BRANCH UPDATE Christopher Gradwell NECA QLD Member Manager
It is a new year, and we are optimistic that this will be the year we move out from the shadow of COVID-19.
Finishing 2021 on a positive note Towards the end of last year, NECA held an end-of-year industry celebration at Hemmingway’s Brewery in Cairns. NECA Queensland’s President, David James, discussed the future of NECA Queensland and its ongoing support and commitment to all Queensland members. After another year of COVID-19 uncertainty, it was a great opportunity to network and relax with members.
Change and the road ahead
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QLD BRANCH
NECA Queensland finds itself in an exciting position in 2022. We have been through a state of change over the last year and a half, listening to our members and their needs, and delivering on this every day. With an increase in services and support personnel, NECA members are receiving more value for their membership and this has been reflected in our continued growth. NECA Training will commence in Queensland this year. This is another fantastic service we’ve added, which will provide upskilling and post-trade training. In an industry that is rapidly changing and evolving, it is important to stay ahead of emerging technologies and future energies. NECA’s partnership with leading wholesalers and electrical suppliers is growing to new heights, with more involvement and information sharing and support for NECA members and industry. These partnerships are essential for keeping the industry working together as a whole, growing and succeeding together. With more events, information sessions, resources and web series, NECA and our valued partners will be delivering increasing value to more members in an all-encompassing approach.
The key to recovery 2022 has already presented its fair share of challenges for NECA members. With the borders opening at the end of 2021, a surge of COVID-19 cases never before seen spread across Queensland affecting all areas of the state. With large portions of the workforce required to isolate for seven days, we’ve seen supply chain issues as well as staff shortages. Many businesses were already experiencing high demand for additional staff, so this development has dramatically impacted on contractors. It has created a backlog of works, project delays and a raft of issues to manage. Since the emergence of COVID-19 NECA has been at the forefront in keeping members updated. This year NECA Legal ran a member webinar, which provided clear and concise information on leave requirements, the rights of employees, what defines a close contact and contractual issues. The session had an unprecedented attendance and was well-received by the membership. I personally want to remind all members of NECA’s employee assistance program (EAP) that provides complimentary counselling and support for all members and their staff. The current whirlwind business climate and ever-changing situation can lead to additional stress. Stress can be the trigger for past trauma or a catalyst for a downward spiral in mental health – not to be confused with mental illness. This impacts all avenues of business, from performance through to safety. If left untreated, mental health can have detrimental consequences. NECA is here to support you and your business with information and resources, like our NECA Legal webinar, and support during tougher times with the NECA EAP. We hear you, and have the tools to assist. Please reach out if there is anything you need.
April 2022
