Master Plumber Western Australia - Summer 2017

T H E O F F I C I A L M A G A Z I N E O F T H E M A S T E R P L U M B E R S & G A S F I T T E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F WA

PLUMBER MASTER

ISSUE 19 | SUMMER 2017/18

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

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MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE | Issue 19 | Summer 2017/18

CONTENTS

21

Beyond the try-line

32

Apprentice Awards

38

Oh what a year!

Chris Anderson: Making the change from elite player and coach to business leader.

The State’s next generation of plumbers recognised in annual Apprentice of the Year Awards.

Take a look at the year that was in pictures, from a day at the races, to 18 holes, to statewide industry events.

4 Editorial

FEATURES

50 Aviva masks

Enware toilets

6 8

President’s Report From the CEO

28 Apprentice of Year 30 Awards for Excellence

NEWS & VIEWS 12 New history display 14

Gas barbecues

16

Building Commission

18 Rheem apprentice grants

PEOPLE 21

Chris Anderson: Beyond the try-line

HEALTH & SAFETY 24 Foot health: Boots

Aqueous hot water system

38 What a year!

52 Fujin Airconditioner

LINQ height safety gear

BUSINESS ESSENTIALS

53 Viega case study

46 Legal: Trademarks All about Debt Collection

LIFESTYLE 54 All about Europe

47 IR: A tradie and his Twisties packet

Cited: Verifying credentials

56 Weekend Away - Lancelin

PRODUCTS & SERVICES

62 Boat review: Trailblazer 680

49 Caddy Storage

Rheem hot water system

MEMBERS

26 Dealing with hand trauma

Travel

51

58 Vehicle review: Toyota Prado

64 New benefits 66 Brett’s Peek

Products & Services

Health & Safety

MASTER PLUMBER | SUMMER 2017/18

3

EDITORIAL

A PICTURE TELLS A THOUSAND WORDS This issue of Master Plumber Western Australia captures the year gone by in pictures, so if you do the sums, it equates to millions of words

T

HERE have been many photo moments over the past year and we’ve captured only a fraction of them in this latest issue of your magazine.

For some of those photos, the stories are obvious. For others, you may need to draw your own conclusions.

But there’s no question the pages ahead offer up a visual feast.

It has certainly been a busy year, culminating with the Master Plumbers & Gasfitters Association and Kleenheat Awards for Excellence.

Competition was stiff and no one is likely to envy the judges who had to select our State’s best of the best.

But they somehow managed to do so and those that came out on top in their various categories were very worthy winners indeed.

You’ll find the winners – and some of the highlights from the awards night – on pages 30 to 37.

The night also saw WA’s next generation of plumbers and gasfitters recognised in the 2017 Apprentice of the Year Awards – find out all about it on page 28 and 29.

There’s also our What a Year! spread – a kind of scrapbook of key events throughout 2017. It starts on page 38.

Of course, there are plenty of words too – after all, the editorial team have jobs to fulfill and writing is one of them.

There are some great insights from former Australian national rugby league coach turned business leader Chris Anderson - see Beyond the tryline on page 21.

We also talked to some experts who know all about some very important tools to those in the

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MASTER PLUMBER | SUMMER 2017/18

plumbing trade – our hands and feet – and the things that can go wrong. See the Health and Safety section starting on page 24.

Given it’s summer and well and truly time to get out and about, we thought a boat review was in order so got out on the water in a runabout that’s all about fishing (page 62).

Of course a boat is just part of the package - you also need something to tow it. Fortunately Toyota let us get behind the wheel of the new LandCruiser Prado, which would look great in front of any boat (page 59).

And there’s no point having the right boat and the right vehicle to tow it if you don’t know where to go – check out Discovering Lancelin on page 56.

If you’ve got grander plans and more time on your hands, our usual travel feature is all about Europe (page 54).

There’s also the usual News & Views (starting on page 6), Business Essentials (pages 46-47) and Products & Services (pages 49-53) sections, as well as some information on some of the latest member benefits (page 64).

So sit back, relax and enjoy this issue of Master Plumber Western Australia. And have a wonderful festive season and fun-filled summer.

And as always, if you have any feedback, inquiries or thoughts, please get in touch. Contact details are adjacent It’s been fun and we look forward to doing it all again. So until next year, all the best!

Ed

The Editor

PUBLISHER: Master Plumbers & Gasfitters Association of Western Australia EDITING & DESIGN: Spoke Public Relations E: hello@spokepr.com.au ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: advertising@mpawa.asn.au EDITORIAL INQUIRIES: newsroom@mpawa.asn.au Master Plumbers and Gasfitters Association of Western Australia POSTAL ADDRESS: PO Box 5218, East Victoria Park, WA 6981 PHYSICAL ADDRESS: Level 3, 353 Shepperton Rd, East Victoria Park, WA 6101 PH: (08) 9471 6661 FAX: (08) 9471 6663 WEB: www.masterplumbers.asn.au MPGA OFFICE BEARERS: President: Geoff Kelly Vice President: Ron Grant Immediate Past President: Bill Busby CEO: Murray Thomas EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE: Derek Rowe, Paul O’Leary, Paul Manifis, Matt Johnson, Max Jones, Michael Harley, Peter Dawe, Mark Sadler ISSN 2208-2255 (Online)

Disclaimer: While all care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information included in this publication, no responsibility is taken, unless expressly indicated, by the Master Plumbers & Gasfitters Association of WA for any inaccuracies.

Inclusion of opinions, statements and comments does not constitute endorsement by the MPGA or related entities of such content.

Content within this publication is protected

by Australian copyright law and may not be reproduced without express written permission by an office bearer or delegate of the MPGA.

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5

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

TIPS FROM PAUL FUNNELL

Year of change for the better

Preparing Progress Claims A

Progress claims are tax invoices submitted to The formula for calculating the overall percentage claimed to date is: S WE reach the end of another year, While 2017 has seen a number of opinions and actions, as well as those of the the customer or builder and represent a claim Amount claimed = executive $27,970.00 it’s a good time to reflect on the past unfortunate events that made headlines staff, committee and members of for payment on an agreed regular basis for work x 100 12 months. reasons the Association. completed. It is important tofor setthe outwrong the claim in – such as the The role of industry associations as Elizabeth Quay water contamination you are a business owner, Total contract value =Whether $63,750.00 accordance with such the requirements of the state or park ours has certainly changed.

Traditionally, suchis to issue and the ongoing merchant or manufacturer, you are not region where the claim be processed.

(See lead problem at = 43.88% tradegroups, association associations were your employer whilefor details). the new Perth Children’sAHospital alone.Your Association membership is both progress- they claim certificate should be lodged with the customer / unions served theBased needs on of employees. have tohas highlight the reasons weprovidesaan right and a privilege to be part of, the assumption that theserved project an builder, which opportunity for an–agreement to and be reached.

Paul Funnell While there are still elements that the progress continue to fight. to continue andretention protect our agreed tender of price, claims will be The certificate which also includes to theuphold value of to be withheld proportional to thefor completed workentered at a given time. A More progress claim is they requirement each, we have to the point, have led tobasis for industry standards and professionalism. becomes the a tax invoice. not associated the expenditure whichfarhas occurred, as inroads the costwithThere a new erawith in which employees have somesuch major governments And for one primary purpose – to protect is a link between progress claims and gross profit, although they of materials and the labour costs for installing those materials; rather it is are more influence in the way businesses are and stakeholders towards better, tighter viewed separately. the public through the supply and maintenance an assessment of the completed work at an agreed date. The competed run and, fortunately, in which disputes controls over professionalThe qualifications of safe, or reliable environmentally sustainable gross profit for a project for aand section of the project is the claim to work is expressed as a percentage. between employers and employees are far and product integrity. date minus the sum of water and gas supplies. the expenses.

Whenless estimating towe themay layout common.a project, consideration should be given While not have won on all The key to doing so is to adopt the for future progress claims. Houses may be in four (4) stages, under slab, That is the sum of material costs, labour costs and other expenses, In other words, the “us and them” counts, we are pleased to subtracted see that the ball Plumbing Code Australia andsection as yourof work. from the progress claim forof the particular hot and cold water installations, external drainage and finishing off. While relationship that once existed between is rolling to introduce vital legislation and Association, we will continue to commit all For example: commercial projects are based on the percentage of work completed employer andsection, employee, and the need for cold water, regulation issues such as point-of-sale our campaigning capacity to making sure for each individual sanitary plumbing, hot around water, gas Sanitary plumbing in the above example is, $11,200.00 and the claim is organisations to house represent them, are control over products andfor national training our governments are backing our industry services, fire services, drainage andthings stormwater drainage.

60% ($6,720.00). of days gone claim by. may be presented as follows: and- professional development standards. and the community in which it serves.

A typical progress If the expenses to date are $6,900.00 a loss of $180.00 is being For the Master Plumbers & Gasfitters In my speech at the 2017 Awards for Finally, on behalf of the Association’s experienced. However, if the expenses are $5,500.00 a profit of $1,220.00 Item Contract Claim Amount Association today, the role has changed Excellence, I spoke of the power of so staffimportant and executive committee, I wish you,to ensure is recorded.

It is therefore to submit accurate claims, Sanitary Fixtures $22,500 20% $ 4,500 from fighting for the rights of employers to many people coming together to protect families and staff a happy and safe the project reports are your also accurate.

Sanitary Plumbing $11,200 60% $ 6,720 fighting for the rights of all in the industry. the future of our industry and to make festive season andfor look forward to working Progress claims provide cash flow the company, ensure they Cold Water Services $ 9,650 100% And more to the point, fighting to protect $ 9,650 sure that we fight for a tightly regulated on time, withaccurate you for the good of ourup industry are submitted and backed with and the correct Hot Water Services $ 8,000 50% $ 4,000 and uphold public health through best trade to protect public health. communities in 2018. documentation. practice in plumbing and gasfitting.25% That has and always will my Because public health matters.

Drainage $12,400 $ 3,100 Paulshape Funnell OAM Total $63,750 43.88% $ 27,970

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FROM THE CEO

PARLIAMENT LISTENS AS INDUSTRY SPEAKS OUT

By MURRAY THOMAS, CEO

The annual Plumbing Meets Parliament meeting and a range of other industry-driven initiatives are yielding results as the year comes to a close.

S

OME people might think that unifying industry stakeholders to lobby for change is like herding cats.

But the truth is that in Australia, there’s an incredible level of solidarity between plumbers, merchants and manufacturers.

For that reason, the plumbing industry is a powerful lobbyist and when we speak, governments are increasingly listening to what we say.

Such was the case when representatives of the industry descended on Canberra for the annual Plumbing Meets Parliament meeting in October.

The event, now in its third year, provides an opportunity for various industry associations from around the nation to liaise directly with parliamentarians on issues that matter.

Thanks to that ever increasing unified voice, this year we once again combined with the Plumbing Products Industry Group and had the ear of politicians that matter, including Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources Barnaby Joyce (before his temporary leave of absence); Minister for the Environment and Energy Josh Frydenberg; Assistant Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science Craig Laundy; and Assistant Treasurer Michael Soukker, among others.

A key topic for discussion was the need for control of non-conforming plumbing products with the outcome that a commitment was made to work at a national level to implement effective pointof-sale legislation.

Not content to wait for national laws to come into play, the Queensland

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MASTER PLUMBER | SUMMER 2017/18

State Government has pushed ahead to implement its own legislation, releasing the Non-Conforming Building Products Code of Practice, and an accompanying amendment to the State’s Building and Construction legislation, in October.

The code places the onus on designers, manufacturers, importers and suppliers to ensure, as far as practicable, that products are fit for their intended use, and that any limitations or restricted use conditions, instructions for installation and instructions for use are clearly communicated.

It sends a strong message to other

Without such a review, there is a danger that Australian plumbing could be broken down and over simplified

governments that change can be enforced – and quickly – for the sake of public health and safety.

A comprehensive review of plumbing and gasfitting units of competency is under way with a view to aligning State-based training with the national framework.

The review is necessary to ensure consistency of training across the States and Territories so that qualifications can be easily transferred, and to address the separation of streams of training across plumbing and gasfitting Without such a review, there is a

danger that Australian plumbing could be broken down and over simplified, allowing unsatisfactorily trained apprentices to undertake specific job tasks. Such is the case in the UK and the result has been disastrous in numerous cases.

In WA, the industry is pushing for a broad base of units of competency so that a plumber has the skills necessary to undertake all aspects of plumbing.

The industry concern is that the training package must reflect the diverse skills required by plumbers in areas where they may be required to undertake all manner of tasks.

Apprentices should be trained across industry agreed units of competency and apprenticeships structured to ensure training is flexible, innovative and allows students to maximise their on-the-job experience.

It is also recommended that apprentices undertake regular assessments at key stages through their four years of training, culminating in a final competency assessment.

For contractors, it is recommended a Cert IV qualification, consisting of 15 units of competency, is completed, while hydraulic consultants’ units of competency need to be addressed too.

Additional considerations will be addressed with the aim to establish a sub-committee to implement final recommendations. Further information will be provided next year.

These positive outcomes certainly came to a head at the 11th hour in 2017, and while there is still much to do to see them through to fruition, it bodes well for an exciting and fruitful 2018 for the industry.

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NEWS & VIEWS

DPD’s AND E-PLANS

Compliance update on gas bottle restraint

all in a day’s work

Meet Jeanette Van Hyum, left, and Eva Germana

drainage works. To locate water and sewer connections, you need to obtain sewer diagrams for your property.

These are known as E-plans The people that know all about DPDs and E-plans are Master Plumbers & Gasfitters Association staff Jeanette Van Hyum and Eva Germana.

Jeanette works Monday to Wednesday and Eva Wednesday to Friday, so at least one of the two is always on hand to field and process incoming orders.

DRAINAGE PLUMBING DIAGRAMS, also known as flimsies or as constructed diagrams, are a diagrammatic representation of a property’s drainage plumbing work.

Whatever you know them as, they remain a vital part of carrying out

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MASTER PLUMBER | SUMMER 2017/18

Both DPDs and E-plans are available to Association members and nonmembers at the following rates: DPD Members $16.00

Non-Members $19.00 E-Plan Members $16.50

Non-Members $21.00 To request a plan, please phone

PLUMBERS AND GASFITTERS are reminded that the Australian Standard on gas bottle restraint has been updated to apply to domestic gas bottles.

The ninth edition of AS/NZS 1596 – Storage and Handling of LP Gas included an updated clause on restraint requirements, stating: “Any cylinder greater that 25L and less than 200L water capacity shall be restrained from falling.”

To comply with the requirement, new domestic installations utilizing 45kg cylinders require a form of cylinder restraint to be installed.

Jeanette or Eva on (08) 9471 6670 or email office@mpawa.asn.au and your request will be attended to as soon as possible.

To obtain septic tank plans, you need to contact your local council.

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Less talk more energy

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VALSIR FEATURE

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NEWS & VIEWS

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DISPLAY CAPTURES HISTORY OF WA INDUSTRY

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HISTORY of the WA plumbing and gasfittting industry is on display at the Association’s office

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MASTER PLUMBER | SUMMER 2017/18

19

here’s a new cabinet full of old memorabilia in the boardroom at the Master Plumbers & Gasfitters Association.

And much of it tells some fascinating tales of days gone by in the WA plumbing industry.

It’s the Association’s new history display, a veritable museum of publications and paraphernalia that maps the path of the Association, in all its various incarnations, over nearly a century of operation in the State.

Issues of The MPA Journal, precursor to Master Plumber Western Australia magazine, many of which have been bound into hard-cover volumes, provide some great insights into the industry.

Looking back 52 years to the 1965 editions, it’s obvious there are many similar issues being faced by the plumbing industry today as were making headlines then.

One issue included the rising costs of living and corresponding need to increase staff wages. The editorial column made what must have been an outlandish prediction at the time, claiming that if costs were not soon stabilised, “we’ll all need computers to count the housekeeping allowance.”

A regular fixture in journals at the time was ‘Kathy’s Column”, written by Mrs Kathy Williams, who appears to have been the wife of Journal Committee member Horrie Williams.

The column, addressed to “Dear Fellow Wives”, focused predominantly on kitchen tips and tricks to ensure “the men” were happily fed after a day on the tools.

Relaying the story of planning for a dinner party and what would make a good dessert choice, Kathy wrote: “Having several males in the party some sort of pie seemed to be in order. Apple is generally the first choice among men, so I started peeling the fruit when one of neighbours popped in with a custard tart with a very woe-be-gone expression on her face as it had gone wrong.”

Kathy writes on to reveal the secrets to making a good custard tart.

The Association’s President at the time was Mr Eric Morrison and the advertisers in the journal map out a history of merchants and manufacturers as well, with the likes of Domestic Appliances & Co, Sandovers, Drabbles and Irwell Taps. But there are also indications of the industry stayers, with advertisements from Caroma and WA’s own Kleenheat Gas.

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NEWS & VIEWS

BARBECUING WITH NATURAL GAS

A

s West Australians dust off their outdoor settings to enjoy the warm weather, barbecues are once again becoming the centre of focus for outdoor entertaining.

And there’s a growing tendency to turn to natural gas in the pursuit of cooking the perfect steak, snag or whatever tickles people’s fancies.

That’s because charcoal is messy and LPG bottles need to be replaced – no doubt many of us have been caught out with a half cooked burger before – but natural gas barbecues fire up instantly and allow the temperature to be controlled in the same way as a natural gas kitchen cooktop.

While there are plenty of great choices when it comes to natural gas barbecues, as well as many types of LPG (bottle) barbecues that can be converted to run off a natural gas connection (please check with the manufacturer), in both cases customers must adhere to two important things - a licensed gas fitter who can install or convert the barbecue, and an installation that complies with rules about alfresco areas.

Natural gas barbecues require appropriate ventilation and other safety features when installed in alfresco areas that, through their

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MASTER PLUMBER | SUMMER 2017/18

design, are deemed to be ‘indoors’.

If you’re a gas fitter, at this time of year you’re most likely getting plenty of requests for natural gas barbecue connections, so to make it easy ATCO has developed a handy checklist to help you ensure you’re following all the necessary safety guidelines.

The checklist can be accessed at: www.betteraddgas.com.au/alfresco-checklist.

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NEWS & VIEWS

OPPORTUNITIES TO INFORM REFORMS ARE IN THE PIPELINE

A

report released by ACIL Allen Consulting in February 2014 contained 51 recommendations broadly aimed at making Western Australia’s plumbing laws more modern and responsive to the changing needs of the industry.

The report was a result of an independent review of WA’s plumbing regulation announced by the former state government earlier that year.

Since the report’s release, the Building Commission has been implementing the recommended reforms in phases.

Reforms already implemented include the adoption of the Plumbing Code of Australia as the primary technical reference for water supply plumbing, sanitary plumbing and drainage plumbing in WA; and the broadening of the Plumbers Licensing Board’s disciplinary powers to

enable improvements such as the issuing of infringement notices for unlicensed plumbing work.

The remaining reforms are those that require legislative changes, and the current state government is keen to obtain feedback from a broad range of stakeholders on issues raised in the report. The feedback will be considered by the government when making decisions about changes to plumbing regulation.

The Building Commission is drafting a public discussion paper (or Consultation Regulation Impact Statement) for the next phase of reforms.

The Building Commission is in the process of obtaining information such as an economic analysis and is conducting preliminary discussions with stakeholders to inform the discussion paper.

This has included sponsoring a series of

free information sessions run by the Master Plumbers and Gasfitters Association of WA as part of its 2017 Industry Education and Compliance Update Tour.

The Building Commission’s involvement in the sessions has included a financial contribution as well as delivering presentations and participating in industry panel discussions at two metropolitan and eight regional locations between August and November 2017.

Once completed, the discussion paper on the remaining plumbing reforms will be released to stakeholders for comment.

Information on the review of WA’s plumbing regulation, including reforms already implemented or underway, is available on the Building Commission website at www.commerce. wa.gov.au/building-commission/plumbingreview.

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New Duoetto MK2 12v/240v water heater delivers civilised home comforts on the road, water or on holiday

A

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n innovative 12v/240v 10-litre water heater is being introduced to the Australasian and Asia-Pacific markets that delivers enough capacity and temperature range for people to enjoy civilised home comforts wherever they are in holiday homes, caravans, RVs, on the road or in boats.

The Australian designed Duoetto MK2 from AusJ Imports – for which distributors are being sought – offers selectable temperatures between 30-75 deg C on 240v so people can shower, wash, cook, clean and enjoy abundant hot water where mains power is available.

Automatic sensors allow switching to 12v when mains power is not available, enabling the Duoetto to deliver ample hot water in remote areas, says Mr Jay King of AusJ Imports (www.ausj.com.au).

The Duoetto MK2 complements AusJ’s 10L Aqueous MK2 hot water system, designed to provide homes, recreational and commercial users with near-instant hot water while saving time, energy, water and waiting frustration.

The Australian-design 10L Aqueous MK2 – which was a Finalist in Australia’s 2017 Sustainability Awards – reduces wastage of both water and energy by having the heater located under the sink, close to the point of use.

⦁ Durable outer case with service and inspection points ⦁ SPCC (high commercial quality) steel and enamel tanks ⦁ Single weld line for extended life.

Single line welding offers optimum protection for pressure vessels The Duoetto MK2, meanwhile, is designed specifically for the caravan, marine and R/V market. Featuring Australian Watermark Accreditation – obtained for both the Aqueous and Duoetto MK2 after extensive testing and certification – the ruggedly compact Duoetto MK2 costs less than standard water heaters with a recommended retail price of $A380.

The Aqueous MK2 also costs a fraction of some alternative instant hot water solutions, having a RRP of just $A350.

“Whether visiting country areas, adventuring on waterways, or travelling for business or pleasure, the purpose-built Duoetto MK2 is a unique product that provides sufficient hot water for two people to shower in comfort,” says Mr King.

Drawing a minuscule 4.2 amps at 240v (1000w) and 25 amps at 12v (300w),

⦁ Polyurethane insulation for high-efficiency heat retention ⦁ Thermal cutout and run-dry protection for safety ⦁ Combination pressure relief valve and non-return valve ⦁ Incoloy 840 heating element for rapid heating and energy efficiency WaterMark accreditation for the Duoetto MK2 and Aqueous MK2 means they have passed extensive tests and requirements regarding their suitability for safely supplying water for human consumption, says Mr King, whose company has more than 30,000 hot water heaters of different types in use worldwide.

sales@ausj.com.au for inquiries by retail outlets only or please call 0419 993 042.

ABN 37001 889 283

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Get instant hot water at the kitchen sink with the new Aqueous MK2 240v 10-litre Water Heater!

Drawing just 4.2 amps, the compact, stylish and durable Aqueous MK2 puts the water heater close to the point of use, to reduce lag time and water wastage.

AusJ Imports | P: +61 419 993 042 | E: sales@ausj.com.au

MASTER PLUMBER | SUMMER 2017/18

17

NEWS & VIEWS

RHEEM GRANTS HELP TURN PIPE DREAMS INTO REALITY D

O YOU want to kick-start your new plumbing career? Or are you a plumber who has an apprentice that would benefit from a financial boost?

For the sixth year, Rheem Australia will help 10 worthy recipients start or continue a plumbing apprenticeship by providing $30,000 in total grants as part of the 2018 Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants program.

As the country’s leading producer of water heaters, Rheem marked its 75th anniversary in 2012 with the launch of the Apprentice Plumber Grants to thank the Australian plumbing industry for its ongoing support and to invest in the industry’s future.

Since the Grants program was launched, Rheem has awarded a total of $180,000 to 160 apprentice plumbers around the country.

“Rheem is an active part of the plumbing community and our involvement doesn’t stop at providing products and

innovation,” said Rheem’s Chief Operating Officer Chris Taylor.

“In fact, some of the best assistance we can provide is supporting the education and training of the next generation of plumbers.

“That’s why in 2018 we’ll again be providing our 10 recipients with $2,000 to go towards fees and text books, plus a $1,000 tool voucher.”

Applications for the 2018 Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants open on Monday January 29, 2018 and close on Monday March 19, 2018. Apprentices can nominate themselves or their employer can nominate on their behalf. Application forms are available at www.rheem.com.au/ apprentice.

Recipients will be announced on Friday April 27, 2018 on the Rheem Australia website.

See www.rheem.com.au or visit www.facebook. com/rheemapprenticeplumbers for further information and updates.

3 ways Cbus is building super futures for plumbers in Western Australia 1.

Investing in property and development projects through our wholly owned subsidiary Cbus Property1, creating jobs and delivering returns

2.

Easy administration for employers, with online options to join Cbus and pay employees’ super

3.

Industry–specific super products for members, including insurance cover, financial advice and free access to the Cbus smartphone app

Contact James for your business super needs James Moore

Business Development Manager, WA

0437 688 538 james.moore@cbussuper.com.au

Cbus Property commercial project, 140 William Street, Perth

Cbus Property Pty Ltd is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cbus and has responsibility for the strategic performance and management of all Cbus direct property developments and investments.

This information is about Cbus. It doesn’t take into account your specific needs, so you should look at your own business needs and objectives before making any financial decisions. Read the Cbus Employer Handbook and other relevant documents to decide whether Cbus is right for you. Call 1300 361 784 or visit www.cbussuper.com.au for a copy.

18 MASTER PLUMBER | SUMMER 2017/18 Cbus’ Trustee: United Super Pty Ltd ABN 46 006 261 623 AFSL 233792 Cbus ABN 75 493 363 262.

1

Delivery to Metro Areas

! r u o h 1 n i h t i w

Need plumbing supplies fast? We now promise to deliver your goods within 1 hour!*

If not, we’ll give you a $50 credit! *Metro areas only. Excludes Esperance and Broome. The Customer Service Promises apply to trade account customers only. T&Cs apply. See branch or read the full Terms & Conditions on our website for more details.

Available

now at

Geraldton, Bunbury, Albany, Kalgoorlie & Busselton!

Aaron McDonald and the Pragma Legal team provide practical, plain speaking advice to MPA members

Need to recover an outstanding debt?

Pragma Legal have teamed up with the Master Plumbers and Gasfitters Association to help members with pragmatic legal advice

We provide pragmatic and affordable legal advice and representation. At Pragma, we are both commercially and legally minded, and often adopt fixed fee arrangements. As a Quality Assured Practice, we have recently been recognised as one of the fastest growing law firms in Australia. We are proud the Association made us their preferred legal advisor because we combine the highest standards of service with the practical, plain-speaking approach that small business owners need.

That’s why we offer MPA members a free 15 minute initial consultation. If your business needs pragmatic advice, book an appointment today.

Book your free 15 minute consultation at

pragmalegal.com.au/mpa

LEGAL

PEOPLE

Beyond the try-line With the afterglow of Australia’s hard-fought win over England in the final of the Rugby League World Cup still shimmering, Luke Derbyshire sat down with former coach of the Australian Kangaroos and revered league icon Chris Anderson to discuss his transition from the playing field to the world of construction, rail and mentoring young people into full time careers.

FATHER and son Chris, right, and Ben Anderson.

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21

PEOPLE

C

HRIS ANDERSON is a living legend of Australian rugby league.

His career as a player and coach is illustrious, with national and international accolades too numerous to list.

Chris played more than 230 games for his beloved Canterbury Bulldogs, including two premierships, before turning to coaching. He took on the role of foundation coach for the Melbourne Storm in the mid 1990s, taking the club in the AFL heartland to its inaugural premiership in 1999. And he served as head coach for Australia’s national team, the Kangaroos.

But this story isn’t to reminisce about Chris’ sporting prowess and the many famous side-steps past opposition forwards, or mazy runs from the wing at Belmore Oval. It’s about a new chapter in his journey, one with a commercial focus.

Today, Chris Anderson is head of a national labour hire and training company he founded in 2014.

The boy from the bush, who grew up in the remote town of Condobolin southwest of Dubbo and drove trucks carrying 40-foot containers around Sydney’s

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MASTER PLUMBER | SUMMER 2017/18

wharves as a teenager, has come a long way.

Anderson Recruitment & Training was launched to provide skilled tradespeople to rail projects across NSW. In a short time, it has expanded from four employees to 22 in corporate roles and dozens onsite, servicing large construction and infrastructure projects with operations in Sydney, Perth, Melbourne and Adelaide.

“The growth of the company is really satisfying, and much of the success can be attributed to a simple approach of focusing on people first and numbers second,” Chris said.

“We care more than most about the wellbeing of our team, making sure the culture is right, and that they are supported and empowered to perform to the best of their abilities.

“These are the same fundamentals of a successful footy team - in business it just takes a little longer to germinate.”

ART’s first major accomplishment came when it was awarded a country rail contract by leading engineering contractor John Holland.

“That opportunity, a contract we’ve continued and expanded, set a platform to

establish our reputation as a serious player in the labour hire market,” Chris said.

“More recently, we have won contracts with other national engineering and construction firms including Brookfield Multiplex and Downer Group.

“With Downer we have a really interesting project that leverages our football expertise to mentor young men who have been cut from professional rugby without playing first grade.”

ART is responsible for finding, recruiting and managing a workforce of up to 40 young ex-league players, and putting them through a three-year Certificate III in Telecommunications.

“Professional rugby is ruthless with only 20 per cent of those who play in the junior academies going on to play first grade in the NRL,” Chris said.

“This is a big issue for both the NRL and the broader community, with many of these guys suffering emotionally when their dream of playing professional footy is cut short.

“The program we’ve established in partnership with Downer makes sure they don’t fall through the cracks but have an

PEOPLE opportunity to gain viable qualifications to forge long and rewarding careers away from sport.”

ART is also proactive in helping indigenous Australians prosper in the workforce.

“Growing up in the bush, I saw first hand how employment can give purpose and direction to people,” Chris said.

“We have an interest in an indigenous employment company called Aspire that works to improve opportunities and skills for indigenous people seeking employment.

“Many government and commercial projects today include requirements, or at least a preference for, commitment to indigenous employment and through Aspire, we’re helping to fulfil that requirement and create good career opportunities for people.”

According to Chris, the company, which is headquartered in western Sydney in close proximity to some $6.5bn in development projects planned for the region, still has much to achieve.

“At the moment, it’s an exciting time to be in Sydney, with construction projects like the second airport, lots of new universities going up, along with the billion

dollar Intermodal project,” he said.

“Regardless, we see the company having a national footprint within the next three years, with expansive contract portfolios in rail, construction and infrastructure.”

Chris is aware that on the surface, the transition from the elite level in sport to business may seem relatively easy to many outsiders.

CHRIS ANDERSON, left, has located his business in Sydney’s west, close to major infrastructure projects.

Anderson as coach of the national team, above, and on the field at the height of his playing, below.

“I suspect that some people might think that just because I reached the top in footy, doors open automatically for me in business,” he said.

“Well I can set the record straight and say that it’s just not that simple and to be fair, I’m actually glad it’s not.”

But the skills and values Chris mastered during the four decades he was involved in

football have come to the fore.

“Perseverance, belief, hard work - the traits we practiced week in, week out playing footy - are used today in growing our business,” Chris said.

The company has also embraced a family culture that Chris had instilled from his time at Canterbury.

Kevin Moore, Chris’s brother-in-law who also played and coached at Canterbury, is a Director, while his son Ben Anderson – an original player for the Melbourne Storm - is a project manager and niece Ceile Moore is part of the marketing team.

“We believe that a strong family influence through the business shows clients that we offer a more genuine service,” Chris said. “I think the family aspect adds something a little extra for clients, alongside our technical expertise.”

So as one year comes to an end and a new one approaches, what advice can Chris offer people running plumbing and other small to medium sized businesses?

“Bide your time, be persistent, and never give in - you just have to keep knocking on doors and forcing them open,” he says.

“Sure, with my name we often get welcomed in, but after that we’re like any other firm bidding on a contract.

“We have to earn the right and work hard. If you adopt a humble philosophy and embrace these values, there’s no reason why you won’t experience growth into the future.”

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23

HEALTH & SAFETY

If the shoe fits, the feet stay healthy Our feet are important assets for carrying out physical work, so it’s vital to ensure they are protected and kept in a healthy state.

Experts say appropriate footwear is a must.

F

OOT injuries can be debilitating for plumbers and other workers across the construction sector.

The problem is that the nature of the work exposes workers to a high degree of risk – in fact, Safe Work Australia reports that some 20 per cent of serious workrelated injuries recorded in 2015 involved toes, feet, ankles, lower legs and knees.

But there are two distinct types of injury.

The first is more immediate, ranging from cuts, bruises and sprains to traumatic events that are typically seen in the recorded statistics.

The second, and in many cases the more common, are overuse injuries resulting from

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MASTER PLUMBER | SUMMER 2017/18

prolonged or repetitive stress on the feet.

Such stress can impact not just the feet, but ankles, knees, hips and the spine.

According to the Australasian Podiatry Council, common overuse injuries include repetitive strain issues with the Achilles tendon, stress fractures through constant force applied to the feet, arch pain (as arches can be strained through long periods of standing and carrying weight), and heel pain.

Causes include standing in the same position or walking for more than four hours at a time, working on hard surfaces such as concrete floors and wearing unsupportive footwear.

The remedy, apart from resting and changing position regularly, comes down to safety footwear that is fit for purpose.

It’s a topic that is close to the heart of Dwayne Sewell, Head of Manufacturing for safety footwear provider Steel Blue.

Dwayne says underfoot cushioning is vital for both body health and comfort, ensuring protection when standing on hard surfaces and providing rebound and absorption support from the impact of moving.

“Other considerations for selecting the right work boot are support for the metatarsal area of the foot (the bones across the top of the foot leading to the toes)

and ensuring they are suited to the work environment, such as providing protection from static build-up or having penetration resistant soles,” Dwayne said.

According to Australian Physiotherapy Association member Dan Gartner, from Sydney’s Shore Physiotherapy, ensuring footwear is fit for purpose is vital.

“Footwear must have appropriate grip to prevent slipping and have adequate ankle support in the event of a slip or stumble,” Dan said.

is known as heel slip. This happens when the heel moves up and down when walking and can lead to blisters and wearing of the internal lining material in the upper part of footwear.

“Safety footwear should not stretch over time so people should ensure a comfortable fit at the time of buying.”

In addition to fit-for-purpose and well fitting footwear, Dan says people working in professions such as plumbing can take additional steps to protect

TOP TIPS FOR GOOD FOOT HEALTH ACCORDING TO Steel Blue, comfortable work boots will reduce fatigue, keeping you fresher and alert for longer. The following tips are recommended when making a decision on appropriate footwear.

• Ensure your safety footwear is comfortable. The ideal work boot should: ✔ Be well-fitted to your foot shape ✔ Require very little breaking-in time ✔ Be lightweight and made from natural, durable and breathable materials ✔ Provide stability, especially in the back two-thirds of the boot ✔ Have a dedicated soling system to absorb impact to cushion the feet, knees, hips and lower back from day-today fatigue

“It should also be capable of keeping out moisture if people are working in wet conditions and provide the right stability through the sole and around the ankle for unstable or uneven surfaces.”

Dan says correct maintenance of footwear is also important.

“You should inspect boots or shoes for wear and damage over time,” he said.

“Just as sportspeople need to replace their footwear to ensure adequate cushioning and support, so do tradespeople.”

Ensuring footwear fits correctly at the time of purchase is also important for the prevention of injuries, according to Dwayne.

“Correct fitting is the best way to maintain both feet health and prevent imbalances to the whole body,” he said.

“One of the most common complaints

themselves from injury.

“A firm fitting sock should be worn that supports the arch and fits firmly around the heel,” he said.

“It’s also important to pay attention to foot health. Keeping the feet dry and inspecting for bacterial or fungal issues is always a good practice, as is ongoing stretching and exercising to maintain strong tendons and flexibility around the foot, ankle and knees.

“If people have any issues affecting their foot shape, such as hereditary conditions or previous injuries, an assessment of foot shape can be carried out and additional support provided to reduce discomfort and hopefully prevent injury.”

If you need further information or have concerns, see a doctor, physiotherapist or podiatrist.

• Be aware of the hazards in your workplace. If you have concerns about foot safety, alert your employer or safety officer. Make sure your shoes are appropriate for any specific workplace hazards or conditions.

• Practice the correct manual handling techniques, particularly when lifting. With your feet shoulder-width apart, bend at the hips and knees. Grip the load firmly and hold it close to your body, tighten your stomach muscles and use the strong muscles of your legs to lift. Keep your back as straight as possible and gently breathe out. Avoid twisting - turn by using your feet, not your back.

• Remember, feet shouldn’t hurt.

Sore feet are a sign of a problem.

• Visit a podiatrist if you have foot problems or concerns.

MASTER PLUMBER | SUMMER 2017/18

25

HEALTH & SAFETY

CORRECT TREATMENT VITAL FOR HAND INJURIES

I Traumatic hand injuries can be career-ending incidents, so it is vital to get the right treatment as soon as possible.

That’s the focus of WA business HANDOC.

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MASTER PLUMBER | SUMMER 2017/18

T’S a bit disconcerting being given a “Hand First Aid and Amputation Care Kit”.

The kit comprises a range of bandages and dressings, zip-lock bags which are about standard hand size, an instant ice pack and various other emergency first-aid provisions. And they are kept in a standard polystyrene six-pack eski that looks very much like a tradie’s lunchbox.

In fact, it’s everything you need to deal with severed fingers, or hands.

As disconcerting as it might be, it’s the day-to-day business of WA-based hand surgery specialists at HANDOC. HANDOC was set up in 2008 to deal with an increasing number of serious hand injuries in WA. The group comprises some of the State’s top hand surgeons, critical care nurses and support staff, operating out of major hospitals and dedicated surgical centres around the State.

And it’s all because hands are a complicated piece of human machinery,

containing a network of interconnected bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, blood supply vessels and other infrastructure vital to helping us interpret the world and operate in it.

In fact, it takes more brainpower to control our hands, and receive and process the signals from them, than for any other part of our bodies.

Loss of function of even a single finger can be debilitating for many people, so in the case of a traumatic injury, it is vital to get the right treatment in a timely fashion.

And that’s the reason that HANDOC exists.

According to HANDOC business manager Claire Bean, a big issue with hand and finger injuries is that people are often required to wait for surgical treatment.

“It’s vital with most traumatic hand injuries to get treatment as quickly as possible and to be seen by a specialist who understands the complicated structure of the hand,” Claire said.

“If you present to a hospital emergency

Many work-related injuries involve tradespeople working with power and hand tools

room, often you’ll be triaged according to the severity of your condition.

“The issue is that while hands are really important, the sorts of injuries sustained can often be severe without being life threatening, so people might be patched up and provided with pain relief but have to wait two or three days for surgery.

“They might also be treated by a generalist surgeon or even a GP without the detailed knowledge of how to address complex hand injuries, and that can lead to long-term issues or lengthy recovery periods that could potentially have been avoided with specialist treatment.

“Because there’s a whole lot of anatomy close to the surface in the hand, even the most innocuous injuries like little puncture wounds around a joint or nail-bed injuries can be very complex to treat effectively.”

HANDOC deals predominantly with work-related injuries – and many of those involve tradespeople working with power and hand tools, or in environments where

HANDS are a complex piece of human machinery, containing a complicated network of infrastructure.

the risk of crush and pinch injuries is high.

The centre provides patients with direct access to specialised treatment rather than requiring them to wait in emergency departments, as well as liaising with medical staff in regional and remote areas to provide appropriate care until patients can see a HANDOC specialist.

Claire says the staff will often talk patients or their employers through immediate care requirements over the phone then organise the logistics to get them to a hospital and into surgery. A HANDOC phone app provides detailed information and allows photos to be sent for specialists to review.

“Our team is so accustomed to dealing

with hand injuries that they can often determine from a photo if surgery is required and how quickly,” Claire said.

“Then we can arrange for patients to get to a metro or regional hospital and on to a surgery list the same day if necessary.

“HANDOC also assists with any workers’ compensation and health insurance requirements, and surgeons ensure appropriate follow-up care, rehabilitation and hand therapy is organised.”

Employers and small business owners can find out more about HANDOC at www.handoc.com.au. It’s certainly useful information to have in your phone in the event that it may be required one day.

MASTER PLUMBER | SUMMER 2017/18

27

2017 Apprentice of the Year Awards

APPRENTICES MASTER THEIR TRADE Competition was strong at the 2017 Apprentice of the Year Awards final assessment in September.

F

ollowing a rigorous judging process, finalists competed for the title of Apprentice of the Year in a series of practical assessments at the MPA Skills Maylands Training Centre.

Under the watchful eyes of a judging panel of industry professionals, finalists carried out a series of plumbing and gasfitting tasks.

According to the judges, the level of competition and display of expertise was of an exceptional standard.

Finalists took to the stage with anticipation and a certain amount of trepidation at the 2017 Awards for Excellence on 9 December to find out who had taken the honours.

The awards were organised and delivered by Master Plumbers & Gasfitters Association, with the much-appreciated support of key sponsor Galvins Plumbing Supplies and supporters CBUS, Bosch Hot Water, Tradelink and MPA Skills.

Congratulations to all winners and finalists and thanks to the team of judges.

WINNER MARK QUATTRINI Partnered by Galvins Plumbing Supplies Presented by Reyn Bennel (Right) THE FINALISTS

(Below) THIRD PLACE BAILEY ULLRICH Partnered by Bosch Hot Water Presented by Peter Mizen

28

(Below) GEOFFREY ARTHUR SMITH ENCOURAGEMENT AWARD JOSHUA MITCHELL Partnered by Tradelink Presented by Rob Dimond

(from left) VET IN SCHOOLS OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT AWARD SINEAD McNESS Partnered by MPA Skills Presented by Frank Fernandez RUNNER UP STEVEN WILLIAMS Partnered by CBUS Presented by James Moore

MASTER PLUMBER | SUMMER 2017/18

29

Master Plumbers & Gasfitters Association and Kleenheat 2017 Awards for Excellence

NO CLOWNING AROUND FOR INDUSTRY’S BEST T

he circus was certainly in town for the Master Plumbers & Gasfitters Association and Kleenheat 2017 Awards for Excellence.

But amidst the jovial atmosphere – with juggling, acrobatics, unicycling, magic and general mayhem – there was a very serious side to the night as industry representatives gathered to acknowledge the State’s best.

Recognising outstanding

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MASTER PLUMBER | SUMMER 2017/18

achievements across a broad range of categories, the awards attracted a large number of entries and more than 400 attendees to the circus-themed dinner at the Crown Perth Ballroom.

Special guests included Minister for Education and Training Sue Ellery MLC, Federal Member for Swan Steve Irons, as well as representatives of other Associations, manufacturers and merchant groups. The night

commenced with a presentation of the 2017 Apprentice of the Year Awards (see previous pages), before moving on to the main part of the night, which involved 14 awards in total.

See pages 34 and 35 for the full list of winners.

Congratulations to all finalists and a huge thanks to the alliance partners for your valued support of the awards.

MASTER PLUMBER | SUMMER 2017/18

31

Master Plumbers & Gasfitters Association and Kleenheat 2017 Awards for Excellence

32

MASTER PLUMBER | SUMMER 2017/18

MASTER PLUMBER | SUMMER 2017/18

33

Master Plumbers & Gasfitters Association Plumbing Business of the Year

ROWSON’S PLUMBING SERVICES Partnered by Kleenheat Presented by: Linley Plowman

34

Emerging Plumbing Business of the Year

Commercial Plumbing Business of the Year less than 10 employees

BENCHMARK HYDRAULICS AND CIVIL

BENCHMARK HYDRAULICS AND CIVIL

Partnered by

Partnered by

Davey Pumps

Rinnai

Presented by:

Presented by:

Adam Fairess

Colin Johnson

Commercial Plumbing Business of the Year 10 or more employees

Maintenance Plumbing Business of the Year less than 10 employees

COOKE & DOWSETT

BROOME PLUMBING & GAS Partnered by

Partnered by

Reddifund

Tradelink

Presented by:

Presented by:

Keiron Gubbins

Rob Dimond

Project Excellence in Commercial Gas

Service Excellence

PHILLIP BEST PLUMBING

KALAMUNDA PLUMBING

MASTER PLUMBER | SUMMER 2017/18

Partnered by

Partnered by

ATCO Gas Australia

CBUS

Presented by:

Presented by:

Stevan Green

James Moore

and Kleenheat 2017 Awards for Excellence

THE WINNERS Health & Safety Excellence Business of the Year

Waterwise Plumbing Business of the Year

ROWSON’S PLUMBING SERVICES

BELL PLUMBING & GAS

Partnered by

Partnered by

SAFEX

Water Corporation

Presented by:

Presented by:

Anita Slight

Adele Gismondi

Regional Plumbing Business of the Year

Project Excellence in Commercial Construction

PHILLIP BEST PLUMBING

JOHNSON + CO PLUMBING AND GAS

Partnered by

Partnered by

Simpro Software

Minutolo Drafting Services

Presented by:

Presented by:

Colin Gibson

Robert Minutolo

Project Excellence in Residential Housing

Maintenance Plumbing Business of the Year 10 or more employees

OCEAN EDGE PLUMBING & GAS

PHILLIP BEST PLUMBING

Partnered by

Partnered by

MPA Skills

Bosch Hot Water

Presented by:

Presented by:

Frank Fernandez

Peter Mizen

Employer of the Year

ROWSON’S PLUMBING SERVICES Partnered by

Galvins Plumbing Supplies Presented by:

Reyn Bennell

Thanks to all finalists and alliance partners.

MASTER PLUMBER | SUMMER 2017/18

35

Master Plumbers & Gasfitters Association and Kleenheat 2017 Awards for Excellence

36

MASTER PLUMBER | SUMMER 2017/18

MASTER PLUMBER | SUMMER 2017/18

37

whayteaar!

Eventful year across the State IT HAS certainly been an eventful year for the Master Plumbers & Gasfitters Association and our members.

From the March World Plumbing Day Race Day, to the President’s Cup Golf Day, to our Industry Tour of regional and metro areas and a range of other entertaining and informative occasions in between, we’ve certainly covered some miles.

We met current and new regional members from Broome to Albany to Esperance and at various points in

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MASTER PLUMBER | SUMMER 2017/18

between, and we tore up the fairways at Joondalup Country Club with a sellout corporate golf day.

As a major sponsor of the Honey Badger Breakfast, members were treated to some entertaining tales from rugby great Nick “The Honey Badger” Cummins, while Associate Members learnt some tricks of the trade at our first Media Lunch.

The Association looks forward to bringing you more exciting events through 2018 – stay tuned for information in the New Year.

WORLD PLUMBING DAY

Race Day Punters celebrate in style

TO CELEBRATE WORLD Plumbing Day on 11 March, the MPGA once again hosted its annual Race Day at Ascot Race Course.

Attendees were dressed to the nines for a fun-filled day that involved plenty of entertainment, great food and drink and quite a few lost dollars on horses that just couldn’t bring it home.

Bad bets aside, no one could deny it was a spectacular way to celebrate the achievements of the industry on a global scale.

MASTER PLUMBER | SUMMER 2017/18

39

whayteaar!

INDUSTRY INFORMATION SESSIONS Broome

Statewide tour spreads industry word

Karratha

h Energy THE MPGA TEAMED up wit mission to Com g ldin Bui Safety and the rmation to take the latest industry info plumbers across the State.

e ground, We certainly covered som many and nce era from Broome to Esp en. we places in bet ressive, Attendance rates were imp ers mb -me with members and non en list to nity taking the opportu el to presentations, join in pan h wit rk wo net and ns sio discus colleagues.

Geraldton

Joondalup

Kalgoorlie Melville

Mandurah Bunbury Esperance Albany

40

MASTER PLUMBER | SUMMER 2017/18

PRESIDENT’S CUP GOLF DAY Getting into the swing of it

DESPITE FALLIN G ON the omin ous Friday the 13th of October, the annual President’s Cup Golf Day at Joon dalup Country Club an d Resort was a se llout.

Teams of four teed off in the Ambrose-style tournament ov er 18 holes – with skills rang ing from the su blime to the ridiculous.

Culminating in dinner with the entertainment from the irrever ent but talented Peter Dee, it was once again a highlight of the annual calendar .

MASTER PLUMBER | SUMMER 2017/18

41

whayteaar!

42

MASTER PLUMBER | SUMMER 2017/18

MASTER PLUMBER | SUMMER 2017/18

43

whayteaar!

COME AND TRY DAY

Inspection cameras on show er Breakfast

Honey Badg

Rugby great tells it how it is

IN THE INTERESTS of industry education, plumbers were treated to a show, tell and try event in October courtesy of Nexxis and EPE. Nexxis, a provider of testing and inspection technology, brought out its latest toys including down-hole cameras and crawlers, while EPE – a provider of engine components for industrial and commercial uses, provided the venue and had it’s extensive product range on show.

BIES and RALIAN WALLA FORMER AUST Honey player Nick “The Western Force at ar traction ins was the st Badger” Cumm September. ell for breakfast in e MPGA was w

sor, th As a key spon the mmins regaled Cu as d te represen nc tre hes tales from the audience with . ng yi ing and part of his time play le of ta y ar nd w lege He told the no but – e m na ck ni by his how he came repeating. it’s well worth ing a he was watch Cummins says sed es itn w d entary an an wildlife docum ric Af e th of ty feroci e lion. the renowned al m a in a fight with l honey badger al sm e derdog, th Clearly the un , ng di ee bl d broken an lion honey badger, e th sition beneath was in a bad po opportunity. but saw a final ripped ck claws and s “He used hi ba said. off,” Cummins the lion’s nuts aggered st d, ne un st a bit “The lion was e th d ped dead, an away and drop , even up lf se picked him honey badger was d an g le en a brok though he had ck ba to went straight bleeding, and .” hunting for food ith the so impressed w as w Cummins adopted fortitude that he small animal’s stuck. mself – and it the name for hi

44

MASTER PLUMBER | SUMMER 2017/18

MEDIA LUNCH

Secrets to cracking the media

ASSOCIATE MEMBERS ENJOYED an intimate lunch with renowned business journalist Dan Wilkie in September.

Wilkie, formerly of WA Business News and now editor in chief of Australia China Business Review, gave away a few secrets to help businesses attract the right sort of media attention.

It was the first of a series of similar events planned to take place through 2018 – more details will be provided in the New Year.

WHAT SAFEX DELIVERS

FRUSTRATED WITH MANAGING SAFETY IN YOUR BUSINESS?

RISK MANAGEMENT

Safety is a legal requirement for all plumbers.

No matter what size or how many employees you have.

MPGA members can access the answer with a management software called SafeX.

INCIDENT MANAGEMENT

The MPGA is offering members SafeX at a subsidised price.

SafeX has been partnering with MPGA since 2016.

‘ Designed for plumbing businesses'

DOCUMENT & RECORDS MANAGEMENT

FIT-FOR-PURPOSE TRAINING

UNDERPINNED BY PROFESSIONAL SAFETY SUPPORT

www.safex.com.au

0422 211 516

SIMPLE. SUSTAINABLE.Package SAFETY. Safety Excellence

BUSINESS ESSENTIALS

PROTECT YOUR

TRADE

You may have heard the term “trademark”.

L

ike many business owners, you might wonder whether you need one, or if registering your business name is enough to protect you from others using a similar business name.

DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A TRADEMARK AND BUSINESS NAME A business name is the identity that a business operates under. Generally speaking, all entities (whether individual or a company) need to register a business name that they intend to use while conducting their business.

However, even if you have registered a business name, it does not automatically provide you with protection against another business using a similar business name, logo or image.This is where a trademark may be useful.

If another business operates using a similar name or logo to yours, the public may be misled or confused into thinking that the two businesses are related. A trademark operates to distinguish one business from another, and can sometimes be referred to as a brand.

A trademark does not only protect a business name, but can also protect a logo, word, phrase, picture, packaging, or anything else that is a unique identifier of your business that can distinguish you from your competitors.

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WHAT RIGHTS DO I HAVE WITH A TRADEMARK? • If you have registered a trademark for your business: • you have the monopoly of its use in the relevant classes in which it is registered • your legal rights are clear and uncontroversial • your trademark will be listed on a publicly available register.

Accordingly, if you have registered a trademark, you will be entitled to require another person, business or entity to cease their operations and/or make relevant changes to their name, logo or image in circumstances where: • they are operating a business similar to yours; and • they are using a similar business name or logo to you; and • you think they are trying to benefit from the goodwill or reputation you have built up.

If you are suffering any loss or damage as a result of those business operations, you may be entitled to claim that loss and damage from the other business.

If you do not have a registered trademark, then it will be difficult for you to assert any rights you claim to have against the other business.

HOW DO I APPLY FOR A TRADEMARK? If you wish to apply for a trademark, call Pragma on 6188 3340 or contact our office to arrange a free consultation with one of our lawyers so we can provide you with further advice regarding how to apply for a trademark, the costs, the process, and your rights once the trademark has been granted.

AARON MCDONALD is a Director of Pragma Legal, an Associate Member of the MPGA and provider of legal services to members.

Debt recovery made easier for members FINDING clients is just the first part of achieving business success.

Unfortunately, sometimes the bigger challenge is getting them to pay.

But thanks to Master Plumber & Gasfitters Association Associate Member Pragma Legal, there’s a new set of tools available to help with the heavy lifting when it comes to debt recovery.

According to Pragma Legal Director Aaron McDonald, chasing debts can lead to significant stress for small business owners.

“In the majority of cases, all it takes for a non-payer to come to the party is an official letter of demand,” Aaron said.

“So we’ve set up a dedicated area on the Pragma Legal website where MPGA members can find the appropriate letter template and a useful set of steps to follow.

“Members can go through the debt recovery process knowing that they are operating within standard legal parameters.”

If the non-payer indicates an intention not to pay, the website outlines the required next steps to commence legal proceedings.

For claims less than $10,000, the Magistrates Court Minor Cases Jurisdiction is designed to allow those pursuing debts to represent themselves. Claims can also take into consideration additional costs to pursue the debt, such as court filing fees and travel claims. If you do decide to use legal representation, the court will only award legal costs in exceptional circumstance so you are unlikely to be able to recover such fees.

The Magistrates Court provides a fact sheet and appropriate forms, also accessible via the Pragma website, to help claimants commence proceedings for debts less than $10,000.

For debts greater than $10,000, it is advisable to seek legal advice.

You can download the Debt Recovery tools via the website at pragmalegal. com.au/master-plumbers-association or call Pragma Legal for more information on (08) 6188 3340.

BUSINESS ESSENTIALS

Removing the burden of checking worker credentials KEEPING tabs on your staff and subcontractors’ credentials can be an onerous and difficult task.

Unfortunately, the onus is on both the individual and the employer or contractor to ensure qualifications and licences are relevant and up to date.

And that can leave businesses significantly exposed if something is not quite right.

But thanks to a new alliance with Bright People Technologies, Master Plumbers and Gasfitters Association members have access to Cited, a software solution that provides a vast range of necessary checks.

Cited provides employers and contractors with a cost-effective solution for checking and verification of credentials at the time of hiring, through to onboarding and mobilisation.

Automatic renewals are also generated throughout the term of a person’s employment.

Cited is pleased to offer MPGAWA members discounted checks including: • National Police Check • Plumbing Licence Check • Gas Fitting Licence Check • Electrical Licence Check • National Restricted Electrical Licence Check • Trade Certificate Check • Driver’s Licence Check Other Checks, such as a Working with Children Check or Visa Check, are offered at extremely competitive prices.

For more information, see www.cited.com.au.

HOW A TRADIE LOST HIS JOB OVER A PACKET OF TWISTIES

By REBECCA CUTLER ~ Industrial Relations Manager

NEARLY 200 YEARS ago, English scientist Michael Faraday invented a shield to block electromagnetic fields.It was known as theFaraday cage.

Two years ago, Perth electrician Tom Colella made his own Faraday cage out of an empty Twisties packet.

It was clever but his intentions were not good. Tom used the empty packet to store his employer-supplied personal digital assistant (PDA) which contained a GPS tracker.

With his new-found freedom, Tom hit the golf course during times when he was supposed to be working.

It is alleged that Tom was playing golf instead of being at work on more than 140 separate occasions.

His employer would never have known, had it not been for an anonymous tip-off that Tom had been playing golf during work time at least once a week over the previous two years. Also included with the letter were records from the golf club.

His employer investigated the tip-off and whilst they could not substantiate those allegations, they did find that while Tom’s work orders showed him working at a particular site, his access ID (on electronic gate records) never clocked

him in at those sites.

Tom’s employer came to the conclusion that he had been claiming to be working when he actually hadn’t.

It appeared the Twisties packet had acted as a Faraday cage, which prevented electro-magnetic signals from reaching the GPS device,meaning Tom could go “off the radar” while still being paid his $111,000 per year salary.

In September 2016, Tom was sacked and promptly lodged a complaint with the Fair Work Commission claiming he was unfairly dismissed.

A year later, the Fair Work Commission handed down its decision on the matter.

Fair Work Commissioner Bernie Riordan found the employer had a valid reason to terminate Tom and that he was satisfied Tom received his statutory entitlement to a fair go, finding that Tom’s termination was not harsh, unjust or unreasonable.

Commissioner Riordan described the use of the Twisties packet as “deliberately mischievous” and stated that he could find no plausible explanation why Tom would create a Faraday cage around his PDA, except to obstruct the GPS collecting capacity of the device.

MASTER PLUMBER | SUMMER 2017/18

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TRAIN WITH THE BEST AT MPA SKILLS Train with MPA Skills and you will be well on your way to starting a successful plumbing career.

MPA Skills is a Registered Training Organisation [RTO] and train apprentices from either direct indenture or from the Group Training Organisation [GTO], as well as providing advanced training programs.

Renowned for producing the state’s best tradesmen and women, each year MPA Skills delivers a substantial number of plumbing and painting apprentices to the industry, and trains more than 1,200 students with its apprenticeship programs.

MPA Skills is backed by industry, so you know you will get the best training to meet current industry needs..

It also runs advanced training programs so you can even go further in your career, including running your own business.

• Training facilities North and South of the River • Payment plans available • Industry-recognised qualifications and training • Flexible arrangements to meet your business needs For more information, call MPA Skills today on 08 9471 6600.

W mpaskills.com.au E mail@mpaskills.com.au

The pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship training are subject to funding by Future Skills WA.

RTO 1892

PRODUCTS & SERVICES

[MEMBER BENEFIT] Quote CADWA2017 to receive 10 per cent off your total purchase at Caddy Storage WA. Terms and conditions apply – look for the advertisement in this issue for further details.

Overcome your storage woes UNSECURED equipment bouncing around the back of a work van or ute can lead to a whole range of issues.

At best, it means wasting valuable time to find the required tool or fitting amongst the jumble, or realising your cordless drill bounced out somewhere between jobs. At worst, it could lead to a nasty injury when your angle grinder slams into the back of your head.

The advantages of having a functional storage system – from a convenience point of view, for personal safety, for your psychological wellbeing

and financial protection – cannot be underestimated.

That’s where Caddy Storage comes to the fore. The Canning Vale-based business is all about storage solutions that work.

According to Caddy Storage’s Greg Searle, trade vehicles are a specialty.

“We’ve designed and installed countless solutions into trade vehicles, including vans, utes and trailers – that are very specific to the requirements of the trades and the individuals,” he said.

“That includes everything from cargo

barriers, roof racks and ute canopies to dedicated shelving and drawers to house tools and fittings.

“We also fit rear steps and tow bars – in some cases we have plumbers who are starting up a business who’ll bring in a new van and trailer and we can kit out everything to their requirements.

“In other cases, people come to us with specific problems that have plagued them for some time and we work with them to devise workable solutions.”

For more information, see www.caddystorage.com.au.

Rheem delivers new energy saving heater

R

heem has launched its new Metro 26 Continuous Flow water heater which offers a range of features and benefits for installers and owners.

The sleek and compact design is unobtrusive and aesthetically pleasing, offering more flexibility for installers as it can fit into small or cramped spaces.

The standard unit’s compatibility with Rheem Flue diverters ensures even greater flexibility.

Designed for water and energy saving, the Metro 26 features six star efficiency, a digital OK monitor and a 10 year Heat Exchanger warranty – as well as providing improved hot water delivery at cold start up.

The unit ensures optimum safety with Flamesafe overheat protection automatically shutting down the water heater if required, and a remote temperature controller is available for convenience and added protection.

See www.rheem.com.au or your local Rheem stockist for more information.

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PRODUCTS & SERVICES

Breathe comfortably with Aviva SCOTT SAFETY’S new Aviva range of halfmask respirators is designed to allow all-day wearing comfort while providing optimum seal and protection against typical workplace hazards.

The new mask has been designed as a result of customer requests, featuring an innovative reflex seal that allows wearers to talk without compromising the seal.

The aim of the Aviva was to address one of the industry’s biggest issues of poorly fitted, uncomfortable equipment, which tends to discourage workers from using their PPE correctly.

New changes include a downwards facing exhale valve to avoid fogging of eyewear, an integrated leak check device to ensure a correct fit and a flexible deign to absorb facial movement.

For more information, see www. scottsafety.com.

Age-specific toilet solutions offer greater convenience ENWARE’S LATEST aged and special care bathroom solution is proven to be more convenient and efficient to install than most other products on the market.

The IFO Care601 Carekit™ is designed for people with movement restriction due to disability, age or as a result of injury.

The raised height toilet comes with a seamless cistern, Pressalit Sign toilet seat and easy to mount support arms that individually raise and lower. Both support arms have toilet roll holders.

The freestanding design allows for practical space saving configurations but with full access for users and carers given the highest priority.

The reliability, quality and performance of the design has been proven with over 2,400 systems installed over the past four years.

For more information see www.bit.ly/ care601enware.

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Enware also has a new toilet targeting a smaller market… and by “smaller” we mean children aged three to six.

The Junior Toilet from IFO helps younger children gain confidence in the bathroom, featuring an easy to clean design and a fully glazed back, with inside rims to help avoid bacteria growth.

The freestanding toilet has a low rim height, allowing little legs to easily reach the dedicated toilet seat.

As well as meeting safety requirements, the Junior Toilet has a four-star WELS rating and 4.5/3L duel flush. It is also designed to be accessible for children with mobility issues.

PRODUCTS & SERVICES

MK2 MAKES SENSE FOR HOT WATER HOT WATER can account for up to a third of average household energy consumption, according to AusJ Imports.

With this in mind, AusJ Imports has introduced the latest Aqueous MK2 hot water system, which was a finalist in the 2017 Australian Sustainability Awards.

The 10L Aqueous MK2 builds on the success of the previous model, with added features including the option for floor or wall mounting.

According to AusJ Imports managing director Jay King, each of us uses around 150L of water a day and much of it is warm or hot water, which is why it’s important to choose a sustainable and efficient hot water system.

Mr King said the Aqueous MK2 reduced wastage of both water and energy because it could be located close to the point of use.

“It doesn’t make much sense in terms of energy conservation to be heating a lot of water that will go cold in the pipes waiting for use,” he said.

“Then there is the wastage of many litres of high-quality drinking water that is typically flushed down the drain, just so we can get a few litres of hot water needed for many household tasks.

“Our aim was always to make instantly available hot water at the kitchen sink. Kitchens are an area where hot water is

often used, but regularly it’s in small quantities.

“This means that the lag-time is experienced over and over again, and lots of energy and water becomes wasted.

“The instant hot water saves time, energy and frustration.”

The Aqueous MK2 is designed for a wide range of uses, from standalone or supplementary water heating in homes and commercial buildings to installation in caravans, boats and other mobile equipment .

See www.ausj.com.au for more information.

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PRODUCTS & SERVICES

AIR CONDITIONERS GO PLUG-AND-PLAY

N

o longer will you need a restricted electrical licence or gas fitting expertise to install split system air conditioning.

A new unit from Fujin provides plumbers with the opportunity to expand their service offerings, and it is safer and more environmentally friendly.

Fujin Domestic split-system air conditioners, available from Perth-based Oliru Trading, use environmentallyfriendly R32 gas as the refrigerant.

Even though it is technically flammable, the 2.8kW unit only houses 235 grams of the wonder gas.

It also has a regular three-pin plug so can be connected and disconnected easily from the main power circuit.

Oliru Trading Managing Director Peter Frey and the team have spent the past 12 years developing sustainable gasses for air conditioning.

“Hydrocarbon is the new way for sustainability as it pretty much has zero global warming potential,” Peter said.

TAFE courses for split installation are available, which Peter says are valuable for plumbers wishing to branch into this line of work.

“You don’t need to be licenced for the R32 gas, but you need to have a very good understanding of the installation,” he said.

Peter also recommends investing a few hundred dollars in a vacuum pump to assist with safe installations.

Improving the life of height safety gear HARNESSES AND OTHER height safety gear should be cleaned regularly to increase service life, according to LINQ Height Safety Gear.

National category manager Paul Bozkurt said correct cleaning and maintenance procedures would ensure safety gear remained effective for the longest possible time.

“Harnesses treated with moistureresistant technology will ensure increased protection against sweat, moisture, oil, grease and dirt, as well as minimise odour build-up,” he said.

Paul said choosing the right type of equipment was also vital to ensuring longevity.

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“Look for harnesses which have been treated with protective coatings,” he said.

“As an example, the webbing on most LINQ harnesses is dipped twice in a water resistant solution called ‘Liqui-Pel’, giving the harness an invisible protective coating that allows the harness to be cleaned more easily and dry more rapidly.”

Paul said harnesses would typically come with cleaning instructions and it was vital to follow them.

“It’s not appropriate to soak a harness or use strong chemicals such as bleach for cleaning,” he said.

“Gentle dishwashing liquid or laundry detergent mixed with warm water is best and

the equipment should be wiped down with a sponge, dried off and hung up to dry.”

Harnesses and other height safety gear are also often incorrectly stored, which can reduce their serviceability and potentially their ability to save lives in the event of a fall.

“When not in use, height safety gear must be hung in a clean, dry, wellventilated area free from chemicals, high temperatures, direct sunlight and other forms of UV light,” Paul said.

“Equipment should also be stored in a location where others will not use it and it will not be crushed or damaged by sharp objects.”

PRODUCTS & SERVICES

VIEGA DELIVERS HEALTH SOLUTION VIEGA products are being used to deliver safe water supply at the new health campus

GIVEN the ongoing issues at Perth Children’s Hospital, health facility plumbing systems are under scrutiny now more than ever.

It is vital for all components of drinking and industrial water systems to be undamaged and contaminant-free, which is one of the drivers behind German-designed Viega technology.

Viega’s Propress system is being used in the new $207 million Karratha Health Campus project for hot and cold-water distribution.

This is combined with the Viega Sanpress Inox stainless steel system, which is providing high-quality, reverse osmosis water from the central energy plant to the main hospital building.

Project Manager Ashley Hand said the use of Viega products and processes offered a number of key advantages.

“The Viega system offers a fast installation process compared to using oxy-acetylene,” he said.

“The labour component is reduced and the specially-calibrated tools provided by Viega makes it easy for the guys onsite.”

Viega’s proprietary Smart Connect-Feature allows all connectors to be leak tested - if any connections are accidentally left unpressed, the medium escapes and pressure drops are revealed on the gauge.

“Safety-wise, it’s a lot better as well because you don’t have to have hot work permits and fire extinguishers in place,” Ashley said.

“It’s also a pretty tight product - if you’ve installed it in the manner that Viega teaches, there won’t be any issues in regards to leakage when it comes to testing.”

Viega’s Sanpress Inox press connectors are made of high-alloyed, non-rusting stainless steel and, like all other components of the system, are available in sizes between 15mm and 108mm.

This ensures they are particularly suitable for use in applications such as the Karratha Health Campus.

For more information, see www.viega.com.au

No point soldering on Viega has revolutionised the way pipes are joined, providing a faster and safer alternative to soldering copper pipes.

The German manufacturer’s press connection technology is not only used in sanitation, heating and gas applications, but also for industrial purposes such as compressed air, cooling waters and process media.

Viega points to a wide range of benefits of its press connection technology over traditional soldering methods, including: • Up to 75% quicker than soldering • Assemble in three steps with no preparation or finishing works required • Cold connection technology with no risk of fire • Long-term reliability and stability • 100% reliable leak detection • There’s a press tool for every installation • No running costs for solder, oxygen and gas bottles See www.viega.com.au for more details.

MASTER PLUMBER | SUMMER 2017/18

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LIFESTYLE - TRAVEL

SOMETHING TO SUIT ALL STYLES IN

Europe

In spite of Europe being regarded as a single destination, the reality is that it’s a collection of many varied things and many ways to do them, says Simon Shepherdson.

A

USTRALIANS have a tendency to talk about “going to Europe” like it’s a single destination.

But it’s a big and diverse place with a lot to do and a lot of ways to do it.

Unless you have about two years to spare and an almost endless supply of cash, you can hardly expect to give it all a really good go. So it’s a case of choosing your adventure. And not just where to go, but how to go there.

If you like someone else to do the planning, consider a guided tour. It’s a great way to take in a lot in a small timeframe without the stress of organizing it yourself.

Depending on your preferred travel

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style, guided tours can range from under35-style tours in double-decker buses involving a dozen cities and many dozens of pubs in a couple of weeks, to something more sedate and mature like a river cruise on the Rhine or Danube rivers.

There are also countless more active guided tours today that were unheard of a decade or two ago – trekking the high mountain paths of Georgia or Bulgaria; cycling along ancient Roman paths or extended horse riding tours to take in Finland’s midnight sun.

But if group and guided tours are not your thing, finding your own way round is a great option. Brave souls can hire a car

and drive – though be mindful that driving into a major city during peak hour can be a hair-raising experience you may not want to live through twice.

While Europe covers a vast expanse, you can easily cross three or four borders and move through as many different languages in a day. And travelling by train is a great way to do so.

Train stations are more often than not located centrally in major cities and towns and many intercity trains are high-speed, comfortable and equipped with a whole host of useful inclusions and additions (like wifi if you don’t want to look out the window).

If you’re making your first trip to Europe, it pays to take in some of the more iconic cities such as London, Paris, Rome or Berlin. They are popular choices on many people’s “must-see” lists and tend to be key entry points for long-haul flights.

It is little wonder these cities have achieved iconic status. For many people, the sight of Buckingham Palace, the Eiffel Tower or the Colloseum never gets tired.

But equally, there is always something new to see or do in and around each location, irrespective of how many times you may visit.

Some people just like to explore on their own, but sometimes it pays to engage local knowledge to get a taster – and it doesn’t just have to be all churches and museums either.

As an example, in Paris you can take an underground tour of the city’s Catacombs, home to the remains of some six million people that were housed there in the late 1700s to overcome a problem with overcrowding of Paris’ cemeteries.

While it may seem morbit to look at walls lined with skulls, it provides a fascinationg glimpse of French history.

You can embark on a guided walking/ climbing tour along the rooftops of Stockholm, providing a view of the city that even few locals have seen. Or see Hamburg through the eyes of some of the city’s most renowned drag queens (not for the prudish or faint hearted).

An option that’s gaining immense popularity – and is less off-the-wall than some others – for many modernday European travellers and Game of Thrones fans is to track down some of the widespread filming locations of the highly popular series.

If you tried to fit it all in, it’s a

pilgrimage that will have you bouncing from one end of Europe to the other, with locations ranging from the spectacular ancient cities of Dubrovnik and Split in Croatia, to Belfast in Northern Island, to the wilds of an Iceland fjord, through numerous locations in Spain, a side trip to the Mediterranean island of Malta and even a brief African jaunt across the Straits of Gibraltar to Morocco.

Whether you’re a fan of the show or not, many of the locations benefiting from the Game of Thrones association have plenty to offer outside their TV fame and are well worth a visit anyway.

In fact, there are thousands of places to visit that will leave most people awestruck.

And as is often the case when it comes to travel, a big part of the enjoyment is in the planning.

So get on to Google, TripAdvisor or any number of other wesbites devoted to European advice, visit your travel agent to stock up on brochures or go old school and dig into the travel guides to start planning your style of European adventure, whatever that may be.

Get in early for great savings

T

hanks to Globetrotter Travel, MPGA members, their families and employees can access great savings on European travel by booking early.

For example, save up to $150 on accommodation for stays of three nights or more in a host of European locations.

Also, inquire about earlybird airfares, tours and how to access tickets to the best attractions. The staff at Globetrotter can also assist in developing your itinerary or offer plenty of suggestions

about places to go to suit your tastes and needs.

Call Globetrotter today on 1800 999 733 and ask to speak to your Personal Travel Manager about all your European adventure ideas. Remember to quote MPGA2018 for access special deals.

Globetrotter Travel can also offer MPGA members and friends special deals on Virgin domestic airfares, Qantas Club membership and travel insurance.

Give the gift of travel this Christmas

Contact us for all your personal travel needs – quote MPGA2018 to receive your exclusive deals.

P +61 8 9442 0100 TF 1800 999 733 | 35 Stirling Highway, Nedlands WA 6009

globetrotterlife.com.au

MASTER PLUMBER | SUMMER 2017/18

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LIFESTYLE - WEEKENDER mages courtesy of Kym Illman (www.kymillman.com)

Discovering LANCELIN Less than two hours north of Perth, the town of Lancelin is one of Western Australia’s hidden gems. Thomas Smith took the short drive north to find out why.

L

ancelin really does have it all.

It’s one of those rare places that literally has everything on its doorstep. World-class fishing, adventure sports, four wheel driving across the rolling sand dunes - and don’t forget the spectacular sunsets over the Indian Ocean.

However, Lancelin’s greatest quality is perhaps the fact that it’s just 90 minutes north of Perth and has not yet attracted throngs of visitors. That said the permanent population of some 600 people can increase to several thousand on long weekends, school holidays and when key

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events take place in the town.

It’s the perfect destination for anyone looking for a quick getaway without the long journey.

If you love the beach and ocean activities, Lancelin is perfect. Fishing has been part of the town’s history since records began and tourists flock to this corner of WA to experience some of the best in the State.

More than 20 commercial fishing boats patrol the coast off Lancelin, with Western Rock Lobsters the prize catch.

If you don’t have your own boat and

want to chase the big fish, there’s a range of charter operators to take you out to the best spots to catch all manner of prizes including Snapper, Dhufish, Baldchin Groper and Tuna.

Each January, Lancelin hosts the world renowned Lancelin Ocean Classic windsurfing competition. Competitors from around the world descend on the town for the long distance race between Ledge Point and Lancelin.

Kitesurfing is another favourite, as Lancelin is noted for its favourable winds, while surfers have their favourite breaks when the wind is more offshore.

THERE’S no end to the options to keep you busy on a weekend in Lancelin, particularly if you’re a fan of the water.

Back on land, your greatest challenge is finding enough time to squeeze in the wide range of activities on offer.

If you’re looking for an action-packed break, the extensive sand dunes offer two and four wheel driving experiences.

Sandboarding is also very popular and you can hire sandboards if you’d like to give it a go for the first time.

For skateboarders, the Skate Park was awarded a $126,000 grant for upgrades this year, with the addition of a new steel half pipe among the list of improvements.

If you want to unwind and enjoy the

pristine beaches and crystal clear waters, Lancelin offers magnificent opportunities for swimming, snorkelling or a spot of beach cricket.

Accommodation is available if you’d like to turn the trip into a weekend break, with various rental options available.

Lancelin truly is one of WA’s hidden treasures and being so close to Perth, you’d be hard pushed to find a reason not to take the short drive north and check it out.

For further information, go to www.lancelin.com. au or check out the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/Lancelin.WesternAustralia.

THE FACTS 127km north or Perth Population: 600 Home to the annual Lancelin Ocean Classic

THINGS TO DO •

Windsurfing and kitesurfing

• Surfing • Sandboarding • Fishing • Diving • Visit

Lancelin Island the beach, the dunes and spectacular sunsets • Enjoy

ACCOMMODATION A range of options are available online at the official Lancelin homepage (www.lancelin.com.au)

GETTING THERE Drive: 127km from Perth along Indian Ocean Drive Bus: From East Perth and Joondalup (www.transwa.wa.gov.au)

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TOYOTA. THE RANGE FOR ALL RANGES.

TFM2007 MPA WA 09/17

SEE YOUR MONEY GO FURTHER WITH YOUR GOLD FLEET DISCOUNT

Being a paying member of the Master Plumbers and Gasfitters Association has its advantages. Like exclusive access to a Gold Fleet Discount across the Toyota range.1 Save thousands on the unbreakable HiLux SR5 4x4 Double-Cab Pick-Up, the elegant yet powerful LandCruiser Prado GX, or even the indestructible LandCruiser 70 WorkMate.

Whatever your business, make your Gold Fleet Discount work for you.

Visit your Toyota Fleet Specialist Dealer or call 1800 444 847 for more information.

1Excluding Special Edition models.

toyota.com.au/fleet MASTER PLUMBER | SUMMER 2017/18 58

Master Plumbers and Gasfitters Association membership details required to redeem Gold Fleet Discounts.

VEHICLE REVIEW

The latest Toyota LandCruiser Prado to hit Australian shores has been given a bit more than just a facelift, as Simon Shepherdson found out when he got behind the wheel and daydreamed of road trips.

A ROAD-TRIPPING KIND OF FEELING

T

HERE are some vehicles that make you want to go on a road trip.

Nostalgic devotees might tell you a VW Kombi is like that. But that’s only because they’re stuck in the past and don’t understand the benefits of comfort and actually reaching the destination.

For me, the Toyota LandCruiser Prado is a road-tripping kind of car. I am biased – I own one, though admittedly it’s a 2004 model and getting a little worn around the edges.

So when I jumped behind the wheel of the latest arrival to Toyota showrooms, I felt very much like turning the vehicle towards the open road and not stopping for some time.

Of course reality got in the way – I had

a job to do and Toyota would only allow me two days with their new baby.

So I had to stick to the metro area and be satisfied with daydreaming – but I clocked up a fair few kilometres and had a lot of fun in doing so.

In the interests of fair and reasonable evaluation, and in spite of my mother saying never to start on a negative, I will point out a couple of minor shortcomings with the 2017 Prado to begin. It won’t take long because there aren’t too many.

If you were a fan of the petrol-powered Prado, which was a guzzler but had plenty of pickup for a car of its size, you’re all out of luck. That’s because Toyota has MASTER PLUMBER | SUMMER 2017/18

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VEHICLE REVIEW discontinued its 4-litre petrol models to leave the high-torque 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbocharged diesel as the sole option.

Of course, if you are one of the few looking for petrol, you’re in a very small minority as Toyota’s sales figures over recent years indicate a 98.8 per cent preference for diesel.

While the new model might lack just a touch of the initial getup from a standing start which was evident in older petrol models, that is soon forgotten as the Prado starts to climb through the gears and the hitech diesel and turbo start to do their thing.

It’s a sensible choice too, with exceptional fuel efficiency for a vehicle of this size, weight and power.

There are other improvements associated with the diesel-only option, but I’ll get to those. For now I’m attempting to be negative.

Admittedly, my most significant Prado experience is with my trusty 2004 model and a lot has changed over the intervening years, but to me the 2017 model felt somewhat larger. I could tell because I was tending to suck my stomach in each time I found myself with vehicles in the lanes either side of me.

In fact it’s just a tad larger than the old trusty at 4995mm in length and 1885mm wide (and it won’t fit in certain undercover car parks at 1890mm tall but nor did the older models).Yes, it’s large among its SUV market rivals for sure but very easy to handle nonetheless.

And just one more beef – although it’s minor. The location of the cruise control lever behind the bottom right of the steering wheel is slightly hard to reach.

It would make far more sense if the controls were located on the steering wheel itself, though that would require the on board computer to find alternative real estate.

It’s just a minor gripe for the sale of finding something and I was able to engage and adjust the cruise control without incident.

So that leaves the positives. And there are plenty of them.

The Toyota folk are informally referring to the 2017 changes as a “facelift”, but there’s far more to it than just some cosmetic nips and tucks.

There are some obvious changes in the look and feel– both inside and out.

But they’re not in your face. The cosmetic surgeons responsible were obviously top

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of their game because they’ve avoided ostentatious, look-at-me restyling in favour of subtlety that not only looks and feels good but adds to performance and safety.

For example, the sculpted bonnet allows improved forward and downward visibility, while bumpers have been re-profiled and, according to the Toyota literature, that helps drivers locate vehicle extremities more easily.

There’s a new grille and restyled headlamps (with LCD globes for both high and low beam for the GXL and Kakadu models), and a smarter looking rear end with redesigned lamp clusters and a smaller surround to the registration plate.

There’s a couple of new colour additions too with Peacock Black and Dusty Bronze

added to the options. The test vehicle was Dusty Bronze and it turned a few impressed heads in the traffic.

Inside, there’s revisions to the dashboard and centre console, which has a lower profile at the top, again adding to improved forward visibility.

I’m not sure when Prado introduced the restyled arm rests in the doors, which now sit at an upward slanting angle to make the

window controls more accessible. I found them preferable to the older, horizontally positioned ones that required the driver to look down briefly or fumble about blindly to locate the appropriate window control.

Now it falls into the peripheral vision so the driver’s eyes can stay on the road and see enough of the window control panel to get it right first time.

There are also options to upscale the interior of the GXL to include leather accented seats, in-seat heating for the first and second rows and seat ventilation in the front.

But that’s about where the “facelift” comparisons end. It’s not the extent of the changes though, as there are some impressive below-the-surface improvements.

The Prado’s enhanced safety features, which were only incorporated into the higher-end VX and Kakadu models in previous years, have been extended to the higher-selling (and lower priced) GX and GXL. That includes Forward Collision Warning with automated emergency braking that can now detect impact risks with pedestrians as well as vehicles. Using a camera mounted behind the rear-view mirror and a radar in the grille, the Prado can operate its brakes without driver intervention to reduce the vehicle’s speed and even bring the car to a halt.

Admittedly, I was loathe to put lives and property at risk so didn’t test that feature, but I watched a video and it’s impressive.

I’m prepared to trust the video – and Toyota rightly point out that it’s not there to do the driving for you but rather as an added level of safety should things go wrong.

That said, there’s one nice feature, utilising that same forward radar technology, which does do the driving for you. It’s called Active Cruise Control, or radar Cruise Control, and it allows the driver to set a preferred distance (short, medium or long) from a vehicle in front.

The result is that if the vehicle in front slows down for any reason, the Prado maintains the pre-defined distance by adjusting its speed accordingly. I did try that out and it is a nice feature.

I was also impressed with the Lane Departure Alert, which provides the driver with visual and audible warnings if the vehicle starts to deviate from its lane without the indicators being used.

It was 100 per cent effective on solid lines but seemed a bit hit and miss on broken lines.

The cosmetic surgeons responsible were obviously top of their game

Given the intention of such an alert system is to bring inattentive drivers back to their senses, and given a key cause of inattentiveness can be long country roads that may or may not have solid lines on them, it’s not going to be a lifesaver in every situation. But it’s one of a host of features that all add up to a safer drive.

The VX now also features Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert-

systems, previously only available in the Kakadu, that support safer motoring by giving the driver better real-time information about the area immediately around the car.

It wasn’t available in the GXL, but compared with earlier models, I found all-round visibility to be far better and was impressed that a noticeable blind spot on my older model wasn’t anywhere near as pronounced.

The spare wheel, mounted on the back door, restricts a small amount of the direct rear view, but there’s nowhere else for it given the Prado’s 150L long-range fuel tank takes up the under-floor area at the rear.

The entire range is also fitted with automatic high beam, a system that can detect the headlights or taillights of vehicles ahead and automatically switch between high and low beams to avoid dazzling other drivers. I managed to confuse it driving around the suburbs at night but that’s a situation where it’s really not required.

Now back to that engine. The new model has an increased towing rating – up from a previous 2.5 tonnes to 3 tonnes.

That’s been achieved not by increasing the overall power, but by an enhanced cooling system that adjusts operating temperature according to the weight to power impact of heavy loads.

As far as the technical specifications go, there’s a common-rail direct-injection system and, accompanied with the six-speed automatic transmission, that develops an impressive 450Nm of torque between 1,600 and 2,400rpm.

For the six-speed manual option, available in the GX and GXL variants, it produces peak torque of 420Nm from 1,400 to 2,600rpm. Maximum power is 130kW at 3400rpm.

With the Gold Fleet Discount (available to Master Plumbers & Gasfitters Association Members) pricing starts at $49,090 (including GST) for the basic GX manual variant, ranging up to $78,770 for the top-of-the-line Kakadu. There’s a few options that can be added too.

The Prado is by no means the cheapest option on the market, but as the best selling SUV in Australia, it is arguably among the best.

In the words of Ferris Bueller, “It is so choice. If you have the means, I highly recommend picking one up.”

And going road tripping, of course.

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BOAT REVIEW

Blaze a trail to where the fish are biting If you’re on the lookout for a no fuss fishing boat that packs some punch, Simon Shepherdson has found it in the Trailcraft 680 Trailblazer.

Y

OU can certainly fit a lot of boat into 6.8 metres. And have a lot of fun with it.

That’s precisely what Trailcraft’s 680 Trailblazer from Saltwater Marine does well.

There are not many refined airs and graces about this aluminium-hulled fisher which makes the most of deck space by positioning the cuddy cab well forward.

If you are looking for a few more refinements, there is a more family-oriented sports cab model available, complete with V-berth and room for a portable toilet.

But the cuddy cab is geared to big days of fishing or diving off the WA coast.

There’s plenty of storage space up front and, apart from two comfy bucket seats for the skipper and one passenger, the bulk of the craft is devoted to open deck space.

It would easily cater for four or five adults and some major fishing action, although the high-sided gunnels and significant freeboard mean you’d feel comfortable with younger passengers on board too.

If you’re more inclined to be in the water than on it, there’s a good-sized transom to cater for divers, swimmers or those being

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towed. The dive ladder has nice, wide steps and is angled to allow more of a step up than a climb – meaning those laden with heavy dive gear could exit the water with relative ease. It comes as a standard fixture on the base model, as does the large bimini.

There are rocket launchers as well as a number of rod holders in the gunnels.

We tested a specced-up model which included a big 225HP Yamaha six cylinder outboard, although Saltwater Marine’s Michael Pearcy says the 150HP version that

comes as part of the starter package is more than adequate to push the 680 along at a fair old pace.

Ours had all the electrics, including Yamaha’s electronic engine monitoring system instead of countless gauges (which displays everything from fuel consumption and engine temperature to trim and the maintenance schedule).

The test model also included the electronic throttle control option – which admittedly takes some getting used to given its sensitivity compared to the standard cable control offering. Once you get accustomed to the electronic controls though, it’s nice to feel the responsiveness to even the most minor tweak.

The steering is also nicely responsive for a vessel of this size – perhaps due to the forward weight of the cab and positive buoyancy fitted under the floor that maintain even trim even without trim tabs fitted.

That forward weight of the cuddy cab does cause a slightly bumpier ride if there’s any chop, but the seats are well cushioned and when your focus is on the destination and the potential big and tasty ones lurking

the protection of Fremantle Sailing Club, but sat easily and comfortably at around 23 knots with the bow cutting through any seas with ease. It is easy to imagine what the big 225HP Yamaha might be capable of on a glassy kind of day – like Rottnest in 15 minutes from the right launching area.

These boats are made to be tough with 4mm side and 5mm bottom aluminium plate, so if you scrape the hull up the boat ramp or knock the jetty it’s unlikely to lead to anything more than a bit of paint loss.

With that under-floor buoyancy, it’s not the

the on-trailer weight is no more than 1650kg. That means there’s no need for electronic trailer brakes and it can be towed with any decent family vehicle.

With that sort of weight – and the included John Papas trailer – you could launch and retrieve it single-handed in the right conditions. We did it with two of us and a slight cross breeze and it was a simple process without any struggles or straining.

The 680 Trailblazer starts at $58,000 which is ready to go except for safety gear.

There’s a multitude of options available too

FUNCTIONAL, powerful and fun is the best way to describe the 680 Trailblazer.

below, it’s likely that won’t play on your mind. Michael says the sports cab, which has its control centre located slightly further back from the bow, makes for a more family-friendly ride.

We did find a touch of chop outside

kind of boat that will sink to the gunnels if a bog wave washes over – so a very safe option for our open waters.

That said, the hull weight sits at around 1000kg and all up, including a full 250-litre fuel tank and the biggest engine size option,

including any number of engine choices. As tested, the price tag came in around $75,000.

You will have to wait a short while for delivery as there has been a rush on the entire Trailcraft range in the lead-up to Christmas. Michael says if you get in now you’ll have your boat in the water by Easter.

The verdict - if you’re looking for the three Fs (fun, functional fishing) this is well worth a closer look.

For inquiries and to check out the full Trailcraft range, contact Saltwater Marine on 9431 7781 or visit the sales yard at 221 Hampton Rd, South Fremantle.

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MEMBER BENEFITS

Benefits continue to grow for members

N

EW and returning members often inquire about the value of joining the Master Plumbers and Gasfitters Association of WA. Of course, the Association fulfills an important role protecting and promoting the industry at local, State and national

level, lobbying governments and driving change for the better of the industry and all involved in it.

But there are also some immediate benefits that translate to real dollar value for your business, you and even your staff and families.

And it’s not just related to plumbing products, but a wide range of everyday necessities – and a few luxuries too.

Throughout this issue of Master Plumber, you’ll find specific deals.

And here’s a few new benefits worth mentioning.

AN ORTHODONTIST DEAL TO MAKE YOU SMILE Thanks to new Alliance Partner Class 1 Orthodontics, MPGA members and their families can enjoy significant savings on the following: Adults Invisalign treatment: Free initial consultation, teeth whitening, Invisalign scan, Invisalign retainer and professional photographic shoot – valued at more than $1,500.

Kids’ braces treatment: Free initial consult, post treatment retention and professional photographic shoot – valued at more than $1,000.

Class 1 also offers interest free finance for all patients. The deal is available for bookings made from now through to 31 December 2018.

To take advantage of the offer or discuss your needs, call 1300 922 722 or book online at www. class1ortho.com. au. Please quote MPGA to take advantage of these offers.

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CALTEX OFFER IS FUEL FOR THOUGHT Caltex joins the list of new Alliance Partners with a sensational offer to help you fuel up for less.

Apply now for a Caltex StarCard and enjoy no transaction fees and a healthy 6 cents per litre discount until 30 April 2018.

Following the introductory offer,

the discount reverts to 4 cents per litre on Vortex Premium and regular petrol, and diesel. All transactions are captured on your StarCard and can be viewed online. There are more than 1,900 Caltex locations nationwide that accept StarCard.

To apply, go to www.caltex.com.au and use the referral code MPAWA.

A PRAGMA-TIC APPROACH TO LEGAL ISSUES MPGA preferred legal advisor Pragma Legal offers members a free 15-minute initial consultation, as well as tools to help members recover outstanding debts.

The lawyers and staff at Pragma Legal take a practical, plain-speaking approach to help small business owners gain a thorough understanding of matters.

For more information, see the articles on page 46 or visit pragmalegal.com.au/mpa.

More offers to make your eyes water There’s a whole range of other offers available now and coming soon. We’ll be updating the website in the coming weeks to include more details.

So if you haven’t already, remember to renew your membership or sign up for 2018 so you can take advantage of the great range of benefits.

Special Introductory Offer Apply now to enjoy zero transaction fees and 6c per litre on Vortex Premium fuels until 30 April 2018

StarCard.

The fuel card that’s built for your business Save money

Save time

Following the introductory offer, save 4c per litre on Vortex Premium fuels and 4c per litre on regular petrol and diesel

All expenses captured in one invoice and available online 24/7

To get on board, apply at caltex.com.au using referral code MPAWA

StarCard is accepted in over 1,900 Caltex locations nationwide StarCard eligibility criteria and Terms and Conditions apply. Visit caltex.com.au for details.

MASTER PLUMBER | SUMMER 2017/18

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BRETT’S PEEK

Member news with Brett Peake, Business Development Manager

Regional sub-committee established

SEASON’S GREETINGS

W

I FIND IT hard to believe that we’ve come to the end of another year already.

But looking back, the MPGA has certainly crammed a lot into 2017 – and it has all been to benefit members and the industry.

It was great to get out on the road as part of the Industry Information Sessions, taking in both regional and metropolitan regions.

The best thing about the sessions, apart form the valuable information being spread far and wide, was that it provide an opportunity to catch up with a large number of members.

It was also great that the events were open to non-members too – many of whom we have since signed up and welcomed to the MPGA fold.

Through 2018, I’ll be making every effort to get out and about again to catch up with members old and new.

I wish everyone a happy and safe festive season and all the best for the new year.

ith our regional membership growing all round the State, we have established a regional sub-committee.

The sub-committee will represent the interests of all members in their respective areas and provide a direct link to the MPGA executive committee.

While a number of positions are still to be filled, the sub-committee currently consists of the following members: Esperance Karl Czaplinski, Esperance Plumbing Kalgoorlie Graeme Bowden, G Bowden Plumbing Kalgoorlie Greg Bowden, Emyjor services Broome Rob Aristei, BROOME Plumbing & Gas Bunbury Phillip Best , Phillip Best Plumbing Carnarvon Jason Chaplin Coral Coast Plumbing Geraldton Michael Chester and Ashley Sojan, Sun City Plumbing Geraldton Chris Herring, Herrings Coastal Plumbing and Gasfitting Services Karratha Brett White, Mako Plumbing We will provide more details on the role of sub-committee members in the New Year.

Send us your holiday snaps to win win Everyone loves a good holiday snap and yours could win you dinner for two at renowned Perth restaurant Rockpool.

Send us your best holiday shots and we’ll pick a worthy winner. The winning photo will be published in Master Plumber magazine – so keep them decent (or PG-rated at worst).

Send your entries with your name and phone number to brettp@ mpawa.asn.au before 31 January 2018. The winner will be notified.

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MASTER PLUMBER | SUMMER 2017/18

A N E X P E R I E NC E D P LU M B E R C A N

SMELL

MEMBER BENEFITS GROW

Master Plumbers & Gasfitters continues to expand the range of member benefits which extend across industry, business and personal/lifestyle categories. Keep an eye out through this issue for some of the benefits available, check your email for notifications from us or get in touch if you’d like a list of the latest offers.

OPPORTUNITY.

Best regards,

Brett

brettp@mpawa.asn.au | (08) 9471 6661

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MASTER PLUMBER | SUMMER 2017/18

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RARE_ATC31216

Life’s better when you know your indoors from your outdoors.

We all know the benefits of having a plumbed in barbecue; they’re cleaner, fire up instantly, better temperature control and never run out of gas. But if you’re asked to connect a barbecue to natural gas in a covered alfresco area, you need to know when the area is considered indoors or outdoors, and what the safety and appropriate ventilation requirements are.

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Download the helpful Alfresco Checklist at betteraddgas.com.au/alfresco-checklist Or contact ATCO Gas Australia (08) 6163 5000 business.development@atcogas.com.au