2017 - The y Master Plum New Female Plumbing Ambassador: Carlie Low
JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018
Member Queries
6000+
HR & Memb were popula
Launch of Women’s Plumbing Alliance
In this edition
2
2017 was a huge year for MPAQ!
2017
Year in Review
The Year of the Master Plumber
Security of Payments Legislation
New Soc Follower
900
Plus 1,700 ne views - YouT
Legislative Amendment to Solar Panel Orientation
NonConforming Products Legislation
Female
Plumbing Ambassador
Commonwealth Games
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JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018
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contents
page 4
Get Fit in 2018
Relationship with Water
New Products
contents Editor’s Note
5
Perspective 6 President’s Message – Final and New
7
Industry News
8
Building Ministers’ Forum
8
It’s Up to You to Remember to Pay Your Licence-Renewal Fees
8
Amendments to the Orientation of Collectors for Solar Heated Water Systems
9
Sanitary Plumbing and Drainage Standard Amendment
9
Introducing the New Chair of the ABCB
9
MPAQ Member Benefits
11
Feature: Year in Review
12
Technical: Chief Health Officer Review into Lead at Perth Children’s Hospital
14
Real Estate Agents Targeted in FNQ Audit of Notifiable Work
16
Qld State Election Decided: Plumbing a Priority
17
Advocacy: Point of Sale Legislation Introduced for Queensland
17
Feature: Carlie Lowe MPAQ Female Plumbing Ambassadorship
18
19
Workshop and Webinar Dates
Apprentices: New Initiative to Highlight the Value of Apprenticeships
20
20
Qld Apprentice Orders and Fair Work Commission Ruling
Health & Lifestyle: Top Technology to Help You Get Fit in 2018
22
23
A Good Egg?
Feature: Your Guide to the Commonwealth Games
24
Work Health and Safety
26
Workplace Relations: Streamlined Reporting with Single Touch Payroll
27
27
The Importance of Employment Contracts
Legal: Security of Payments
28
World: Photographer – ‘Complex, Disconnected’ Relationship with Water
29
New Products
30
Training Calendar
31
50 Year Flashback
32
Vale: Tim Bottomley
33
Events Calendar
34
Social 35 New Members and Milestone Achievements
36
Corporate Supporters
38
contents MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE
JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018
PUBLISHED BY Master Plumbers’ Association of Queensland: 243 Bradman Street, Acacia Ridge Q 4110 P: 07 3273 0800 F: 07 3273 0873 E: info@mpaq.com.au W: www.mpaq.com.au
THE TEAM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Penny Cornah P: 07 3273 0800 E: penny.cornah@mpaq.com.au EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Lisa Hilton P: 07 3273 0800 E: lisa.hilton@mpaq.com.au PRINT & DESIGN Foyer Printing P: 07 5598 1005 E: info@foyerprinting.com.au
MPAQ COUNCIL PRESIDENT Kent Vickers P: 0418 883 999 E: kvickers@qigs.com.au VICE PRESIDENTS Don Nunn P: 0418 717 470 E: donnunn1950@yahoo.com.au Patrick Robertson P: 07 3276 8833 E: info@rpgs.com.au PAST PRESIDENT Kelvin Slade P: 0417 787 284 E: sales@sladebrosplumbing.com.au TREASURER John Salmon P: 07 3846 5366 E: john@salmonplumbing.com.au COUNCILLORS Dennis Yarrow P: 07 3277 5742 E: admin@yarrowplumbing.com.au Michael Ryan P: 3630 4744 E: mryan@beavisbartels.com.au Rob Brouwers P: 0411 413 400 E: rob@backflow.net.au Sam Hannant P: 0405 647 046 E: sam@yesfire.com.au Harle Gall P: 0437 768 409 E: h.gall@laserplumbing.com.au Ben Crew P: 0400 364 665 E: ben@bcprojectindustries.com
TRUSTEES Bill Watson P: 07 3273 2333 E: bill@connectorsgroup.com.au Bob Kimlin P: 07 4772 6308 / 0419 744 383 E: bobk@live.com.au
LIFE MEMBERS G Cottee, F Huysing, B McGrath OAM, MJ Moor, T Morris, J Porter, GC Richardson, NF Sharman, BS Soden, BD Wallace, WB Watson, R Kimlin
MERITORIOUS SERVICE MEMBERS A Chapman, B McGrath OAM, T Morris, D Powell, B Wallace, R Weaver, M Wilshere DISCLAIMER Opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the MPAQ, nor does the MPAQ guarantee the accuracy of statements made by contributors or advertisers or accepts responsibility for statements they may express in this publication. The MPAQ does not accept liability to advertisers, which may be held contrary to the Trade Practices Act 1974. The MPAQ reserves the right to refuse, cancel, amend or suspend any advertisements or inserts without reason.
Editor’s Note Lisa Hilton Editor
W
elcome to the January/February 2018 edition of the Master Plumber Magazine!
Happy New Year! Last year was great, don’t get me wrong, but how cool is 2018 going to be with the Commonwealth Games in Queensland? It’s such a unique opportunity to be able to watch the Aussie’s compete, and most regions of Queensland will have local games you can go to. We’ve done a full write-up of what’s going on where; check it out on pages 24 and 25. We have included a Year in Review for MPAQ in this edition, so you can see all the amazing stuff that’s been happening! We’re super proud of what we achieved last year, and it’s looking like 2018 is going to be even bigger and better. It’s definitely the Year of the Master Plumber. Included in this edition are the full events and training calendars (pages 31 and 34), so check out the ones in your local region and put them in your calendar. I’ll be at most of them, so I can see you there! I’ve been doing an editor’s note in the Master Plumber Magazine for two years now (seriously, where does time go) and probably like every other editor of a publication out there, I wonder if anyone actually reads what I write… It’s so nice when on the odd occasion someone comments on something I’ve said. For 2018, we really want to feature more information about our members. We know your life isn’t completely all about plumbing and/or gas; you have families, you do things in your local community, you probably play sports or gain your own achievements in other areas. If you are reading my editor’s note (good on you by the way that you’ve got this far through), can you give me some info and some photos of something you’re proud of, or a story you want to share? The Master Plumber is an information resource, but it’s also a platform for our members. We want to share your stories, help others in the industry by spreading awareness about relevant topics, and share in your excitement when things are going well. So send me what you got! Email lisa.hilton@mpaq.com.au. Once again, congratulations to those reaching membership milestones with MPAQ and a huge welcome to our new members in this edition. I hope to see you out and about!
Lisa
page 5
executive
Perspective Penny Cornah Executive Director
H
appy New Year, welcome to 2018. I hope you enjoyed a lovely Christmas celebration with family and friends.
Election On 21 November 2017, we held our Annual General Meeting at the Plumbing Industry House, Acacia Ridge. This was an election year for the Association where new Office Bearers for MPAQ were appointed. Congratulations to our newly elected President, Mr Kent Vickers on your appointment. I look forward to working with you in your new role. A special thanks to Kelvin Slade for all of his leadership, guidance and support during his time as President over the last four years. Kelvin is a great leader and asset to the MPAQ Council, and we are thrilled that Kel is continuing in the role of Past President. Four days after the MPAQ Election, Queenslanders went to the polls on Saturday 25 November to decide who would form government for the next three years.
JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018
MPAQ would like to congratulate Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk and the Labor Government on winning the Queensland state election. In Labor’s previous term, MPAQ collaborated with the government, which saw at least four significant wins for our industry, including:
page 6
•
The introduction of the Service Trades Council
•
The introduction of Non-Conforming Products legislation (which enforces Point of Sale legislation in Queensland): It is now an offence under the Plumbing and Drainage Act 2002 to supply products in Queensland that don’t have Watermark certification
•
The Introduction for Security of Payments: The introduction of Project Bank Accounts on all government projects valued between $1 million and $10 million to ensure security of payments for subcontractors
•
Amendments to the orientation of collectors for Solar Heated Water Systems: A specific variation to allow the installation of collector panels associated with a solar hot water system to be installed to an orientation of not more than 90 degrees east or west of true north
MPAQ is looking forward to working with government for successful implementation of election commitments. You can read more about this on page 17.
As I reflect back on 2017, I feel very humbled by our achievements, and I would like to acknowledge all of the staff and Councillors for their hard work and dedication to our Association. MPAQ is well represented within the industry and holds positions on the following boards: • • • • • • • • • • •
Service Trades Council – Chair Complex Licensing Panel – Chair QLeave – Portable Long Service Leave – Director Construction Skills Queensland – Director Services Trades College – Director Master Plumbers Australia – Director, Alternate Director and Secretariat Plumbing Codes Committee Various Standards Committees QBCC Stakeholder Advisory Committee Fire Working Party Small Business Industry Stakeholder Committee
We are very proud of how the Association has lead change in legislation and grown. You can read more about MPAQ’s 2017 Year in Review on pages 12 and 13. I hope you’re refreshed and ready to take on another big year in 2018. To contact me, please call 07 3273 0800 or email penny.cornah@mpaq.com.au.
Rheem announces 2018 Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants, $30,000 in Grants up for grabs Applications open on 29 January 2018 and close 19 March 2018. Apprentices can nominate themselves or their employer can nominate on their behalf. Grant recipients will be announced on 27 April 2018 at www.rheem.com.au. Download an application form at www.rheem.com.au/apprentice.
executive
KeLvin Slade
G
reetings and all the very best for the New Year. I hope you had a wonderful Christmas and had the opportunity to rest up and spend time with family and friends. It is with mixed feelings that I write my final Presidential Message. Last year, I made the decision not to re-nominate for the Presidency. Believe me, it was not an easy decision to make, but I believe it was the right decision. Having someone of the caliber of Kent Vickers as Vice President should not be held back, and I felt it was time for Kent to step up to the role as President. I have known Kent for a few years now; he is a man of integrity, passionate about the plumbing and gas industry, a very good and highly respected tradesman and is currently participating on a couple of committee’s outside the MPAQ Council. I have every confidence in Kent’s ability to lead MPAQ into the future. Over the last four years I have enjoyed working with the other councillors. We are fortunate to have such a willing, experienced and energetic team and I thank them all for their support and sacrifices to contribute to the governance and development of our old and very proud association. Thank you gentlemen. The continued success of MPAQ is due largely to the dedication and hard work of our staff. Some are more visible than others, but they all do their job well and work hard to serve our members and associates, and lift the profile of our trade. Great work team. There is one person whom I have had the privilege of working very closely with over the last four years, our Executive Director, Penny Cornah. It is very easy to work with someone who is so passionate, dedicated and hard working. Being a mother of two young energetic children and holding down a demanding job is no easy task, but Penny manages to balance it out somehow. On behalf of the MPAQ Council, our members and the industry at large, thank you Penny for your efforts. I will be remaining on the MPAQ Council in the position of Past President. I intend to stick around for a few years yet, as I enjoy participating and contributing back into the trade that has given me so many great experiences and wonderful friendships. For the last time...
Happy Plumbing
New President’s Message Kent Vickers
Exciting times ahead!
W
elcome back to a New Year and I trust you all had some time to relax and recharge over the Christmas/New Year period.
MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE
Final President’s Message
Those members who receive the weekly e-news from MPAQ would already know that on 21 November 2017 I was elected to the President’s position of MPAQ for 2018 - 2020. As far as career highlights go, this would be the most humbling by far. To be given the opportunity to represent our association and council made up of the leaders in the Queensland plumbing industry is indeed an honour. I thought it would be fitting to let you know a little bit about who I am and my history in the Queensland plumbing and gas fitting industry. I started my apprenticeship in 1986 at Algas Energy in Mansfield on the south side of Brisbane and completed a four year apprenticeship at Yeronga TAFE. I was fortunate enough to receive the Kembla scholarship in 1989. After completing my time, I took six months off to travel and then returned to Algas as a contract domestic maintenance plumber and gasfitter. I rose through the ranks to the industrial department, where I had the opportunity to learn a plethora of skills that have served me well over the last 30 years. My contract with Algas (or APA) ended in 2006 and that’s when my role in the gas industry began its current journey. These days, I run my own company (Qld Industrial Gasfitting Services) and work in the business with my wife Fiona. We employ four tradesmen and two apprentices, and are located on the south side of Brisbane. 2018 is an exciting time for MPAQ, with our current Stategic Plan for the next two years due for review. We will be setting new goals for the Association, and I am confident that all our amazing staff will embrace the direction that the Council embarks on and make every effort to achieve the results that will ensure MPAQ maintains its position as the leading industry association in Queensland. This year will also see the Plumbing Industry Training College at Beenleigh start to take shape. There is an air of expectation around the facility, and I believe it will lead the way for apprentice training in Queensland and provide a national model for the rest of the trades to follow. The College will provide the entire range of plumbing training to the apprentices in one location, and we will partner with Master Plumbers Victoria, the Plumbing and Mechanical Services Union and the Queensland Government. As the peak industry body for plumbing in Queensland, MPAQ is committed to providing high quality services and support to our members, to allow their businesses to grow and prosper. As long as we continue to serve and support our members, the Queensland plumbing industry is in fantastic shape.
Cooking with Gas page 7
news
Industry News Building Ministers’ Forum
T
he third Building Ministers’ Forum (BMF) for 2017, held in Brisbane on Friday 6 October 2017, continued to drive decisive action on potentially hazardous aluminium cladding and other efforts to improve the compliance and safety of Australian buildings. BMF Ministers recognise the public safety concern and clear risk arising around the use of cladding that does not comply with the National Construction Code (NCC). All Ministers agreed that they will use their available laws and powers to prevent the use of aluminium composite cladding with a polyethylene (PE) core for class 2, 3, or 9 buildings of two or more storeys, and class 5, 6, 7 or 8 of three or more storeys, until such time as they are satisfied that manufacturers, importers, and installers, working in collaboration with building practitioners, will reliably comply with: •
•
The newly established standard setting tests against which fire retardant cladding products are deemed to be reasonable for use in high rise settings; and An established and implemented system of permanent labelling on cladding products to prevent substitution.
For its part, the Commonwealth will regularly provide the states and territories with import data on aluminium composite cladding and other building products. This will help reduce the information barriers and support states and territories to track movements of cladding and ensure these products are used in ways that comply with the NCC. The BMF has tasked the Senior Officers’ Group, in consultation with industry and regulators, to provide further advice in respect of other materials. Full information can be found at www.industry.gov.au/ industry/IndustrySectors/buildingandconstruction/Pages/ Building-Ministers-Forum.aspx.
It’s Up to You to Remember to Pay Your Licence-Renewal Fees
P
lumbing and drainage licensees and their employers need to be aware of when licence renewals are due so that they don’t run the risk of being fined for supervising or performing unlicensed work. Under section 119 and 120 of the Plumbing and Drainage Act 2002, the fine for performing regulated plumbing work without a licence is $1,261 and the fine for the employer who supervised or directed the unlicensed worker is also $1,261. Assistant Commissioner of the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC), Esther Blest, encouraged licensees and employers to remain vigilant about licence-renewal dates. “It’s the responsibility of plumbers and their employers to know when a licence is expiring, whether they receive a renewal notice or not,” Ms Blest said. She encouraged employers to note their employees’ licence numbers and expiry dates to ensure licences remained active so that neither party ran the risk of fines for unlicensed work. “Administrative tasks are often not a priority when you’re busy working but taking the time to ensure that your licence remains active is better for everyone, including you, your boss, home owners and the QBCC,” Ms Blest said. Plumbers are also reminded to check if their backflow-prevention endorsement needs renewing, as this endorsement expires after five years unless a revalidation course has been undertaken and the QBCC has been notified of this. “At renewal, you should also ensure your contact details, including your email address, are up to date so that you can receive the latest industry news, including Service Trades Council newsletters,” Ms Blest said. For further information, visit qbcc.gov.au or call 139 333.
JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018
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news
O
n 6 November 2017, the Hon. John Fahey AC took on the role as Chair of the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB), replacing the out-going Chair, the Hon. John Thwaites. ABCB Connect sat down with the new Chair and asked him a few questions.
What motivated you in taking the role as Chair? The collegiate nature of the Board. To succeed, the industry representatives, public servants and appointed Ministers must find common ground that incorporates safety, affordability and accessibility to product. My roles as a Premier, a National Finance Minister, a Board Member of the National Royal Flying Doctor Service and Chair of the Commonwealth Natural Disaster Reconstruction Inspectorate gives me reason to believe I can assist with uniformity and national solutions in the building sector.
What do you see as some of the emerging issues for the Board? Improved compliance and enforcement practices following the report from Professor Shergold and Ms Bronwyn Weir to the Building Ministers’ Forum. The reform must reduce significantly red tape and have an over-riding focus of industry affordability. A firm but fair national solution to the Aluminium Composite Panel external cladding problem must also be implemented in the interests of public safety.
Can you tell us about your professional background? I worked in legal practices in Bankstown and Camden before entering the NSW Parliament in 1984 as the Member for Camden. I was appointed as the Industrial Relations Minister in 1988 with the change of Government and pioneered through the NSW Parliament sweeping changes to workplace law that was broadly followed by successive Liberal Governments across Australia. I was the instigator of the Giles Royal Commission into the Building Industry in NSW in 1990. I was Premier and Treasurer from 1992 to 1995. I entered the Federal Parliament in 1996 as the member for Macarthur and the Finance Minister. I retired in 2001 after losing a lung through cancer. Post politics, I have served on numerous boards commercial and not-for-profit, chaired the World Anti-Doping Authority for six years and I am currently the Chancellor of Australian Catholic University. Article by ABCB Connect
M
PAQ was advised of a change to AS/NZS3500.4: 2015, which was adopted on 1 May 2016. At this time it was discovered that the orientation of solar panels were now being required to face within 45 degrees of true north, rather than east or west as is often the practice. Not every house has that roof orientation. Not every household wants their solar hot water system facing north.
MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE
Introducing the New Chair of the ABCB
Amendments to the Orientation of Collectors for Solar Heated Water Systems
The release of the standard took the industry by surprise, even though it was apparently a long time in the making. This standard has already been adopted as part of the National Construction Code (NCC). Feedback received from members who specialise in this work advised that this could devastate the market, as it will eliminate possibly one-third of all potential customers, and MPAQ were very concerned about the unintended consequences of this change. MPAQ approached the Hon. Mick de Brenni MP, Minister for Housing and Public Works, who listened to our concerns on this matter. The Minister was very proactive in organising for amendments to the Queensland Plumbing and Wastewater Code. The Queensland Plumbing and Wastewater code will include a specific variation to the deemed to satisfy requirements of AS/NZS3500.4: 2015 clause 6.5.1.2. This variation now allows the installation of collector panels associated with a solar hot water system to be installed to an orientation of not more than 90 degrees east of west of true north. For further information please contact the MPAQ Technical Services Team on 07 3273 0800.
Sanitary Plumbing and Drainage Standard Amendment
P
lease be advised that AS/NZS 3500 Plumbing and Drainage, Part 2 Sanitary Plumbing and Drainage, Amendment 2:2017 (AS/NZS 3500.2:2015 and 2:2017) has been published. The scope of this amendment focuses on the inclusion of vacuum drainage. The amended standard is available for MPAQ Contracting and Associate Council members to view for free via the website (www.mpaq.com.au/members/technical/standards), or can be downloaded from SAI Global’s website (www.infostore.saiglobal.com). It should be noted that the Plumbing Code of Australia (PCA) at Part A3, Table 3, will not reference this amendment until the release of a new version in May 2019. For any queries, please contact the MPAQ Technical Services Team on 07 3273 0800.
page 9
Bigger, Better, Brilliant Software “ Everything is negotiable, but not the system. It’s like our backbone. Without that, we can’t grow. So, everything is open for negotiation, as long as it fits within simPRO. ” Steve Campbell Laser Plumbing and Electrical Lismore
member benefits
Membership of Master Plumbers’ Association of Queensland gives you immediate access to a vast array of products and services to meet your plumbing, business and lifestyle needs. Make sure you’re taking advantage of what’s available!
Discounted Car Rentals
Take advantage of a 7% discount* for your next car or truck rental in Australia! Budget offers better value vehicle rental and great rates worldwide. Plus, you can earn Qantas or Flybuys points on eligible rentals. So what are you waiting for? To check out the great discounts available for you through Budget, visit www.mpaq.com.au/ membership/member-benefits. *Terms and conditions apply
Discounts and Rebates on Insurance Products
WFI offers their clients a high level of personal service, specialising in a wide range of insurance products for business owners, plumbers, tradespeople, and strata complex managers.
MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE
MPAQ Member Benefits
In partnership with WFI, the 5% commission MPAQ receive from WFI products or services being used by any WFI members will be applied to the member’s membership renewal. So get involved with WFI today and save on your membership fees later! For more information call WFI on 1300 934 934 or visit www.wfi.com.au and quote your MPAQ membership number.
Vehicle Fleet Discounts
AHG offers MPAQ members, employees and their families great deals on a huge range of the world’s leading car brands, with added discounts and exclusive benefits across sales, service, parts, accessories, finance and insurance. Whether you’re looking for a car for work or leisure, you can find a vehicle to fit your needs with AHG’s easy to use online portal. Visit www.mpaq.com.au/membership/memberbenefits to discover the discounts available to you on a vast array of leading car brands.
Legionella Analysis
ALS and MPAQ are partnering to give MPAQ members access to reliable and accurate Legionella analysis for potable water and cooling towers. Mention your MPAQ membership number when submitting samples to claim a discount of 15% off your legionella analysis. ALS are also offering MPAQ members training in sample collection. Contact Cassandra Hogan for more information at cassandra.hogan@alsglobal.com and quote your MPAQ member number.
Payment Plans for Your Customers
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Thanks to OpenPay, MPAQ members get an exclusive discount with their payment system so that your business gets paid the next day, while OpenPay takes care of the rest. Your customers will get flexible, interest-free payment plans, a paperless application and more time to pay, and you don’t have to worry about chasing up any more debts. Don’t let chasing up payments be a drain on your business. Call OpenPay on 1300 168 359 or email info@openpay.com.au and quote your MPAQ member number.
In-store Vouchers
Not an MPAQ member yet? Thinking about joining up? Well, maybe this will help! When you become a Contracting or Employee member with MPAQ, Samios will give you a $100 voucher to use on your next order. Or, if you’re an apprentice looking to take on our FREE membership, Samios are offering you a $50 voucher to get you started. Become an MPAQ member today and be rewarded at Samios Plumbing Supplies. Vouchers will be given out in new member packs.
page 11
2017 - The year of the Master Plumber 50+ Member Benefits New Female Plumbing Ambassador: Carlie Low
6000+
Member Queries
New MPAQ President: Kent Vickers
HR & Technical were popular!
Launch of Women’s Plumbing Alliance
Event Attendees
2323
Biggest World Plumbing Day yet!
2017 was a huge year for MPAQ! 13%
Increase in Members Including 45 Apprentices!
Training Enrolments
289
JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018
Online and Face to Face
Security of Payments Legislation
Legislative Amendment to Solar Panel Orientation
page 12
900
New Social Followers Plus 1,700 new views - YouTube
NonConforming Products Legislation
Point of Sale Legislation
New MPAQ & Find a Plumber Website
%
Training
Member Benefits
Membership Workplace Technical Relations
Across 33 events... ...463 people attended our World Plumbing Day Breakfast and Golf Day and 507 attended the Plumbing & Gas Industry Awards. ... and over 700 people attended the BEXPO’s and Activity Days (combined) throughout QLD, including the biggest attendance for a Gold Coast Golf Day ever (96)!
MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE
% 25
% 24
17
%
Finance
9%
News & Media
6%
5%
3% Events
11
In fact, we have averaged 5 queries per member this year... ...and this is how they were broken down!
Over 50% of new members were contracting companies... ...and we had the pleasure of celebrating a lot of milestone members!
73 5-10 years
23
7
20-25 years 30-40 years
1
2
6
1
50 years
60 years
70 years
100 years
Over 29 scheduled face-to-face courses... ... including the Cert IV for Gas and Plumbing Legislation courses and a blended online and face-to-face delivery of TMV courses ... ... DOUBLE the amount of funding was available to students! We also conducted industry consultations to develop training for legionella management and prevention.
Over 600 of those new followers were from Facebook alone! We redesigned the MPAQ website and overhauled our email communication designs, which saw more opens and engagement than ever before! Popular topics included... Technical Advice, Safety, New Products, Employee Management and Member Discounts and Benefits! Figures are approximate and current as at December 2017
page 13
technical
Chief Health Officer Review into Lead at Perth Children’s Hospital
T
he Chief Health Officer (CHO) of Western Australia has released a report into the contamination of the water supply at the new Perth Children’s Hospital (PCH). The construction of the new hospital commenced in 2012. In 2016, lead was identified in the drinking water supply at concentrations above the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines (ADWG). Initial investigations ruled out the incoming water supply, the broader hospital campus and microbial degradation as possible sources of the lead. The investigation focused on the hypothesis that dezincification of brass fittings as the source of the lead. This was confirmed by analysis of a sample of the brass by Curtain University. The investigation found: •
Elevated lead concentrations occurred in end-of-line cold water testing, more frequently at outlets that were adjacent to TMV Assembly Boxes (26.9% cf 11.2%).
•
Water drawn directly from fittings within the TMV Assembly Box showed rapid release of lead and zinc in both hot and cold water parts, consistent with the release of lead from brass components by dezincification.
•
In the TMV Assembly Boxes tested, all lead averages exceeded the ADWG value of 0.01 mg/L, and all zinc averages were in excess of the observed background concentration in Floor Level Distribution Mains of 0.2 mg/L.
•
Some components of the TMV Assembly Boxes did not have Australian Standard identifying markings and appear to deviate from specific approved materials.
•
The most significant corrosion occurred in the cold TMV inlet elbow with Binder Test Point.
JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018
Investigation of other brass fittings in the floor level distribution mains is continuing. One Queensland private hospital has identified that it has the same TMV Assembly Boxes as PCH. Limited testing for lead at the facility has detected lead above the ADWG. Other health facilities in Queensland have expressed concerns arising from the Perth findings, and have sought advice on appropriate steps to ensure patient, staff and visitor safety in their facilities. There has been no indication so far that other types of premises may have similar lead contamination issues. Although the CHO Report recommended the continuation of orthophosphate treatment to ameliorate the lead contamination, this has now been discontinued at PCH, and is not recommended by WA Department of Health. Queensland Health has prepared advice for health care facilities on how to respond to the CHO Report. The report is available at ww2.health.wa.gov.au/Reports-andpublications/CHO-review-into-lead-at-PCH.
page 14
Water Efficiency Certification
P
roperty managers/owners are allowed to pass on the full cost of water consumption to a tenant, provided: • • •
the rental property is individually metered (or water is delivered by vehicle); and the rental property is water efficient; and the tenancy agreement states the tenant must pay for water consumption.
Rental properties are considered water efficient if certain water fixtures meet certain standards. Water efficiency certificates may be requested by Real Estates to show proof that a rental property is water efficient. Fixtures that are required to be water efficient are: • • • • • •
Kitchen taps: 7.5 – 9 Lpm Basin taps: 7.5 – 9 Lpm Showers: 7.5 – 9 Lpm Laundry taps: 7.5 – 9 Lpm Toilets: 3L half flush and 6L full Bath tubs are exempt (fill for use)
If you need to provide a Water Efficiency Certification, MPAQ members have access to a FREE digital Water Efficiency Certification form, or, alternatively, you can purchase Water Efficiency Certification books from our Online Shop. Visit www.mpaq.com.au for further information, or contact the MPAQ Office on 07 3273 0800.
TRANSPARENCY BRINGS EFFICIENCY ON!Track asset management
How long is the pipe laser needed for this site?
Where is the ladder?
When is the core machine due for maintenance?
Questions like these cost your business money, be it in fines, lost time, or duplicated purchases. If important equipment is missing to perform a job, the entire schedule of your project is at stake. That is why an efficient digital asset management solution is crucial to stay on top of these challenges, while ensuring the profitability of the overall project.
+ Easy to use software and mobile app
+ Sturdy asset tags
Ongoing support
Hilti ON!Track is customised for your business. As part of the setup, we help you tag your assets and train your staff so that you hit the ground running, increasing your productivity and transparency of your assets. You can track your assets from your warehouse to your jobsite, and have employees sign off for assets received via the mobile app. Ask yourself – how many hours are lost trying to locate that something for the jobsite? How many times have you purchased another one only to find it later? Now you can save the cost of a duplicate item as well as the time and money spent looking for it.
Scan the code to book a consultation
Here’s what our customers have to say: “Since implementation of this platform, ON!Track has provided our company complete transparency with the location and responsibility of our tooling, assets, certificates and maintenance. We no longer have to rely on a system of spreadsheets and paper to log and document where our assets are (or more to the point aren’t)!!” Greg Castle Owner of Obsidian Plumbing (QLD)
“With Hilti ON!Track, we have found the system works great for our business for the control of tools and rental equipment.” Darren Delaney General Manager of Noppen Group (NSW)
To find out more, call 131 292 or email auontrack@hilti.com.au
technical
Real Estate Agents Targeted in FNQ Audit of Notifiable Work
R
eal estate agents were recently targeted in an audit of Notifiable Works lodgements in the Cairns area. The Queensland Building and Construction Commission’s (QBCC) Service Trades Unit (STU) notifiable work audit officers conducted a strategic audit of real estate agents at Palm Cove, Trinity Beach and Cairns City areas late last year. The audit was aimed at assessing invoices for appropriate licensing and Notifiable Work Form 4 lodgements and gathering information about regulated work performed by plumbers and drainers on rental properties. QBCC Assistant Commissioner, Esther Blest, said a high number of invoices are expected to be forthcoming as a result of the audits, given the positive responses received at the majority of real estate agencies. When the QBCC obtains copies of invoices from real estate agents, it checks to see who performed the work, to make sure they hold the appropriate QBCC licence and endorsements, and it also checks to ensure Form 4 Notifiable Work has been lodged with the QBCC. QBCC officers also requested a list of the plumbers and drainers used by the real estate agent over the previous 12 months to increase the QBCC’s knowledge of work being performed in the area. It is anticipated that a review of the Notifiable Work lodgements for these companies will be undertaken and where appropriate, companies may be issued an individual audit request for information.
Many agents said they had heard of the Notifiable Work provisions and some confirmed that they check licences prior to engaging a person to perform work. However, a number of other agents appeared to have little knowledge of licensing requirements and were more concerned about insurance requirements. The QBCC recently distributed a fact sheet to the real estate industry as part of its new Notifiable Work communication strategy, which is to raise awareness about the Form 4 Notifiable Work process within industry and the wider community. In addition to the audits, officers attended the Cairns TAFE to address Certificate III apprentices on licensing and Notifiable Work compliance. While there, TAFE teachers, coincidentally, raised concerns about unlicensed people performing regulated work for real estate agents and were impressed that QBCC officers were in the area to visit local agents about this issue. The discussion also included concerns about unlicensed people advertising for regulated work. The officers also discussed the QBCC’s Compliance and Enforcement Strategy to advise that it sets out the Commission’s approach on the compliance and enforcement of the legislative provisions it administers. The Strategy outlines how the Commission determines what enforcement action is appropriate and helps set and manage public and industry expectations in this regard. It contains seven key priorities, one of which is to eradicate unlicensed work and another is to ensure licensees meet their Notifiable Work regulatory obligations. For further information or for any queries, contact the QBCC on 139 333.
The QBCC takes action against unlicensed people found to have performed work for real estate agents without holding the appropriate licence. It also takes action against licensees who fail to lodge Form 4s with the QBCC for Notifiable Work they have undertaken.
Locate a Locator
A number of agents expressed interest in the compliance check processes undertaken by the QBCC and advised that they had not previously been asked for such information.
Before digging starts, understanding what’s underground on your job site is essential. And locating that infrastructure isn’t easy.
JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018
Electrical Safety Reminder The recent electrical shock of a plumber in the Cairns area is a reminder to all plumbers and contractors about the need to be vigilant when it comes to electrical safety.
But nding the right Certied Locator has now become a whole lot easier.
In this instance, the plumber was about to enter the ceiling space of a property after he had removed a section of the roof.
Dial Before You Dig is encouraging all civil contractors to ensure when you are planning to carry out earthworks you seek the services of a Dial Before You Dig Certied Locator.
He dropped a tool into the ceiling space and while trying to retrieve it, appears to have come into contact with exposed electrical wires.
Dial Before You Dig Certied Locators have successfully passed a rigorous assessment surrounding all facets associated with electromagnetic eld locating.
It was very fortunate in this instance that the plumber only received an electrical shock and burns to his hand, as the result could have been much worse.
Don’t take the risk of hiring the services of a locator who is not a Dial Before You Dig Certied Locator. So nd the right Certied Locator by visiting www.dbydlocator.com/certied-locators.
The QBCC and the Electrical Safety Office urge contractors to familiarise themselves with the potential risks associated with electricity when working on roofs and in ceiling spaces. Visit www.worksafe.qld.gov.au/construction/workplacehazards/working-on-roofs-and-in-ceiling-spaces for helpful information from WorkCover Queensland.
www.dbydlocator.com
Article supplied by the QBCC QUEENSLAND · NEW SOUTH WALES · VICTORIA · NORTHERN TERRITORY · TASMANIA · SOUTH AUSTRALIA · WESTERN AUSTRALIA CSG160826
page 16
DBD0826 locate a locator press fpc [csg] r3.indd 1
30/08/2016 11:22 am
advocacy
M
PAQ would like to congratulate Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk and the Labor Government on winning the Queensland state election in December 2017. MPAQ would also like to congratulate the Hon. Mick de Brenni MP on his appointment as Minister for Housing and Public Works, Minister for Digital Technology and Minister for Sport. The Association is looking forward to working with the government for the successful implementation of election commitments. These include: 1. To partner with industry through the commitment to assist with a $4 million investment to fit-out our World Leading Centre of Excellence Training Facility at Beenleigh for apprenticeship and post trade training. An apprenticeship in plumbing, fire protection or air-conditioning provides a person with a fantastic career to build a terrific life and this commitment will create equal opportunities in these great trades. 2. As a priority in 2018, to pass the Plumbing and Drainage Act (noting the technical recommendations made by MPAQ within our submission to the Parliamentary Committee). 3. The re-commitment to ensure laws: a. Sub-contractors get paid for the work that they do on time, every time and in full through the review and regulation process b. Maintain non-conforming building products laws 4. The commitment to address the costs and risks that have been imposed on tradespeople in regards to occupational and contractor licensing 5. The commitment to review the resourcing of the QBCC. In Labor’s previous term, MPAQ collaborated with the government, which saw at least four significant wins for our industry. Please refer to Penny Cornah’s Perspective on page 6 of this edition for full information.
Point of Sale Legislation Introduced for Queensland
O
n 1 November 2017, Queensland introduced historic new legislation for non-conforming building products and safety laws. This legislation means changes apply to everyone in the building product supply chain. The new laws are also intended to improve safety by placing responsibility on anyone on a building site in Queensland to report unsafe situations. The Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) now has the power to: • Issue a recall notice for a building product • Issue a warning statement to raise public awareness • Prosecute offences relating to supplying or installing a nonconforming building product MPAQ has been advocating for many years that the Watermark Certification Scheme (WMSC) should encompass point of sale legislation to truly protect water and waste infrastructure. If non approved products cannot be sold or purchased, they cannot be put into service illegally. Point of sale requirements ensures that the supply chain is educated and understands their responsibility in the sale of products, and that the consumer/customer/client is also able to access product information to assist in purchasing choice, rather than on price alone. Thank you to the Hon. Mick de Brenni MP, Minister for Housing and Public Works, for listening and consulting on this important matter and for introducing Point of Sale legislation for Queensland as part of this review. Plumbing products installed in buildings in Queensland have been required to have Watermark certification since 2003 under the Plumbing and Drainage Act 2002 and the Standard Plumbing and Drainage Regulation 2003. The Watermark certification scheme is administered at a national level by the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB). The requirements for Watermark certification is specified in the Plumbing and Drainage Act 2002.
MPAQ is in a position to highlight the pivotal role that plumbing and gas professionals play in the living standards of our society and we are proud of these achievements.
Under the primary duty of the new laws, it is an offence under the Act to supply plumbing products in Queensland that don’t have a Watermark certification, as these products do not meet the relevant regulatory provisions. This change is designed to reduce the likelihood of non-conforming plumbing products being installed in buildings in Queensland.
Plumbing protects the health and safety of our community, and we look forward to working closely with the Labor Government and the responsible Minister in the coming years to improve the services protecting everyday Queenslanders.
More information on the Watermark certification system, including a list of certified products and information on the certification process, can be obtained from the ABCB website (www.abcb.gov.au/productcertification/Watermark-Certificationscheme).
For further information, visit www.mpaq.com.au or contact MPAQ on 07 3273 0800.
MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE
Qld State Election Decided: Plumbing a Priority
What to do: •
Please report suspected non-conforming building products to the QBCC - Everyone is responsible for reporting unsafe building sites
•
If you see a product being sold for plumbing purposes that does not hold Watermark, please email the QBCC (via their website – qbcc.qld.gov.au)
•
Report site safety to QBCC - You are required to tell QBCC about deaths, serious injuries or incidents that present a serious health and safety risk on a building site
For more information or to lodge a Non-Conforming Building Products complaint form, please go to www.qbcc.qld.gov.au/non-conformingbuilding-products. Newly Re-elected Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk
Queensland is leading the way and MPAQ believes all states and territories in Australia should follow suit.
page 17
feature
Carlie Lowe
MPAQ Female Plumbing Ambassadorship About Carlie
A
fter several years working as a licensed plumber, drainer and gasfitter, Carlie Lowe turned her attention to further developing her experience and was appointed as a Brisbane City Council Plumbing Inspector in 2004. In this position, Carlie has built a sound knowledge base and industry network as she has rotated through a series of compliance functions, which include onsite treatment facility application assessment and appraisals, domestic and commercial plumbing inspections, and investigating plumbing complaints. Carlie also won the QBCC Women in Plumbing & Gas Award at the 2016 Plumbing & Gas Industry Awards.
Activities in 2017 • Careers and Employment Expo, Brisbane • Tertiary Studies Expo (TSXPO), Brisbane
Carlie: I just wanted to attend as many of the expos as possible and try to promote the industry more. I’ve always loved doing what the role of this ambassadorship required, and it’s something I tried to do before, but MPAQ has given me a bigger platform and better exposure to be able to do it. Ash: So, having been out there speaking to a lot of young people, have you seen a lot of interest from them towards the plumbing industry?
• Milpera’s Future’s Day (Milpera State High School), Chelmer
Carlie: Most definitely. I was quite surprised at some of the events by the amount of people who had already decided that that’s what they wanted to do as a career. It was great to be able to give them a little bit more information and open their minds further about the career paths and different opportunities there are, as well as chat to those who weren’t sure. Being able to explain to them the benefits of being in the industry and where it can lead them was a great opportunity.
• PCYC Blue Edge Program, Loganlea State High School on two occasions
Ash: What did you find the most rewarding about your Ambassadorship, and what did you find the hardest?
• Ignite Youth Careers Expo (in conjunction with Busy at Work), Browns Plains (Brisbane)
Carlie: Most rewarding? Seeing some of the kid’s faces light up about information they weren’t aware of and being able to educate people about the industry was great to see. Did I find anything hard about it? Honestly, I’d say no. I’ve really enjoyed it.
• Sunshine Coast Daily Careers Expo, Buderim • Faith Lutheran College Careers Expo, Lockyer Valley • Gold Coast Trades College Careers and Business Expo, Gold Coast
• Construction Skills Queensland Try’a Trade Day, Skillstech Acacia Ridge (Brisbane) • Busy at Work Speed Careering Event, Salisbury (Brisbane) MPAQ’s Member Services and Communications Coordinator, Ashleigh Stonehewer sat down with Carlie to get her perspective on the industry and how she felt 2017 was a successful year in her Ambassadorship.
JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018
Tertiary Studies Expo
Ash: Thank you for sitting down with me today, Carlie, and I wanted to start by congratulating you on a successful year as the 2017 Female Plumbing Ambassador! You have been really visible this year, attending expos and visiting schools – do you feel you have achieved what you wanted since being appointed in this role?
Ash: It’s clear that you love teaching young people about the industry, so what is it that you like most about being a part of it? Carlie: I love the industry as a whole, but being paid to keep fit is definitely an added bonus when you’re on the tools. If you look at wages, it’s great that it’s equal pay for both genders, unlike in some industries. I guess the most important thing would be knowing the importance of what a plumber’s doing for our community. Being a part of the industry has also allowed me to achieve a lot of my goals earlier in life as well. Ash: Did you learn anything new from being the Female Plumbing Ambassador? Carlie: Yes, I did. I found out a lot of the schools’ career guidance councillors are making the students do the leg work to try and find an employer, and not all schools offer school-based apprenticeships because of funding that makes it hard for them. That was definitely something interesting I picked up; it’d be great to find ways we can do more in that space to help. Ash: Moving forward, what goals do you wish to achieve?
2017 Futures Day
page 18
Carlie: I want to change the mindset of the school teachers, the parents and people in general about females in construction. The more we can get it out there promoting females, the more normal it is going to seem, even though it seems normal to us. It will happen, it’s just a work in progress.
Faith Lutheran College
PCYC Blue Edge Program Ash: You mentioned wanting to promote females in the industry, but what challenges would you say you have faced being a female on the tools? Carlie: I think some consumers don’t expect a female, and sometimes you’ll get a customer watching what you’re doing and judging your skills. Honestly though, there are challenges and there can be discrimination but that stands for both males and females – it isn’t a problem faced by just females; it’s something we face as an industry. Ash: So, what advice would you give to anyone who is thinking about, or just beginning, a career in the plumbing industry? Carlie: The main advice I give anyone, and I guess it’s not just necessarily plumbing, is if it’s something you want to do, just go for it. Don’t let anyone or anything stop you because the amount of older people I speak to at these expos who say they regret not doing a trade back when they
Brisbane Careers Expo
thought about doing one (because they let something or someone get in the way) is staggering – and most of those are females! I also always tell people that it doesn’t matter what career you go into, you’re going to face challenges, no matter what, but you’re always going to have support, whether it’s from your employer or someone else, it’s just a matter of reaching out. Ash: Do you think you’ll continue to get out there and promote the industry then? Carlie: Yes, definitely! I love it. Want to get involved in encouraging female participation in our industry? Join the Women’s Plumbing Alliance by visiting www.mpaq.com.au/membership/WPA. Interview conducted by Ashleigh Stonehewer, MPAQ
Brisbane Careers Expo Stand
WOMEN’S PLUMBING ALLIANCE
EVOLVING YOUR
BUSINESS FREE* WORKSHOP & WEBINAR SERIES LAUNCH
In partnership with
VISIT WWW.MPAQ.COM.AU TO REGISTER *Non-members tickets cost $50 per person
REGISTER NOW! WORKSHOP
FRI 16 FEB 2018 | 9:30AM - 12:00PM
CALAMVALE HOTEL, 278 COMPTON ROAD, BRISBANE TOPICS: 1. EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT AND MOTIVATION 2. CASHFLOW AND DEBT MANAGEMENT
WEBINARS
TUE 27 FEB | TUES 13 MAR | TUE 27 MAR 11:00AM - 12:00PM FOR MORE INFO ABOUT THE TOPICS, VISIT WWW.MPAQ.COM.AU Please note: all topics, dates and times for workshops and webinars are subject to change.
page 19
apprentices
New Initiative to Highlight the Value of Apprenticeships A
new initiative launched in November 2017 by the Federal Government showcases and promotes a diverse range of rewarding careers available via Vocational Education and Training (VET). Assistant Minister for Vocational Education and Skills, Karen Andrews, launched real skills for real careers at the Australian Training Awards in Canberra. The initiative’s first video features people sharing their personal VET success stories as well as podcasts, brochures, and posters across social media. “For too long, perceptions surrounding VET have been out of step with reality,” Minister Andrews said. “Many parents are still inclined to encourage their children to go to university after leaving school, rather than consider a VET career pathway. Others are convinced that VET is only for traditional trades like plumbing and carpentry. We need to dispel those myths.” “The fact is that VET qualifications lead to successful, meaningful, professional careers with great salaries and outstanding career prospects,” said Minister Andrews. BUSY At Work Managing Director, Paul Miles said this was a great initiative and urged key stakeholders to adopt the tagline into their own communications. “This initiative is about dispelling the myths that apprenticeships and traineeships are a second class career. This new strategy will change our communication approach.” “Together, our industry will send a consistent message, sharing stories of real people who have developed very successful careers after completing their training as an apprentice or trainee,” Mr Miles said. The new initiative also features a refreshed My Skills website, with an improved version of the national directory of VET in Australia. For further information or queries, please contact the MPAQ Workplace Relations Team on 07 3273 0800.
Qld Apprentice Orders and Fair Work Commission Ruling A n important message for employers incorporated prior to 27 March 2006.
In December 2017, the full Federal Court dismissed a challenge by Master Builders Qld, the Apprentice Employment Network and the Housing Industry Association, who sought to quash a finding that the old State Award used by All Trades as the benchmark for its agreements ceased to operate in January 2014. The Fair Work Commission’s (FWC) Full Bench in February 2017 issued a significant decision on the application of the Federal regulations to Apprentices engaged in Queensland. This decision only relates to those Queensland businesses that were incorporated prior to 27 March 2006 and who have engaged an apprentice under regulations provided in the Fair Work laws, which preserved Queensland Apprentice Orders. For employers covered by the Plumbing and Fire Sprinklers Award 2010, the decision may have retrospectivity to 1 January 2015.
What this Means Moving Forward
At this stage, this decision may affect some MPAQ members who have paid (or are currently paying) Apprentices under Schedule 1 of the MPAQ Wage Sheet – Apprentices, which only applies to Apprentices under 21 years of age who commenced their apprenticeship prior to 1 January 2014. This decision will only apply to new apprentices engaged from 1 January 2015 who are being paid under Schedule 1. MPAQ believe that there may only be a limited number of members affected by this decision, as the majority of members pay under the MPAQ Wage Sheet – Apprentices Schedules 2, 3 or 4. If you have apprentices that meet the above criteria, please contact the Workplace Relations Team on 07 3273 0800 who can assist you through the process.
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E N G I N E E R E D WAT E R S O LU T I O N S
health & lifestyle
Top Technology to Help You
Get Fit in 2018 W
hether you’re looking to get fit in 2018 or wanting to stay fit, here’s our top picks of wearable technology and mobile apps that will help make your health and fitness goals more achievable this year.
Mobile Apps…… Headspace
The mind is complicated, but meditation doesn’t have to be. Get the most out of your day with the Headspace app, which teaches you how to meditate and live mindfully. You can use it at work, home or anywhere else to help you perform at your best. There are exercises on everything from managing anxiety and stress to breathing and sleeping. Try this app for free!
Wearable Technology…… Apple Watch Series 3 If you’re looking for an all in one gadget this year, the Apple Watch Series 3 might just be the direction in which you choose to go. This smart watch does more than just tell the time. Whether you’re running, swimming or going about your day-to-day life, this Apple Watch can monitor your daily exercise and health statistics. Not only is this watch a great way to help you track your fitness levels, it also enables you to answer and make calls, check your messages, listen to music, and pay for your mid-run coffee stop using Apple Pay. All of these added extras do mean that the battery life takes a bit of a hit, but if you like the idea of being unburdened by an all-in-one watch, then this is the one for you!
Fitbit Ionic
JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018
Moves
This free app allows you to track your activity without gadgets! Moves automatically tracks your everyday life and exercise – just carry your phone in your pocket or bag. This app makes use of the accelerometer and GPS functions of a smartphone to collect information such as distances travelled between exact locations on a map and even calories burned. So download this app for free today and begin monitoring your to day-to-day fitness achievements.
page 22
Fitbit has made a name for itself as one of the more popular and sought-after brands for wearable fitness technology, and the Fitbit Ionic is one of the more innovative of the Fitbit line-up. The Fitbit Ionic Fitness Watch is engineered for the active trendsetter, featuring comprehensive activity monitoring to help you stay motivated, and compatibility with popular smartwatch apps to keep you in the loop as you conquer the day. Much like with the Apple Watch, you can connect to your phone and make calls, send messages and listen to music via Bluetooth, and while the battery life is more superior for the Fitbit Ionic, the trade-off is in the far less robust apps and general integration into your whole life. If you’re looking for a fitness and sleep tracker, then this is the technology for you. But if you want something that does everything, the Fitbit has a little way to go.
Garmin Vivosmart 3
Keep yourself motivated as you reach your day-to-day fitness goals with the Garmin Vivosmart 3 Activity Tracker. Equipped with fitness monitoring tools like strength training, stress tracking, and VO2 max, Vivosmart 3 is a smart and comprehensive companion for active people. To help you stay in touch with friends and work, this activity tracker lets you check emails, social network notifications, and text messages right on your wrist, but it cannot be compared to its far more technologically integrated Fitbit and Apple Watch counterparts. That aside, if you are looking for an unobtrusive, sleek and simple band that monitors your fitness and helps you keep track of your stress levels, while also allowing for the basic modern day social connectivity, the Garmin Vivosmart might be the choice for you.
Article written by Ashleigh Stonehewer, MPAQ
health & lifestyle
A Good Egg? Eggs can get a bad rap when it comes to healthy eating, but is this reputation deserved?
Eggc elle R e cipE n t
Celery , & egg r ham oll up
E
ggs are extremely nutritious. Eating 6 - 7 eggs a week will not increase your risk of heart disease when eaten as part of a healthy eating pattern. Eggs contain good quality protein and are a source of healthy fats including omega-3 fats. It is important, however, to remember that no one food or nutrient is the key to a heart-healthy diet. These diets are based on combinations of foods, chosen regularly, over time. This means what you eat with your eggs is important. Eggs are best eaten with vegetables such as spinach, mushroom, tomato and avocado with wholegrain bread rather than bacon and white bread.
Eggs and Cholesterol The cholesterol in eggs has almost no effect on our blood cholesterol levels. Your cholesterol levels are more influenced by the saturated and trans fat we eat. If you eat your eggs with a side of bacon, it is likely the bacon will have more effect on your cholesterol levels than the egg. There are a small percentage of people in the community that are more sensitive to eating dietary cholesterol than other people. This means that when they eat food containing cholesterol, their LDL (bad) cholesterol levels rise more than other people. If you want to know more about what your cholesterol level is and how to manage it, talk to your doctor or health practitioner.
Super t asty for hungry and a g kids, reat var ia tion for Cooking lunch b time: N oxes! il (Prep Serv arati
es: 2 on time : 10 m ins) Method 1 . Plac e 2 har d-boile tablesp oon ma d eggs in a bo yonnais wl. Add and ma ea 1 sh well with a fo nd 1 teaspoon 2 . Lay m r k ustard . 2 piec surface es of rectangu .S lar flat b r Arrange pread thinly w ith 2 te ead on clean 60g sh aspoon aved 97 across s marg % fat fr the bott arin e om thir 3 . Spo d of eac e leg ham in a e. on the e h row p ie ce. gg m Top wit h a row ixture evenly ac r of celer Roll up y strips oss ham layer firmly. . and spin 4 . Wr ach lea ap rolls v e s. Refriger in grease pro of pape ate 1 h r or pla our (or Remove stic over w Serve w rapping. Cut e night if preferr wrap. ach roll ed). ith cucu in mber s ticks if d to 4 to serve . esired.
How much to Eat You can eat up to 6 - 7 eggs each week. That is 1 egg a day or 2 - 3 egg filled meals a week.
Tips for Eating Eggs The healthiest ways to cook eggs are to boil, poach or scramble them using reduced-fat milk. What you eat with your eggs is important:
Article source: https://www.heartfoundation.org.au
•
Try getting in 1 - 2 serves of vegetables when you eat eggs.
•
Eggs make great lunchbox fillers for children and are very portable when hard boiled.
•
Add a chopped up hardboiled egg to the top of a salad.
•
Make a 3-egg omelette with capsicum, spinach and mushroom and eat on a slice of grainy bread.
page 23
feature
Your Guide to the Commonwealth Games
2018
The Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games (GC2018) is a once in a lifetime opportunity that will see 70 Commonwealth nations and territories take part in 11 days of competition from 4 – 15 April 2018. While the Gold Coast will be the main hub of activity during GC2018, 17 venues from the Gold Coast to Cairns will see action.
Cairns
Venue: Cairns Convention Centre Sports: Basketball
Townsville
Venue: Townsville Entertainment and Convention Centre Sports: Basketball
What’s Happening Near You? Brisbane
Venue: Anna Meares Velodrome Sports: Cycling – Track
JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018
Venue: Belmont Shooting Centre Sports: Clay Target, Full Bore, Pistol and Small Bore Shooting Events
page 24
feature MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE
Gold Coast Venue: Southport Broadwater Parklands Sports: Marathons and Triathlons Venue: Robina Stadium Sports: Rugby Sevens Venue: Oxenford Studios Sports: Boxing, Squash and Table Tennis Venue: Nerang Mountain Bike Trails Sports: Cycling – Mountain Bike Venue: Gold Coast Hockey Centre Sports: Hockey Venue: Broadbeach Bowls Club Sports: Lawn Bowls Venue: Carrara Sports and Leisure Centre Sports: Badminton, Para Powerlifting, Weightlifting and Wrestling Venue: Carrara Stadium Sports: Athletics and Opening and Closing Ceremonies Venue: Coolangatta Beachfront Sports: Volleyball Venue: Coomera Indoor Sports Centre Sports: Gymnastics and Netball
Get Set for the Games
Advice for Businesses
During GC2018, there will be daily changes to transport networks that will affect your business and the way that you operate. Understanding how your business will be affected is vital so you can plan ahead and make changes to:
Venue: Currumbin Beachfront Sports: Cycling – Road
•
Staff and business related travel;
•
Freight, servicing and deliveries, and
Venue: Optus Aquatic Centre Sports: Diving and Swimming
•
Customer and visitor travel.
Venue: Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre Sports: Netball and Basketball
Visit www.getsetforthegames.com and sign up for their Travel Advice for the Games Program and find out more information about how your business may be affected.
page 25
safety
Work Health and Safety Changes to the right of entry dispute resolution processes. From 13 November 2017, the processes for right of entry and work health and safety dispute resolution have changed in line with legislative amendments passed by State Parliament. Inspectors can now decide whether a work health and safety (WHS) entry holder has right of entry under Part 7 of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (WHS Act). Under new section 141A, inspectors can determine whether a WHS entry permit holder has a right to enter the workplace and whether they have complied with notice requirements for the entry. This will include inspectors considering: • the validity of a WHS entry permit • the validity of the notice of entry • whether a reasonable suspicion was held by the WHS permit holder • whether the person seeking to refuse entry is relying on a reasonable excuse If an inspector is reasonably satisfied the WHS entry permit holder has a right of entry, he or she can direct a person conducting a business or undertaking to immediately allow the permit holder to enter the workplace. Consistent with current requirements, parties to a right of entry dispute can still apply to the Queensland Industrial Relation Commission (QIRC) to have the matter resolved. However, under the new process, the QIRC’s powers have been extended allowing it to review a decision made by an inspector. These changes address the findings in the recent Federal Circuit Court decision in Ramsay & Anor v Menso & Anor (2017), where the court deemed that under current legislation, inspectors did not have the power to adjudicate or make a decision on the proper interpretation of the legislation
when assisting parties to resolve a right of entry dispute. Using its expanded powers, the QIRC can now hear and determine WHS disputes concerning: • Matters about WHS, subject to the issue resolution process under Part 5, Division 5 of the WHS Act • Cessation of work under Part 5, Division 6 of the WHS Act • Requests by health and safety representatives for an assistant to have access to a workplace under section 70(1) (g) of the WHS Act • Access to information by health and safety representatives under section 70(1)(c) of the WHS Act. Disputes about these matters may be referred to the QIRC for resolution if: • Parties have made reasonable efforts to resolve the dispute in a timely, final and effective manner • The dispute cannot be resolved between parties and a WHS inspector has been requested to attend the Workplace to assist in resolving the dispute • The dispute remains unresolved at least 24 hours after an inspector has been requested to assist in resolving the dispute
The key change is WHS inspectors must attend to a matter and assist with resolving the dispute within 24 hours before it can be referred to the QIRC. The process for dispute resolution up to the point of involving an inspector remains the same (i.e. following a dispute procedure and attempting to resolve the matter between parties at the workplace). In dealing with a dispute, the QIRC may: • Consider the matter by means of mediation, conciliation or arbitration and make any order it considers appropriate for the prompt settlement of the dispute • Review a decision made by an inspector to use their compliance powers to assist in resolving the dispute (i.e. if an inspector issues an improvement notice to assist with resolving a dispute, the QIRC can review the inspector’s decision and confirm, vary or set aside that ruling) • Decide not to deal with a dispute, and order costs, if it considers the matter to be frivolous, vexatious, misconceived or lacking substance For further information or clarification, visit www.worksafe.qld.gov.au or contact the MPAQ Technical Team on 07 3273 0800.
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workplace relations
Single Touch Payroll is a reporting change for employers.
theBackFlowA
It means employers will report payments such as salaries and wages, pay as you go (PAYG) withholding and superannuation information to the Australian Taxation Office directly from their payroll at the same time that they pay their employees.
Employers may need to update their payroll program to report through Single Touch Payroll. You will need to check with your payroll program for updates (e.g. MYOB, Xero and other leading payroll programs) who will be updating their software to accommodate these changes.
MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE
Streamlined Reporting with Single Touch Payroll
When will these changes come into effect?
FINALLY …. an efficient, faster way to schedule & report Backflow, Thermostatic Mixing Valve & Eye Wash Tests
• If you have 20 or more employees including full-time, part-time and casual employees, Single Touch Payroll reporting is mandatory and will commence on 1 July 2018. If you believe you have 20 or more employees during the 2018/2019 financial year, you will be required to report to the Australian Taxation Office from the 1 July 2018. • If you have 19 or less employees, you will be required to commence Single Touch Payroll reporting from the 1 July 2019. MPAQ will continue to provide information to help you understand what you need to do to be ready for Single Touch Payroll over the coming months. If you need further information or have any questions, please contact the MPAQ Workplace Relations Team on 07 3273 0800.
Save Time & Stay Organised Conveniently record, save and email test results from your smart phone or tablet on site without returning to the office.
The Importance of Employment Contracts
I
f you have employment contracts in place for your employees, when was the last time you re-assessed the terms and conditions of employment?
Stay in Control Manage test results from users across your business.
If you don’t have employment contracts in place, you should seriously consider implementing these immediately. You NEED the terms and conditions surrounding your employees to be in writing so you can look after your business.
Never Miss a Test Schedule your work with automated test reminders.
With the combination of the Fair Work Act, the National Employment Standards and the relevant Modern Awards, it has never been more important to ensure you have well written employment contracts for your employees.
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Why Have Employment Contracts
Here are just a few reasons to have a written employment contract in place: • Sets out the terms and conditions of employment including wages/salary, overtime, allowances etc. • Regulates taking of leave entitlements • Inclusion of enforceable non-compete, restraint of trade and nonsolicitation clauses to protect an employer’s legitimate commercial interests, other employees as well as clients and customers • Sets out performance requirements • Sets out minimum notice periods for termination • Sets out conditions of using a company vehicle, mobile, iPad, etc. • Protects the employer’s confidential information and intellectual property • Assists in the recovery of overpayments and recovery of training costs Assistance with reassessing your employment contracts or drafting new employment contracts for your employees is available to MPAQ members.
The Apple logo, iPhone, iPod touch, and iTunes are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. Google Play and the Google Play logo are trademarks of Google Inc.
Contact the MPAQ Workplace Relations Team on 07 3273 0800 or e-mail hr@mpaq.com.au for assistance.
page 27
legal
New Security of Payments Laws …learn all about it or pay the price T
he below tips help explain why all contractors needs to attend the upcoming MPAQ and McKays Solicitors Security of Payments Workshops about the tough, new laws. You will also see why your contract administrators and project managers must go too.
Tip 1 – Payment Schedules are mandatory unless payment in full is made on time A person who receives a Payment Claim always has to deliver a Payment Schedule unless they have paid the amount claimed in full before the end of the “response period”. The tricky part is working out what the “response period” is in each case. If you get it wrong, you are likely to have to pay the full amount claimed even if you object, and you could be fined and face QBCC disciplinary proceedings!
Tip 2 – Most invoices and progress claims will automatically be Payment Claims
Tip 5 – Protect your licence There are a number of new, quite heavy fines and new risks of disciplinary proceedings by the QBCC for breaches of the relevant legislation. In the workshops, we will outline what these are so you know what you have to do, when you have to do it and what you are risking if you do not.
REGISTER YOUR INTEREST FOR THE WORKSHOPS There is much more you need to know, but these simple tips should help explain why you need to come to the workshops where you will learn how to get the most out of the new legislation and not get caught yourself. To register your interest, send an email to mdunne@mckays.com.au or events@mpaq.com.au, but do it now so you do not miss out. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact Ian Heathwood at McKays on 07 3223 5942 or by email at iheathwood@mckays.com.au.
An invoice or progress claim no longer has to be endorsed with the “magic words” to make it a Payment Claim. Consequently the vast majority will be Payment Claims, automatically kicking the Payment Claim system into operation. All other requirements for a Payment Claim are much the same, except that a Payment Claim will have to request payment of the claimed amount. Few invoices do not already do this but to make sure your invoices and progress claims qualify, include a statement like “Please attend to payment by [insert date]”.
JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018
Tip 3 –You have to give Payment Schedules just like your clients
...A unique connection
Most invoices from your suppliers and subcontractors, will likely be Payment Claims. If they are, and you do not either pay them or give a Payment Schedule, you could have an adjudication application against you in which you will have no right to lodge any response, so the adjudicator will decide without taking into account anything you have to say. Alternatively, you could end up in court and have no right to file a defence.
Tip 4 – A claimant no longer has to give a second chance for a Payment Schedule Under the old Act, there was a requirement to give the recipient of the Payment Claim a second chance to deliver a Payment Schedule before the claimant could go to adjudication or court. This has now gone. There is a requirement to give a warning notice if a claimant intends to start proceedings in Court, but the new law does not say that the respondent can still give a Payment Schedule once the time to do so has expired. So it is even easier to get in trouble if you overlook or miss an invoice or progress claim.
page 28
Call Ian Heathwood, Michael Cope, Robert King or Angela Dabelstein on
er , h x e p l a p r r g m e t o o a C ‘ W r u Phot o ith n w o p s i n h s e Turns L cted’ Relation e n n o c s i D
p e o p le v it a l fo r ps are m m in u p lu s r W a te Nagar oswami G e th in , In d ia Kanpur
e c ts e n t c o ll il , r e s id z a r ia ti v e B it , a u lo o f a n in A Sao P as part g can n o ti s h r te n ti s ts w w a te r fo e n s c ie it y iz c it e c th te w a y s in to c r e a r te a w th e m o n it o r
Veg eta tion has bee n clea red for cat tle gra zing in Tan gar a da Ser ra, Bra zil, whi ch is hav ing flow -on effe cts to the nat ura l spr ing s in the reg ion
H
umans have an overwhelming misunderstanding of water, according to one photographer who has made it his mission to document a crisis faced across the world. Mustafah Abdulaziz is a former Wall Street Journal photographer who left the media world to pursue a global, 15-year project exploring our “complex” relationship with water. He has visited 11 countries, including Brazil, China, Nigeria, India and Pakistan, to highlight how water is both a source of life and struggle for communities.
around g a th e r , h il d r e n c d N ig e r ia n a in Women s u k p u tu O t u in o b p r pum it y o f a ommun th e w a te s th e c e v r e s o p le w h ic h 800 pe
A farm ing fam ily col lect s wat er from a han d-d ug ope n wel l in Aga ku, Nig eria
world
r fr o m p u ll w a te Women s heat h ig h -4 0 a w e ll in is ta n k to o , P a in B e w a
The WW F say s Chi na is the wor ld’s larg est aqu afa rme r, but tha t pra ctic es hav e led to env iron me nta l issu es
“I find it very reassuring to know that it can serve a purpose, photography,” Abdulaziz said. “But at the same time, the problem is quite overwhelming about the misunderstanding between people and water.” Abdulaziz said this misunderstanding manifested itself in different ways, but it came back to a common theme.
“I see pollution into the natural world, I see misuse of our resources,” he told ABC News Breakfast.
“So in Brazil, what you’re looking at with pollution being dumped into the Paraguay River is not so different from the way that petrochemicals have been pumped into the Mississippi River in my country, in the United States,” he said.
“I’m witnessing a disconnect between human beings and their environment.”
“So it’s a common thing and these themes are what I’m attracted to as a photographer.”
A collection of 70 of Abdulaziz’s photographs, titled “Water Stories”, have just gone on display on the Sydney Harbour waterfront.
The exhibition explores stories of current projects or trends across the world, including how deforestation for cattle grazing is hurting Brazilian springs and how a citizen scientist initiative in Sao Paulo is helping the country’s waterways.
The exhibition is the public outreach arm of the HSBC Water Programme, a $US150 million project launched in 2012 that aims to educate people about water and drive natural and economic development.
It also looks at how supposedly sustainable fisheries in China are actually having other flow-on effects for the natural world. “There’s no clear-cut solution when it comes to water. It’s a very complex resource, it’s a very complex problem,” Abdulaziz said. “When you have different countries interacting with each other, they have different goals and needs and this needs to be recognised when you’re addressing these issues.”
ef fo rt to e ha s be en an 14 ye ar s th er Ch in a st g, pa on e H th ke Ov er e fis hi ng in La bl na ai st su ad dr es s un
e in an op en ch ild re n ba th W om en an d Pa ki st an i, ar lib La sh st re am in Ta
Article source, ABC News Breakfast (Posted 24 August 2017)
page 29
new products
Saniflo Australia Awarded 6-Star WELS Rating for Its Sanicompact C43 ECO Saniflo Australia has announced it has been awarded the first and only 6-star WELS rating for a toilet for its Sanicompact C43 ECO. The Sanicompact C43 ECO is an all-in-one macerating toilet suite that uses 1.8L/3L of water per dual flush to the regular 4L/6L. The compact design allows for easy installation of a toilet anywhere and has the capability to install a basin addition. According to Saniflo Australia, with the Sanicompact C43 ECO, the average household can save up to 13,000L of water per year. “The Sanicompact C43 ECO combines all the benefits of Saniflo’s macerating technology into a single, convenient product. With Sanicompact, adding a toilet anywhere has never been easier or better for the environment,” says Saniflo Australasia Managing Director Matthieu Esprit. The Sanicompact C43 ECO features an alternative plumbing solution that enables easy installation of a toilet and basin without breaking the floor. Water waste is pumped back to the sewer point through tiny pipework and the non-return valve prevents shredded waste from coming back into the system.
“The Sanicompact C43 ECO macerator pump is perfect for environmentally conscious homeowners who are looking to do their part for the environment and achieve their dream home renovations. For plumbers, Sanicompact C43 ECO means no more cutting through concrete or digging trenches. Instead, you can fit more jobs into your day,” says Saniflo Australasia national technical manager Greg Waters. Visit www.saniflo.com.au for further information.
Bosch Blue Introduces the New GAS 18V-1 Vacuum Cordless vacuuming with persistent suction power Bosch Blue continues to expand its range of professional cordless vacuums with the launch of the powerful and user-friendly GAS 18V-1 vacuum. Trade professionals can now clean up with ease, thanks to the unique two rotational airflows that prevent the filter from clogging, to provide persistent suction power on-the-go. With its patented dual-stage two airflow system, the Bosch GAS 18V-1 can extract dust and debris from the airflow before it reaches the vacuum’s filter. The first rotational airflow extracts up to 95% of dust, with the second stage extracting the extra fine dust that would otherwise end up in the filter. By preserving the filter, this system helps maintain suction power over time to ensure maximum performance. Thanks to an optimised motor providing up to 42 minutes of runtime with the 18V 6.0Ah battery, the GAS vacuum can be used for longer without having to clean the filter. It’s washable parts and quick emptying dust cap can be assembled and disassembled in just a few seconds, resulting in maximum work time and minimal fuss.
JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018
ONLINE SHOP
page 30
Purchase all MPAQ Stationery and Standards online NOW! Including everything you need for Backflow and TMV testing, Water Efficiency Certification books, Invoice/Statement books and all industry standards. Shop today at mpaq.com.au/products
This lightweight vacuum has a sleek and ergonomic design, making it easy to use. It comes with two additional nozzles to help reach high places and tight crevices, as well as a range of extension and suction tubes to clean up a multitude of surfaces including carpet, wood, laminate or tiles. Available at Bunnings, Total Tools, Blackwoods, Mitre 10 and other leading Bosch retailers from $89, the Bosch Blue GAS 18V-1 professional vacuum will be the ultimate cleaning companion on the worksite. For more information, check out www.bosch-pt.com.au and search for the cordless vacuum cleaner gas 18v.
MPAQ Training Calendar 2018
RTO: 30473
ACCREDITED Face to Face COURSES TMV*
CPCPWT4023A - Commission and Maintain Hot and Heated Water Temperature Control Devices^
Date 22 January - 23 January** 8 February 23 April 4 June 28 June
Location Brisbane Toowoomba Brisbane Brisbane Cairns
ESTIMATE AND COST WORK CPCPCM4012A - Estimate and Cost Work^
Date 29 January - 30 January
Location Brisbane
DESIGN and size consumer gas
CPCPGS4011C - Design and Size Consumer Gas Installations^
Date 19 February - 21 February
Location Brisbane
Carry out Work-Based Risk Control CPCPCM4011A - Carry out Work-Based Risk Control Processes
Date 5 June - 6 June
Disclaimer: ^ Funding Assistance may be available * This course includes an online component that must be completed at least 2 days prior to the commencement of your course ** TMV Night Course will be run from 4pm - 8pm over 2 nights, if enrolling in this course all nights must be attended Dates are subject to change at MPAQ’s discretion.
Location Brisbane
BACKFLOW
CPCPWT4022A - Commission and Maintain Backflow Prevention Devices^
Date 15 January - 17 January 5 February - 7 February 26 February - 28 February 30 April - 2 May 14 May - 16 May 28 May - 30 May 13 June - 15 June 25 June - 27 June
Location Brisbane Toowoomba Gold Coast Bundaberg Rockhampton Mackay Brisbane Cairns
Legal and Risk Management Requirements
BSBSMB401 - Establish Legal and Risk Management Requirements of Small Business^
Date 24 May - 25 May
Location Brisbane
Non-Accredited Face to Face COURSES Plumbing Legislation
Non-Accredited - Plumbing Legislation Course
Date 21 May
Location Brisbane
CONTACT MPAQ FOR MORE INFORMATION: WEB www.mpaq.com.au/training EMAIL training@mpaq.com.au PHONE 07 3273 0800 page 31
K C A B H 0 S 5 FLA R
flashback
YEA
Master Plumber jan / feb 1 9 68
JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018
3 ways Cbus is building super futures for plumbers in Queensland 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 Glen for your business super needs Glen Halkerston
Business Superannuation Consultant, QLD
0447 113 282
glen.halkerston@cbussuper.com.au
Cbus Property commercial project, 1 William Street, Brisbane
1 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. Cbus’ Trustee: United Super Pty Ltd ABN 46 006 261 623 AFSL 233792 Cbus ABN 75 493 363 262.
vale
A First Class Entrée to Asia-Pacific
I
n 1985, a pioneering Tim Bottomley established a company for the distribution of quality cast iron access covers and grates to a rapidly growing Australia. Within 10 years, his venture had expanded its operations to become Australia’s largest in this very competitive category. His single-minded determination to offer a service that the market was demanding, proved to be the secret to success for his company, HaveStock. That successful, special ingredient was simple: it promised to maintain Australia’s largest inventory of access covers and grates in the HaveStock warehouse and stock yards, so they would always “have stock”, which meant there was minimal delay in supplying orders.
Tim Bottomley left his winning formula and values for what was to follow; the acquisition of his family company HaveStock, by another successful family business head-quartered in Northern Michigan, in the hamlet of East Jordan. That company – EJ. In Australia, Tim founded a company that today is the biggest and most respected supplier of access covers and grates, with a massive inventory of product manufactured in cast iron, galvanized steel, composites and concrete combination solutions, sourced from EJ manufacturing plants around the globe. On Tim’s retirement, Simon became General Manager of HaveStock and assumed the same role for EJ Asia Pacific. Sadly, Tim passed away peacefully on 30 September 2017. He will be missed by many in associated industries across this region. EJ celebrated 10 years of membership with MPAQ in 2017, and has been a great support for the Association and its members. The MPAQ Board and Staff give their sincerest condolences to Simon and the team at EJ at this hard time.
Tim Bottomley, Simon Bottomley, Irene Bottomley and Bren Bottomley in 1998
Tim
Bott
omle
MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE
Vale: Tim Bottomley
y
An Australian First For EJ Where Waste Sucks Queensland’s Sunshine Coast Council is about to take on a $21 million Australian pioneering venture in waste collection technology with the installation of the Swedish developed hi-tech Envac Waste System, as part of the extensive redevelopment of the Maroochydore City Centre. Shadforths Civil has specified the supply of EJ heavy duty MAXIMO™ 800 covers from the French foundry and from the US, a hinged hatch with a clear opening of 1200mm x 1200mm, plus locally manufactured Electrical Pit Brass Edged Covers. Stainless Steel Step Irons from UK completed this project’s checklist. Sewerage, storm water and electrical infrastructure requiring hatches and covers including 200+ Stainless Steel Edged Covers for Energex pits, are also on order. For more information, please call your nearest EJ branch or phone 07 3216 5000.
page 33
In 2018 the MPAQ events calendar is bursting with great South East Queensland and regional based events. Check out our full list of events* below and make sure to add your local events into your calendars early to avoid missing out! Information on event tickets registration will be available at www.mpaq.com.au/events. February
July
Thursday 1 February
Service Trades Council Info Forum
Logan/Brisbane South
Friday 16 February
Women in Business Workshop
Thursday 22 February
Plumbing & Gas Trade Expo
Toowoomba
Friday 23 February
Plumbing & Gas Industry Golf Day
Toowoomba
Brisbane
March Friday 9 March
World Plumbing Day Breakfast
Monday 26 March
Service Trades Council Info Forum
Brisbane Ipswich
April No Events
Friday 20 July
Tues 24 - Thurs 26 July Regional Road Trip Thursday 26 July
Plumbing & Gas Trade Expo
Wed 9 - Thurs 10 May
Regional Road Trip
Wednesday 9 May
Regional Dinner
Cairns
Thursday 10 May
Regional Dinner
Townsville
Thursday 17 May
Plumbing & Gas Trade Expo
Gold Coast
Friday 18 May
Plumbing & Gas Industry Golf Day
Gold Coast
Tues 22 - Thurs 24 May Regional Road Trip Thursday 24 May
Service Trades Council Info Forum
Tuesday 29 May
Small Business Week Ladies Luncheon
Townsville - Mackay
Friday 10 August
Regional Dinner
Mackay
Tuesday 14 August
Plumbing & Gas Trade Expo
Mackay
Thursday 16 August
Plumbing & Gas Trade Expo
Rockhampton
Friday 17 August
Plumbing & Gas Industry Golf Day
Rockhampton
Friday 24 August
Women’s Plumbing Alliance Wine & Cheese
Brisbane
September Wed 5 - Fri 7 September Industry Conference Tues 11 - Thurs 13 Sept. Regional Road Trip Thursday 13 September Service Trades Council Info Forum
TBC Toowoomba - Warwick Warwick
Thursday 13 September Plumbing & Gas Trade Expo
Sunshine Coast
Thursday 20 September Plumbing & Gas Trade Expo
Hervey Bay
October Friday 12 October
Women’s Plumbing Alliance Business Brekky
Brisbane
Brisbane
November
June
Tuesday 6 November
Tuesday 19 June
Plumbing & Gas Trade Expo
Friday 22 June
Plumbing & Gas Industry Golf Day
Tuesday 26 June
Plumbing & Gas Trade Expo
Townsville
Thursday 28 June
Plumbing & Gas Trade Expo
Cairns
Brisbane North Brisbane
* Dates are subject to change , please check the MPAQ website for the most up-to-date event information.
page 34
Gladstone
Regional Road Trip
Gympie - Hervey Bay Hervey Bay
Mackay - Gladstone
Wed 8 - Fri 10 August
Brisbane South Cairns - Townsville
Service Trades Council Info Forum
Brisbane
August
May Thursday 3 May
Plumbing & Gas Industry Awards
Melbourne Cup Celebration
Thursday 22 November Service Trades Council Info Forum
Brisbane Brisbane North
Cairns Info Forum
Gary Brown, Josh and Mick Taranto and Trevor Symonds
Gary Brown, Paul Bates and Ray Smith
social
MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE
Bob Smith, Roy Walker, Penny Cornah and Al Bruce
Women’s Plumbing Alliance Melbourne Cup Luncheon
Attendees at the Lunch
Natalie Christian from JRW Gas and Plumbing with Mel Pierre from Tappr
Penny Cornah with Virginia Andrews and Claire Walker from JS Salmon Plumbing
The Reece Crew
Kathy Akins from Akins Plumbing with Mel Pierre from Tappr
Natalie Bright from Caroma with Catherine Cahill from Cahill Plumbing & Gas Pty Ltd
Major Contractors End of Year Function
Terry O’Keefe, Glenn Owens and Allan Hazel
Attendees at the Info Forum
Bruce Burgess and Penny Cornah
Darren Smallhorne and Dennis Hastie
Gil Crause and Glenn Bowyer
Murray Raynor and Renton Powell
Shane Williamson, Dave Coughland and Pat Tuite
Wade Fenton and Mark Hayes
page 35
membership
Congratulations to our Milestone
Achievements & New Members!
New Members
Milestone Achievements Name
Company
Division
Milestone
Name
Company
Division
Nick Roberts
NJR Plumbing Group
Brisbane North
Michael Mickenbecker
A Plumber Now
Brisbane South
30
Navid Aghdam
NAVCO Plumbing
Brisbane North
Craig Poynton
Flo-Rite Plumbing
Brisbane South
30
Sam Darwich
NABA Plumbing
Brisbane North
Ian McIlwain
I & R Plumbing Service
Brisbane South
30
Matthew Jones
MSJ Plumbing
Brisbane South
Jared Seiler
Reds Plumbing and Drainage
Brisbane South
Scott Wilson
Scope Services Qld Pty Ltd
Brisbane South
Mark Cross
Enviroplumb
Central
David Lehmann
Lehmann Plumbing and Gas
Country
Matthew Carter
Adept Plumbing and Gas
Gold Coast
Geoff Covich
Gas & Flame Gasfitting
Gold Coast
Todd Hautop
Sea Plumbing Pty Ltd
Gold Coast
Ben Tomkinson
Ben Tomkinson Plumbing
Gold Coast
Jonathan Brimacombe
Paradise Point Roofing Pty Ltd
Gold Coast
Michael Kelly
Kelly Kool
Ipswich
Matthew Power
MJP Plumbing Gas & Civil Pty Ltd
Sunshine Coast
Jarron Miller
Aqua Jem Plumbing
Toowoomba
Daryl Madden
Daryl Madden Plumbing
Brisbane North
25
Rob Roser
Rosers Plumbing
Central
25
David Armstrong
Armstrong Plumbing & Maintenance
Brisbane South
5
Robert Fluerty
Brizsolar Pty Ltd
Brisbane South
5
David Stackelberg
CCI Plumbing Pty Ltd
Brisbane North
5
Hayden Lumsden
Cooke & Dowsett Pty Ltd
Brisbane South
5
Darcy Rowe
D.G Rowe and M.A Rowe
North Qld
5
Damian Parker
DVP Plumbing Services
Sunshine Coast
5
Rowan Desailly
Rapid Plumbing NQ
North Qld
5
Earl Reid
Reid Plumbing Pty Ltd
Gold Coast
5
30 years Membership
N IAN McILWAI VICE
TON CRAIG POYNing JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018
ELD KARL MAYFI Mackay Laser Plumbing
20 years Membership
IAMSON BRUCE WILL(QL D) PTY LTD BRW ENTERPRISES
, with penny cornah
MPAQ
S
J MULLIN
MPAQ with bill dunn,
40 years Membership
60 years Membership
Y MULLIN JOHN & KELL S Plumbing
I&R Plumbing SER
FLO-RITE Plumb
page 36
30 years Membership
40 years Membership
WARREN JOESNES WJ&LM JON
membership MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE
Greg Stimson Celebrates 50 Years of Plumbing
M
PAQ would like to congratulate one of our members, Greg Stimson on reaching 50 years in plumbing in November 2017. Greg began plumbing in 1967 in Dalby after finishing his grade 10 exams. At the age of 14/15 he began his plumbing apprenticeship by correspondence (reading a series of papers or booklets and answering questions at the end of each one) and a one day practical session in Toowoomba each fortnight. After completing his apprenticeship, Greg gained experience working for businesses that offered big jobs and travel, all while juggling the early years of married life and a young family. For the last 21 years, Greg and his family have owned their own business, Stimson Plumbing & Building Maintenance, and Greg says that the most rewarding aspect of his careers is seeing his two eldest children show enough interest to take over the family business someday. He also takes pride in the considerable number of employees he has had over the years and the training he has been able to offer both tradespeople and administrative staff. Greg’s favourite part about plumbing is that he is “always learning something new because the plumbing trade and its associated activities are so diverse and interesting”. When the time comes for Greg to retire, he plans to travel around Australia, become involved in volunteer work, and play more golf (health and body still willing)!
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Greg Stimson, Stimson Plumbing & Building Maintenance
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corporate supporters
Meet Our New
Corporate Supporters BUSY At Work is an established and trusted not for profit organisation providing apprenticeship, employment and community programs. BUSY holds a reputation as leading providers of apprenticeship and employment services, Indigenous employment programs, school based programs, mature aged worker programs and disability employment services. BUSY’s approach to jobactive Employment Services, Transition to Work Services and Work for the Dole Coordinator in contracted areas illustrates BUSY’s commitment to providing employment opportunities to local communities. With almost 40 years of experience, BUSY delivers various programs across Australia with more than 40 offices throughout Queensland, Victoria, New South Wales and Western Australia. BUSY’s comprehensive programs are designed to provide skilling, employment and education solutions to businesses, job seekers, students and apprentices. Profits are injected directly back into the local community with emphasis on job seekers including youth, people with a disability and Indigenous Australians. Visit www.busyatwork.com.au or call 13 BUSY (13 28 79) to get in touch!
JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018
BackFlow Central is located at Unit 3/34 Cessna Drive, Caboolture, Queensland and has been supplying the Backflow prevention industry for over 10 years. Recently purchased by Stephen Heron in August 2017, the company has seen a significant change in how they do business at BackFlow Central, with the new proprietor immediately joining Master Plumbers’ Association of Queensland (MPAQ) as a Corporate Supporter. Having been a plumber for many years, Steve understands what plumbers want and how important quick service and availability of parts to service anything to do with Backflow Valves and/or testing equipment is to their needs. BackFlow Central is a “One Stop Shop” for either walk in customers or online purchases for plumbers Australia wide. They have every part available on the shelf when you arrive, or alternatively their team can dispatch same day through Registered Express Post when you shop online at www.backflowcentral.com.au. Their warehouse has a compliant calibration test rig in place to service your companies Test Kits. They have every available spare part in stock, so if your test kits do not meet the required test pressures, or if you are wanting to upgrade, they have the latest models in stock. Each tested kit is returned with a fully compliant 12 month test certificate enclosed, and if for some reason any part of the test kit is unable to be repaired, they have quality parts in stock, which ensures your test kit gets back to you quickly so you can get back to work. They have highly trained staff who know every Backflow Valve in the market and are only a phone call away on 1300 734 295 to discuss your needs. Alternatively, you can visit their website www.backflowcentral.com.au.
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What is a Virtual Administration Officer? • A highly skilled professional entrepreneur that has strong administrative and organisational skills • Operates remotely and utilizes today’s technology to deliver a full range of business support services professionally • An independent contractor, not an employee, and offers their services virtually Benefits to Hiring a Virtual Assistant? • Saves you time so you can concentrate on your family and focus on growing your business • Saves you money by not paying overheads that come with having an employee • Fee becomes a business expense Karen has 20 years administration experience and the last 12 of those were with local council in the Building, Plumbing and Planning areas. In 2008, Karen obtained a Certificate IV in Business Administration and in 2010 a Diploma of Local Government Planning. Karen can: • Complete and submit all IDAS forms, etc. • Create and customize templates, letters, brochures, manuals, etc. • Word and Excel proficient • Email and calendar management • Keep you on top of your invoices and payments • Personally answer your business phone when you are unavailable or just missed the call from her office • Anything an in-house assistant can do, except make your coffee Packages available to suit short term, occasional, long term or once off projects. Visit www.handfordvirtual.com.au for further information or call Karen on 0487 000 557.
Feel like you need to be a website developer as well as a plumber? If you feel the pressure of having to have a digital and a social media foot print, but don’t know where to start, Rebel Digital provide an affordable option for your business so you can get a professional website done and build your social presence. They provide professionally built websites with content, graphics, hosting, unlimited emails, set up support and ongoing support (in Australia) over 12 months. With your discount, you can get all this for under $3,000 (excl. GST). There are no huge upfront bills and you can pay over 12 months. For information about their packages call 07 5665 6600 or email sales@rebelmedia.com.au.
The Supporters of Our Industry Trading Contact
Platinum Corporate Supporters Australian Valve Group Cbus Reece simPRO Software Pty Ltd Tradelink WFI Insurance
Gold Corporate Supporters
03 9462 2666 1300 361 784 03 9274 0000 1300 139 467 1800 758 624 1300 934 934
BUSSQ Building Super 07 3369 1111 Dial Before You Dig (Qld) Ltd 07 3360 7950 Emerson Backflow 07 3260 2555 GWA Group 07 3131 5999 Hilti Australia 131 292 InSinkErator 0447 886 648 PROTRADE United 1300 767 774 Queensland Building and Construction Commission 139 333 Saniflo 1300 557 779 Uponor 07 3157 5297
Silver Corporate Supporters Global Roto-Moulding Pty Ltd Rheem Australia Pty Ltd Stiebel Eltron (Aust) Pty Ltd
07 4697 7099 07 3412 9200 07 3399 3711
Advanced Enviro-Septic AHG Qld Aitchison Reid Building & Construction Lawyers Alliance Leasing ALS Environmental Ancra Australia Pty Ltd Apollo Valves Apprenticeship Support Australia Apricus Australia Pty Ltd APT Management Services Pty Ltd Aquacure Water Treatment Pty Ltd Aquatech Solar Technologies Pty Ltd Astivita Limited Australian Industry Trade College Gold Coast AustWorld AutoTender Avis Australia & Budget Rent A Car Australia Backflow Central & Hydromet Bermad Water Technologies Blucher (Australia) Pty Ltd Brasshards (Holdings) Pty Ltd Bromic Plumbing and Gas Busy At Work Clayton Engineering Con-Serv Corporation Australia Pty Ltd Construction Skills Queensland Contractors and Industrial Sales CoverCard Davey Water Products Pty Ltd Decina Bathroomware Pty Ltd DFK Hirn Newey Downtown Toyota Doyles Construction Lawyers EJ Electro-Training Institute Pty Ltd Elgas Ltd Enware Australia Pty Ltd Ergon Energy Everhard Industries Pty Ltd Finlease Fleetmatics Pty Ltd Flowpex Piping Systems Halgan Pty Ltd Handford Virtual Services Hays Recruitment Hydroflow Distributors (Aust) Pty Ltd Kennards Test and Measure Qld Kingspan Environmental Pty Ltd
07 5474 4055 07 3877 0095 07 3128 0120 07 3188 4860 07 3243 7222 1800 426 272 0477 223 110 1300 363 831 1300 277 428 07 3215 6600 07 3277 6696 07 5520 6701 07 3726 2000 07 5635 0400 1300 780 430 1300 882 578 02 9353 9076 1300 734 295 03 9464 2374 08 8374 3426 07 3326 5900 1300 276 642 13 28 79 1300 798 022 07 3630 5744 1800 798 488 1300 112 010 1300 657 688 07 3370 3700 07 3271 1944 07 3266 1488 07 3896 0100 1800 888 783 07 3216 5000 07 4724 4543 07 3396 2769 02 8556 4000 07 3851 6218 13 19 26 07 3324 2655 1800 835 117 02 9986 0605 07 3208 8339 0487 000 557 07 3231 2601 1300 493 359 07 3823 0055 02 8889 5408
Corporate Supporters
Mascot Engineering Group Master Hire Maximise Capital Mazda Australia Pty Limited McKays Solicitors MM Kembla Mt Gravatt Volkswagen Openpay Pty Ltd Optimum Recoveries Pty Ltd Pentair Valves and Controls Plastec Australia Pty Ltd Plumbcall Franchise Systems Pty Ltd Plus Passive Fire Quantum Energy Technologies Pty Ltd Queensland Brassware Association Queensland Gas Association QUT Facilities Management Rain Harvesting Rainware Outdoor Showers Rebel FM Rehau Pty Ltd Reliance Worldwide Corporation Ridge Tool (Aust) Pty Ltd Rinnai Robert Bosch (Australia) Pty Ltd Safe Asbestos Samios Head Office Select Water Tanks Pty Ltd Sensis Shower Sealed Pty Ltd Site Safety Solutions SkillsTech Australia Snap Fire Systems Pty Ltd SolarEast Australasia Pty Ltd Specialised Plumbing Centre Stoddart Stormtech Pty Ltd Stratco (Qld) Pty Ltd Studor Australia Pty Ltd Supakwik Water Heaters Pty Ltd Tappr Taylex Industries Pty Ltd The Couta Group The Wondercap Company Pty Ltd Top4 Internet Marketing Total Eden Totally Workwear - East Brisbane Toyota Tradify Valves R Us Viega Pty Ltd Vinidex Pty Ltd Vivax-Metrotech AUS WPC Group Ltd Xylem Water Solutions Zetco Valves Pty Ltd Zip Heaters (Aust) Pty Ltd Zurn Australia
1300 885 295 07 3375 5555 07 3601 0196 02 9554 1020 07 3223 5900 07 3868 7888 07 3421 0999 03 9009 7211 07 3166 8888 07 3260 2555 07 5413 4444 07 4922 5697 07 3861 1021 02 9699 7444 07 3630 5744 1300 792 239 07 3188 2331 07 3248 9600 0411 660 933 07 5665 6600 07 5527 1833 07 3018 3440 03 9930 7000 07 3137 6600 0417 606 635 1300 425 433 07 3907 8399 07 5546 8571 07 3865 3000 1300 519 133 0438 589 474 07 3244 0209 07 3390 5420 1300 668 886 07 3862 1166 07 3440 7600 02 4423 1989 07 3451 4444 1300 551 519 07 3255 6389 1300 804 091 07 3441 5200 03 8405 3386 07 5539 3665 1300 520 115 07 3272 7077 07 3249 4000 02 9710 3831 02 8310 7606 07 3865 1488 02 8858 2600 07 3277 2822 07 3103 2844 1300 311 272 07 3908 4000 02 9516 1336 02 9796 3100 1300 009 876
Brisbane City Council Bundaberg Regional Council Gympie Regional Council Isaac Regional Council Livingstone Shire Council Logan City Council Mackay Regional Council Mareeba Shire Council Moreton Bay Regional Council Mount Isa City Council Quilpie Shire Council Rockhampton Regional Council Sunshine Coast Regional Council Townsville City Council
07 3403 8888 07 4130 4814 1300 307 800 07 4964 5400 07 4939 9814 07 3412 4465 07 4961 9011 07 4086 4720 07 3205 0555 07 4747 3200 07 4656 0500 07 4936 8345 07 5420 8618 07 4417 5299
Corporate Associate Councils
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contents
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