government run Careers New Zealand and provided them with information to update their website. Next year it has been confirmed that we will be involved with the Get Ahead programme that NZYF organise throughout the country making contact with thousands of students looking for a career to pursue.
I am looking forward to spending quite a bit of my time around the fencing competitions, always a good place to hear and see what’s happening.
Lately I’ve been working just outside Queenstown on a project for overseas investment. I have fenced in many parts of the country but this must be the most picturesque places in the country. Once again I have had the pleasure of seeing the camaraderie of FCANZ members come to the fore. One of our members (I won’t mention names) has helped me both with input how to put up rabbit fencing, something I had not done before, to helping me with labour and equipment.
Both myself and Jane along with other members of the FCANZ Board are going to be present at
I wish everyone who is competing in the fencing competitions at the Fieldays all the best and especially my fellow South Islanders, Ben
Make the most of the good weather that comes along, and I will look forward to catching up with many of you at the Fieldays or our annual conference
Simon
A note from the FCANZ Desk!
Sincere thanks to our contributors: Mike Billinghurst KC Fencing Gary Graham Paul Fitzsimmons Ian Piebenga Geoff Hardy Debbie White Megan Fowlie
The Nelson conference is only two months away so register and book your accommodation. For those that were there last year I put a challenge out to you to bring another member with you or even a new member. I will have a drink on the bar for both you and the person that you have encouraged to come.
Cover Photo courtesy of KC Fencing.
The Countdown is now on to our Annual Conference in Nelson at the end of July! Noksee has put together a great programme with something for everyone. There is a nice balance of practical and theory sessions so that nobody is sitting around or standing around for too long. For those less interested in practical fencing we have a fantastic day planned on Saturday with activities that are unique to Nelson such as the markets. I was lucky enough to hear Philip Woolaston talk about his vision for Mahana Winery and the journey to achieving it so I am really looking forward to heading up there. I didn’t get a lot of hunting photos for the competition – in fact only two – congratulations to Paul Fitzsimmons and John Noakes. A wee prize is on its way to both of you. Keep warm out there and happy fencing. Cheers Jane
Our Mission: To increase the profile of fencing as a recognised profession and encourage a high level of workmanship through knowledge and standards. Phone: 0508 432 269
Disclaimer: WIRED takes all due care in the preparation of this magazine but is not responsible or liable for any mistakes or omissions. Articles that appear in WIRED do not necessarily reflect the opinions of FCANZ. WIRED welcomes contributions but reserves the right to edit. Material sent in will not be returned unless requested and we are sent a self- addressed stamped envelope to help with processing.
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It’s a big plus to buy a real Waratah ! ®
The term ‘waratah’ is the widely accepted name for steel fence posts in New Zealand, but according to Waratah, the iconic Australian fencing brand (from where the nickname derived) if a steel fence post doesn’t have ‘Waratah’ stamped on it, it’s not the real deal. Interest in the Waratah Jio® posts has been on a steady rise ever since Waratah’s return to New Zealand in late 2013. Waratah New Zealand Sales Manager Brendon Crequer believes this could be attributed to a shift in attitude towards cheaper, imported alternatives that emerged in Waratah’s absence years ago. “There’s a huge gap in quality. You put up a fence expecting that there will be an amount of light maintenance over its lifespan, but what farmers found was that the inferior quality of imported posts meant a significant increase in maintenance required for their fences and in some cases, the fences required replacement after a relatively short amount of time,” he said. Waratah offers two steel fence posts – a standard ‘waratah’ called Jio Star® and a bigger ‘waratah’ called Jio MaxY®. The Jio
Star is a standard Y profile post, whereas the Jio MaxY post serves as a timber intermediate post alternative, where additional strength or ground holding is required. “Waratah’s posts are designed for superior performance in three key areas: strength, ductility (which improves the ability to be re-straightened after impact), and triple the amount of holes, giving both design flexibility and better wire alignment options.” “Combine that with Waratah’s superior grade-specific steel and the exceptional corrosion protection from the hotdipped gal coating and you have a post that performs a cut above the rest.” Mr Crequer added that the posts can also be installed quickly and simply, without the need for heavy machinery and additional labour, which is a key benefit for those farmers with properties with steep or challenging country that prove impossible to navigate with tractors. Wire attachment is also made quick and easy with the use of the Jio post clips. “Without the need for heavy machinery
or additional labour, the job becomes significantly easier and much less time consuming. It’s a big plus for farmers and fencing contractors alike!” “Our range of products shows a level of technology and innovation that New Zealand farmers and contractors have not seen in the fencing category before,” he said.
For more information on Waratah products, visit www.waratahfencing.co.nz or call Brendon Crequer on 0421-393-010.
BUY THE BEST STEEL. GET THE BEST DEAL. Purchase genuine Waratah Jio® MaxY® and/or Star® posts in June and July 2015 and you’ll not only receive the strongest, toughest, most ductile posts we’ve ever made, you’ll also receive bonus Waratah gear. And the more posts you buy
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Claim your gift online at waratahfencing.co.nz/steeldeal before 7th August 2015. *In a single transaction. Claims must be received online by 6.00pm (NZT) Friday 7th August 2015. Not all Waratah products included. Please see website for complete terms and conditions. Any size combination of Jio® MaxY® and/or Star ® posts can be eligible for giveaway when purchased in multiples listed in grid above. For inclusions and exclusions visit the Waratah website www.waratahfencing.co.nz Phone: 0508 WARATAH (0508 927 2824). ®Registered Publication of the Fencing Contractors Association of New Zealand trademark of OneSteel Wire Pty Limited, Ingall Street, Mayfield, NSW 2304, Australia. ABN 59 000 010 873. H&T WAR0006.
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Fencing Profile
KC Fencing Wired caught up with Paul Fitzsimmons of KC Fencing Systems to find out a bit more about their business following the Christchurch Earthquake.
KC Fencing Systems sells and installs a variety of fence system from perimeter security fences through to pool and tennis court fences. The business which is based in central Christchurch was established by Ken Copplestone in the 1970’s. Paul Fitzsimmons is their Contracts Manager. Q: How long have you been with KC Fencing? A: After completing a Bachelor of Commerce in Valuation and Property Management, at Lincoln, I worked in various roles before coming to KC Fencing in 2006. I really enjoy the challenges around Industrial Fencing – no two jobs are the same. One week we are designing a complex sliding telescopic gate for a large corporate and the next week we are building a pool fence in a residential area. Q: A complex sliding telescopic gate – that sounds like a challenge. What is the process involved in getting this installed? Do you have in-house engineering or do you use a third party? Do you do the designs all yourselves? A: Yes – we design and build our own gates. We try to keep our designs reasonably standard, or at least modify a standard design for something specific. Basically the client comes to us with their requirements, and we make it happen. Our foreman who makes our sliding gates has worked for our company for over 25 years, and I don’t think there is anything he can’t do. We work together to achieve whatever is required. Our motto is “Do it once – do it right!” Q: What sort of special training do you and team do to work in the industrial fencing area? How hard is it for someone with good rural fencing skills to transition over?
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Safety fence at the Lyttelton Port using the Jio posts, and clips. The ground is all fill from demolition sites around the City, including large chunks of concrete, and bricks, and is topped in areas with AP40. The Jio posts performed exceptionally well, considering the hard nature of the ground.
A: Probably the greatest requirement is attention to detail, and if a person has general engineering, civil/siteworks, or building experience this certainly helps them towards working in our field. Being able to weld is a huge advantage. A good rural fencer can definitely make the transition. Barakat Contracting, Renner Contracting and Ewing Fencing are examples of Accredited Rural Fencers who also undertake industrial work. All our staff hold current Building Construction Passports from Site Safe, our Foremen have current First Aid certificates, and some of our staff have undertaken further specialist training, for example, the Orion EAC certificate to enable entrance into switchyards. Q: The Christchurch Earthquake must have changed the landscape that you work in considerably. Can you tell us a bit about that?
water table seemed to be a lot higher, and we would have water in a lot of the holes we dug, but this seems to have settled down now. Boundaries have shifted slightly in a lot of places, so an accurate survey is important. Probably the most amazing thing I saw was the Greendale substation switchyard, which seemed to have grown in length by about 1 metre. The ground stretched, but the top barb didn’t, so the corner posts pulled in at the top. Straight after the earthquake our yard was within the Red Zone, so access was virtually impossible and we had to shut down for a week. After that the CBD Red Zone shrunk a bit so we were OK, but we became accredited with CERA so we could get into the CBD Red Zone to undertake work in there without inconveniencing our clients. Our office was demolished shortly after, and this created some logistical issues in itself.
A: Posts we put in just before the earthquake changed in height by up to 30mm, which we had to deal with. For several months after the earthquake, the
Publication of the Fencing Contractors Association of New Zealand
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Q: Your team must be working on sites that have a strict Heatlh & Safety Policies in place. What are the some of the things that you have changed in preparation for the new bill that is due to be signed in the middle of the year? A: High Vis – we wear it everyday and my team don’t even notice anymore. As contractors on most of these sites we have to comply with other companies H&S policies. My team has been very good at signing in and out! They know I don’t like being rung about breaches! Probably the biggest issue is the long sleeves/long pants/hard hats policy adopted by some of the civil companies. Not much fun in a 32 degree Canterbury Nor-Wester. It is becoming increasingly obvious that everything will have to be documented going forward. It’s no longer good enough to say “my staff are trained in this” – we have to show records of the training. Toolbox meetings must be minuted, and many of the jobs we do require a SSSP (Site Specific Safety Plan) to be prepared and approved prior to commencing work on site.
with the company for a number of years, with 3 of our staff having 45 years fencing experience between them. Q: I see that you have submitted a pretty good hunting photo for the competition! Have you got any favourite places that you go to? A: Normally I just go up the back of Dad’s farm at Inchbonnie on the West Coast, which is where I grew up. When the helicopter deer recovery started up, they were getting a hundred a day off the hill behind Dad’s, and that pretty much cleaned it out. The deer are starting to come back a bit now though, and I got a good Hind over there at Easter time.
Well head Shed
Sliding telescopic gate
Q: Do you find it hard to get staff? A: Yes. As in most specialist jobs, it is very difficult to get experienced staff, and almost as difficult to get reliable labourers. Many of our staff have been
3.15mm Fence Batten Stapler
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worth my two cents
By Gary Graham
Gary Graham of Gary Graham Fencing Ltd. in Masterton began fencing over 30 years ago. He set up his Masterton based business in the 1990’s and has put fences in some of the steepest farms in the country. He shares his experience with us in My Two Cents Worth.
FINANCIALS
it. I wait till around the 2nd or 3rd of One other interesting thing we do is the following month then make the call. that the farm owns one tractor and I thought I would discuss my views on Why? because l have to - the wages have rammer and leases it to the company, some business and financial matters to be paid on time every time and so do there are two reasons for this- it makes - these views are just that and I’m no the IRD. I generally don’t have much good financial sense for the farm and guru on these - however I’ve learned trouble in this area but have had the odd the company and if something were to some things the hard way. I don’t like one from time to time. No shortage of go wrong with the company l would still bookwork but it just has to be done. money though - just not getting around While I appreciate many of you will have a tractor and rammer to carry on to paying. They have been some of the be very onto it I suspect others will with. larger jobs as well - up to 100k and boy not however for others fencing is a lifestyle or part-time business. The did they have me sweating and l couldn’t KNOWING YOUR BUSINESS issues are business structure, knowing directly call the person in charge of This area is so important especially your business and getting the money. paying the bills so had to annoy the for our size of operation-know your managers who tried their best, l hope. turnover, income, know your average Business structure- I have a smallish weekly/monthly and annual costs for farm and up to a few years ago run that GETTING THE WORK each column in your cashbook. I know and the fencing operation as one and Quite simple really - do a good job in how much l have to make each day after there were more than a few grey areas a timely manner, charge a fair price for wages and analyse every job after or and really had no idea if I was making both parties and the work just comes sometimes during to make sure I am money until the books were done - I along mostly through repeat business on target. We don’t do a lot of hourly just lived on what was left over. As and referrals. Take on the repairs as well work, except for fiddly or repair work. I the fencing side grew we had to change as the cream and have a can- do attitude prefer to charge by the metre either and with my son joining the business and stick to what you know. We are labour only or labour and materials we were advised to split the two and fortunate we have the grunt, financial, at a standing $/m rate. A lot of clients form a limited liability company labour, machinery and experience all don’t ask for a price beforehand and I with the fencing. The main problems built up through reputation. work out what it owes me and charge changing to a company were three long a fair price for me and a fair price for term suppliers not impressed with the RISKS them. We do get some hourly work and words ‘limited liability’ and I had to I have touched on a few – people not supply materials which l hate because give personal guarantees to get credit paying, personal guarantees and the we have to count, record then itemise on with them. Ironically the reason for the other area that I look at is undoubtedly the account sometimes taking a couple limited liability company is to prevent health and safety rules and regulations. of pages and I sometimes doubt l have anyone getting my farm if the fencing In summary -is your business structure charged for everything or worse double part fails. And l have never had bad debt right for you? Do you really know your charged and they count the bloody history and pay all bills pretty much on business? Ask for the money? And do a posts or something(has happened -he time. good job? If so all should be well miscounted) One thing that has changed is that now My advice is know your business inside I pay myself an hourly rate of pay like out and keep it simple, know the risks the other staff, this has the advantage and hold some reserves. of tax-paid income, not living on what is left over and smaller company tax ASK FOR THE MONEY obligations - read ‘surprises’ and ACC When l first started out a banker gave can be paid and available without a me some advice- ‘ask for the money’. He fight. The company pays an annual taxwarned me so many small businesses paid dividend as well, also we have a like yours and mine fall over simply simple way to succession from father to son, ‘just buy the shares boy’ and it is my because the operator won’t ask for the exit strategy. The company seems to be money when it is overdue. He said you working for us. have done the work you are entitled to Publication of the Fencing Contractors Association of New Zealand
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Rear Mounts - Side Mounts - Rotational Designs Rock Spike and planetary drive Auger Kits
We are at Fieldays Site C52
www.revolutionpostdrivers.co.nz ph 0800 957 868 mob 0274 957 868
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NEW ST-315i STaplEr porTablE poWErful lighTWEighT ST-315i features Impulse battery technology No hoses or compressors Adjustable depth of drive Drives 3.15mm diameter staples Suitable for 33 and 40mm length staples Up to 1000 staples per fuel cell Up to 3000 staples battery charge
+ SpECial offEr - frEE STaplE-mate STaplE pullEr WiTh EvEry Tool purChaSEd aT fiEldayS* t ed a u l a v
$135
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*10 - 13 June 2015, Mystery Creek Fieldays 1/06/15 7:37 PM
ST-315i Impulse Fencing Stapler Introducing another world first from STOCK-ade, the people who brought you the world’s first power stapler for rural livestock fencing and horticulture STOCK-ade is proud to announce the release of the world’s first heavy duty Impulse gas powered fencing stapler. Designed for heavy duty batten fencing applications, the ST315i tool and fastener program comes hard on the heels of the super duty ST-400 pneumatic barbed fencing stapler.
Reliable Design
Developed in New Zealand for use with STOCK-ade staple fastener packs, the new ST315i packs all of the punch of a bar-room brawl and none of the fuss. Delivering nearly 90j of power, there is no timber batten or post the the ST-315i can’t handle.
Supplied in a rugged nylon protective case, the new ST-315i comes with all the items needed to get started right away; two batteries, charger kit, eye and ear protection, full instructions including troubleshooting guide, and hex keys for adjustments.
Packing some real fire power, the ST-315i has a quick clear nose design for easy clearing of staple jams. An adjustable depth of drive for soft and hard timber is standard and a battery charging light is built into the handle so you know you always have enough power on hand.
Staple/Fuel Packs
5 x Faster
Staple 5 x faster than traditional hand hammering. The STOCK-ade ST-315i Impulse tool will speed up medium to long run fencing jobs. Power staplers are not only a great labour saver but also great for roping in other labour units on the farm that might be watching TV or engaged in general loafing.
Portable No Compressor
The ST-315i cordless Impulse design means no compressors or hoses to tangle and lets you get on with stapling off the fence while the rest of the crew pounds the posts. Ideal for bush blocks and and steep hill country where lugging a compressor is tough work - all you need is your STOCK-ade Impulse stapler, staples and fence belt. The ST-315i is great to take along on farm patrol to fix problems on the spot, without having to plan a return trip with cumbersome equipment. Perfect for quick fence maintenance in remote country.
No need to search for fuel - it already comes with the staples in two handy staple packs. STOCKade has released the standard 33 x 3.15mm batten staple and its big brother the 40 x 3.15mm staple. Both staple/fuel packs come with enough fuel to cover the amount of staples in the pack; 2,000 33mm staples and 1,800 40mm staples. Made in New Zealand, our STOCK-ade staples offer the highest grade heavy coat galvanising for staples available in New Zealand. Both staple formats are non-barbed for superior driving performance and holding power in dry timber.
Plug and Play
There is no additional equipment needed to get started, simply charge the batteries (supplied), grab your pack of STOCK-ade Impulse staples and hit the fence line. When fully charged, the new battery design will last up to 3,000 shots, with enough fuel in each staple pack to finish the staples.
Accessories
Don’t forget our other great STOCK-ade products. FENCE-gear Belt Kit Now you’re not tied to your compressor, you need a convenient way to carry your staples. Ideal for working remotely. STAPLE-mate Staple Puller The world’s best one handed staple puller. No fatigue, easy to use, comes with a convenient tool scabbard to fit your FENCE-gear belt kit. Staple Case Look for promotions featuring our staple case ammo can - great for protecting your staples and STAPLE-mate from the weather. Easy to carry and store. The team at STOCK-ade is proud to bring you the ST-315i Impulse cordless stapler, another innovative new fencing solution. Developed in New Zealand by Kiwi’s dedicated to finding better ways for our Kiwi fencers and farmers. Come and see us at Mystery Creek Fieldays at the Wiremark Marquee FCANZ tent. National Agricultural Fieldays 10-13th June - Mystery Creek Available at all leading STOCK-ade outlets nationwide from March 1st STOCK-ade... Makes Fencing
Publication of the Fencing Contractors Association of New Zealand
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We’ll Treat you Right.
Ian Piebenga, Managing Director, Permapine
In a previous edition of “Wired” PermaPine have introduced themselves and highlighted how we will try and add value for FCANZ and its members. In this article we will talk about wood preservation. Without the addition of preservative New Zealand grown pine (mainly radiata pine) is not durable. Untreated pine will decay quickly when in ground contact. By far in away the most common wood preservative used in New Zealand is CCA, very small volumes of alternative chemicals such as Tanalith E and ACQ are also used. This article will cover CCA, its makeup, Health and Safety, Quality Control processes for treating operations, environmental considerations, and installation of CCA treated products.
Permapine Tanalised® Posts and Poles
Synonymous with durability, Tanalith® CCA is the original Tanalised® treatment and it has been used in New Zealand for over 60 years during which time it has stood the test of time. CCA remains the most popular wood treatment by far with post producers and rural end users alike due to the fact it is durable, cost effective and safe. Tanalith® CCA is suitable for a wide range of outdoor wood applications in rural, residential, commercial and industrial applications. It is the ideal treatment for New Zealand Radiata pine particularly in situations where the most robust protection and reliability is needed such as posts, and poles.
CCA is comprised of
• Copper which acts as a fungicide to prevent rot, • Chromium which fixes the chemical in the wood and • Arsenic which acts as an insecticide and secondary fungicide.
Colin “Pinetree” Meads – Rugby legend and Tanalised® ambassador recommends PermaPine Tanalised® posts and poles.
CCA treatment can only be carried out in approved industrial facilities in accordance with relevant standards and legislation. The treatment process starts with correct conditioning of the wood products by air, kiln or steam drying. This ensures that the wood is able to absorb the treatment solution to the correct level. The wood products are impregnated with the treatment solution in high pressure autoclave vessels in which the chemical is forced deep into the wood structure. Unused solution is pumped back to the holding tanks so H3.2 – Battens, decks, rails, that there is 100% internal recovery and H4 – Posts and rails with zero discharge to the environment. All ground contact, wood treatment facilities are required to H5 – Poles, piles, retaining walls, have independent third party auditors H6 – Marine piles, oyster stakes Overall the combination of those three ingredients provides a wood treatment that has no equal even after all these years. In New Zealand the treatment of wood is covered by a New Zealand Standard. Manufacturers and wood treaters must comply with NZS3640 which details the specific treatment requirements for CCA (and other preservatives) according to the end use application and treatment level (or H level) required such as the following;
12
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to ensure compliance with Standards and industry operating procedures. Once impregnated into the wood the CCA chemical undergoes a series of reactions and becomes fixed within the wood structure. Hence it poses very little, if any, risk to users, the public or the environment in normal use situations. The presence of the copper and chromium compounds gives the treated wood the characteristic green colour. The treatment also slightly increases the corrosion potential of the wood which it why it is necessary to use hot dip galvanized steel, stainless steel or other corrosion resistant fasteners and fixings with the treated wood products.
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Quality Control Quality Control with wood treatment is of paramount importance in ensuring product will be durable, PermaPine treated product is guaranteed for 50 years against insect and fungal attack. A quick summary of Quality Control systems followed at PermaPine is: • The uptake of CCA in every charge is measured. A charge sheet for every treatment charge is produced and filed. This includes details of every packet number within the charge, which is kept for future reference and tracked through Point of Sale • Every 10th charge is sampled by taking core samples to check CCA penetration • At a nominated frequency charges are sampled and sent off site for independent checking against NZS3640 • Each month all charge information is sent to Asure Quality for review • Asure Quality will visit site at random intervals and sample treated product to check compliance to NZS3640.
from the treated wood products in normal use situations is very limited and Unlikely to prose any significant risks. In 2003 the Environmental Risk Management Authority of New Zealand (ERMANZ) reviewed the use of CCA wood preservative and concluded that in the great majority of circumstances, there was no evidence of significant risk to the community or the environment from its use.
fasteners, fixings, wire and accessories when in contact with CCA treated wood. PermaPine is confident in the durability of our Tanalith® treated rural posts and poles. With our preservative supplier Arch Wood Protection we provide a 50 year limited guaranteed on H4 and H5 roundwood against decay and insects. Contact us for further details.
Installation
Always use the treated posts as supplied and do not split or re-saw the treated products. If posts are cut to length it is recommended to apply an end-sealing preservative to the cut face. Suitable products such as Tanalised® Enseal and Metalex are available from timber and hardware merchants. As above, always use good quality corrosion resistant
This comprehensive Quality Control programme provides confidence that product will be well treated.
Handling and Safety
CCA treated wood products are safe for use in the situations described. However as with almost any material there are certain handing and safety precautions that should be taken when working with and using the products. • DO NOT BURN CCA treated wood, off-cuts or waste as toxic fumes or residues may be produced. • Avoid inhaling the wood dust when machining or sanding. Wear a filter mask if necessary. • Wash hands after work. • Dispose of off cuts through normal waste collection services.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS.
The fixation of the chemicals in the wood means that the treatment is very resistant to leaching. Studies of ground and water in contact with CCA treated wood products shows that any contamination
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The new maximum
Introducing the new STIHL MS 661 C-M Magnum Chainsaw Contact your local STIHL Dealer to arrange a demonstration www.stihl.co.nz 0800 4 STIHL
YOU’LL ONLY NEED ONE
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R.I.P
No someone hasn’t died, but in time something is going to and that something is the good old kiwi attitude of “she’ll be right”. Recently I attended a meeting run by the Rural Contractors of New Zealand. The focus of the night was Health and Safety (H&S). Basically the H&S at Work Act 2015 will take affect after July 2015 if passed which sounds likely as the first reading was passed in March 2014. There will be numerous changes which will be minor, the main emphasis of the Bill will not change but may be strengthened. There is too much information to print so I strongly recommend that you read this to ensure you understand what the impact is on your business. If, or when, this happens the “she’ll be right” attitude will die a slow agonising death as Worksafe has had enough. One of the 5 sectors to be targeted is Agriculture
which has cost ACC $171 million over a 5 year period in workplace accidents. One of the ways they intend to change the “she’ll be right” attitude will be where it hurts most, the back pocket! These will include infringement fines for both employers and employees for not abiding by the Worksafe regulations or worse a magistrate will decide depending on the severity of the infringement. I used to subscribe to the “she’ll be right” theory, then my attitude started to change when I started a family , my uncle nearly lost his eye from some high tensile wire, then last year my wife was involved in a life threatening incident at her work. I decided to sign up with a H&S company, the main reason being that my family and my employees families want us home alive, and in one piece at the end of the day. Most people including myself have had or know of someone that had a “F@#.k that was close” moment sometime in their lives.
Most of these moments happen due the ‘’she’ll be right’’ attitude, when you could not be bothered putting on that protective gear, didn’t get that safety feature fixed on a piece of equipment, were in a rush to get home, were tired or hungry, were not trained for the task, took that short cut, or were stressed. Times are changing, whether it’s in July the bill is passed or at a later date, the fact is that H&S is here to stay and no business will be immune. Every business in every sector, big and small, throughout New Zealand at some stage will have to abide by the regulations. The ‘’she’ll be right’’ attitude is going to die and in some businesses, is already dead. R.I.P
Lindsay Hayman Hayman Fencing Ltd
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FROM THE TOP OF
THE SOUTH Greetings from the Tasman Region. We are half way through the year already. I think the year has sped up or something, because I’m having trouble keeping up with it. The Fieldays at Mystery Creek are coming up on the 10th – 13th June. So looking forward to catching up with some of our fellow members. I will be on the Goldpine site doing a few demos. The South Island Fieldays at Kirwee went well with a new site, plenty of room to move around and good access in and out of the event. Was great catching up with a lot of our FCANZ members and Partners. I have had a few calls lately about boundary fences. Make sure you do your homework first before you get on site and become the meat in the sandwich. There is a Fencing Act 1978. A good thing to do would be have a boundary fence agreement between both parties signed by all parties concerned, it saves
a lot of hassles later. No doubt a lot of you would have seen the wooden fence saga in Nelson regarding the gaps between the palings. At least common sense prevailed in the end. Does make you wonder where things are heading. Work Safe NZ is another issue that we all need to take seriously and be involved with. Hopefully having some input into legislation before it becomes law. We plan to have some more on this at this years conference. AGM and Conference planning is well under way on the 24th – 26th July 2015 in Nelson. We will have an action packed weekend for you all, so I hope you can keep up. We will have speakers, visits to Hop Gardens, Wind Break Structures, The Brook Sanctuary Predator Fencing and physical fencing of 2 teams, Waratahs verses wooden fence posts, which I am sure will create some rivalry and then off to do a bit of
by John Noakes
clay bird shooting just to keep your eye in. We might also fit in sampling the boutique beers that are in abundance in this area. It looks like the ladies are going to have an action packed day as well around the Tasman region and not too much travel this year. Looking forward to seeing you all in Nelson in July. By the time you read this I’ll be out the back of Tekapo Tahr hunting just to keep my fitness up and put some thought into the next fencing job. It is important to have some R&R and see some of the most scenic spots around New Zealand and record a few with the camera and enjoy it with good friends. All the best fellow fencers, work hard and play harder.
cheers Noksee .
Publication of the Fencing Contractors Association of New Zealand
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15 1/06/15 7:37 PM
Fence Rules Fences can be a source of contention Fence Rules - is it built on a boundary? Has everyone agreed to pay? What are your rights? Thinking about building a new fence? Sometimes it’s easier said than done and it’s not usually a decision you can make on your own. What you can and can’t do is pretty clear under the Fencing Act 1978 if you share a fence with neighbours. The act is black and white - stating catergorically that all affected neighbours should split the bill for an “adequate” boundary fence that is “reasonably satisfactory”. That means it’s high time for a chat with your neighbour if they want to erect a gold-plated fence but you think a classic wooden model would do the job just as well. It’s essential to discuss shared boundary fencing plans before you get too far ahead of yourself. All going well, both parties will agree to spit the bill down the middle and that’s the end of the story. But there is an official process to follow if someone objects to the proposal. A ‘fencing notice’ (see the Fencing Act for a template) gives both parties room to appeal and negotiate. An official fencing notice should state that it’s served under the Fencing Act 1978; include the full name and
addresses of all the people affected; the type of boundary fence you want to build; who will build it, how much it will cost, and when construction will start. It also needs to give yur neighbours 21 days to formally object to the proposal and the chance, if they don’t want to help pay for it, to say who should and why. The notice should also clearly state that if your neighbours don’t come back to you within 21 days they agree to the proposal by default, effectively lose their right to complain and will have to split the cost as proposed. A neighbour objecting to your proposal or not wanting a new fence should serve you with a cross-notice, outlining exactly why they object, suggesting alternative options, and reaching you within 21 days. The point of the fence notice process is to get both parties’ objections out on the table in order to come up with a solution that everyone agrees on. Ongoing disputes can be taken to the Small Claims Tribunal, Disputes Tribunal or a district court for a fee. A new fence should be built right on the boundary line and or as near to it as practical. Boundary fences shouldn’t be erected on private land, unless the
owner of the property agrees. The posts should be planted on the boundary line and if there aren’t any posts the centre of the fence should be positioned on it. Remember, the construction of a fence shouldn’t make either side lose out. A landowner can ask the council to remove any fence infringing on their property at the expense of the person who erected it. If the worst comes to the worst, you’re free to build the fence yourself on your own property - as long as it’s entirely on your land and you pay for it. You’ll probably risk the friendship of your neighbours, plus there’s nothing stopping them from asking for a boundary fence further down the track. These rules don’t apply to damage though. You have no obligatation to help pay for a new fence that a neighbour has backed into with a car. If they destroyed it, they need to pay for it. Visit your local Citizens Advice Bureau or Google ‘Fencing Act 1978’ for more information about fences and managing fence related disputes with your neighbours.
Article supplied from the Tasman Leader
16 Wired JUNE NEW2015.indd 16
Publication of the Fencing Contractors Association of New Zealand
1/06/15 7:37 PM
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1/06/15 7:37 PM
my perspective on the
New Health & Safety Laws
by Geoff Hardy, an Auckland commercial lawyer
You should all be aware by now that new health and safety laws are in the pipeline. The impetus for change came from the Christchurch earthquakes and the Pike River mining disaster, and the tragic loss of life, serious injuries and emotional trauma they resulted in. These and the official enquiries that followed them, persuaded the Government to adopt a brand new health and safety law modelled on the Australian legislation. Obviously this is not the first time we have had health and safety laws – we have had them for more than 100 years – but in the past people have not taken them seriously enough and they have not been enforced effectively. The new law is known as the Health and Safety Reform Bill, which was introduced on 10 March 2014 and was referred to Parliament’s Transport and Industrial Relations Committee. That Committee accepted public submissions on the Bill up until 9 May 2014 but it is not due to report back to Parliament until 30 March 2015. Although the new law (to be named the Health and Safety at Work Act or the “HSW Act”) was originally intended to be passed by 1 April 2015, that is now more likely to happen in the second half of 2015. Then we will all have some time to get accustomed to it before it actually comes into force.
THE MAIN CHANGE IS THE LIABILITY The HSW Act will differ from the current Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992 (the “HSE Act”) in two important respects. First, the penalties will be significantly increased (to a maximum of 5 years imprisonment and a $600,000 fine for individuals, and a maximum $3m fine for companies). Secondly, much greater liability will be imposed on the directors and senior employees of the businesses concerned. Under the existing HSE Act and its Regulations, a business proprietor such as a fencing contractor has a large
18 Wired JUNE NEW2015.indd 18
number of specific health and safety duties. If you are an employer you have by far the most duties, but you also have a few duties if you are in charge of a workplace or work equipment, or if you sell or hire out work equipment, or you hire contractors, or you are selfemployed, or you are an employee. You do have to get to know your specific obligations, although in most cases they boil down to taking all practicable steps to ensure no-one is harmed by your work. Under the HSW Act the approach is much the same but the terminology is slightly different. There are roughly 16 separate duties you have to comply with, and these are imposed mostly on a “person conducting a business or undertaking” (a “PCBU”). All fencing contractors running their own business are covered by these rules, but employees and individual contractors are not, although they have their own set of requirements to comply with.
SENIOR MANAGERS ARE MORE EXPOSED The new duties (which are summarised below) are not significantly different from the existing ones, and most of them are capable of applying to a fencing business. In general you only have to do what is “reasonably practicable”, but you cannot insure against your potential liability, and you cannot delegate or contract out of your duties, so there is no escaping them. Most importantly, all directors, partners, trading trustees, and senior managers of the fencing business must exercise “due diligence” to ensure their business complies with its duties, and they will face heavy penalties if they don’t.
WHAT ARE THE NEW DUTIES?
The duties imposed on all PCBUs comprise the following: • Ensure the health and safety of all affected workers. • Ensure no-one else is put at risk from your work. • Ensure you have a risk-free work environment. • Ensure your plant and structures are safe. • Ensure you have safe systems of work. • Ensure the safe use, handling & storage of plant, etc. • Ensure there are adequate facilities for the welfare of workers. • Ensure all necessary information, training, instruction or supervision is provided to protect from risks. • Ensure worker health and conditions are monitored. • If you have management or control of a workplace, ensure it is largely risk-free. • If you have management or control of fixtures, fittings, or plant, ensure they are largely risk-free. • If you design plant, substances or structures, ensure they are largely risk-free. • If you manufacture plant, substances or structures, ensure they are largely risk-free. • If you import plant, substances or structures, ensure they are largely risk-free. • If you supply plant, substances or structures, ensure they are largely risk-free. • If you install, construct or commission plant or structures, ensure they are largely risk-free.
Publication of the Fencing Contractors Association of New Zealand
1/06/15 7:37 PM
What does due diligence involve? Well it includes taking reasonable steps to become (and remain) informed about health and safety issues, and to fully understand your own operations, hazards and risks. You have to ensure the business has (and uses) appropriate resources and processes to eliminate or minimise those risks, that it gathers information about incidents, hazards and risks, and that it acts on that information promptly. Finally, you have to ensure that your business has (and implements) processes for complying with its duties and obligations, and you have to verify your business does all the above things.
humans cut corners, as they typically do. So when a work-related accident or illness occurs, liability generally follows the event, because the very occurrence of the accident or illness pretty much demonstrates that a practicable step wasn’t taken.
be defeatist. One of the major factors that does result in a lower sentence is the fact that you have been diligent about trying to manage the hazards in your workplace. And there are plenty of good-value consultants around to help you do that.
In fact, in approximately 75% of those cases the business owner pleaded guilty to the charge, even if the victim had gone to extraordinary lengths to get around all the safety precautions that had been put in place. After pleading guilty, all the business owner can do then is suggest reasons why a lower sentence is appropriate. But that is no reason to
Just remember that despite all the hype, OSH law isn’t changing much, so it’s no reason to give up the fencing business. However, I would give some serious thought to whether I wanted to become a non-executive director or CEO of a large fencing contractor.
IT’S WORTH TAKING IT SERIOUSLY I wrote a textbook on OSH Law in 1998, when the HSE Act was relatively new. In the course of doing that I researched every case that had been decided on the Act since its introduction. What those cases demonstrated is that it is impossible for anyone in business to anticipate and avoid every risk, particularly when
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Geoff Hardy has 39 years’ experience as a commercial lawyer and is the senior lawyer in the Auckland firm “Madison Hardy”. He guarantees personal attention to new clients at competitive rates. His phone number is (09) 379 0700, fax (09) 379 0504, and e-mail geoff@madisonhardy.com. This article is not intended to be relied upon as legal advice.
1/06/15 7:37 PM
CONFERENCE 2015 This year the FCANZ Conference is being held in Noksee’s home town of Nelson. From stunning golden beaches to snow-capped mountains and picturesque lakes, Nelson is beautiful any time of year. The activities and scenary in Nelson are a perfect backdrop for our annual conference. While the final details are still being tweaked we certainly have some interesting site visits planned including hop growers and craft beers. The conference is a great opportunity to catch up with like-minded people, talk about our industry and have your say in our direction going forward. Ladies, we have something special for you as well. From what I’ve heard the ladies that attended last year cannot wait to be part of the conference again this year! Trailways Hotel have given us a fantastic room rate of $119 per room per night, based on single twin or double occupancy, along with a special offer of $23 per person for a full cooked Breakfast. Centrally located, within 5 minutes of the shopping centre, markets, Restaurants, information centre, Trailways rooms are all air conditioned, many with Maitai River or Nelson city views and private balconies. To view www.trailwayshotel.co.nz We would like to see all FCANZ members – this is your opportunity to have an enjoyable weekend, meet members from all over New Zealand along with our partners and sponsors. This is your conference, the more you put in the more you will get out.
ACCOMMODATION PACKAGE – Trailways Hotel Nelson Special Room Rate of $119.00 per night. Add on a full cooked breakfast for $23 per person. See our website – www.fencingcontractors.co.nz for the booking form or contact Trailways Hotel directly on 0800 872 459 Please note that the room allocation will be released on 23rd June 2015.
Trailways Hotel
2015 FCANZ AGM / CONFERENCE REGISTRATION FORM Member Name: Postal Address:
Contact Phone: Mobile: Number Attending:
Names of Those Attending:
Trafalger Street
Any Special Dietary Requirements:
Please note to us either via email or phone if you have any dietary requirements Payments for FCANZ AGM can be made by cheque ‐ payable to: FCANZ ‐ PO Box 19 389, Hamilton, 3244; or direct deposit to bank account 02 0724 0038194 00 with your name as reference.
Abel Tasman
Please confirm attendance by Friday 17th July 2015 The cost for this registration is $280 (inc GST), this excludes travel and accommodation. If you withdraw or cancel your attendance within 21 days of the event there is a 30% charge and within 7 days prior to the event there is no refund. Should you have any queries please email Jane at: operations@fencingcontactors.co.nz
Download the Registration Form from the FCANZ website – www.fencingcontractors.co.nz
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Publication of the Fencing Contractors Association of New Zealand
1/06/15 7:38 PM
2015 AGM & CONFERENCE Nelson 24th-26th July 2015 Conference Fee $280 per person
Timetable Friday 24th July
9.00 – 10.00 10.00 – 10.15am 10.15am – 10.30am 10.30am – 11.30am 11.30am – 3pm
Registration and Morning tea Welcome from FCANZ President Simon Fuller Address from Wiremark, Strategic Partner AGM Health & Safety Workshop Part 1 • What the new legislation will mean for Fencing Contractors • What is required from Councils and Corporates • Creating a H&S Culture • Paperwork – what do you really need?
3pm
Brook Waimarama Sanctuary. This mainland “ecological island” is an excellent example of pest proof fencing. Followed by a visit to Moutere Inn, New Zealand’s oldest pub.
6pm
Arrive back at Trailways.
Evening meal is not included but there are some fantastic places to eat out in Nelson and the surrounding region.
Saturday 25th July Option 1
8.00 am – 5pm Field Trip • Mac Hops Nursery Garden in Motueka to look at Hop structures and techniques. • Effective windbreak structures and using windbreak cloth with Bruce Wood • Practical session at Noksee Fencing • Clay Bird Shoot at Golden Downs Gun Club
Option 2
8.30am – 4.30pm Field Trip • Seminar To be confirmed • Nelson Markets in Montgomery Square • Wollaston at Mahana Winery for lunch • WOW & Classic Cars Museum Evening Dinner is at Trailways starts with Happy Hour at 6pm followed by dinner & Guest speaker at 7pm.
Sunday 26th July
9am – 10.30am
Discussion time and close by President followed by a cup of tea.
Please note: Agenda is subject to change Registration Form is on the FCANZ website – www.fencingcontractors.co.nz For more information on the conference and any questions on how to register please contact Jane on 0508 432 269 Or email Operations@fencingcontractors.co.nz
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“How much should I charge my clients per metre of fence line?”
This is a common question that comes to us at FCANZ and there is no easy answer. The reality is that you need to work out your cost structures first and these are variable across each business. Once you know that number then depending on the terrain you are working on will impact the number of metres you can do per hour. Many service businesses find it difficult to set a fair charge-out rate. You obviously want to set competitive charge-out rates, but just as important is not setting an unrealistically low charge-out rate that means you’re struggling to get anywhere. Here are some guidelines on establishing a fair but profitable rate for your business.
How to work out a charge-out rate These are the six basic considerations to help you work out a charge-out rate for your business: • Decide what income you want from your business • Work out how many hours you realistically charge out per year • Work out a chargeable rate to achieve your income • Work out your overhead costs • Work out an additional hourly rate to cover these costs as well • Add a profit margin. This article will outline these considerations to help you calculate your business’ charge-out rate.
1. Decide what income you want Let’s start by assuming that you want an annual income of at least $48,000 (before tax) from your business. The figure you choose could be related to the standard of living you want, what you could earn elsewhere as a salary, or what you could earn by investing your money elsewhere, plus a risk margin for being in business.
2. How many hours can you realistically charge out? When you’re selling your knowledge, skills and services, you’re effectively selling time. The key point here is that you have to be realistic about the amount of time you can actually charge out during any one year. For example, if you work 40 hours a week every week of the year, you theoretically have 40 x 52 = 2,080 hours of working time at your disposal. However, in most cases, unless you’re prepared to work considerable overtime, you’re unlikely
22 Wired JUNE NEW2015.indd 22
to work this full amount. You do need some holidays (say three weeks). If you add up all the statutory holidays (Easter, Christmas, New Year, Waitangi day, etc., you’ll find that they take away another two weeks. If you get sick, you might lose another week. So the working year now shrinks to a more realistic 45 weeks of 40 hours, or a total of 1,800 hours. This is how it’s worked out: Total year: 52 weeks x 40
2,080
Deduct: Holidays: 4 weeks x 40 hours
160
Statutory Holidays: 2 weeks x 40 hours
80
Sickness: 1 week x 40 hours
40
Total hours to deduct =
280
Balance available = 2,080 - 280
1800
(or 45 weeks at 40 hours per week)
But it would still be unrealistic to imagine that you can bill out all these hours. Think of all the other nonchargeable activities you’re involved with in running your business: • • • • • • •
administrative tasks banking meetings tendering for work marketing and promotion work travelling to clients/jobs tea and toilet breaks, etc.
One way to find out how much time you’re spending on such tasks is to keep a diary for a week (or longer if appropriate). You might be surprised to find out how much time is taken up with such ‘non-productive’ work. Let’s assume at a conservative estimate that these non-chargeable tasks take up 25% of your time. So one quarter of the 1,800 available hours needs to be deducted for these tasks: 25% of 1,800 = 450 hours. Subtracting 450 from 1,800 leaves you with a total of 1,350 chargeable hours.
3. Working out your charge-out rate to cover your income requirements
Now you can work out a charge-out rate to cover the income you want from the business. You’re aiming to earn a minimum of $48,000. You’re able to charge out only 1,350 hours yearly. To achieve your desired income, you must therefore charge your time out at $48,000 divided by 1,350 = $35.56 per hour. To this you must also add the ACC levy appropriate to your line of work. Ask your accountant how much you should add on to cover this. Let’s say the ACC levy rate for your activity is 4%. So $35.56 plus 4% = $36.98. So in order to earn a salary of $48,000 a year, you must at least charge your time out at $37.00 (rounded up). But this is only the labour component of your charge out rate. What about your office overheads (the cost of running a business)? You have to recover these costs as well, or you’ll be running at a loss. This takes us to step four
4. Working out your overheads
You should know what your overhead costs are likely to be, either from your Business Plan or from your Cashflow Forecasts. You can also check your previous Profit and Loss Statement and isolate all of the overheads on it. Accounting fee
$1,000
Advertising
$2,000
Cleaning
$500
Depreciation
$1,000
Heat, light, power
$1000
Insurance
$600
Legal fees
$600
Motor vehicle
$3000
Printing
$800
Rent
$6500
Repairs and maintenance
$900
Telephone
$1200
Other
$200
TOTAL
Let’s round this off to $20,000. (Very few businesses can realistically operate with overheads of less than $20,000 a year). Publication of the Fencing Contractors Association of New Zealand
1/06/15 7:38 PM
5. Work out an addition to your hourly rate to cover these costs We’ve established that to earn a salary of $48,000 a year, you must at least charge your time out at $37.00. Now we need to work out an addition to this hourly rate to cover your costs. So your overhead costs of $20,000 divided by the 1,350 hours you can charge-out per year means you need to add another $14.80 to your hourly charge-out rate of $37.00. This makes your hourly rate at $51.80. But at this point, you’re not yet earning profit on your work
6. Adding a profit margin
So far the charge-out rate will enable you to achieve your required income, plus an extra amount per hour to cover your business expenses and overheads. There’s one extra factor to add: a profit margin. In addition to making your target salary of $48,000, you also need to make a profit margin. After all, you will need to replace equipment that wears out and make repairs. You don’t want to be taking this money out of your salary, or else you won’t really be earning that $48,000 a year. So the final calculation is: Charge-out rate to cover your income requiremen
$37.00
Charge-out rate to cover your overheads (business expenses)
$14.80
Subtotal
$51.80
Profit margin (say 15%)
$7.77
Final charge-out rate
$59.57
This means that your charge-out rate should realistically be at least $60.00 an hour minimum, (or $69 per hour if you’re quoting on a GST inclusive basis, since you’d have to add GST of 15% = $9.00, to this figure).
Is the rate competitive? At this stage you might be worried that the charge-out rate is uncompetitive compared to what others in your industry are charging. In some cases you might have to remain within an industry scale of fees. In any event you do have to be aware of the average in your industry as you might struggle to get work if you are a long way out. Some options are outlined below.
Lower than average f your calculated charge-out rate is lower than the industry average, then you don’t have a problem - instead you have an opportunity to earn a better income and you can set your sights higher. t
Lack of confidence Many businesses undercharge at the start - mainly through lack of confidence or because they have not worked out how much it actually costs to run a business and make a reasonable profit! Might this be the problem here? Charging too little for your skills and services can be as bad for business as charging too much because it can undermine people’s confidence in you. They might wonder why you are so much cheaper than others.t
Higher than average
If your charge-out rate is higher than the industry average, then: • It may be that other new start-ups are charging at unrealistic levels. There is little you can do to counter this problem. Your one consolation is that these people are not likely to be in business for long, but in the meantime they have spoilt the market for others. • Go over all the figures carefully again. Is anything unrealistic? After a year or so of operation, you’ll be in a better position to gauge more accurately the number of billable hours you can actually achieve in a year. One way to lower your charge-out rate is increase the number of hours you can charge out. For example, if you can bill out at $69.00 per hour, and there is plenty of work around, does it make sense for you to do administrative tasks that someone else could do at, say, $20 per hour? • If your rate is still well above average, then you might look at emphasizing the value-added components that justify the difference, such as guarantees, superior quality and service, backup and training. The information for this article was sourced from the ANZ website.
2006 McCormick CX 105 3550 hours 105 hp $31,000 incl gst Further information contact Simon 021 376 805
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Hayes™ gates
– an open and shut case We tend to curse them when they’ve been left open and the stock escapes, or if they’re not doing the job properly – and while we can’t really help with the former we certainly can help ensure your gates are doing the job properly. Proudly made in New Zealand for our rugged conditions, Hayes gates are found hard at work up and down the country. All gates bearing the Hayes name are built to last. They are hot dip galvanized to ensure the whole gate is covered (including all internal faces and welds), and have high quality welding and New Zealand made steel pipework, ensuring there is no compromise on quality and durability. Choose from the range of over 20 different designs or customise your own utilising the Hayes made-to-order service. The Hayes gates range from Tru-Test Group includes standard paddock, yard and holding gates and madeto-order (MTO) gates including the
‘Tangihau’ cattle yard gate, sheep gates and deer escapes. Hayes MTO gates can be customised to any length, height or design to suit the exact fencing or farming requirements. The standard lead time for MTO gates is up to 20 working days however often delivery is quicker than this. Most Hayes gates include the innovative adjustable hinge – incorporating a hard wearing nylon insert to insulate the gate and prevent you from receiving an electric shock, plus double bolts to improve gate durability, strength and performance.
The gates’ double bolted hinge improves durability, strength, and performance. The double bolted hinge also increases clamping and limits unwanted gate movements; preventing gates from coming off the gudgeon. The hinges are adjustable to suit any gudgeon configurations and can be adjusted to raise or lower the gate. So when you next think about replacing or adding gates, there’s no need to think
too far from home. Think New Zealand-made Hayes gates. Enquires for custom-made Hayes gates can be made through any PGG Wrightson store nationwide. Tru-Test Group also supplies gates under the PEL brand through Farmlands, ATS, RD1 and independents rural resellers.
Gates getting Galv Dipped
NEW MODEL 78MM MAXI
3 YEAR WARRANT Y
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Fencing Icons
Neville Prince – Two times Winner of the Golden Pliers
Have you ever wondered where industry best practice originated? The comment has been made that “the Golden Pliers and the Fieldays fencing competitions taught the country to fence”, from this training organisations like Flockhouse picked up the standards that were set and documented/ implemented them into their training. The Doubles competition has been the testing ground for new products, which has proven to provide an excellent forum for knowledge and sharing. Ever heard the name Bill Schuler “the Master Fencer” the NZ Wire team of instructors who taught in their regions. In recognition of the past, which has helped to shape today’s fencing standards and techniques, New Zealand Fencing competitions has invited past fencing icons to join in watching the fencing competitions, they will be onsite and in the Wiremark marquee. Please come along and meet these fencers. You will also find the Hall of Fame in the Wiremark marquee.
NZ Fencing Competitions Competitor Profile Name: Nick Liefting Age : 60 From: Bombay, South of Auckland Nick Liefting plans to retire from competitive singles fencing after this year’s Wiremark Golden Pliers competition to focus on helping young competitors. After 40 years of competing and two weeks after his 60th birthday Nick will take part in his last Wiremark Golden Pliers competition almost certain in the knowledge that he will be the first competitor to finish his fence. “I told the guys after I won my second Wiremark Golden Pliers in 1997 that if anybody could beat me to the end of the line then I’d retire.” “Last year I think I was 40 minutes faster than the next competitor so I should be able to go out with a bang.” First entering the competition in 1975 at the suggestion of another contractor qualifying for the silver spades doubles finals in the same year he entered. Qualifying for the golden pliers singles finals.
Red shorts – Nick has been wearing these for 20 years; Peter Blake had red socks campaign, Nick wore a pair and people made an issue out of the colour, the red shorts became Nick’s signature over the following years.
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Fieldays Fencing Competition Statistics up to 2014. Heats: • • • • • • • •
First competed - 1975 First qualified for doubles final - 1975 First qualified for singles final - 1977 Slowest singles heats time - 45 minutes behind first man off line Fastest singles heats time - 1 hour, 8 minutes Largest lead in singles heats - 31 minutes First time first off the line - 1986 Total times first off the line in singles heats - 28
Finals:
• Total singles finals - 36 • Total doubles finals - 35 • Total times first off the line in singles finals - 28 • Largest ever time lead in singles final - 1 hour, 30 minutes • Smallest ever time lead in singles final - 40 seconds (mid 1990’s) • Fastest singles final - 3 hours, 5 minutes • Smallest winning margin ever in the competition - 0.20 point ahead of George Schular in 1987 • Won Golden Pliers in 1986 and 1987 • Total number of doubles partners – 12 x • Most years with same partner – 13 years with Colin Browne • Won Silver Spades 4 x • 1982 Nick Liefting / Leith Chick • 1986 Nick Liefting / Neville Prince • 1996 Nick Liefting / Colin Browne • 1999 Nick Liefting / Colin Browne • Total length of fence constructed including singles and doubles heats and finals - 6.60 kilometres
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New Zealand Fencing Competitions
NZFC South Island Doubles Fencing competition At the South Island Agricultural Fieldays at Kirwee, Canterbury
The first South Island national style competition has successfully taken place on Friday March 27th . A number of the South Islands leading contractors competed as 8 x two man teams, with Chief Judge Nick Liefting commenting at the prize giving that “any farmer should be happy to have these fencers working on their property”. Fencing experience varied from 10 months through to over 30 years, many of the teams were boss/ foremen combinations. None of the entrants, other than Ben Haugh had competed, with Ben competing once previously and the turnout was professional in look and equipment, with good positive attitudes towards the unknown. Preceeding the fencing competition “Battle of the Bangers” an “All about Fencing” event took place over the Wednesday and Thursday in order to get the posts and strainers in the ground. To say that the Goldpine posts, including Superposts took the pounding well is an understatement, with spiking and watering being required by what was according to the fencer who build the SIAFD perimetre fencing the hardest & rockiest part of the grounds. There was good spirit amongst the operators who were all tasked with getting the posts and strainers in to the ground. Rob Menzies from Taege, Julian Collins from Fence-pro and Tony White from Revolution Postdrivers spent a good few hours driving in the posts. A special thanks to Ian Haywood for the watering cart. The fence line comprised of - a railed corner - hanging a gate - horizontal assemblies and 45 m of netting with one electric wire - strainrite irrigator crossing A judging Team had been pre organised but thanks to fog Christchurch Airport was closed so Trevor Bell hung above us in a holding pattern prior to his plane being turned back to Dunedin. Luckily we had Nick Liefting who proved a capable Chief Judge and He sorted out the netting, railed corner & box assemblies specifications prior to the event. Strainrites Donald Cornwall did the irrigator specifications and judged this. For the other components we used the booklets NZFC have compiled and have been using at the North Island regionals. Nick judged the gates and electric wire (with a trainee judge local contractor Rob Menzies who is interested in judging), John Millar from Masterton the box assemblies, Tony White the railed corner and luckily Malcolm Webster who has previously judged at the National Championships was down for the event and judged the netting. Stockades Warren Herlihy also judged.
FCANZ supplied the FCANZ tent as central base and their Business Development Manager, Jane Butterick kindly secured the barbeque food. Thank you to Jane, Stockade for their barbeque and Michael from Stockade for cooking the food. Comments from the juding team include • Despite competitors lack of fencing competition experience and dealing with the unknown all came very well perpared and delivered a high quality of workmanship. • Generally good industry practice regarding Health and safety and use of safety equipment. • Methodology, many competitors worked on the same component together. Some would argue that while this may be slightly quicker its not usually twice as quick. Using two competitors on the one component can therefore be costly when time penalties are one point a minute. • Insulators faults were on, not pulling off centre; stapling on wrong side of insulators; the distance from the end strainer to the insulator was variable. • Gate – one line had gate hung on wrong side so maximum penalities; latch staples on sides of latch post were considered an obstruction; not all gates were bearing down on the gudgeons. • Horizontal assemblies – generally of a very good standard but two teams used crimps (not supplied so stung on penalities), one had a loop knot (which only takes 47 % of the wire breaking strain). • Railed corner- some of the cut offs weren’t tidy, rails not level.
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New Zealand Fencing Competitions
Results
NZFC South Island Doubles Fencing competition At the South Island Agricultural Fieldays at Kirwee, Canterbury The fastest time was 1 hour 29 minutes with the last team off the line 53 minutes later. PLACINGS 1st – Ben Haugh (Ben Haugh Fencing) Geraldine and Nathan Monk (Monk Fencing) Tekapo 2nd – Tony Brady and James Ewing Tony Brady Fencing Ltd Pleasant Point 3rd – Nick Terry and Chris Scurr Custom Fencing Waikouaiti 4th – Geoff Rogers and Simon Rowe High Country Fencing Kirwee 5th – George Williams and Hamish Taylor George Williams Fencing Geraldine 6th – Ned Robertson and Mitch Dunbar Robertson Fencing Fairlie 7th – Nick Stanger and Dene Thelning Stanger Fencing ex Herbet 8th – DJ Gleeson and Gary Brown Tim Harris Fencing Ashburton
Winners Ben Haugh and Nathan Monk (foreground) with from left Sponsors Strainrite Struan Moore, Stockades Warren Herlihy, Husqvarnas Mike Smith, Goldpines Darren Howe, Steel and Tubes Laurence Toli
Nick Terry,Chris Scurr & Donald Cornwall (Cromwell) ex Strainrite
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2nd Tony Brady on right, James Ewing (centre) and Struan Moore
Nick Stanger had a number of inventive aids!
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FCANZ Accredited Fencers Fencer
Contact
Phone
Mobile
Website
Barakat Contractors Ltd (Te Kauwhata)
Dale & Raewyn Barakat
07 826 4461
027 473 5513
dale@barakatcontractors.co.nz
www.barakatcontractors.co.nz
Ben Haugh Contracting Ltd (Geraldine)
Ben Haugh
03 693 8088
021 523 291
benhaughfencing@farmside. co.nz
Central Fencing (Canterbury)
Nigel Broadbridge 021 433 623
021 433 623
nigel@centralfencing.co.nz
www.centralfencing.co.nz
Contract Fencing Ltd (Manawatu)
Andrew Cave
06 376 5992
027 296 3504
andrew@cfe.kiwi.nz
www.cfe.kiwi.co.nz
CPC Fencing Ltd (Northland)
Phil Cornelius
09 4332644
027 274 4188
cpc.fencing@yahoo.co.nz
Craig Sergeant Fencing (Waipukurau)
Craig Sargeant
06 858 9759
027 243 7334
sargey@xtra.co.nz
Ewing Fencing Contractors (Oamaru)
Mark Ewing
03 431 3864
027 498 4049
mark@ewingfencing.co.nz
Custom Fencing Ltd. Waikouaiti
Nick Terry
03 465 7212
021 614 100
nickterryfencing@xtra.co.nz
Fencetec 2012 Ltd (Te Anau)
Chris and Steve Daley
03 249 9205
027 439 0234
2cdaley@gmail.com
Fencing Solutions Morrinsville
Todd Sherburd
07 887 5549
0274 927 337
todd@fsw.co.nz
www.fsw.co.nz
Glentui Fencing (Feilding)
Mike Billinghurst
06 323 6466
0272 695 662
glentuifencing@xtra.co.nz
www.glentuifencing.co.nz
Grant Macdonald Fencing Service (Tauranga)
Grant Macdonald
07 543 3486
027 494 2251
grantmacdonald@mclarenfalls. co.nz
Grant Scott Fencing Ltd (Te Awamutu)
Grant Scott
07 870 6541
Greg Burton Fencing (Cambridge)
Greg Burton
07 827 8765
Gregg Holmes Contracting (Papakura)
Gregg Holmes
Ground Up Services Ltd (Katikati)
Darryn Astill
Higgins Fencing Contractors (Wakefield)
k.tautari@xtra.co.nz
027 427 8765
mazgreg@xtra.co.nz
027 440 4247
gregghomes1@gmail.com
07 552 0238
027 586 9227
darryn@groundupservices.co.nz
www.groundupservices.co.nz
Philip Higgins
03 541 9292
021 222 5033
info@higginsfencing.co.nz
www.higginsfencing.co.nz
High Country Fencing Ltd Geoff Rogers (Darfield)
03 317 8028
021 640 748
info@highcountryfencing.co.nz
www.highcountryfencing. co.nz
Horton Contracting Ltd(New Plymouth )
Clayton & Sue Horton
06 758 2217
021 710 712
info@groundupsolutions.co.nz
www.groundupsolutions.co.nz
Jeff Joines Fencing Contractor Ltd (Raumati South)
Jeff Joines
04 905 1013
027 484 4481
jeffjoinesfencing@gmail.com
John Baldock Fencing Ltd John Baldock (Katikati)
07 552 0763
021 176 4719
john@johnbaldockfencing.co.nz
Lake Contracting (Omakau)
Ken Lake
03 447 4031
027 224 0302
kenthomaslake@icloud.com
Meersbrooke Fencing (Palmerston North)
Alan Rennie
027 450 6420
Phillips Contracting BOP Ltd (Edgecombe)
Josh Phillips
07 304 8443
027 587 3551
phillipscontracting@xtra.co.nz
Neil & Raymond Roberston (Fensin) (Taupo)
Neil & Raymond Robertson
07 825 5747
027 474 6335
robertson.nd@xtra.co.nz
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www.johnbaldockfencing. co.nz
meersbrooke@hotmail.com
Publication of the Fencing Contractors Association of New Zealand
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FCANZ Accredited Fencers Fencer
Contact
Phone
Mobile
Website
Phillips Contracting BOP Ltd, Edgecumbe
Josh Phillips
07 304 8443
027 587 3551
phillipscontracting@xtra.co.nz
Quality Fencing (Gisborne)
Graeme Bayly
06 862 5771
027 447 8303
bayly12@clear.net.nz
Renner Contracting Ltd (Seddon)
Mike & Brad Renner
03 577 6615
021 416 798
rennerfencing@hotmail.com
Samuel Fencing Ltd (Alexandra)
Mike Samuel
03 448 6949
0275 2454090 mikesamuel@xtra.co.nz
Steve Locke Fencing Ltd (Blenheim)
Steve Locke
03 578 1927
021 37 1971
steve@stevelockefencing.co.nz
Steve Williamson Fencing (Timaru)
Steve Williamson 03 686 4779
027 455 3385
shwilliamson@actrix.co.nz
West Otago Fencing Ltd (Tapanui)
Grant & Wendy Harris
03 204 8285
0272 866 576
harris29@xtra.co.nz
White Fencing Ltd (Papakura)
Tony White
09 292 8064
027 495 7868
admin@whitefencing.co.nz
Wilson Fencing (Havelock North)
Brendon Wilson
06 877 9844
027 657 4588
b.m.wilson@xtra.co.nz
www.rennerfencing.co.nz
www.stevelockefencing.co.nz
www.whitefencing.co.nz
Hunting Photos Hard slog paid off -Tekapo Photo by Noksee
Paul Fitzsimmons Hunting at Inchbonnie on the West Coast
Just rewards - Tekapo Photo by Noksee
AFFILIATES, TRUSTS & TRAINING INSTITUTES
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ERE, IT PAYS TOUGH AND WIRY.
uarantee that your netting wire is made and tested locally for our unique farming conditions. It’s tried of livestock and our extreme weather. Look for the label and insist on WIREMARK®. It’s as tough MARK today.
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FCANZ BOARD MEMBERS Simon Fuller President 07 872 8180 021 376 805 fullerfencing@ihug.co.nz
paul@kcfencesystems.co.nz
glentuifencing@xtra.co.nz
John Noakes 03 528 6388 027 446 4413
Craig Shortall 027 499 9429
craigshortallfencing@gmail.com
Mike Billinghurst 06 323 6466 0272 695 662
Paul Fitzsimmons 03 374 3510 027 432 9381
noakesjc@gmail.com
Darryn Astill 07 552 0238 027 586 9227
darryn@groundupservices.co.nz
Jane Butterick 027 432 2033
Mark Lambert 027 428 5254
m4tractor@windowslive.com
operations@fencingcontractors.co.nz
FCANZ, PO Box 19 389, Hamilton, 3244 info@fencingcontractors.co.nz
www.fencingcontractors.co.nz
Join Us Fencing Contractors Association offers a range of benefits and services to members in the fencing industry, whether you are looking for individual membership or a place for your company to prosper and grow.
Benefits:
FCANZ Logo – our logo is a hallmark of quality that sets our members apart from other fencers. Whether on signage, vehicles, stationery or Advertising – all FCANZ members are entitled to carry our logo. Savings – NZ Federated Farmers Membership is part of becoming a member of FCANZ – with this you can easily recoup the cost of membership each year. Annual Conference – Held in various locations around New Zealand this event has become a key fixture in the fencing industry’s calendar. Website – We maintain a website to ensure our members have access to up to date information while providing prospective clients the place to find a fencer. Advocacy – We work behind the scenes to ensure our members’ ability to operate in productive and profitable industry is preserved. WIRED – All members receive a copy of our official quarterly magazine – WIRED Training – ATV, Chainsaw and NZQA National Certificate in Fencing. Annual “Association Days” to share information between members. Accredited Fencing Certification:
Annual Membership from 1st April 2015 – includes Wired Subscription: General Member $150 inc GST Employee Member $57.50 inc. GST Wired Only: $57.50 inc GST If you are interested in joining you can either email Jane at operations@fencingcontractors.co.nz Or visit our website www.fencingcontractors.co.nz
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Please support our FCANZ Partners
FOUNDING STRATEGIC PARTNER
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silver
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