5 minute read
A BREATH OF FRESH AIR: creating healthier homes for families with natural mould remediation
BY SHARI HALL
When Jill and Graeme Rogers reflect on their life together, they marvel at the diverse paths they’ve taken. Married for over 50 years, they’ve navigated many personal and professional terrains—from Tasmania to Queensland, from nursing and engineering to owning a financial education college, and now, leading a revolutionary business in natural mould remediation through XSpor Australia. Their journey to bringing this life-changing, eco-friendly solution to Australia was born from personal experience and a desire to create healthier homes and working spaces.
FROM DISASTER TO RECOVERY
Their story began in 2011 when Brisbane’s floodwaters overwhelmed the city. Graeme, then Body Corporate Chairman of their building, saw first-hand the devastating effects of mould in buildings. He noticed how toxic chemicals used in the clean-up were being pumped into the environment and wondered if there was a safer, more sustainable way to tackle the problem.
Jill recalls, “We were out of our building for six weeks because everything was inaccessible. Graeme couldn’t stand knowing these dangerous chemicals were entering the river. This experience sparked his passion to find a better solution.”
That search led them to XSpor, a mould removal company that uses plant-based, natural products developed by American scientists. The XSpor formula, a blend of plant enzymes and extracts, is effective and safe for the environment and human health. The plant enzyme mimics how plants protect themselves from mould in the wild.
In 2018, Graeme and Jill became the master licensees for XSpor in Australia and New Zealand, ready to transform how people dealt with mould in their homes and working spaces.
MOULD: A SILENT THREAT
Mould is an invisible yet pervasive problem in many homes, especially in humid climates like Queensland. “It’s not just unsightly; it makes people sick. Nine out of ten homes we inspect have people suffering from mould-related illnesses, but they don’t realise what’s causing their symptoms,” Jill explains.
Mould can hide in walls, ceilings, and floors, silently triggering respiratory problems, chronic fatigue, and even neurological issues. Many medical professionals, Jill included—thanks to her nursing background—have only recently begun to recognise the severity of mould exposure.
“Doctors are starting to acknowledge the dangers of mould exposure,” Jill says. “We’re now seeing more awareness, especially in Queensland where the climate creates perfect mould breeding conditions.”
PROTECTING FAMILIES, NATURALLY
At the heart of XSpor’s mission is a commitment to families. Jill and Graeme have helped countless families across Queensland remediate their homes, ensuring they live in safe, healthy environments. One story that stands out involves a couple who had just purchased a new home in Brisbane.
“The wife was extremely sensitive to mould and became violently ill within three days of moving in. To make matters worse, she was seven months pregnant,” Jill recalls. “We discovered a subfloor issue where moisture had accumulated, causing hidden mould. After a lengthy process, including using water diviners and fixing the drainage, we remediated the house, and she could finally live there safely.”
What makes their product unique is its longevity. Unlike chemicals, which lose their effectiveness quickly, XSpor’s enzymes continue to work for months, keeping homes mould-free. “We offer a warranty because we know that once we treat a home, it will stay free from mould for years—unless, of course, new mould is introduced,” she says.
BUILDING A HEALTHIER FUTURE
With XSpor Australia firmly established, Jill and Graeme continue to expand their services. They’ve recently introduced prepurchase mould inspections, a critical step for prospective homeowners. “More people are requesting mould inspections before buying a property, just like they would for pests or structural issues,” Jill notes. “It’s so important to ensure the home you’re moving into is safe, especially for families with young children.”
As they look to the future, Jill and Graeme are driven by their passion for improving indoor air quality. “Our goal is to educate as many people as possible about the dangers of mould and how to prevent it,” says Jill. “It’s not just about selling a product; it’s about helping people live healthier, happier lives.”
After decades of different careers and ventures, Jill and Graeme are proud to have found their true calling in XSpor Australia. “Helping people live healthier lives through natural mould remediation feels like the culmination of everything we’ve learned,” Jill reflects. “We’re not just remediating buildings; we’re giving people their health back. That’s what drives us.”
Their advice to anyone dealing with mould? Don’t wait. “Mould is sneaky,” Jill says with a smile. “But with the right solution, it doesn’t stand a chance.”
MOULD PREVENTION TIPS:
• Annually inspect for roof leaks and repair quickly
• Clean gutters regularly
• Clean A/C every 12 months• Clean carpets professionally every six months
• Ventilate your home correctly on warm, dry days
• Close your windows on hot, humid days, turn the fans on, or use the A/C on a dry cycle
• Use the exhaust fan when showering – leave it on for 10-15 mins after finishing
• Don’t leave wet towels in the bathroom
• Air your mattress and pillows frequently in full sun
• Declutter your home to minimise dust and mould
• Avoid using cardboard boxes for storage
• Use space bags to store clothes and linen
• Use good dehumidifiers in humid environments
• Use a good vacuum cleaner with HEPA filter
• Use a slightly damp microfibre cloth to dust the home, followed by a dry clean towel
• Consider using a UVC Air Disinfection Unit for air quality maintenance
