[Title will be auto-generated] by Adrian Holland

No 16: SPRING 2013

AWISA

THE MAGAZINE

FOR THE CABINET, JOINERY, FURNITURE, TIMBER AND PANEL INDUSTRIES

PUBLISHED BY THE AUSTRALIAN WOODWORKING INDUSTRY SUPPLIERS ASSOCIATION LIMITED

Read THE MAGAZINE at www.awisa.com

Published by the Australian Woodworking Industry Suppliers Association Limited

DEAR READER,

ABN 44 134 548 253

Firstly, as the new chairman of the Australian Woodworking Industry Suppliers Association I have to thank our past chair, Rick Lee of Altendorf, Geoff Holland, our able general manager, and the other board members for maintaining the industry commitment to our trade show. The AWISA show over the years has been the glue that has in some ways kept our industry connected. It certainly can be said to have kept our industry up to date and competitive in an increasingly global economy.

EDITOR AND PUBLISHER Geoff Holland General Manager, AWISA Ltd Phone 02 9918 3661 Email: info@awisa.com CONTRIBUTING EDITORS John Halkett, Simon Hodgson, Geoff Bills and Jim Bowden.

As an employee of an international business I have first hand experience in knowing how highly our local show is thought of amongst the world’s leading brands.

DESIGN Felicity Carruthers PRINTER Major Graphics Printers Pty Ltd Post all correspondence to: AWISA Ltd P.O. Box 925 Avalon NSW 2107

Magazine or part thereof may not be copied or reproduced without written permission by the publisher.

Contained

specifications and claims are those of the manufacturer. Disclaimer:

AWISA

Advertising statements and

editorial opinion are not necessarily those of AWISA Ltd unless expressly stated. The publisher and editor assume no responsibility for errors or omissions or any consequence of reliance on this publication. The Australian Woodworking Industry Suppliers Association Ltd is a trade

So for 2014 we will be in Brisbane for the first time. I’m sure you are all aware of the circumstances of why we had to move from our “traditional” home of Sydney. After visiting the facilities on offer in Brisbane I can certainly assure attendees that AWISA 2014 in Brisbane will not be a lesser show than previous events. In fact for exhibitors it is the chance to exhibit in front of a new audience as well as our regular visitors. For these attendees it may be a career defining experience. Information learnt, contacts made, friendships renewed will all happen at AWISA 2014. Many AWISA “old timers” certainly look forward to mixing with industry peers. Newcomers will see that indeed this is an industry with a lot of substance and will realize there is a vast network of resources and suppliers to call on to help their business develop and succeed. As an exhibitor (as well) I certainly know AWISA 2014 will be a venue where the latest ideas and products will be shown for the first time in Australia. The combination of new products, a world class venue, South Bank location, and famous Queensland weather, assures us of another successful AWISA show. Looking forward to seeing you all at AWISA in August 2014.

association that represents the interests of suppliers to the cabinet, kitchen, joinery, furniture, fit-out, and other wood, timber, aluminium,

plastic,

stone

THE MAGAZINE

and

panel

processing industries. Members include suppliers of machinery, materials, fittings,

CONTENTS 4. EXHIBITION: Innovation at Interzum. 7. EXHIBITION: Brisbane is the place. 8. INDUSTRY: United voice. 10. ECONOMY: Transition economy. 12. ALLIANCE: FCJA lobbying. 14. AWARDS: KBDi awards. 19. APPLIANCES: Thoughtful design. 20. EXHIBITION: Innovation at Ligna. 22. TOUR: Business networking. 25. DRAWERS: Minimalist design. 28. COMMENT: The soapbox. 33. HARDWARE: Trade centre opens. 36. EXHIBITION: Success at Ligna. 38. MACHINERY: Popular showcase. 41. TRAINING: New TAFE equipment. 42. COFFINS: Industry profile. 45. MACHINERY: More efficient. 46. ROUTERS: The next move. 48. ASSOCIATIONS: Distant murmers. 50. MACHINERY: The virtual machine. 52. COMMENT: Timber supply. 54. EDGEBANDERS: Glue pots. 56. EXHIBITION: Inspiring technology. 58. MILESTONES: Two anniversaries. Plus other industry news and product news.

Brett Ambrose Chairman Australian Woodworking Industry Suppliers Association Limited

software and services. Membership and advertising enquiries are welcome. Front cover photography Courtesy Homag Australia

SPRING 2013 Page 3

THE AWISA MAGAZINE EXHIBITIONS

by Simon Hodgson

Innovation – a recurring theme at Interzum INTERZUM held in Cologne is fast becoming the show where creativity and innovation shine. Those who chose to display are greeted by a design hungry community, eager to see where a product or a group of products is heading.

Having been an attendee at various Interzum shows for nearly 20 years, I was particularly interested in seeing how the newly-revamped show would meet the needs of its 53,000 visitors – this diverse audience of designers, manufacturers, architects, retailers and end-users from no less than 148 countries. It’s not a show where you go to see the finished product such as Eurocucina or IMM, or even ISH, it is purely the suppliers imagination and inventiveness on show. Every two years, Interzum celebrates with Red Dot to host the “Interzum award: intelligent material & design”. The competition awards the best designs in the international supplier industry for the furniture and interior decorating industries. On the Sunday prior to the start of the show, the proud prize winners were given their awards. Around 500 manufacturers, designers and marketing decision makers converged at the Koelnmesse site to celebrate the high point of this year’s competition. A total of 200 entries from 16 countries were submitted in 2013. The jury, comprising five renowned design experts, gave awards to 51 of these entries.

It’s not a show where you go to see the finished product, it’s imagination and inventiveness on show

As part of an exclusive reception, Katharina C. Hamma, CEO of Koelnmesse, and Prof. Dr. Peter Zec, initiator and CEO of the Red Dot, handed well-earned certificates over to the prize winners of the “High Product Quality” distinction. The jury awards this title for special design achievements in terms of form and function. 42 products were able to win over the experts with their excellent design and thus succeeded in standing out from comparable products. The top award in the competition was announced at the end of the award ceremony. Only nine products won the “Best of the Best” title. This award is given by the panel of experts to products that set new standards in their industry with exceptional and groundbreaking design in terms of form and function. The best of the participants in 2013 include Acrylic Couture® GbR, Richter Furniertechnik GmbH & Co. KG and K + R Sax GmbH from Germany, Fritz Egger GmbH & Co. OG from Austria in cooperation with the German-based company Akustik Plus GmbH & Co. KG, and the Swiss manufacturers EKU AG and Lamello AG. Other winners of the prestigious award included WO Interior A/S from Denmark, Italiana Ferramenta srl from Italy and the Belgian manufacturer Indurub NV. But what about the rest of the show? At the 2009 Interzum, we began to see the emergence of textured surfaces with many exhibitors showing off what was then a new concept for surface materials. Then, in 2011, we saw this trend solidified with an emphasis being placed on use of texture to create emotional impact and connection with the surface material. Now, in 2013, this has been taken even further with heavy textures and a very “weathered” look emerging. “Weathered” was the buzz word, in fact so much so that those who had attended the machinery show, Ligna, the week prior in Hannover were saying that the only machines selling were those that produced a textured finish. On almost every stand there were plenty of examples of this heavy texture - from strong colour schemes to neutrals and naturals, from monochromatics to brilliant rainbows. This only serves to emphasise what we are seeing already in Australia - a back-to-nature approach with neutrals and natural surfaces seeking to create a warm, welcoming and nurturing feel within the home. Whether this is done with natural materials or man-made structures, the idea is still the same. Australians are becoming more family oriented we are creating homes that cosset, homes that want us to be there, homes in which we and our families can relax and spend time together. When you increase texture, you obviously increase the impact of curvature so whether it be digital patterns on

Page 4 SPRING 2013

THE AWISA MAGAZINE EXHIBITIONS

Left: Part of the Red Dot awards. Below: Danzer rough cut oak.

surfaces or patterns created from natural products, we are creating a “softer” environment from a visual perspective. It’s easier to create cosier, more comforting and welcoming internal rooms when curves are involved. This is also a fiscal reality for many Australians. Although Australia’s economy is strong in terms of world economies, many Australians are still playing it safe and not over-investing or over-spending on areas outside the home. It’s a natural human condition to retreat to the cave when times are tough - it’s just that now we have the means to make the cave cozy, warm and welcoming and this influx of heavy textures will only make this easier. Tactility was very prominent in the timbers where raw, beach-washed finishes demonstrated a return to design that offers an honest and natural aesthetic. The rustic, lighter character oaks not only oozed character but felt natural and appealing to the touch. The darker timbers were not overlooked, with smoked oak being presented as an alternative to wenge, displaying an inherently natural appearance with wider appeal. Acknowledging the international nature of the show, some of the finishes looked a little too extreme for some onlookers. Rust and oxidised metal-look kitchen cabinets may feature in our homes at some point – but are probably not going to come into the volume end of the market any time soon. The ‘synchronised pore’ technology on show demonstrated how texture has taken product to the next level. It provides a more natural and realistic wood- grain

finish whereby the texture traces the markings of the wood – a visual and tactile improvement at a cost that will offer further product differentiation to the consumer. Ever-deeper and more natural textures are vital given the marked trend towards what might be described as a rustic style, with authentic-looking wood decors very much in evidence. It would appear that virtually everywhere you look, that around our homes, knots and cracks are to become a feature of the next generation of kitchens and bedrooms. Driving value through product innovation and design remains the name of the game for the more forwardthinking manufacturer. With more international exhibitors (three quarters of those displaying products were from outside Germany) and more visitors than in recent times, Interzum 2013 had a definite buzz and an encouraging increase in Australian attendance. One standout product that is worthy of a special mention is Danzer. Their products are being used in high-quality furniture, automobiles, interior architecture and other applications, in fact two years ago they exhibited some astonishing curved railing products used in the home and in the boating industry. This year, examples for new surfaces are Danzer Linea and Danzer Figura. Danzer Linea is a cut-to-size high quality veneer, which exhibits an attractive rift cut appearance. Made from the real species, a unique industrial process ensures a reliable and cost-effective supply. Danzer released Linea in Cologne in four wood species: American walnut, American white oak, European birch and silver birch.

Beautiful texture from Schorn and Groh.

SPRING 2013 Page 5

THE AWISA MAGAZINE EXHIBITIONS

KBDi Tour This year’s KBDi International Designers Tour started in Spain, a new venue for the information and party hungry designers who were hosted by Cosentino, the iconic Spanish manufacturer of, amongst other things, Silestone. 22 designers, including the three winners of last year’s KBDi Awards, enjoyed three hospitality rich days in the southern corner of Spain, enjoying factory tours, product information, and the Alhambra palace in Grenada.

More from Schorn and Groh

For Danzer Figura a new technical process creates highly decorative figured veneers, which can hardly be distinguished from a natural grown figure. The Danzer method mimics the natural process that results in figured veneers. This ensures that the grain structure of the wood is persistently altered and the visual appearance will not fade over time. Danzer Vintage Style veneers overcome the traditional limitations of genuine vintage wood - to be best suited for individual projects - they allow industrial applications with this kind of rustic veneers: the production process just accelerates the natural aging process. Vintage Style is currently available in European oak. It’s funny but when I was in manufacturing, veneer was frowned upon, often referred to as “too hard” and “look out”. But now I can’t help but love these new veneers and the techniques they have used to produce these stunning pieces of work. Steel and chrome continue to be very popular but it was a rustic finish that caught my eye, almost rusty-looking it certainly created a point of difference and I could see it working on some of the painted furniture designs that are currently so very popular. I couldn’t help but be attracted by the glint of the Swarovski crystals inset into handles, but also in a roller shutter, clearly this has its own niche in the market. Interzum continues to retain its status as the leading fair for furniture components and materials. The mood was positive and I came away with a substantial list of new concepts and products to evaluate. I am eagerly awaiting to Interzum 2015, but what I will see, I really don’t know! Ŷ

Page 6 SPRING 2013

The tour arrived in Cologne with much anticipation. For many, Interzum was something they had heard about but not visited. By the end of day one, the variety of spinning heads was a joy to see – product after product, many new, and many unexpected. Four fantastic days, based in Bonn were finished with a trip to the Nobilia factory – a smallish company who make 2600 kitchens – per day. But the highlight of the tour was undoubtedly a first for a KBDi tour – the announcement of the engagement of last year’s KBDi Certified Designer of the Year, Patricia La Torre from Victoria and her partner Robert Busselmann. KBDi’s special thanks to go to Gary Isherwood from Cosentino for being the most accommodating of sponsors. Tour details to next year’s Eurocucina with KBDi is available at www.kbdi.org.au

THE AWISA MAGAZINE EXHIBITION

Brisbane, the place to be in August 2014 WITH AWISA 2014 taking place from 6-9 August, Brisbane will definitely be the place to be in 2014 for everyone in woodworking.

“What a great success.”

The Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre will host the event, and the exhibition will once again feature a wide range of products of interest to cabinet makers, kitchen manufacturers, shop and office fit out contractors, joinery and furniture manufacturers, and other timber and panel product processing industries.

“Congratulations on the success of AWISA 2012.”

The early booking process that AWISA uses primarily to allocate space to major and regular exhibitors is close to being completed. Space will shortly become available on a firstcome first-served basis. Those in the industry who have not participated before may like to consider some of the unsolicited comments received after the last exhibition:

“Thank you for an amazing show.” “The show was superbly organised.”

“The general vibe at the exhibition was very good.” “Great show – we were very happy with how it went.” “It was great – how soon can we reserve space for 2014?” While the majority of space at the show will be taken up by companies exhibiting panel processing, solid wood and timber machinery, tooling and manufacturing software, the exhibition will again feature the AWISA-Design area introduced in 2012. AWISA-Design features hardware, decorative products and design software. Some attendees thought it

was possibly the best presented design show that Australia has seen in recent times. Facilities in Brisbane are of a similar standard to those at Darling Harbour in Sydney. Indeed, they were designed by the same architect and are slightly newer. They are also close to a lot of other attractions. The South Bank precinct includes the Gallery of Modern Art, the Queensland Art Gallery and the Queensland Museum and Sciencentre. There are good numbers of hotels, restaurants and bars nearby. The Treasury Casino is just across the river and Brisbane’s two major sporting facilities, the Brisbane Cricket Ground and the Suncorp Stadium are a short drive away. Any company wishing to enquire about exhibiting at AWISA 2014 is welcome to contact AWISA’s general manager Geoff Holland on 0412 361 580 or at info@awisa.com

Above are the 12 biggest exhibitors so far at AWISA 2014

SPRING 2013 Page 7

THE AWISA MAGAZINE INDUSTRY

by John Halkett

United voice for the global timber industry established Forestry officer trade and marketing at the FAO Forest Products Service Jukka Tissari said that the GTF could also support his organisation’s mission to encourage a “common vision” across the industry in efforts to end illegal logging. “We expect it to propose deeper collaborative action to foster responsible timber trading.” Several other speakers developed the theme of the GTF’s possible role in helping the industry cope with anti-illegal timber regulation. By promoting greater coordination between different national and regional rules, they said, it could make them easier to work with and ultimately more effective.

strengthening the international timber industry’s worldwide market presence

THE FIRST STEPS in the formation of a new communication and discussion platform for the international timber industry were taken in Rome recently with the aim of improving networking and knowledge sharing and strengthen the sector’s worldwide market presence and political profile.

The launch meeting of the Global Timber Forum (GTF) took place at the headquarters of the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (UNFAO). It was attended by over 80 industry organisation and private sector delegates from 40 countries. The event was co-convened by the UNFAO, The Forest Trust/Timber Trade Action Plan (TFT/TTAP) and the European Timber Trade Federation (ETTF). It followed the unveiling of the GTF concept in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia last year. ETTF secretary general André de Boer said the inspiration behind the initiative was the growing number of issues, from climate change, sustainable development and construction, to anti-illegal timber measures, where the timber sector needs to speak with a single voice. “Facing a range of key challenges and opportunities worldwide, there has never been a more important time for our industry to present a united front,” he said. UNFAO assistant director general forestry Eduardo RojasBriales said supporting the initiative said; “Realising forest values, and sustaining local livelihoods, can play a key role in their restoration and sustainable management worldwide.”

Page 8 SPRING 2013

Delegates also saw the GTF as a channel for sharing marketing expertise, developing common international promotional messages, and underlining the contribution timber can make in the drive to sustainable ‘green building’, as the ultimate renewable construction material. In addition, it was suggested that it could highlight the part sustainable timber production can play in maintaining the forest resource. Proposed next steps for the GTF included the development of its structure, appointment of an advisory board and formulation of a communications and media strategy. This could include the creation of a website and a newsletter, organisation of meetings and participation in other industry events. The launch event closed with the selection of a seven-strong panel, representing the different continents and China, to draft a letter of commitment for disseminating to the GTF’s potential backers and participants worldwide. “It is very exciting that so many people have come together from as far apart as Guatemala and Indonesia to support the launch of the GTF – it highlights the appetite in our industry for greater communication and cooperation,” said ETTF president Andreas von Möller. “Now we must ensure we make this a constant worldwide dialogue.” Ŷ Above: Global Timber Forum opening session participants: Andreas von Möller, European Timber Trade Federation; Eduardo Rojas-Briales, UNFAO assistant director general forestry; Jukka Tissari, FOA; Emmanuel Ze Meka, ITTO executive director, and Heiko Liedeker, European Forestry Institute.

THE AWISA MAGAZINE

outlook ECONOMY

by Geoff Bills

Building in the transition economy BACKGROUND

Over the past decade, the pace of growth in various segments of the construction industry has varied greatly. Chart 1 tells the story. Between 2002/03 and 2012/13, work done on new housing remained remarkably steady, at around $40 billion a year. So, too, did work on housing renovations, at around $30 billion a year. With population growing, on average, by 337,000 a year, this lack growth was surprising and helps to explain why, at June 2013, there was pent-up demand for some 43,000 homes. Non-residential building activity, which was supported during the global financial crisis by some $16 billion of government spending on schools, increased by 53 percent to $33.3 billion. That represents average growth of around 4.4 percent a year: faster than the 3 percent rate of economic growth over the decade. Over the same period, engineering construction activity, driven mainly by rising expenditure on the development of

mining, oil and gas resources, rose to $126 billion: more than 3½ times its level in 2002/03. As Chart 1 shows, work done on the construction of mining, oil and gas facilities reached about $57 billion in 2012/13: seven times work done in 2002/03 and an average annual growth rate of 21 percent. Other engineering construction, which includes much work on mining infrastructure, such as roads, railways, harbours, pipelines, water and power, increased to around $69 billion: 2½ times its size a decade earlier. End of the boom It has always been understood that the boom in mine development would eventually end. As the economies of the developing countries matured, the rate of growth in demand for minerals would slow; and as production increased in supplying countries around the world, commodity prices would fall, making new resource development less profitable. The problem is that over the past six months growth in the world economy has slowed, whereas it was widely expected to accelerate. And the slowdown has not been confined to the troubled Euro area; it has been evident in China too, causing commodity prices to fall faster and further than expected, leading to fears of further falls, and causing the big mining companies to cancel or defer many major projects. These developments have caused forecasters, including Treasury, to reassess the impact of commodity prices on Australia’s economic growth and, in particular, on Australian incomes, profits and tax receipts. Hence the Treasurer’s Economic Statement, August 2013, and its accompanying budgetary changes. Our main interest here is to see what changes, since the budget, Treasury has made to its building forecasts. In housing, there were none: total work done on new housing and housing renovations is still forecast to grow by 5 percent in 2013/14 and by 5½ percent in 2014/15. Our forecasts, of 4.6 percent and 6.2 percent are similar. With private non-residential building and engineering construction, the comparison is more difficult, because in the budget these were forecast separately, whereas in the latest economic statement they are not. In the budget, total private non-residential building and construction was forecast to increase by 5 percent this year and to fall by 2½ percent in 2014/15. This forecast has now been revised down to an increase of only 1 percent this year and a fall of 4½ percent in 2014/15. Nearly all of the downward revision is likely to have been in the resource sector of engineering construction.

Page 10 SPRING 2013

THE AWISA MAGAZINE ECONOMY

Geoff Bills Geoff Bills is an independent economist with long experience analysing and forecasting economic activity in Australia.

Our forecasts are a bit more optimistic in 2013/14, with an increase of 4 percent, but similar in 2014/15, with a fall of 5 percent.

was nevertheless 8½ months work in the pipeline – work underway but not yet completed – so there is no danger of a sudden drop in activity.

Recent trends

Approvals, as Chart 4 shows, rose in the June quarter, with some big hospitals approved in Victoria and Queensland; but industrial and commercial work fell away. Total approvals in 2012/13 were $35 billion: down from $37.2 billion in 2011/12 but more than the $33.3 billion of work we estimate was done in 2012/13.

Chart 2 shows quarterly construction activity over the three years to March 2013. In the March quarter, activity in each segment eased: new housing by less than 1 percent, housing renovations by 4 percent, non-residential building by 2 percent, mining, oil and gas by 2 percent and other engineering construction by 4 percent. Chart 3 takes a closer look at non-residential building. Over the past few years, the key to predicting future activity has been whether, as public stimulus spending wound down, private spending would grow to fill the gap. So far, as our chart shows, this has not happened: spending on education buildings has declined, but spending on commercial projects – mainly offices and shops – and on hospitals – built under public private partnerships and mainly classified as private – has not increased enough to compensate.

In a recent speech on the need for non-resource sectors to expand as the economy adjusts to lower levels of mining investment, Reserve Bank Governor, Glenn Stevens, said that ‘…at least some of the conditions are in place for stronger trends in dwelling investment and, in time, non-resources business capital expenditure.’ (Economic Policy after the Booms, Sydney, 30 July 2013.) We agree. The housing outlook has already strengthened; and, with interest rates now at record lows, we see nonresidential building steadying this year and increasing in 2014/15. Ŷ

So, total activity has been drifting lower, from an annual rate of $41 billion in the June quarter of 2010 to $33 billion in the March quarter of 2013: a fall of 20 percent. Over these three years, work done for the public sector has fallen by 47 percent but work for the private sector has increased by only 3 percent. The public sector’s share of total activity has fallen from 45 percent to 29 percent. Whether private non-residential building activity will continue to rise in the year ahead depends largely on business conditions and confidence. The National Australia Bank’s Quarterly Business Survey for the June quarter of 2013 paints a bleak picture of the outlook, with business conditions (sales, profits and employment) struggling, and confidence falling. Confidence, which has been below its long-term average for most of the past three years, turned from positive to negative, indicating that respondents who thought that business conditions would get worse outnumbered those who thought they would get better. Given these findings, the Bank’s chief economist, Alan Oster, believes that the cash interest rate will need to be cut by a further 25 points to 2¼ percent by December. Forward indicators At the end of March, forward indicators of non-residential building activity were negative. Work started in the year to March was 7 percent less than work done, suggesting that future work would decline. At the end of March there

SPRING 2013 Page 11

THE AWISA MAGAZINE ALLIANCE

FCJA continues to lobby Canberra WITH THE COMPLETION of the Strategic Industry Plan for the Australian furniture, cabinet and joinery industry, the FCJA (the umbrella body for all the peak associations representing the industry collectively throughout Australia) has circulated printed copies of the plan, together with an executive summary highlighting the key strategies identified, to all relevant federal ministers and shadow ministers.

Key strategies in a challenging trading environment

In responding to the industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plan on 20 June 2013, the then minister for climate change, industry and innovation, the Hon Greg Combet MP, commented that it was â&#x20AC;&#x153;encouraging to see that the FCJ industry is working collaboratively (together)â&#x20AC;? and commended the FCJA for â&#x20AC;&#x153;the development of the strategic industry plan (and for taking this) important step in securing the long-term sustainability of the industryâ&#x20AC;?. The minister accepted that the FCJ sector is â&#x20AC;&#x153;facing a challenging trading environmentâ&#x20AC;? and supported the need to pursue the planâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stated strategic objectives of â&#x20AC;&#x153;embracing a culture of innovation, accessing growing export markets and nurturing a highly skilled workforce to lead and transform the industryâ&#x20AC;?. Following up on this response, an FCJA delegation, comprising co-chairman Ron Scott, councillor Patrizia Torelli and policy adviser, Peter Kreitals, travelled to Canberra on 26 June 2013 to elaborate on the industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s core concerns. As it turned out, Minister Combet was unfortunately not able to meet with the FCJA representatives (it was the day of the prime ministerial challenge). However, the ministerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s senior adviser took the meeting on his behalf and stated that the government was very receptive to all the issues raised in the FCJA strategic plan. In particular, he stated that the government accepted that industry policy must be geared more towards the needs of small to medium sized businesses, and that more needs to be done to foster the necessary skills to better manage businesses and to encourage greater investment in innovation and collaboration throughout the supply chain. The ministerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s adviser suggested that the governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new Manufacturing Industry Innovation Precinct initiative will help the FCJ industry realise these objectives, and he was pleased to note that the FCJA had already

Page 12 SPRING 2013

been accepted as a collaborative partner for this precinct. The FCJA delegation also took advantage of the Canberra visit to meet with key senior coalition members that continue to show strong support for the FCJ industry, including: t 5IF )PO 8BSSFO &OUTDI .1 DIJFG PQQPTJUJPO whip (who helped organise several of the meetings for the delegation) t 5IF )PO 4VTTBO -FZ .1 TIBEPX NJOJTUFS GPS employment participation t 4FOBUPS UIF )PO &SJD "CFU[ MFBEFS PG UIF opposition in the senate t 5IF )PO #SVDF #JMMTPO .1 TIBEPX NJOJTUFS for small business, competition policy and consumer affairs t 4FOBUPS 3JDIBSE $PMCFDL TIBEPX QBSMJBNFOUBSZ secretary for innovation, industry and science (on the advice of the office of the leader of the opposition, the Hon Tony Abbott MP) In all the meetings, the FCJA representatives stressed the need for proactive government programs and policies to help facilitate the transition necessary to achieve the industry objectives highlighted in the industry plan. In particular, commitment was sought from both the government and the coalition to: t &TUBCMJTI NFDIBOJTNT UP FOTVSF UIBU BMM imported products abide by the same standards and regulations as imposed on local industry, and ensure meaningful penalties are applied where imports do not comply with these standards t *OUSPEVDF TUSPOHFS BOUJ EVNQJOH QSPWJTJPOT and switch the onus of proof away from the local manufacturer (both parties stated they were doing this) t &OTVSF HPWFSONFOU QSPDVSFNFOU EFDJTJPOT do not unfairly favour imports that are not subjected to the same costs as imposed on Australian industry through implementation of government policy objectives (re environmental, social and workplace practices) t #SJOH UIF '$+ TLJMMT BOE USBJOJOH GSBNFXPSL within the responsibility of ForestWorks (the coalition â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the Hon Sussan Ley MP â&#x20AC;&#x201C; reiterated their support for industry choosing the Skills Council most appropriate to its own needs)

THE AWISA MAGAZINE ALLIANCE

t *OUSPEVDF TVQQPSU QSPHSBNT UP GBDJMJUBUF NBOBHFNFOU skills training and business mentoring, especially for small and micro businesses t *OUSPEVDF GVOEJOH TVQQPSU UBY SFCBUFT UP GPTUFS UIF development of a true design culture within Australian manufacturing businesses t 'PTUFS UIF EFWFMPQNFOU PG DPMMBCPSBUJWF JOEVTUSZ networks, with a proactive interaction between industry supply chain partners, researchers and designers While the FCJA delegation did not meet with the shadow minister for innovation, industry and science, Sophie Mirabella MP on this occasion, it is because the FCJA has enjoyed a strong and ongoing relationship with Mrs Mirabella and her office, and she is well across and most supportive of the FCJ industries’ views. Indeed, a number of the coalition members commended the FCJA for engaging so forthrightly with the shadow minister. Ŷ

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SPRING 2013 Page 13

THE AWISA MAGAZINE AWARDS

Three top winners of the prestigious KBDi Kitchen and Bathroom Designer awards off to Milan next April.

ON AUGUST 3, 2013, the Kitchen and Bathroom Designers Institute of Australia hosted its annual Designer Awards Gala in Noosa. KBDi is extremely proud of its growing membership of Australia’s finest kitchen and bathroom professionals, and the standard of entries submitted proved once again that when it comes to kitchen and bathroom design, the Institute fosters some major talent.

Royston Wilson won the coveted Australian Certified Designer of the Year, Lee Hardcastle the Australian Kitchen Designer of the Year and Darren Genner the Australian Bathroom Designer of the Year. As part of

their prize, the three top winners have a place on the KBDi Designers International Tour 2014 to iSalone (including Eurocucina) in Milan Italy. With multiple categories in both kitchen and bathroom design, and a “design space” award showcasing a design outside of the domestic kitchen and bathroom areas, judges had an intensive few days working through a record number of entries. In this issue of The AWISA Magazine, Kitchen Designers of the Year – 2013 are featured. KBDi is proud to partner with

Designer John Kay was one of a number of South Australians on stage on the night, taking out the Award for KBDi Designer – Medium Kitchens SA 2013, followed by the chapter award, KBDi Kitchen Designer of the Year SA 2013. The judges were most impressed with John’s exceptional design: an effective layout, creative use of materials, and a thoughtful combination of lighting for practical and aesthetic purposes made this one a stand out entry. Built into a large contemporary-styled 40-year-old home, this kitchen was designed to meet the needs of a busy family, including two young children. The clients wanted a functional but stunning kitchen, opened up to create a larger room with easy access to outdoor entertaining. Plenty of storage was required and all appliances were to be upgraded. Darren Genner of Minosa had extra luggage to take back to Sydney when he collected multiple awards. If winning category awards for Small Kitchens NSW and Small Bathrooms NSW, and both category and chapter awards for Large Kitchens NSW and Large Bathrooms NSW weren’t enough, Darren also claimed the coveted title of Australian Bathroom Designer of the Year. This award secured Darren a spot on the KBDi Design Tour 2014.

Designer Darren Genner

Page 14 SPRING 2013

Smeg and thank them for sponsoring these awards.

Darren’s winning kitchen entry (which awarded him Kitchen Designer of the Year NSW) was exceptionally presented. The clients’ brief was to create a cutting-edge kitchen like a piece of bespoke furniture, that would also ‘warm up’ the off-form concrete ceilings and walls surrounding it in this stunningly beautiful architect-designed home. The judges commented that the exceptional finishes and harmonious blend of colour and texture created a visually appealing space. The specification of innovative cabinetry overcame some difficult design constraints and made for a highly functional kitchen.

THE AWISA MAGAZINE AWARDS

Designer Lee Hardcastle Designer Jasmine McClelland

Designer Lee Hardcastle of Enigma Interiors did Queenslanders proud when he took out several awards. Lee’s very impressive kitchen design won him a trophy for Large Kitchens QLD category, followed soon after by the chapter award. Like Darren, Lee’s highlight was undoubtedly his victory as KBDi Australian Kitchen Designer of the Year. Lee’s winning kitchen certainly excited the judging panel. The clients wanted a crisp, clean palette, sharp, ultra-sleek lines and the use of some natural elements as a feature. They also wanted better use made of the overall area, and the separation between the kitchen and small living room removed. Lee’s design solution gave the homeowners all of this and more. Appliances were fully integrated where possible and luxurious fittings and inclusions completed the picture. The judges said: ‘This is a great design, supported by excellently presented specifications, and dramatic “before and after” images that clearly show the changes to the kitchen.’ Victorian designer Jasmine McClelland, of Jasmine McClelland Design was the worthy category winner of Large Kitchens VIC. She then went on to win the chapter award, KBDi Kitchen Designer of the Year VIC, with a superbly executed kitchen design.

and entertainment chic in their new kitchen. Stand out features of this space include a stone cantilevered island bench top, Blum Servo-Drive hardware throughout, an integrated domestic bar and a 3-metre long custom-made rangehood which extends the length of the bench to ensure aesthetic balance. When partnered with the suspended cantilevered bench top, these features create a luminous and dynamic room.

With four small children and an energetic social life, Jasmine’s clients sought the perfect juxtaposition of family functionality

Maggie Milligan of Town & Country Designs took a swag of awards back to Western Australia. Maggie took out both

SPRING 2013 Page 15

Solutions to excellence.

>> 2 Year Warranty! >> Second Glue Pot! >> Glue Pot Exchange Centre!

THE AKRON 400 EDGEBANDING RANGE Akron 400 is a highly versatile range of edgebanders suitable for many applications. Innovative technological solutions, solid operating units and heavy duty construction are combined to ensure a high quality finish and great reliability under a wide range of working conditions. The entire range of edgebanders from Biesse now come with a 2 year warranty and a complimentary second glue pot. Biesse Australia also has a dedicated glue pot service centre and exchange system to ensure you get the fastest service and keep your edgebander running at its optimum performance level. Biesse Group Australia Pty Ltd Head Office: 3 Widemere Road, Wetherill Park NSW 2164 info@biesseaustralia.com.au - www.biesse.com.au

CALL 1300 BIESSE We have a Biesse Showroom near you!

THE AWISA MAGAZINE AWARDS

by Name Surname

Designer John Kay

bathroom awards (category and chapter – Large Bathrooms WA) and kitchen awards (category winner for Small, Medium and Large Kitchens WA), and capped off her evening with the title of Kitchen Designer of the Year WA. Maggie’s traditional kitchen design thrilled her clients and certainly impressed the judges. Having recently arrived from Scotland, Maggie’s clients were seeking a similar look for their new kitchen to the

much-loved classic traditional kitchen they had left behind. Their extensive brief included lots of storage, glass display cabinets, appliances out-of-sight, granite tops, decorative mouldings, and feature lighting. This they received, and an English style cooker, sink and taps completed the picture. The judges said that this project exemplified stunning old charm and the result was a traditional kitchen, designed with great balance and careful attention to detail. Ŷ Designer Maggie Milligan

SPRING 2013 Page 17

With an outstanding array of colours, styles and surface ďŹ nishes, the polytec range of laminated bench tops, decorative doors and panels is amongst the most comprehensive in Australia. polytec products are designed to be complementary. This makes it easy for your clients to coordinate their favourite shades and ďŹ nishes, helping you to create a space that is both fashionable and convenient for all your customers.

For trade enquires on the polytec range visit our website or call for a product brochure.

www.polytec.com.au kitchen: 1300 300 547 commercial & wardrobe: 1300 440 400

THE AWISA MAGAZINE APPLIANCES

Thoughtful designs for a kitchen that just flows They say the kitchen is the social hub of any home – which makes choosing the finishing touches absolutely crucial. Everything has to just work. Thankfully, those who choose from Häfele’s extensive range of appliances have it pretty easy. No one has to wait hours for a roast to cook. No one has to worry whether the fridge they specified will meet the demands of a busy lifestyle. They just choose Häfele and move on. That’s because Häfele appliances have been thoughtfully designed around the needs of a functional home, combining advanced technology with bold innovative design for modern living. These elegant solutions promise years of high performance living. From clever cooktops, to streamlined sinks, from multifunction ovens to integrated refrigerators, Häfele really has thought of almost everything. These kitchen solutions can fit any style home and will look just as good tomorrow as they do today. And the best part is that everything just works and life in the kitchen flows, leaving time for the more important things in life.

HÄFELE AUSTRALIA PTY LTD Phone 1300 659 728 www.hafele.com/au

SPRING 2013 Page 19

THE AWISA MAGAZINE EXHIBITION

Innovation of the year at Ligna: PowerTouch – a whole new dimension in machine operation

Appearing once again as the biggest exhibitor at the world’s leading fair for the woodworking industry and woodworking shops, the Homag Group’s presentation at this year’s Ligna was a resounding success. Encompassing a total area of almost 7,000 square meters, Homag City proved the pivotal attraction of the show. After five busy days of rewarding and interesting dialog with new and existing customers, the Homag Group returned triumphant with the second best haul of orders ever closed at a trade fair, falling just short of the record-breaking 2011 result. Touch the innovation – touch the future No other trade fair catering to the woodworking industry can boast such a high innovation density as Ligna. The new PowerTouch system from the Homag Group was undoubtedly the innovation of the fair. This pioneering new touchscreen operating concept combines design with function, combining with the PowerControl system to provide

PowerTouch - the new dimension in machine operation in the legendary Innovation Center

Page 20 SPRING 2013

the ultimate in customer benefit: Simple, standardized, ergonomic, evolutionary. The focal feature of the system is a large full HD multitouch monitor in wide-screen format, at which machine functions are controlled by direct touch contact. Standardized operating elements and software modules ensure that all the Homag Group machines can be operated with the same look and feel using the new concept. 20 world innovations live The legendary InnovationCenter located right at the heart of “Homag City” met with an equally enthusiastic reception. Safely concealed in the Center and accessible only to selected representatives of the trade public, 20 units were on display, featuring an array of technical highlights and new process technologies to enhance quality, flexibility, productivity and cost efficiency. These include RealityPlus – the virtual machine. With this ground-breaking development, the Homag Group led the field as the industry’s first manufacturer to enter the

Picture courtesy of: HOMAG Group AG

A lively buzz in Homag City

THE AWISA MAGAZINE EXHIBITION

technical highlights and new process technologies

world of virtual reality. With RealityPlus, the Homag Group has succeeded in linking the real environment to the virtual world, so securing a decisive technological leading edge – and allowing its customers to benefit from more security, more performance and higher efficiency. Megatrends: Zero joint & batch size 1 plants One of the focal themes of this year’s exhibition was the zero joint. Customer expectations of ever higher processing quality with the disappearance of visible joints continue to grow. Alongside office and bathroom furniture manufacturers, fitted kitchen firms are also focussing their attention on the LaserTec method with feed rates of up to 52 m/min. The figures speak for themselves, with over 200 Homag LaserTec units sold since 2008. “Using LaserTec from Homag, which we are deploying with a high level of success in three performance categories, we are able to offer industrially-oriented customers a method which allows them to combine zero joint manufacture with extremely high levels of productivity and flexibility with high volume output. Our product spectrum is rounded off by Brandt AirTec for lower feed rates from 15 m/min1. Medium-sized companies benefit in this situation from an ideal solution package affording them entry into the world of zero joint technology – with almost identical results in terms of quality and appearance. With AirTec and LaserTec, the Homag Group provides its customers with a chance to achieve an invaluable edge in terms of enhanced quality in performance category, making them ideally equipped to meet future challenges”, explains Dr. Christian Compera, director of research and development at Homag Holzbearbeitungssysteme GmbH. A series of individually linked high-tech machines covering the entire process chain were also featured at Ligna, providing irrefutable evidence of the Homag Group’s standing as the premier specialist in individual plant engineering for modern furniture production. The spectrum of machines on show in Homag City ranged from storage systems through sizing and nesting technology, order picking and sorting to drilling, assembly, hardware mounting and packaging.

save up to 80,000 tons of carbon emissions every year. At the same time, the system makes for more productive operation with over 100 different measures. Actions speak louder than words: Under the “Homag Cares” banner, once again the Homag Group donated the proceeds from sale of the demonstration parts to charity. At Ligna, the 2,000 Euro donation was presented to two charitable institutions in North Rhine Westphalia: the Bethel Children’s Hospice and the “Unser Haus” scheme for the disabled. Visitors from Mauritius to Greenland Over 90,000 visitors from around 100 countries made the journey to Hanover. The mood inside Homag City was buzzing with excitement and enthusiasm. Of those who visited the Homag Group trade fair stand, around 56% were from outside of Germany – a higher proportion than at the last Ligna. Alongside Russia and Poland, neighboring countries closer to home such as Belgium, Denmark and Holland were plentifully represented at the show – not forgetting visitors from other well-established European markets such as France, Italy, Spain and the UK. There were also a good proportion of guests from the USA and Australia, the growth markets of the BRICS countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China, south east Asia) and even from more exotic locations such as Aruba, Mauritius or Greenland.

HOMAG AUSTRALIA PTY LTD Phone 1800 355 635 www.homag-australia.com

These visitors from Gabon made the long journey to Homag City. Around 56% of visitors made the journey from outside Germany.

Achieving sustainability with “EcoPlus” and “Homag Cares” Energy, time, material and personnel – Homag Group customers are offered ways of saving all of these precious resources by using EcoPlus technologies. EcoPlus encompasses wide-ranging developments and technologies permitting up to 30% energy savings and sustainably reduced operating costs. Using EcoPlus facilities such as the standby mode, optimum extraction or controlled compressed air consumption, Homag Group customers can

SPRING 2013 Page 21

THE AWISA MAGAZINE TOUR

Homag European tour fosters business networks

Homag booths were one of the standout highlights of Ligna.

In addition to taking in the Ligna and Interzum shows, the recent Homag organised European tour visited a wide range of manufacturing operations.

Ross Campbell, managing director, Homag Australia … an important aspect of the tour was the development of a culture of friendship and cooperation between Australian manufacturers.

According to Homag Australia’s managing director Ross Campbell, coordinating valued clients to tour European trade shows and other places of business interest isn’t about sales, but fostering networking links between Australian manufacturers and facilitating information exchanges between clients and Homag’s leading technical and machinery innovation experts, plus inspecting the best of automated manufacturing across Europe. And its great fun to boot! “The Australian contingent joined prospective buyers, customers and business partners from all over the world who were all able to take

Visiting Meta a large automated manufacturer of cubicles and lockers.

Page 22 SPRING 2013

advantage of the traditional Homag hospitality and view new products and the latest trends in the industry.” First time tour participant Chris Webster, sales manager from the family-owned Melbourne business Designform that manufactures postformed bench tops and thermo-laminated vinyl and melamine doors said the tour and experience was a great, well organised event. “Loved it – we were like kids in a lolly shop! We were looked after like you wouldn’t believe, particularly by the Homag team at Ligna – we couldn’t have been better catered for.” Chris said he gained a lot of benefit from being able to inspect the Homag Group facilities and from the various manufacturers the group visited. “The in-depth tour of manufacturing plants

THE AWISA MAGAZINE TOUR

opened our eyes to opportunities to do things perhaps better and more efficiently back home.”

Homag Innovation Centre where new ideas, prototypes and developments were featured.

“The ability to study continuing moves in machinery sophistication and process automation was valuable in assisting to identify manufacturing efficiency opportunities in our own operation.”

Following Ligna, the tour party went to Cologne for the first two days of the Interzum exhibition. Many of those having attended previous Interzum exhibitions said the 2013 event was a large step forward in organisation and products on display from previous years.

Partner of the Kitchen Centre, with outlets in Launceston, Hobart and Melbourne, Jullian Rodman saw the tour as a further opportunity to build on the company’s well-established twentyyear track record in kitchen design, manufacture and installation. “The factory tours were a real eye-opener, especially the extent of machinery and process automation. The tour was a hundred percent relevant to cabinet-making and the kitchen industry in Australia.” Jullian said the visits to the trade shows were absolutely valuable. “Ligna more so for machinery and manufacturing systems and Interzum for materials and hardware.” “Yes – although it was my fourth visit to Europe what I have learnt and adapted to our operations after each visit has well-and-truly paid for itself many times over.” “Also the networking that took place among the range of people on the tour with different manufacturing operations and experiences was appreciated. We were able to swap ideas and learn from each other,” said Jullian. Ross Campbell added that just as important during the tour was the development of a culture of friendship and cooperation between Australian manufacturers who took part. “Most just don’t normally see one another or get a chance to swap ideas during the working year in Australia.” “At Homag we like to think that these tours help reinforce our message that, as well as us being part of their business, our customers are a critical part of ours. Buying a machine from us is just the beginning of the relationship,” he said.

After Interzum a group of 21 set off in minivans on their own ‘gumball rally’ across Germany and parts of Switzerland. Factory visits included, Meta, a large manufacturer of cubicles and lockers; Ruhsi, a highly automated manufacturer of commercial furniture and work tops; Veriset, a high-end automated kitchen manufacturer for the Swiss market, and Wietlisbach, small company producing about 70 kitchens a week with a very modest work force. A further tour highlight was a visit to the Homag Group facility located at Schopfloch in the northern part of Germany’s Black Forest. Homag continues to be a leader in the field of machinery and manufacturing for panel processing, structural timber frame housing construction, producing solutions from stand-alone machines to complete production lines.

The factory tours were a real eye-opener, especially the extent of process automation

As this edition goes to press the next group of Aussies readies for take-off to the Homag Group Treff. Treff is the annual in-house exhibition of the Homag Group and at 10,000 square metres already the exhibition area is larger than Ligna. This year a group of twelve will join with Homag Australia for a pre-show visit to a couple of the newest plants to commence operations with the focus being on batch-size-one automation, laser edging, part-in-process management and automated assembly and packaging. Being ‘inhouse’ Treff is the opportunity for intensive and detailed discussion with accessible and available Homag engineering teams.

HOMAG AUSTRALIA Phone 1800 355 635 www.homag-australia.com

Homag Australia hosted 38 companies and attended the Ligna exhibition over a five day period. The Homag booths were one of the standout highlights of the show along with the

SPRING 2013 Page 23

THE AWISA MAGAZINE DRAWERS

Minimalist design meets proven technology with the new Blum Tandembox Antaro box system To support the changing façade of furniture design, Blum provides more choices with the introduction of Tandembox Antaro to the proven Tandembox line. The Austrian fittings manufacturer provides the industry with differentiated product solutions, developed from extensive research into user needs and requirements - all of which promise quality for the lifetime of the furniture. The minimalist line Tandembox Antaro is the creation of a more sophisticated design and modular drawer system that provides better design solutions to an increasingly competitive market. The Tandembox Antaro offer stands for a clear-cut, rectangular design – either combined with a gallery or with glass or metal design elements, to create a closed pull-out. All components are coordinated in silk white, to underline the minimalist design. Tandembox Antaro is compatible with Blum’s space optimising cabinet solutions such as Space Corner, and the sink drawer solution. Designer Lynn Malone comments, “With Tandembox Antaro, I can provide more of my clients with differentiated design solutions, satisfying their need for reliable function and minimalist aesthetics. With these new styles, I can continue the clean lines and handle-less designs more commonly desired, throughout the drawer interiors”. Tandembox Antaro has been internationally recognised with the 2013 Interior Innovation Award from the German Design Council and replaced Tandembox Plus in July 2013 in silk white only. Blum’s tried-and-tested Tandembox drawer systems provide solutions to fulfil a wide range of customer requirements and are simple and easy to adjust. The programme line offers unsurpassed running action and the highest quality soft closing, full-extension runner for top quality motion and complete overview to every drawer and pull-out.

ahead with globally inspired designs,” comments Ben Fatchen, director, Goolwa Kitchens & Wardrobes. Tandembox Intivo will continue to provide a solution for the individual looking to be able to create individuality and the next level of interior design. Tandembox Intivo is available in stainless steel, terra black and silk white; with options to customise with design elements. Blum provides all the necessary information concerning the selection, ordering and assembly of Blum fittings in the Blum Catalogue. The new 2013/2014 Blum catalogue now includes Tandembox Antaro and Movento, the concealed runner system for wooden drawers and can be downloaded from the Blum website.

BLUM AUSTRALIA Phone 1800 179 186 www.blum.com

“I have been using Tandembox Plus for over 10 years. With Tandembox Antaro, I know I can rely on the functionality, smooth running action and quality of the Tandembox range; yet can now offer my customers a broad range of drawer heights and more design solutions, keeping me

SPRING 2013 Page 25

速

CUTTING EDGE SOLUTIONS

THE AWISA MAGAZINE HARDWARE

Blum’s better solution for 45° unsprung hinge for Tip-On

Original, functional, exclusive The 560 Waste Program is a built-in waste management program that is functional and design focused to appeal to all residential and commercial kitchen spaces. The range features matt grey finish, individual bucket lids and optional metal cabinet lids to minimise odours. There are 15 options with 450NL and 500NL, 5 cabinet widths and 3 bucket height options. The 560 Waste Program combines metal and plastic framing for strength and additional 2 front fixing brackets to provide front panel stability and alignment. The 560 Waste Program is a complete functional program supported and designed to suit Blum Tandembox Antaro and Intivo. To completely automate the waste system Servo-Drive Uno can be installed for hands-free opening and closing of the waste drawer. Exclusively distributed by Lincoln Sentry in Australia, the 560 Waste Program is easy to install and easy to use.

LINCOLN SENTRY Phone 1300 551 919 www.lincolnsentry.com.au

Blum Australia’s new addition to the Clip top angled hinge programme is the 78T5550 hinge for the 45° angled cabinet that requires an un-sprung hinge for use with the Tip-On mechanism. Currently, the only offering to the market for the 45° angled hinge for use with the Tip-On mechanism has been the 78A9698.T Clip top +45(I) half overlay screw-on unsprung angled hinge. This hinge doesn’t suit the majority of angled applications that require a 45° in an unsprung solution for Tip-On, because it only provides a half overlay solution rather than achieving an overlay solution, which is applicable for most applications in the market such as the corner pantry or other corner cabinets. The new 78T5550 Clip top angle hinge Tip-On +45(II) screw-on unsprung hinge creates an even gap between the door and panel/adjacent wall that applies to the majority of pantry/corner cabinet applications. The result is a seamless gap design with the step creation between the door and panel/door adjacent.

BLUM AUSTRALIA Phone 1800 179 186 www.blum.com

SPRING 2013 Page 27

THE AWISA MAGAZINE COMMENT

by Martin Lewis

soapbox “The Soapbox” – an opinion piece

THE FOLLOWING article has been contributed by Martin Lewis, former CEO of Furnishing Industry Association of Australia (FIAA). The opinions contained within are just that, and not necessarily part of official policy of an industry group.

Martin Lewis wishes to acknowledge the huge role that AWISA has played in building community in the FCJ industries and also express his gratitude for the opportunity to publish from this soapbox.

What will you wish for in a new government? Well, Kevin Rudd, our current Prime Minister, has finally announced it – the Australian people will go to the polls on Saturday 7 September. By the time you read this, we may

Page 28 SPRING 2013

already have a new government, but at the time of writing (early August), the opinion polls were suggesting that it was likely going to be a line ball – with possibly a slight edge to the Tony Abbott – led Coalition parties.

From my perspective however, the real issue is who will govern (and manage) Australia? Will it be a Kevin Rudd led Labor Government, a Tony Abbott led Coalition Government, or will it simply be more of the same anti-Australian anti-fair-market policy claptrap delivered by the Sir Humphrey style bureaucrats in our Commonwealth public service.

Jobs are the big issue The single biggest issue for the Australian government is jobs. If we have genuinely low unemployment, and plenty of work,

then a whole range of other issues then become minor in the extreme. With people holding down paid employment, then welfare payments decrease, taxation revenues increase, and I would argue, the cost of government decreases. The Australian Financial Review recently published an article detailing the fact that the number of people receiving unemployment benefits and education has risen by 138% in three years. A study by the Centre for Independent Studies found that there are more than 300,000 people receiving unemployment benefits who are not required to look for work. These “non jobseekers” are then not counted as unemployed by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, which requires that people be both without a job and actively looking for work.

THE AWISA MAGAZINE COMMENT

So here is the real data: t "#4 TBZT VOFNQMPZNFOU SBUF JT around 700,000 actively looking for work. t 'VSUIFS "#4 EBUB TBZT SFBM VOFNQMPZNFOU rate is closer to double that â&#x20AC;&#x201C; with around 13% wanting a job or wanting longer hours. t SFDFJWF VOFNQMPZNFOU CFOFGJU (Newstart) and a further 110,830 receive Youth Allowance (not being in full-time education). Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a total over 800,000 reeceiving unemployment benefits. t "#4 EBUB GPS .BZ TBZT UIFSF XFSF 138,700 job vacancies â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 127,900 in the private sector and 10,800 in the public sector. Is the primary solution to create new training schools which will advance the skill levels of job-seekers? Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great idea and probably also very politically acceptable but letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s be honest â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it will do stuff all to address the gap between the unemployed and under-employed, and the vacancies available to them. The focus area then is painfully obvious â&#x20AC;&#x201C; how do we create more vacancies! Particularly in the low cost private sector.

Some details about productivity The bureaucrats will tell industry associations that â&#x20AC;&#x153;Australiaâ&#x20AC;? needs to lift its productivity if it wants to compete with overseas and overseas imports. This will then improve business levels for locals firms which in turn leads to more jobs. Many in the media, particularly the far right media, will tell you that we need to reduce our wages, get rid of penalty rates and the Fair Work Commission, rave on rave on rave on. This is what they think productivity means. Largely this is crap â&#x20AC;&#x201C; does anyone really want their children to enter a workforce where there are no fair minimums and standards? We are an aspirational people â&#x20AC;&#x201C; we want the best for our children but we also want to see the concept of a fair go permanently enshrined in our way of life. Move on. Simply put, labour productivity is the ratio between output and wages cost or â&#x20AC;?manhoursâ&#x20AC;?. Thus technically a cabinetmaker that has 10 staff producing $3.5 million output will always be less productive than an importer with 2 staff handling $3.5 million output (because we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t count the inputs prior to purchase of stock). Equally a cabinetmaker with 10 staff producing $7 million output, because he has some well set-up CNC machinery, will always have higher â&#x20AC;&#x153;productivityâ&#x20AC;?. I am confident that the labour productivity in the furniture, cabinetmaking and joinery (FCJ) industries in Australia is pretty high,

if measured on a like for like basis against developed countries elsewhere in the world. On the other hand, there is capital productivity, and this is often where our FCJ business are often let down. How many times do you see or hear of a joinery that has installed some very high-tech CNC machinery but has either not fully installed and utilised the complete software capacity of the system, or only runs the machinery a few hours each day. This is poor capital productivity, and is usually known as Sub Optimal Capital Utilisation (SOCU). Put your hand up if this rings a bell! Perhaps the biggest drag on manufacturing, and particularly the FCJ industries in Australia, is Cost of Doing Business productivity (CODB). The CODB describes all of the imposts that federal, state or local government does to place an unfair burden on your business as against your competitors. The bureaucrats in these government departments are largely ignorant or indifferent to your plight, if your business goes bust, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s okay â&#x20AC;&#x201C; an importer can step in to fill your shoes, and their kids will be fine â&#x20AC;&#x201C; they can get part-time jobs at McDonalds. CODB is real. Did you know that if you import office furniture in NSW, versus making the furniture locally, then your workers compensation bill per $ of wages is 300% higher, and as a ration against turnover, approximately 1200% higher! This stuff happens all the time from our Canberra bureaucrats as well.

Does that seem fair to you? A start on creating more jobs would be by providing a plain ordinary fair and level playing field. Local businesses would then increase their turnover and their payrolls, simply because the Government of the day insists on fairness in business.

Some interesting data I was only able to access ABS data up to the year 2009/2010 but here is a snapshot of taxation revenues in that year: t 3FWFOVF GSPN JOEJWJEVBM QFSTPOBM JODPNF tax $187.016 billion t '#5 CJMMJPO t $PNQBOZ UBY CJMMJPO

These figures however mask what the bureaucracy has failed to collect, either because it does not have the collective brains to devise solutions for collection, because it is lazy and has not adequately assisted the government of the day, or because it is indifferent to the plight of Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s citizens. Did you know that technology giant Apple Corporation, derived revenues of $6 billion in financial year 2012 in Australia but only paid $40 million in tax? Did you know that technology giant Google in financial year 2012 derived revenues between $1 billion and $1.5 billion in Australia and paid only $6.1 million in tax? Did you know that furniture or cabinetry imported over the internet for less than $1,000 pays zero GST and that this nonsensical low threshold value exemption costs the Australian Taxation Office $578 million each year â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and growing! Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s put that into perspective. The industry super fund for cabinetmakers, joiners and other woodworkers, First Super, in its 2012 Annual Report, declared investment revenue for approximately 70,000 members of just over $42 million, contribution revenue from members and their employers of just over $160 million and other revenue of almost $12 million for a total of $214,514,924. Taxation remitted to the ATO was $18,131,510, ie just over $18 million. Compare that to any of the three examples I quoted before that.

I can draw a number of conclusions: 1. The system is unfair, and the people we pay to manage the system, are either indifferent, lazy, stupid, unfair, unaware, uneducated or incompetent. 2. We need change â&#x20AC;&#x201C; not necessarily in whether Rudd or Abbott becomes Prime Minister, but we need drastic change, probably a root and branch cull of all higher sections of the Commonwealth public service. They no longer seem to serve the common wealth. 3. Fight for whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fair â&#x20AC;&#x201C; join the FCJ community.

t 4VQFS GVOE UBYBUJPO CJMMJPO t (45 CJMMJPO

So where to from here ?

t 1BZSPMM UBYFT QBJE CZ FNQMPZFST UP TUBUF government $16.796 billion

Who will you vote for or who did you vote for ?

t -BOE UBYFT QBJE UP TUBUF HPWFSONFOUT $20.277 billion

Importantly, become part of the solution, become a player, not just a spectator.

t 3BUFT QBJE UP MPDBM HPWFSONFOU billion.

To join the FCJ community, feel free to contact Dean Brakell of FIAA at dbrakell@fiaa.com.au Ĺś.

SPRING 2013 Page 29

THE AWISA MAGAZINE MACHINERY

The system works How can a woodworking manufacturer tell that a machinery manufacturer has confidence in their product? Gabbett Machinery is so confident in the SCM range of panel saws that the company is now offering a full manufacturer’s 10 year warranty on the sliding table. As the heart and soul of any panel saw, the sliding table accuracy and durability is critical. A purchaser of an SCM saw can rest easy knowing that they have 10 years warranty. Not only that but they will experience SCM’s amazing accuracy levels, giving a true, smooth finish on all cuts - the SCM sliding table - guaranteed reliability and technology for 10 years

Since SCM’s exclusive sliding carriage was patented in 1992, more than 60,000 end users worldwide have benefitted from the quality of the sliding table system on the SCM panel saw range. The long lasting quality is due to the total absence of vibration, thanks to the hardened steel guides and perfect self-cleaning system. The hardened steel guides have a unique method of mechanical fixing without the need of glue or screws. This eliminates the need for adjustments and gives long term precision. The patented SCM solution gives a zero interference fit, which eliminates all play and the need for components to be adjusted, ensuring the total absence of vibration.

The self-cleaning system uses a unique horizontally orientated guide system, ensuring it’s protected from dust and shavings – an inherent problem in any cabinetry shop. This highly reliable system has been in production for many decades, proving itself to give the very best finishing quality.

GABBETT MACHINERY PTY LTD Phone 1300 GABBETT (1300 422 2388) www.gabbett.com

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Celebrating 125 years! For 125 years Hettich hardware technology has made living spaces work beautifully. Unmatched product diversity picks up on international furniture trends and innovative functions are trendsetters in their own right. At Hettich, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll ďŹ nd the perfect hardware solution for your furniture designs and unmatched service support. www.hettich.com.au

THE AWISA MAGAZINE HARDWARE

Hettich opens third trade centre Hettich, a leading supplier of cabinetry and hardware fittings, has opened its third Australian trade centre in Sydney. The trade centres, which showcase Hettich’s entire product range in real life settings, are part of the 125 year old company’s long-term strategy to provide one-on-one specialist support to members of the design and trade community. Hettich now has three trade centres across the country in Perth, Adelaide and most recently in Sydney, with plans to open more in the coming years. “We want members of the trade and design community to engage with our brand, so have established these trade centres as a way of providing excellent one-on-one specialist support, expertise and service to our highly valued customers,” says national marketing manager for Hettich Australia and New Zealand, Dave Angus. The Perth and Sydney trade centres, which were both opened recently, are located next to Hettich’s showrooms in Osborne Park and Smithfield respectively. The Adelaide trade centre, which has been open for two years, is located next to Hettich’s showroom and state head office in Medindie Gardens, 4kms north of the Adelaide CBD. “Positioning the trade centres next to our showrooms allows guests to experience Hettich products in action, then receive technical advice and support next door in the trade centres, where dedicated and knowledgeable staff await to help with advice and purchase decisions.” “Our aim is to provide top class, quality support directly to members of the design and trade communities through our dedicated trade centres,” says Mr Angus. 2013 is shaping up to be a big year for Hettich, with the celebration of its 125th anniversary globally, 25th anniversary in Australia and New Zealand, launch of arguably the world’s best drawer system ArciTech, and the opening of two new trade centres in the major cities of Perth and Sydney. The trade centres work in tandem with Hettich’s Endorsed Showroom programme that currently has more than 200 members nationwide. “Our trade centres serve the trade community directly while our Endorsed Showroom programme reaches consumers – it’s a two tier strategy that ensures we have a reach across both important sectors,” says Mr Angus.

HETTICH AUSTRALIA Phone 1800 HETTICH www.hettich.com.au

SPRING 2013 Page 33

THE AWISA MAGAZINE NEWS

It’s what’s Inside that counts At Harn, quality and reliability is of utmost importance. Harn is committed to serving its customers through continuous improvement of product quality and efficiency. Triomax, Harn’s forefront soft close drawer system is proud to offer customers its latest new improved system T3 & T6 which comes in 35kg and 60kg load rating. The improvement in Triomax drawer system marks an important step in Harn’s development plan to continue to upgrade the performance of its drawer system by meeting customer’s increasing expectation for high quality products. Aside from the distinct characteristic of Triomax for its Sylent integrated cushioning

system and super smooth sliding action, there are key improved features that have been introduced for the bettering of the product and higher performance result. These include robust spring system for efficient self-closing mechanism, improved damper system for smooth non-abrupt closing even when drawer is fully loaded, new bracket holder with flexible drilling hole position, high lateral stability with side pad guided by anti-skew roller on side profile, durable end stopper to secure stability of drawer when closing, and easier drawer attachment and detachment with new reinforced spot welded rear hook

finishing colours in white, grey, grey metallic and anthracite (black metallic) to choose from to suit individual tastes.

Triomax comes in 83mm and 115mm height with lengths range from 270mm to 550mm. There are 4 elegant silky smooth epoxy

HARN Phone 07 3269 6846 www.harn.com

Triomax offers a full extension drawer system that allows for full drawer view and maximum space optimization. It also offers a wide variety of pull out solutions including inner drawers, under sink drawers, and document filling drawers. Complementing Triomax drawer is the OrganisePlus series of drawer content management accessories to provide endless storage solutions while keeping things inside the drawer tidy, neat and well organized.

CV Cabinets moves with the times CV Cabinets, located in Moorabbin Victoria, is known for producing high quality kitchens, commercial joinery and acrylic bench tops. Established in 1994, company owner Eric Augustyniak has continued to provide customers with a specialized service from consultation and design, to construction and installation. With the continual challenges facing many Australian joinery companies, Eric found that times and technology were changing at a rapid pace, and clients were demanding faster completion dates than the factory could cater for. Eric knew the machining process had to be streamlined which involved being automated, but at the same time cost effective. In mid-2012, Eric began the search for machinery that would cater for his needs. “But the issue was, where should I start looking?” said Eric. Lucky for Eric the AWISA 2012 exhibition that attracts the leading machinery companies from around Australia was only around the corner, which would allow him to experience the most sophisticated CNC machinery available.

Page 34 SPRING 2013

Once experiencing the AWISA exhibition in July and evaluating the number of options on display, Eric recognised the simplicity and efficiency of nesting machines. At the time, his current processes consisted of a hands on approach, where material would be manually handled from the beam saw through to his point to point machine and then onto an edgebander. This being labour intensive, Eric decided to invest in a Woodtron CNC nesting machine. The Woodtron Advance Auto 3618 consists of heavy duty frame construction, large drilling head, on board tool change, touch screen labelling and “one sweep’’ automatic loading and unloading. The Advance series consists of a number of high end features and is made for performance, which is capable of machining 80 – 90 sheets per shift. Eric’s Woodtron was installed in August 2012, and was able to suit the factories layout and production flow, as all Woodtron models are able to run both left to right or right to left direction. “The Woodtron technicians ensured a seamless and fast installation, as

there was little disruption to production” said Eric. Twelve months on, Eric has realised the investment in his Woodtron machine has proven to be an integral part of his business. “My Woodtron CNC has simplified the production process. By eliminating double handling, it has streamlined our entire workflow allowing my staff to take on larger jobs which previously we would have never considered” said Eric.

WOODTRON PTY LTD Phone 03 9775 4100 www.woodtron.com.au

THE AWISA MAGAZINE EXHIBITION

Successful Ligna for the Leitz Group

Six product innovations and a completely new exhibition concept: The Leitz stand at Ligna in hall 12 and in hall 26.

At Ligna Leitz presented six product innovations, among them the coated ProfilCut knives Marathon.

Page 36 SPRING 2013

Leitz presented six innovations at the world’s most important wood processing exhibition. A large international presence on both the Leitz exhibition stands brought Leitz success. Leitz strengthened its international leading market position, evident in the successful after-fair business. Among many things, Leitz exhibited six innovative tooling solutions for the wood, plastic and non-ferrous metal processing industries. Leitz also presented its new homepage and E-Shop where customers can order tools 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The Leitz concept for its two exhibition stands was a new design with touchscreens and interactive exhibits to allow visitors to experience the tools and to give clear information.

Leitz’s Ligna presence had the slogan Process Intelligence. Sven Haag, head of central marketing at Leitz, explains why: “Today, successful manufacturing companies depend on Leitz for efficient production processes.” In this, the devil is in the detail: Each process conceals cost drivers. ”These we focus with our customers on with suitable tool solutions and services. This is what makes processes more intelligent.“ Post Ligna the spirit at Leitz was excellent. ”Ligna is a brilliant start to the second half of the year”, rejoices Haag. ”It was great to see how popular our product innovations and stand presentations were for the visitors.” Also the Ligna attendance figures make us positive. According to the organizer more than 90.000 visitors from 100 countries came to Hannover during the week. Also Leitz had a great attendance. At peak times already large space on both the Leitz stands seemed inadequate for our audience. What was noticeable was the good mood among the visitors giving Leitz the expectation of a successful show business. The good machine producers’ sales figures give Leitz hope for business in the next few months. So Leitz believes it

has strengthened its internationally leading market position in the wood and plastic processing industries. The six innovations presented by Leitz in Hannover have common strengths: All simultaneously increase process efficiency and quality. For example: The Marathon coated ProfilCut knives for profiling furniture and window components and plastic and nonferrous metals yield significantly higher performance times, increase ma-chine productivity, reduce tungsten carbide consumption and decrease tooling costs. The special profiling technology gives finish cut quality until the end of the performance time. The other Leitz innovations have similar performance profiles. The Leitz innovations could be seen action on the international leading machine producers’ stands at Ligna. The Leitz YouTube-Channel has two video-tapes giving overviews of the Leitz exhibition stands plus further information. The Leitz YouTubeChannel can be accessed by entering www.youtube.com/leitztooling.

LEITZ TOOLING SYSTEMS PTY LTD Phone 03 9760 4000 www.leitz.com.au

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THE AWISA MAGAZINE MACHINERY

Manufacturing showcase popular with visitors Recently Multicam CNC Routing Systems held the second in a series of nationwide manufacturing showcases at its NSW office in Newcastle. The first showcase was held in Victoria earlier this year and the last showcase for the year is due be held at their Brisbane office later in the year. The showcases gather together industry suppliers such as Nover, Planit, Nessco, CabMaster, Festool, Allboard Distributors, Alupanel, Huntingdale Power Tools and Logan Leigh Benchtops and allow visitors to see the latest trends and developments in products and materials for the woodworking industry. Held over a number of days, each of the showcases prominently featured live routing demonstrations on numerous Multicam CNC routing machines, which were routing cabinet carcasses, aluminium composite material, pointof-sale displays and other materials of interest to the visitors. The manufacturing showcases have proven to be hugely popular to kitchen manufacturers, shopfitters, cabinetmakers as well as the numerous other visitors that attended. Of particular interest was the fully automatic nested based manufacturing work cell which featured automatic sheet loading, machining and conveyor unloading system. The dual head Multicam machine that formed the backbone of this work cell had a 3600mm x 1800mm process area and included a gang drill head for rapidly producing multiple pilot and shelf holes.

Of course the NBM work cell can be mated to any size Multicam machine. “We have found that companies in the woodworking, and other industries, are always keen to see the latest trends and developments occurring within their industry.” Phil Balzan, state sales manager for Multicam Victoria, says. “These showcases are also unique in that we are able to carry out live demonstrations in a factory environment and the demonstrations are actually guided by the questions and demands of the attendees.” Neil Winkcup, state manager for Multicam NSW adds. “Another of the key features of these showcases is that visitors can see how all the products on display interact with each other. They can see how the software works with the Multicam machines to produce their desired result and how the Multicam machines produce their finished parts.” Neil adds that “Visitors can also talk one-on-one with Multicam technicians, in great detail, about the various aspects of using Multicam machines as well as correct tool selection, material and product selection.” Neil adds that “We also had companies such as Nover and Nessco who were able to showcase the latest trends in fittings and fixtures for cabinet making, whilst new products and materials that can be incorporated in to modern designs were also able to be viewed. These include solid bamboo benchtops from Logan Leigh Benchtops and aluminium composite material from Alupanel.” Festool and Huntingdale Power Tools also had on display a complete range of power hand tools and accessories essential to all cabinet makers. All visitors that attend the showcases go in to the generous prize draw of laptop computers, software solutions from CabMaster and Planit, holiday vouchers as well as product and service vouchers from the attending industry suppliers. The showcases have proven to be so popular that Multicam is considering making these a regular event.

MULTICAM CNC ROUTING SYSTEMS Phone 02 4964 1900 www.multicam.com.au

Page 38 SPRING 2013

THE AWISA MAGAZINE STANDARDS

Exciting times for Wilson & Bradley, Sydney

Reaction testing frame raises bar for safety and reliability

Wilson & Bradley has left its premises in Silverwater and has moved to a bigger and better warehouse in Greystanes. The Silverwater warehouse and offices have served Wilson & Bradley NSW well but it reached the point where more space was needed. The new location is slightly further west than Silverwater, but is in a fantastic location logistically being very close to main arterial roads M4 and M7 as well as being a neighbour to Wetherill Park, one of Sydney’s biggest industrial areas. The warehouse space has more than doubled having gone from 300 pallet spaces to a staggering 2500. The new location will feature a brand new showroom and offices as well as new warehouse fixtures, racking and forklifts, so not only will it be able to hold more stock, but orders can be processed from start to finish in a streamlined and up to date manner. The new warehouse is at Unit 4, 3 Basalt Road, Greystanes NSW 2145.

WILSON & BRADLEY PTY LTD Phone 03 9495 8900 www.wilbrad.com.au

A REACTION TESTING frame recently commissioned by EWPAA has again raised the bar for structural engineered wood products that meet Australian and NZ standards for safety and reliability.

The testing frame, which assesses the racking capacity of thin panel bracing walls and systems such as plywood and MDF, has been installed at the Engineered Wood Products Association of Australasia’s laboratories on the Gold Coast. Pictured monitoring the performance of some of the first product placed in the frame are, from left, Mick McDowell who helped develop the original plywood bracing systems within the AS1684.2 residential timber-framed construction standard and who has devoted more than 40 years’ technical service to the plywood industry, Josh Zervos, EWPAA technical officer, and Simon Dorries, EWPAA general manager. “The reaction frame will be a big boost to developing new products, optimising systems and making the bracing market – worth about $30 million in Australia – a more costeffective segment of the engineered wood sector,” Mr Dorries said. “This blends well with our EWPAA third party audited JASANZ accredited product certification scheme that fully complies with AS/NZS 2269.0 (plywood-structural).” Permanent bracing enables the roof, wall and floor framework to resist horizontal wind forces (racking forces) applied to the building. Connections help transfer these forces through the framework and sub-floor structure to a building’s foundation. EWPAA structural plywood bracing systems provide a safe and reliable means of permanent bracing that is easy to install and very cost effective. The EWPAA structural plywood wall bracing design manual can be down loaded from the EWPAA web site: www.ewp.asn.au Ŷ

SPRING 2013 Page 39

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THE AWISA MAGAZINE TRAINING

New state-of-the-art equipment gives Sydney TAFE students a cutting edge New state-of-the-art machines at TAFE NSW – South Western Sydney Institute (SWSi) Lidcombe college will give hundreds of timber trades students a cutting edge in the local manufacturing industry, TAFE SWSi Institute director Peter Roberts said recently. Mr Roberts’ statement was made as the first group of students tried their hand at one of five newly installed CNC computer controlled machines. Local woodworking and timber manufacturing has undergone some big changes in recent years, with many businesses rolling out new machinery to better meet the demand for locally made products such as kitchen cabinets, custom-made furniture and commercial fit-outs. More than 600 students who study a timber or furnishing trades course at TAFE SWSi every year will now have the opportunity to train on the latest equipment as used in the industry across south western Sydney and Australia. Using the new machines will enable students to quickly manufacture components from computer generated designs.

refurbishment of the Lidcombe college facilities. The refurbishment project includes three brand new computer labs, the latest interactive learning technologies, and the remodelling of three workshops and equipment to accurately simulate modern industrial practices and production methods plus a comprehensive upgrade of the dust extraction system to meet the current environmental standards. Final stages of the project are expected to be completed by June 2014.

The start-up of the machines on marks the successful completion of the first stage in a $6.5 million state government funded

Mr Roberts said the refurbishment ensured timber trades students gained the practical experience needed to build a career in the

Acting head teacher – allied timber trades, Paul Kubisch (centre) points out features of the new equipment to students Tom Walsh (left) and Darren Boswell.

modern furniture and timber manufacturing industry. TAFE SWSi is one of Australia’s largest educational institutions, delivering programs to more than 72,000 students every year in nine colleges across south western Sydney, in workplaces all over Australia and in partner colleges in China, and the Philippines. Ŷ

SPRING 2013 Page 41

THE AWISA MAGAZINE COFFINS

by John Halkett

One foot in the grave? WITH BUSINESS CLOSURES, a high Aussie dollar and an avalanche of cheap, non-compliant Chinese imports, the domestic coffin manufacturing industry may well be in need of a hearse itself. But there are a few companies fighting against this trend – one of them is located in Sydney’s outer Fairfield suburb.

When, in the context of concerns about contracting manufacturing in Australian, and in the context of this magazine, cabinet making and joinery, editor Geoff Holland suggested I have a look at the coffin making business, first thing I did was to ask him about his health. Then I thought about all the one-liners I could use – you know – it’s a dying trade, or talk about a dead-end business, and so on. Unfortunately, after some research and a couple of visits some of these witticisms may not be that far from the truth. Perhaps not surprisingly, coffin manufacturing has taken a pounding on multiple fronts. Cheap imports buoyed by the high Aussie dollar, plus economies-of-scale that work in favour of importers, and being able to duck some of the standards that are imposed on Australian manufacturers have all helped imports and work against domestic manufacturers. Downward cost pressures from funeral homes also haven’t helped.

commitment to the industry and to his work-force But getting to my road trip. Operating for 45 years with a staff of 26, Beta Caskets in Fairfield turns out 12,000 caskets a year of every conceivable description, supplying funeral homes across NSW and Victoria. Managing director George Ajkay is the genuine article with a lifetime commitment to the industry and a real compassion for keeping his company in business and staff on the pay-roll. “Yes it is a tough business and getting tougher – competing with imported Chinese caskets in an industry where price rules – it’s that plain and simple.” “I have made a real effort to keep going – doing the marketing and keeping staff employed in the face of contracting margins and having to compete against a flood of cheap imports.” George’s business now manufactures about 95 per cent of its caskets from laminated board, with solid wood coffins making up only around five per cent of the business. “For our solid timber lines we use imported New Zealand and other pines, American while oak, cedar and some Tasmanian blackwood,” he said.

Page 42 SPRING 2013

George Ajkay reflects on 45 years making coffins and now facing contracting margins because of the flood of cheap imports.

George was quick to say that all the particle and fibre board he uses is sourced from Australian manufacturers. “You can actually smell the formaldehyde-base glue emissions in imported Chinese coffins. We won’t use any imported board products.” No doubt, casket manufacturing is a labour-intensive process, and while Beta Caskets use a CNC router to cut coffin components, assembly, coating and finishing tasks all need manual input that can’t be substituted with machinery. So labour costs need meticulous management. Reluctantly George concedes that he will be forced to start importing some coffins in the future to stay competitive in the domestic funeral market. “We will continue to manufacture here, but I may not replace staff who leave – we have to be realistic.” The evidence from the coffin making business parallels that of other manufacturing activities in Australia – it’s super hard to compete with low cost, sometimes non-compliant Chinese imports. However, while George Ajkay and Beta Caskets are still on the right side of the business turf, you get the sense that might not be the case if George’s sense of commitment to the industry and to his work-force was not a central component of his business decision-making. So I then made a visit to the funeral director-end of the coffin business. I was lucky to be able to meet Chris Timmins, a leading Sydney owner of a couple of funeral home businesses, including Chris Timmins Funerals, established in 1950. Chris is regarded as one of the shakers-andmovers in the rapidly changing Sydney funeral scene. His views are widely respected.

THE AWISA MAGAZINE COFFINS

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“We are most definitely not a discount funeral home,” said Chris. “We have long positioned ourselves more at the middle to upper end of business where experience, quality and service were valued and sought.”

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Chris said that the choice of coffins by clients was substantially influenced by whether the funeral in going to be a burial or cremation. “Presently, at least in Sydney where the price of burial plots is climbing, there are now as many cremations as there are the more traditional burials. Cremation clients are much more inclined to purchase a casket more towards the bottom end of the price range.” Chris said that in relation to his businesses, over 90 per cent of the caskets he buys are sourced from Australia manufacturers. “In relation to imports we do buy some more economy-focussed lines, but equally we buy top-ofthe line bronze, metal and solid wood coffins made in Italy and the United States.” “So overall when buying coffins for our business, operating towards the top end of the market, we find that quality, in terms of construction and finish, and continuity of supply are just as important, if not more so than price,” said Chris.

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SPRING 2013 Page 43

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THE AWISA MAGAZINE MACHINERY

Altendorf Elmo III D - more efficient and flexible than ever Altendorf is a name every professional in the industry is familiar with, and here’s why; Altendorf is the original and most successful brand in sliding panel saw history. It would take days to describe the company’s century of revolutionary advancements. From the birth of the first sliding panel saw, to the aluminium table, to the widely acclaimed dumbbell roller system to just name a few. Today, thanks to Altendorf’s ongoing dedication to pushing the boundaries in panel processing technology, the company is introducing the Altendorf Elmo III D, the latest to carry on the company’s legacy of innovation. With an Altendorf_2 inspired saw unit that can be tilted to 46° in either direction, the Altendorf Elmo III D

offers greater flexibility than ever. The fact that the saw blade tilts towards the work piece brings improved ergonomics, as heavy work pieces can be processed without awkward manipulation and delicate surfaces can always be oriented upward to protect them from damage. Setting new standards in efficiency and performance, the motor utilises synchronous servo motors which alone draw up to 15% less power than conventional electric motors. Furthermore, how much power this type of motor draws depends on how hard it has to work, so energy wastage is minimized. The unit also features an infinitely variable speed control from 2000rpm to 5000rpm, allowing a wide variety of material to be cut in true Altendorf precision.

The Elmo III D is operated and controlled though Altendorf’s time proven touch screen interface. Directly from the eye level display, the operator can position the saw blade height via its motorised axes, adjust cutting angle and rip fence dimensions as well as a wide range of additional time saving functions. Combined with one of the most reliable saw chassis, sliding table systems and the ability to tilt 90° in a mere 12 seconds, the new Elmo III D can be claimed in confidence as being more productive than ever.

ALTENDORF ASIA PACIFIC PTY LTD Phone 1800 558 258 www.altendorf.com.au

SPRING 2013 Page 45

THE AWISA MAGAZINE ROUTERS

smart

Are “smart routers” the next wave? Everyone knows about smart phones. Now, there are also smart CNC routers. Smart phones do more than make phone calls and smart routers do more than cut parts. The fundamental advantage of a smart router is that it makes a lot more money for a nested based business. Just like smart phones, smart routers do cost a bit more but they make that back in short order. The substantial benefits of a smart router are not in actually cutting parts, but in all the details required to cut parts. It also shines when things go wrong. Most folks considering a router for the first time do not realize that the vast majority of their cost will not be running the router, but instead, will be in a myriad of details required to run the router. Preparation, programming, hold down, procedures, sorting, scrap, assembly and error handling are the main cost areas. Ordinary routers do not focus on these areas. They rely on the user to take care of them and usually it’s not all that easy. The operator must be both skilled and well trained to work within the limits of these systems. Smart routers address the areas where manufacturers spend the most money because that’s where they can make the most money. Ordinary routers may seem less expensive at first, but may prove to be much more expensive in the long run.

The basis of a smart router is that, instead of a machine that just executes a program, smart routers automatically perform numerous functions that otherwise must be done by skilled, and expensive people. Smart routers aren’t just controls that move a machine. They actually know the job they are doing, so they can make judgment calls that make it much more efficient. Smart routers also perform valuable new functions that are just not possible with an ordinary router. For example, with a smart router a manufacturer can run a complete custom cabinet shop, producing custom sized cabinets without a programmer, without a computer and without software - with just the machine itself and a cabinet library. Smart routers process part programs two ways. First, they process CNC programs in the traditional way using output from virtually any design software. Smart routers can even run existing programs written for other brand machines, even if those programs contain codes specific to those machines. This means, with a smart router, manufacturers can use software configured for about any machine and can run programs that they already have without reprogramming. Smart routers are pretty much compatible with anything, but if nested based programs are being run, there is a better approach. In the second approach, instead of using a traditional CNC program, developed with software and a PC, smart routers use part data and create the actual cutting programs within the machine itself. Several major software vendors already offer database output to smart routers plus, any software that can output DXF files will work with smart routers. Send the design to a smart router and it, rather than the user, worries about how to make the parts. There are significant advantages to this approach. The first is tremendous flexibility. Parts can be brought in from several different sources, including DXF files, and nested and cut as a single job. That’s right, parts from different software packages can be run together, in the same job. Manufacturers are not tied to a single rigid software path and do not need to go through the steps of taking designs and turning them into CNC programs. Also, smart routers

Page 46 SPRING 2013

THE AWISA MAGAZINE ROUTERS

smart routers aren’t just controls that move a machine

adjust programs for their own operating characteristics or for the tooling that is available. For example, a smart router knows how large a part it can hold and cut in a single pass. If a part is smaller, it cuts it in two passes, first leaving a skin and then removing the skin in a second pass. If the part is even smaller it just leaves the skin and lets the user remove it. A common problem in nested based machining occurs when the actual material thickness varies from the thickness that was originally programmed. With ordinary routers, manufacturers either have to reprogram the entire job and develop a new CNC program for the new thickness or live with the inevitable mismatches. With smart routers simply input the actual thickness at the beginning of the job and it adjusts everything automatically. Smart routers address backside machining in a different way. A smart router groups all parts that need backside operations on the first few sheets of a job and does the back operations on the full sheet. The machine instructs the user to load the sheet with the backside up and then does all the backside machining on all parts. Notches are machined on the sheet edges so when it is flipped over, it can be precisely positioned against locator pads. When the parts are cut and removed, they are complete, front and back. This saves a lot of labor compared to doing back operations one part at a time. Scrap parts are easily replaced. At the end of a job, simply scan the labels of any parts needing to be recut and the machine nests them on any material still on the table. This saves a lot over having to create new CNC programs to make replacement parts. With a smart router the user can even add parts from previous jobs to a new job, provided they are running the same material (it watches that). When replacements parts from another job are cut, a red bar on the label lets the user know this part is for a different job. Labels are also somewhat smart. Most jobs consist of several individual items, for example, a kitchen full of cabinets. To get the most efficient nests, parts are scattered

throughout the job. Once complete, the first thing the user must do is figure out which parts go with which cabinets. Smart routers use a color symbol on the labels. Put the parts with the same symbol together; red circles with red circles, blue triangles with blue triangles, yellow squares with yellow squares, etc. Color symbols are much easier to sort than text descriptions. This saves a ton of labor. Using a diagram of the part, smart labels also show which edges need to be edge banded.

If a tool is broken, it drops off the tool holder and tells the operator to replace the tool. It then picks up the new tool, automatically measures it, adjusts the program for the new tool length and diameter, recuts the path of the broken tool and continues with the job. Operators can also abandon and recut the sheet they are working on. Perhaps the sheet is warped or an internal defect is found. The machine gives step by step instructions to replace and recut the sheet, right in the middle of the job.

Another thing that saves a lot of labor is assembly marks. These are dot patterns machined into the joints of mating parts. They tell which parts go together. One dot goes with one dot, two dots go with two dots, etc. Assembly marks are completely hidden when the parts are assembled but they save a lot of assembly time, especially on more complex pieces. It is interesting to note that the last two patented features aren’t part of the machine itself but, by using them, the smart router can save a pile of money.

This article only scratches the surface of what smart routers can do. They keep track of maintenance and tool life and alert operators before, not after they have a problem. They guide operators step by step through anything they want to do. The operator can access the operating manual and even watch videos of maintenance and repair procedures right at the machine, and can view and manipulate a 3D CAD drawing of the entire machine, identifying every part and seeing how they fit together. There is even get an app for the operator’s smart phone or tablet to monitor the smart router from just about anywhere. And with all this capability, smart routers are incredibly intuitive and easy to use. Just as smart phones have replaced flip phones, smart routers may very well replace ordinary routers by offering better, easier and substantially more profitable operation.

Certain parts are prominent on the final product, door and drawer fronts for example. Smart routers instruct users to hand select the sheet if it has any of these prominent parts on it. If left to random, it is easy to encounter a flaw or unattractive grain pattern, forcing the scrapping of valuable parts. And since nesting is done right at the machine, it is easy to use material left from previous jobs. At the beginning of a new job, simply scan the label on any material to be used and the machine nests on it. Material with flaws can be used by nesting around the flaws. This feature alone can save 5-7% of material cost each year.

THERMWOOD Phone 0419 928 469 www.thermwood.com.au

Another feature with huge payback is a pause button. With standard routers, the operator must remain close to the control so the machine can be stopped if something goes wrong. The only job the operator can really do is watch the machine. With a smart router, a pause button clips to the operator’s belt. Pressing it anywhere in the production cell stops the machine. It works like an emergency stop, but is not a “wrench in the gearbox” emergency stop. It immediately stops the machine, but offers options.

SPRING 2013 Page 47

THE AWISA MAGAZINE

ASSOCIATIONS

by Eric Lytton CMA of WA executive officer

Distant murmurs, news from the Cabinet Makers Association of WA. Home Building Contracts Act progress payments The burning issue in Western Australia at the moment concerns the WA Building Commission’s (WA BC) interpretation of the Home Building Contracts Act (HBCA). The HBCA is one piece of legislation governing builders (cabinet makers) entering into contracts with members of the public for work valued at between $7,500 and $500,000. For some time the WA BC has been threatening to prosecute cabinet makers who ask for progress payments, other than the statutory 6.5% deposit specified under the HBCA. The position of the WA BC in relation to progress payments creates significant problems for all WA cabinet making businesses dealing primarily with the public. In effect these businesses can only take the statutory deposit and must fund the other 93.5% of each kitchen project they undertake and trust that they receive payment on completion. Clearly for most small businesses this is an untenable situation. As a consequence of the above, the Cabinet Makers Association of WA has been in negotiation with both the Minister for Commerce and the WA BC. Unfortunately while both the minister and the WA Building Commission have sympathy for the industry, finding a resolution is not straightforward. The situation has been further complicated by the fact that following the recent state election a cabinet reshuffle has meant that the negotiation process has virtually to start over again. The Cabinet Makers Association of WA has recently written to Minister Mischin requesting his department’s prompt attention to the matter and the advice from the Minister’s staff is that the issue has been referred back to the WA BC.

Page 48 SPRING 2013

In the interim, while the industry waits for guidance from the state government on this issue, the CMA is writing to the WA BC requesting that it allow cabinet makers to take progress payments, subject to conditions previously discussed with the WA BC until this matter can be resolved. 2013 Golf Day – Sponsored by Borg Decorative Overall the 2013 Golf Day was a great success, and the CMA wishes to thank the major sponsor Borg Decorative and the other sponsors Apollo Risk Services and The Laminex Group as well as all those businesses that sponsored individual holes. Held for the first time at Wembley Golf Course, in all just under 140 players took part and although conditions were a little overcast and occasionally drizzly, for the most part the weather goods were fairly kind. The team from Kitchen Craftsmen won the day, with the Borg Decorative team coming second and Anthony Johns Cabinets finishing third. CMA Trade Show The CMA is scheduling to hold its first trade show since 2011 in April 2014. As usual the trade show will be held at Polytechnic West’s Balga Campus and invitations to attend will be extended to all the industry players in WA. The trade show will be supported by the trade show magazine which will be posted to the WA industry at the end of March. The magazine will provide advertorial coverage for all exhibitors at the trade show. Please contact the CMA on the numbers below for more information about participating in the trade show, or advertising in the magazine.

Wood Trades Mentor Scheme The Food Fibre and Timber Industries Training Council of WA has received

funding from the Commonwealth Government to provide mentoring and support services to help wood trades apprentices in Western Australia successfully progress through their apprenticeship.

The Wood Trades Mentoring Scheme is a free service which aims to increase the retention rates of apprentice cabinet makers, furniture finishers, wood machinists, upholsterers and floor finishers in order to improve completion rates and support the supply of skilled workers in the light manufacturing industry of Western Australia. For more information about the scheme please contact Wood Trades Mentor, Neil Turner on 9361 2800, mobile 0438 737 628 or email Neil at wtms@fftitrainingcouncil.com. au.

CABINET MAKERS ASSOCIATION OF WA Phone 1300 768 016 www.cmawa.com.au

THE AWISA MAGAZINE SOFTWARE

Drawing and manufacturing with the press of a button Benchmark Interior Joinery operates in South Australia’s Holden Hill, and is a small family business run by brothers Steve and Andy McGeorge. They cater for the Australian domestic market manufacturing flat pack and fully assembled kitchens along with making display stands for Tasman Oliveri. Benchmark Interior Joinery needed to find a solution so they could manufacture kitchens in both a cost and time efficient manner. Steve and Andy approached Planit’s South Australian territory manager Tony Vella to find a solution that would not only meet their budget but their design and manufacturing requirements. After listening to what the team needed to improve their business, it was clear that it was not only the software that they needed. Planit

also needed to play a crucial guiding and supporting role to integrate the software into their business.

was also able to customise the integration to suit Benchmark Interior Joinery, highly beneficial to the successful outcome.

Starting with Solid Essential with S2ME (Screento- Machine Essential) was a perfect fit to get their drawings to the machine without having to use a third party program. It provided all the drawing needs for the joinery as well as the detail for factory staff. Solid Essential is an entry-level product, however, it still provided the customer with the plans, elevations and 3D Photo Vision renderings to integrate the solution into their design and detailing process.

Andy McGeorge was thrilled with the results of using Cabinet Vision Entry Level Manufacturing software. “It has been a dream to draw a kitchen, push a button and the machine cuts it for you.”

For the manufacturing process, Cabinet Vision’s S2ME was able to shape parts, drill the holes required, optimise the job and provide labels for part information and identification. Planit

Investing in Planit’s entry level manufacturing software, along with a nesting machine was not only a big step forward for them, but also played a key part in allowing them to grow their business.

PLANIT Phone 02 9544 8815 www.au.planit.com

SPRING 2013 Page 49

THE AWISA MAGAZINE MACHINERY

virtual

Homag Group RealityPlus – the virtual machine

Page 50 SPRING 2013

As a manufacturer of machines, software and plants for the woodworking industry, joineries and woodworking shops, for the Homag Group everything hinges on the development of stateof-the-art products. Virtual reality – the use of virtual machines in realistic environments – is an essential tool for the Homag Group in achieving this development objective. Under the banner of RealityPlus, the Homag Group has succeeded in linking the virtual world to an actual environment to secure a decisive development edge over its competitors – while helping customers to benefit from increased safety, performance and efficiency. The advantages: t 4FDVSF JOWFTUNFOUT t 7JSUVBM DPNNJTTJPOJOH PG NBDIJOJOH MJOFT PS software t 7JSUVBM UFTUJOH PG QIZTJDBM MJNJUT t 0QUJNVN RVBMJUZ environment

SFBMJTUJD

Time-consuming conventional machine and plant development is a thing of the past. RealityPlus permits faster, more flexible and more detailed development of plant, machine and unit innovations including software right through to the finished product. RealityPlus allows boundaries to be virtually sounded out, providing high tech development and process optimization capability, as it provides a seamless transition from the virtual world to the real world. Real plant components can be linked to new virtual components and tested, making this technology additionally available for the smart networking of value adding processes in production. RealityPlus allows assured production process reorganization and optimization while in the real world, customer machines and plants work to add value for their owners. Virtual Reality is more than “just” simulation. By using real control system components, the virtual machine is able to depict real life situations.

UFTUJOH

t i8BMLBCMFw NBDIJOFT t 5SBJOJOH PG NBDIJOF PQFSBUJPO PO BO indestructible machine

HOMAG AUSTRALIA PTY LTD Phone 1800 355 635 www.homag-australia.com Pictures courtesy of: HOMAG Group AG

ÂŠ www.M A R T I N I -werbeagentur.de 11/2009

Precise edges at an affordable price Everything comes together in the new HOMAG edge banding machine Ambition series: Top quality and precision, high performance, a comprehensive equipment outfit and simple operation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and most important of all, a highly affordable price tag. Making entry into industrial class manufacturing a viable proposition for every woodworking shop.

HOMAG Australia Pty Ltd 6 - 8 Tasha Place Âˇ Kings Park NSW 2148 Âˇ Phone: +02 88652700

Success with a system

THE AWISA MAGAZINE COMMENT

timber

by Martin Lewis

A new world order Martin Lewis

SOME READERS will be aware that over the past ten years, the Federal Government, through the Department of Agriculture, Forestry & Fisheries (DAFF) has been engaging with the various stakeholders in the timber supply and value chains to develop legislation aimed at outlawing the use of illegally logged timber in Australia.

It is widely acknowledged that the trade in illegally logged timber is extensive, and this has been confirmed by independent, well credentialled industry experts including Jaakko Poyry in 2005. Like any other contraband, that illegally logged timber is often transformed into more complex products which hide the true nature of the contraband. In the case of timber, it often finds its way into joinery and furniture components and products. In fact, the Poyry Report of 2005 estimated that up to 20% of all furniture imported into Australia had used illegally logged timber in its componentry. That’s an enormous but very sad statistic. But in November 2014, the construction, woodworking and furniture retailing world will change forever. At least in Australia! That’s the date that the regulations to the Illegal Logging Prohibition Act 2012 come into force. From that date on nobody will be able to import into Australia any timber or timber product (i.e. furniture or joinery) which has been illegally sourced. Additionally, the importer must have a documented due diligence system prior to importing, and apply that system to each supply of timber-based product that is bound for Australia. In short, the days of utilising old business models which simply went to the issue of sourcing what was cheap, will disappear very quickly. All importers of timber-based furniture or joinery will really have to have a strong documented system – they will have to know their suppliers – and that includes the suppliers to the suppliers. If they do not, then their business model based on importing will be at real risk. Let’s have a look at how the new world order of November 2014 might work through three separate scenarios! Scenario 1 is the situation where say a hypothetical builder prices all the joinery and cabinetry work for a hypothetical 100 unit retirement villa complex

Page 52 SPRING 2013

they are building, utilising quotes from local joinery/cabinetmaking businesses. The young gun project manager then decides he can get it cheaper by sourcing direct from China. He does not know the provenance of the timber-based panels (MDF, particle board, etc), he just knows it’s cheap and that the building company can lift its profit margin by utilising this cheap product. Putting aside all the very clear issues about product integrity and durability, formaldehydecontent, high moisture resistance, etc, this builder will be in deep strife. The builder may declare “no” on its import declaration form but this then becomes public information. The local cabinetmakers who wasted time on quoting for the job discover the ruse and alerts FIAA. FIAA then rolls out a campaign to seek enforcement of the Illegal Logging Prohibition Act. The result is that the builder has incurred reputational risk at a huge cost, including the possibility that the company will not be able to source installation labour at market prices, and that the company will be passed over in future tenders. Note however that our result will need for our furniture, cabinetmaking and joinery industries (FCJ) to build greater community by November 2014. That’s key. Scenario 2 might be say a hardware or building materials retailer. They may have been importing kitchen cabinetry in flat pack form over a period of time, gradually increasing the quality as a result of the pressure FIAA has already put on them over their high formaldehyde or low moisture resistant product. The new laws now mean that not only will they be subject to continuing pressure from FIAA and others in the FCJ Alliance, but that they must now enhance their due diligence systems substantially and delve further into their supplier’s supply chain. Remember that the estimates suggest that 20% of all imported furniture/ cabinetry product contains illegally sourced timber. November 2014 may also mean an end to the flight to the bottom based on price. The supplier prices in China and other low-cost producer countries will inevitably be forced up. Hopefully a steadily decreasing value in the $AUS may contribute to an end to the trade in dodgy timberbased product.

THE AWISA MAGAZINE COMMENT

November 2014, the construction, woodworking and furniture industries will change forever Finally, Scenario 3 might be the furniture retailer, perhaps part of one of the large chains or franchise, perhaps not. Up until November 2014, the retailer may have been content to use the services of a wholesaler who in turn imported from overseas, or equally may have directly imported timber-based furniture itself from overseas sources. From 2014, the retailer now can only source directly from overseas where it has a documented due diligence system that when applied, identifies the entire supply chain to the overseas manufacturer so as to satisfy the provenance of the timber in the product. Equally, the risk of reputational damage will be enormous if the retailer fails to ensure their supplier (the importer) has fully addressed the issues of due diligence.

Retailers who currently sell imported furniture where they know the provenance of the product and its timber-based components will have little trouble in satisfying the due diligence requirements of the new legislation and regulations. Others will likely find it economically unviable to persist with a supply chain of non-transparent culture. The point is, that world will change in late 2014. Australia needs to support its cabinetmakers and joiners, and in turn our local timber and timber-panel/board suppliers. The new Illegal Logging Prohibition Act regulations will not do that by itself. And remember that the bureaucracy and politicians tend to always find plenty of reasons why they should not do something, why they should not intervene in unfair markets.

The industry needs the support of people – really of communities – the people within our own industry. But we need to strengthen those communities – by engaging with our fellow cabinetmakers, joiners, timber and board supply people, hardware suppliers, and FIAA. In numbers there is strength.

Want more information ? Feel free to email me directly to fcjassist@gmail.com, or to FIAA’s general manager, Dean Brakell at dbrakell@ fiaa.com.au. Martin Lewis has retired as CEO of FIAA after more than twenty years’ service. Martin still performs specialist consulting work for the industry, including FIAA.

Original, functional, exclusive > Complement your design

Aesthetically pleasing and with European design, the 560 Waste Program provides an easy to install, easy to use waste system. Its matt grey finish complements residential or commercial kitchens and features individual bin lids, a sturdy combination of plastic and metal frame, two additional front fixing brackets for front panel stability and alignment, and an optional metal cabinetry lid to aide in minimising odours. The 560 Waste Program suits 450NL and 500NL drawers, and 300mm to 900mm cabinetry width options. This offers 15 choices to suit varied spaces and configurations including 3 bucket heights. Call your nearest branch on 1300 551 919

www.lincolnsentry.com.au

SPRING 2013 Page 53

THE AWISA MAGAZINE

EDGEBANDERS

Biesse covers all bases with edgebanding solutions Biesse Group has projected an innovative image as an international leader in the production of machinery for the industry since 1969. The organisation provides machining centres, edgebanders, door and window manufacturing products, panel saws, drilling machines, software, and entry level machinery to the engineered wood sector as well as the furniture and cabinetmaking industries. Over the years, Biesse has made substantial investments in research that have resulted in a more complex and articulated global company at the cutting edge of machine technology. Massimo Mina, product manager for Biesse Group Australia Pty Ltd, says this has transferred ‘Down Under’ where the constant drive for technological improvement, innovation and research has resulted in superior products and outstanding service.

solutions to keep our customers’ edgebanders running at their optimum performance With its head office based at Wetherill Park in south western Sydney, but branches well distributed throughout Australia and New Zealand, reliable service is available to all Biesse customers when required. Good glue pot maintenance is essential for peak performance in edgebanders that translates to the thinnest glue line, stronger bonding and a clean operation.

Biesse edgebanders ready for demonstration.

“In the industry and with edgebanders in particular, the biggest problem is the lack of time spent on cleaning and maintenance. For example many operators forget that old or burnt glue needs to be removed to guarantee the best finish.”

In many workshops maintenance isn’t always scheduled and when the machine is in high production it can be hard to find the time to stop it for routine maintenance. “At Biesse we’ve dedicated more of our resources to finding solutions to keep our customers’ edgebanders running at their optimum performance for longer and with minimal disruption to production time.” Biesse has developed a combination of solutions that enable reliable service, maintenance and support to all Biesse edgebander owners, regardless of their size or location. This combination involves extended warranty period, an additional glue pot free of charge and a dependable glue pot exchange program from the Biesse glue pot restoration centre. Coupled with an outstanding service department, the Biesse Tech-Support hotline and the global support of an international organization, purchasing an edgebander has never come with such peace of mind. Biesse’s Akron range of edgebanders now comes with a two year warranty which is unmatched in the industry. “We’re confident in our products and so offering an extended warranty seemed like a logical way to pass that confidence onto the consumer.” This extended warranty period offered is available on the entire Akron range and the decision is supported by the Biesse factory in Pesaro Italy. It is a true extension of the standard warranty with no fine print. The Akron range now also comes with a second glue pot free of charge. Having a second glue pot available when required means that glue pot change over is quick and painless with very little effect on production deadlines. “In this industry there is a need to maximize the output and minimize downtime to stay competitive: it’s all about efficiency. Our edgebanders have a quick and easy system for changing the glue pot and now having a second glue pot our customers can be even more efficient.” said Mr. Mina. Supporting this is Biesse’s professional glue pot restoration and exchange centre. Located in Brisbane but servicing the whole of Australia and New Zealand, the option to send glue pots for a complete restoration is both cost effective and convenient. “We are especially proud of our restoration and exchange centre where highly qualified engineers with years of experience are specialising in edgebander repairs and maintenance and glue pot restoration,” Mr. Mina said. The glue pot restoration centre also offers an exchange service to ensure fast and convenient change over.

Page 54 SPRING 2013

THE AWISA MAGAZINE

EDGEBANDERS

the revolutionary Airforce System due to hit Australian shores later in the year

“Using the same equipment used in Biesse’s Italian factory, glue pots are restored to near new conditions, and customers can swap their glue pot at the fraction of the price of replacing it or spending the time to clean and maintain it themselves.” Mr. Mina said. Various models of Biesse edgebanders are accommodated by this exchange system which gives assurance to Biesse edgebander owners that they have access to a fast and reliable glue pot change-over. Along with the free two year extended warranty, customers have access to the Biesse ‘tech-support hotline’ to assist with remote diagnosis and ordering of parts, maintenance advice and live problem resolution. “Many issues can be solved over the phone and this is faster and more cost effective than having a technician sent out on site.” Massimo Mina said. In addition to these offerings, Biesse is constantly investing resources into pioneering new technologies for the industry. The revolutionary AirForce System developed by Biesse is due to hit Australian shores later in the year. It will offer new options in edgebanding and new levels of quality. The AirForce system will allow companies of all sizes access to the benefits of the top quality invisible glue line given by laser edges without the need of a complex and expensive laser system. AirForce emits very forceful hot compressed air through a slot nozzle directly onto the reactive layer of edge tape activating the layer and bonding the tape seamlessly to the panel. AirForce’s technique allows easy changes to edge tape colors with zero setup while laser technology is very sensitive to edge material colors. The seamless, steam and water resistant quality of the AirForce finish is accomplished without the use of any liquids or glues, which leads to reduced maintenance and operating costs. It can be installed on existing EVA or PUR glue systems and is compatible with most existing edging products

allowing for flexibility and versatility of design. The change over between the two systems, glue and AirForce, doesn’t require any manual set-up. This new technology will be launched across Australia via a series of events over the coming months providing live demonstrations on Biesse’s most popular edgebanding machines. The new robust and affordable hot air edgebanding solution was recently presented with the AWFS Visionary Award for product innovation during the 2013 AWFS Fair in Las Vegas. The Visionary Awards celebrate the best new products for 2013 on display at the AWFS fair that combine creativity, quality, and innovation. Entries compete in five categories: environmental, ergonomics, safety, innovative technology and productivity. The organisation employs a worldwide staff of more than 2800 people and has been investing in quality research and continuous improvement for the last 44 years. Therefore, Biesse customers can be assured that they are supported by a global network with invaluable experience. “Of course the Biesse quality assurance guarantee and tech-support hotline is offered as usual, but the combination a second glue pot, the option of the glue pot exchange program and the extended warranty gives customers even more peace of mind so they can focus more directly on their business,” Massimo Mina concluded.

BIESSE GROUP AUSTRALIA PTY LTD Phone 1300 BIESSE www.biesseaustralia.com.au

Restored glue pots in the glue pot restoration centre.

SPRING 2013 Page 55

THE AWISA MAGAZINE EXHIBITION

Inspiration with ground-breaking technology From 24 - 27 September this year, the Homag Group presents the Homag Treff 2013 and the Holzma Treff 2013. The Homag Treff takes place in Schopfloch in the Black Forest while the Holzma Treff in taking place in Holzbronn. Homag Treff covers an exhibition area of more than 10,000 square metres, and will be showcasing 50 machine and plant concepts: Innovations presented at Ligna, along with individual high-tech plants destined for industrial customers, and the whole spectrum of technologies surrounding zero joint production. All the technology that modern flooring, furniture, window, staircase and door manufacturers invest in will be on display. Included in the attendees will be a group of Homag Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s customers. These photographs feature just some of the products on display.

HOMAG AUSTRALIA PTY LTD Phone 1800 355 635 www.homag-australia.com Right from top: The Homag FKF 200 for even greater surface and material diversity Industrial production in batch size 1: The whole range

The patented EasyEdge: Edge banding using the Drive5C+ 5-axis spindle Inclined edge banding using the PowerEdge edge banding unit with swivel action Below: WoodWindows: Users can get started straight away with integrated order entry, certified window systems, tool sets and program macros

Page 56 SPRING 2013

Pictures courtesy of: HOMAG Holzbearbeitungssysteme GmbH

Entry into double-sided profiling: the rolling chain provides a high level of processing accuracy and a long service life

THE AWISA MAGAZINE SOFTWARE

Software that saves time and saves money EQ is used by over 6,000 industry businesses worldwide. EQ works hand-in-hand with customers by offering value added solutions to help them run their businesses professionally and more cost effectively. Designed to make life easier and increase sales, EQ is written by industry experts making sure its integrated software is easy-to-use with one system, which covers all the functions of a business. t &2 LOPXT UIBU BDDVSBUF EBUB JT UIF LFZ UP QSPGJUBCJMJUZ so EQ has a 14 strong team of data processors professionally managing catalogues from companies such as Laminex, Polytec and Hafele. This means users have accurate and up-to-date products and prices. Users can produce accurate stunning quotations in minutes to help boost sales. Purchase orders can be processed quickly and efficiently by the supplier when produced by EQ. t 8JUI MJOLT UP $"% TZTUFNT BOE PQUJNJTFST &2 TPGUXBSF professionally manages all aspects of a business. Companies can track their profits and have instant access to their KPIs. t &2 T DPNQSFIFOTJWF $3. TZTUFN QSPWJEFT JOTUBOU access to all customers’ interactions, so users can produce accurate reports on trends and opportunities and make cost-effective marketing campaigns. Winning more business through lead tracking. With 82% of consumers researching products and services online, speak to EQ about their superior eCommerce solutions. Expand business online, increase footfall in showrooms and enhance company image. EQ’s customers have requested an easier payment method for the software and websites. So EQ has launched a Partner Program scheme, making it easier for customers to take advantage of the added value solutions, no matter what a company’s size or budget.

EQ AUSTRALIA Phone 03 9015 7876 www.eqaustralia.com.au

SPRING 2013 Page 57

THE AWISA MAGAZINE MILESTONES

2013 a year of milestones for Hettich Hettich, one of the world’s leading cabinetry and fittings manufacturers, is this year celebrating its 125th anniversary as a global company, and 25th year of operation in Australia. From humble beginnings in the Black Forest in 1888, where Karl Hettich first developed a manual bending machine that revolutionised the production of the region’s famous cuckoo clocks, to the multi-award winning global company with more than 6,000 staff members that it is today, Hettich has remained true to its core values of innovation, reliability, quality and customer care throughout its longstanding history. The management reins have been handed over just four times at Hettich in its 125 year history, with each changeover seeing a new generation of the Hettich family run and shape the company. 1930 saw brothers August, Paul and Franz Hettich establish the Paul Hettich GmbH sister company in the north west of Germany. After August developed a 16 metre long production line for piano hinges in 1928, the brothers decided to reduce the distance between their father’s production factory in Schramberg (south west Germany) and

Page 58 SPRING 2013

the heart of the German furniture industry in East Westphalia (north west), hence the establishment of the second Hettich production site in Herford in 1930. In 1959 Anton Hettich took the helm, representing the third generation of the Hettich family to manage the company. Shortly after, Anton brought his brother Dr Erwin Hettich into the management team, along with Helmut, Siegfried and Bruno Hettich as other partners. In 2005 Dr Andreas Hettich became the fourth generation to head Hettich management, and is the current chairman of the management board. Hettich today has 38 subsidiaries in America, Europe and Asia, as well as production sites in six countries, so the global company is never far from its customers. 2013 marks another milestone for Hettich, with the Australian and New Zealand teams celebrating 25 years in the market as well. “The strong roots of Hettich globally help us deliver the best products to our customers locally,” says marketing manager for Hettich Australia and New Zealand, Dave Angus. “Over the years Hettich has built itself as a brand that can be trusted through reliable

and innovative products that are built to last – with a lifetime warranty on all drawer and hinge systems, consumers can be confident their Hettich products will be around for longer than we have been so far!” adds Mr Angus. Hettich’s 25th year in Australia is going to be a big one, with the team recently opening their first Sydney trade centre to join those in Perth and Adelaide. These trade centres in each state are located next to Hettich showrooms, so members of the design and trade community can experience Hettich products in action, then go next door to receive technical one-to-one specialist advice. “We have a great team here in Australia and we’re excited to be able to bring Europe’s finest furniture fittings to our growing customer base. Globally and locally we all have the same goal here at Hettich – to make your living spaces work beautifully!” says Mr Angus.

HETTICH AUSTRALIA Phone 1800 HETTICH www.hettich.com.au

Solutions to excellence.

>> 12 Position Tool Changer! >> Boring head with 10 Vertical Spindles! >> Drilling and Milling in the same sequence! >> Various table sizes available!

THE SKILL G FT CNC MACHINING CENTRE A flexible machine for the modern company; the Skill G FT RANGE is a technology solution designed for nesting applications which allows great flexibility for the processing of panel and solid wood elements. The solid gantry structure of the Skill G FT provides high speed execution and maximum precision of the finished product. The composition of the machine is adaptable to your needs and also allows for the addition of automatic loading and unloading systems or panel labelling. Biesse Group Australia Pty Ltd Head Office: 3 Widemere Road, Wetherill Park NSW 2164 info@biesseaustralia.com.au - www.biesse.com.au

CALL 1300 BIESSE We have a Biesse Showroom near you!

THE AWISA MAGAZINE HARDWARE

Blum’s top mount optimised to suit Australian market Blum’s Servo-Drive Uno top mount sets, Z10T393WK and Z10T543WK, for Tandembox, Tandem and Movento make waste disposal and separation straightforward in kitchens. The waste bin pull-out is the most frequently used drawer in the kitchen. Servo-Drive Uno is a handy solution allowing waste bins to open with just a light touch with the hip, knee or foot. Dirty, wet or full hands are no longer a problem. Blum’s Servo-Drive Uno for top mount solutions has been optimised to suit the Australian market. Most bin drawer applications are placed in a separate cabinet next to the sink cabinet and the dishwasher.

Page 60 SPRING 2013

For this reason, the requirement to plug into the power source becomes a challenge as the power cable needs to be fed from the bin drawer through to the sink cabinet where the power outlet is generally situated. Blum has overcome this problem by including easy to follow installation instructions and an Inserta connecting node in the new Servo-Drive Uno sets, in order to cut the cable in the desired position and re-connect it using the connecting node. This alleviates the need to drill a very large hole between the cabinets to pass the transformer plug through to connect it to the power source. In addition to the Inserta connecting node and installation instructions, the set comprises of a drive unit, attachment brackets, drip guard, bumpers,

plug and power supply including attached cabling and a convenient installation template to facilitate easy assembly.

BLUM AUSTRALIA Phone 1800 179 186 www.blum.com

THE AWISA MAGAZINE LAMINATE

Wilsonart has a new home in Australia at HVG Wilsonart® is the number one laminate brand in the USA and one of the leading brands worldwide. Operating in 57 countries throughout the world Wilsonart’s® reputation for quality products is highly regarded.

Wilsonart’s® HPL is renowned for being one of the highest quality laminates available for postforming. With over 230 references in the Wilsonart® HPL collection and with an ever increasing selection of unique surface finishes available the final decision is really only limited to the imagination of designers, builders and end customers.

HVG Decorative Building Products has been the exclusive Australian distributor of Wilsonart® since May 2012. With over 25 years experience distributing decorative building products, the partnership between HVG and Wilsonart® is aimed at providing the Australian market with more choice in high quality laminates than ever before. HVG has a national distribution footprint and a reputation for distributing quality products.

Wilsonart® Premium laminates with Aeon™ enhanced performance technology allow a space to be designed that’s not only affordable, but truly durable. Aeon™ technology outperforms traditional laminate on wear, scratch, scuff and mar resistance.

The Wilsonart® range includes Wilsonart® HD, Wilsonart® Aeon, Wilsonart® Chemsurf, Wilsonart® Custom laminates, and Wilsonart® LPM Decorative Panels.

HVG has released a new range of Wilsonart® decorative low pressure melamine (LPM) panels. The panels are available in a wide range of colours and surface textures.

The new Wilsonart® LPM range is manufactured in Australia, and supplied on a 16mm MDF MR E0 substrate. HVG and Wilsonart® in partnership are focused on continually developing the Wilsonart® range to suit Australian interiors with the highest of technical specifications. Wilsonart® is available exclusively from HVG.

HVG DECORATIVE BUILDING PRODUCTS Phone 1300 854 166 www.hvgbuilding.com.au

SPRING 2013 Page 61

THE AWISA MAGAZINE WASTE

Advanced anti-bacterial technology - an hygienic waste solution for the kitchen Keeping waste bins hygienic is made easier with a Hideaway Bin. Not only do the bins include a friction-fitted lid that creates a seal across the buckets, assisting in odour control – it also has a Clinikill™ antibacterial powdercoat to fight harmful bacteria, yeast and fungi, keeping the bin solution hygienic. This makes a Hideaway Bin ideal for use in kitchens, education facilities, apartments, bathrooms, laundries and public places. The Clinikill™ powder-coated lid is available as part of every Hideaway Bin within the Soft Close and Deluxe ranges. No other bin solution on the market offers this hygienic protection. Clinikill works by using Kinetic technology to boost its performance.

Kinetic technology ensures the antimicrobial agent is presented at the surface of the Hideaway Bins ‘friction-fitted lid’ to maximise the antimicrobial effect. The antimicrobial agent is evenly distributed throughout the powder coating on the friction-fitted lid so that its effectiveness will be maintained with normal wear and tear such as light scratches and abrasions.

NOW HIRING This is your opportunity to work for one of the most innovative organisations in the wood working industry!

Positions are now vacant across the country in both the service and sales departments of Biesse Group Australia Pty Ltd. If you want to work within a dynamic team, if you have experience in the wood working sector and have the drive to succeed, then contact the Biesse head office today! Biesse Group Australia Pty Ltd 3 Widemere Road, Wetherill Park NSW 2164 Tel. +61 2 9609 5355 Fax +61 2 9609 4291 nsw@biesseaustralia.com.au www.biesse.com.au

Page 62 SPRING 2013

Hideaway Bins are available Australia wide through distribution partners Hettich, Nover, Galvin Hardware and Dorset.

HIDEAWAY BINS Phone 1800 042 642 www.hideawaybins.com.au

BLUMOTION inside

compatible with SERVO-DRIVE by Blum TIP-ON by Blum

TANDEMBOX antaro Minimalist design - meets proven technology TANDEMBOX antaro is the creation of a more sophisticated design and modular drawer system that provides better design solutions; internationally recognised by the Interior Innovation Award from the German Design Council. TANDEMBOX antaro stands for a clear-cut, rectangular design that can be combined with a gallery or design elements to create a closed pull-out. All components have been colour coordinated to further enhance the minimalist design. Contact your local Blum representative or visit www.blum.com for more information.

AWISA The exhibition

BRISBANE

6 - 9 AUGUST

6-9 AUGUST 2014 BRISBANE CONVENTION & EXHIBITION CENTRE SOUTH BANK BRISBANE

AUSTRALIA’S INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION OF MACHINERY, MATERIALS, FITTINGS & SERVICES FOR THE WOODWORKING AND FURNITURE INDUSTRIES

www.awisa.com

O RGA N I SE D BY T HE AU S T R AL I AN W O O DW O R KI NG I NDU S T R Y S U P P L I E R S AS S O CI ATION L IMITED

THE AWISA MAGAZINE MACHINERY

Increased production at high quality joinery works In Boronia, in the outer eastern suburbs of Melbourne, the Fisher Vorpasso Group manufactures all aspects of high quality joinery mainly for the commercial market. Some of the company’s recent work includes the complete fit out of level 5 in the Melbourne Supreme Court building. The work included veneer acoustic doors, veneer wall paneling, reception desk, kitchen, banquette seating and office joinery. The company recently purchased a Woodtron nesting machine. Factory manager, Steve Woodrow said, “The Woodtron has made life a lot easier. It is so precise, accurate and quick. It has increased production by a very large percentage. Once you have programmed the job that you require (the software was easy to pick up),

just load a pack of board onto the scissor lift and the rest is done by the machine. It does all your routing and drilling, and cuts each piece to size very accurately. Before the Woodtron arrived, we were cutting the board on a panel saw, and it was a struggle and time waster when you had to have 4 men to help cut a 3600mm x 1800mm x 33mm sheet. Then the other machining, such as shelf holes and hinge holes, were done on a drilling machine.” “We have not looked back since the Woodtron has arrived. We were all amazed at how quick

and accurate the production line has become. All the team at Woodtron has been fantastic with customer service,” he said.

WOODTRON PTY LTD Phone 03 9775 4100 www.woodtron.com.au

VACUUM LIFTING

Lift and rotate boards by 180° The VacuMaster 180 vacuum lifter allows a load to be lifted and tilted 180° by a single operator allowing increased Á H[LELOLW\ DQG VDIHW\ when transferring your loads. Visit our website or call us today for all your lifting questions answered.

www.millsom.com.au FREECALL 1800 99 22 11 )LQDQFH DYDLODEOH IURP SHU ZHHN WR TXDOLÀ HG DSSOLFDQWV 'HSHQGHQW RQ SDFNDJH UHTXLUHG

SPRING 2013 Page 65

THE AWISA MAGAZINE

ASSOCIATION

Australian Woodworking Industry Suppliers Association Limited AWISA

ADVERTISERS INDEX Altendorf Asia Pacific Pty Ltd Biesse Group Australia

The Association

AWISA AWISA was formed in 1986 by the principal suppliers to the Australian woodworking industry. The main aims of the association are to present industry exhibitions, publish industry magazines, co-operate with other organisations, and to uphold the highest ethical standards and encourage members to do the same. Membership applications are welcome from Australian based companies, and from overseas companies with Australian agents or distributors that are also members of AWISA. Membership of AWISA includes suppliers of woodworking machinery, cabinet and furniture hardware, panel products and surface materials, portable tools, computer software, materials handling equipment, dust extraction equipment, components, and general plant and safety equipment.

AWISA

The Exhibition

The next AWISA exhibition will take place in Brisbane from 6-9 August 2014 at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre. For more information visit www.awisa.com or phone Geoff Holland on 0412 361 580.

AWISA

The Magazine

16, 59, 62

Blum Australia Pty Ltd

CDK Stone

EQ Software

FIAA

Gabbett Machinery Pty Ltd

Hafele Australia Pty Ltd

44, 68

Harn

Hettich Australia

32, 67

Hideaway Bins Homag Australia

62 24, 40, 51

HVG Decorative Building Products

Leitz Tooling Systems

Lincoln Sentry

Millsom Materials Handling

Multicam Systems

The exhibition has been held regularly since 1988, and attracts furniture manufacturers, cabinet makers, kitchen manufacturers, joiners, shop and office fitters, and other wood, timber and panel processing industries. Architects and interior designers also attend.

2, 61

Planit

Polytec

Solu Pty Ltd

Thermwood

Weinig Australia

Wilson & Bradley Pty Ltd

Woodtron Pty Ltd

AWISA

THE MAGAZINE

AWISA’s magazine is published quarterly and is distributed free to a database of over 15,000 end users in the industry. AWISA’s editorial policy is to produce quality editorial about business and technical issues that affect the woodworking industry, and to provide members with a means of disseminating information about their products. The association welcomes input from both members and end users about subjects that should be written about in the magazine.

AWISA

The Board

CHAIRMAN Brett Ambrose, Blum Australia Pty BOARD MEMBERS Richard Abela, Hettich Australia Rick Lee, Altendorf Asia Pacific Pty Ltd Ross Broad, Infurnax Australia Pty Ltd Ross Campbell, Homag Australia Pty Ltd Trevor Wilson, Wilson & Bradley Pty Ltd

DISTRIBUTION AWISA – The Magazine is distributed free to a list made up of companies that attended the last three AWISA exhibitions, plus the client databases of some major AWISA members. To be added to the distribution list send an

General manager: Geoff Holland Phone: 02 9918 3661 Email: info@awisa.com

email to info@awisa.com or send a fax to 02 9918 7764. (AWISA Ltd may at some time in the future charge a subscription for personally addressed magazines)

Page 66 SPRING 2013

Three Hettich Trade Centres now open! Experience the renowned Hettich range with a Hettich specialist and receive one-on-one support from our friendly expert staff. Pay us a visit and see our wide range of products ďŹ rst hand.

Give us a call Sydney

1 Herbert Place, SmithďŹ eld, NSW 2164

Perth

1/50 Howe Street, Osborne Park, 6017

Adelaide

Unit 6, 59 Main North Road, Medindie Gardens SA 5081

1300 4 TRADE

AVAILABLE NOW

LOOX LED LIGHTING TECHNOLOGY ANOTHER BRIGHT IDEA FROM HÄFELE

Decorative illumination has the power to transform any residential or commercial building. It accentuates architecture, adds mood and is as important as any signature furniture piece. But what if you could combine the two? With Loox – innovative ‘plug and play’ LED furniture lights from Häfele – you can. Our motto is ‘just plug it in’. It couldn’t be easier. Häfele has a wide range of LED lights with a standard ‘plug and play’ connection, making it child’s play to install into furniture. They can be retroﬁtted by the installer on site or on new build in the factory, with ease. For more information on the Loox LED lighting range from Häfele, contact your nearest sales ofﬁce or visit www.hafele.com.au