Get a chance to play golf with a Professional Golfer in your state!
Aussie Painting Contractor Aussie Painters Network Survey Results The Life Sustaining Bacteria
‘Break-Even’ Rate
The Reliable Painters in Brisbane Giving Client’s Confidence New Safety Legislation for Painters
Colours of Emotions
Issue #18 March, 2013
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Contents 6 Editor 7 Member Consultant 8 Aussie Painters Network Survey Results 12 ‘Break-Even’ Rate 14 Overspray 16 The Life Sustaining Bacteria 20 The Reliable Painters in Brisbane Giving Client’s Confidence 23 What is Google Plus? 24 New Safety Legislation for Painters 26 Do you know YOUR Why? 28 The birth of ‘Backbones of Business’ 32 Paint Binders 36 Disaster Relief goes Digital How social media has come to the rescue 38
Training Schedule
40
Industry Idiots
41
Important Contacts
EDITOR Nigel Gorman DEPUTY EDITOR Caroline Miall
CONTRIBUTORS • • • • •
Belinda Ross Caroline Miall Jennie Gorman Jim Baker Leanne Staff
• • • • •
Michael Farrugia Mel Holzworth Nigel Gorman Scott Collins Stephanie Gadd
GRAPHIC DESIGNER • J. Anne Delgado
From the Editor Welcome to March APC, We hope you enjoy a browse through this months mag; we have lots to report! Inside you’ll find a summary of the results that our recent survey turned up; thanks to those who let us know their thoughts. We think there are already a few tools offered to Members that would help respondents so take another look at what we offer. We’ll be looking to your suggestions for information and articles published in coming months. An outcome of our involvement in the PGA in January, Aussie Painters Network is now sponsoring Pro-Golfer, Jason Norris. Jason’s been successfully working the circuit for over 15 years! We’re proud to offer him our support and pleased to announce that he’ll be part of some Member comps coming up where you could win a day on the green with our resident pro. We hope that you’re all sparing a few thoughts and dollars for our fellow Australians that are going through hell at the moment with ongoing flooding and fire disasters in areas. Check out our article on the rise of community efforts online for all sorts of ways to help. Have a good month,
Nigel Gorman
nigel@aussiepaintersnetwork.com.au
0430 399 800
Opinions and viewpoints expressed in Aussie Painting Contractor Magazine do not necessarily represent those of the editor, staff or publisher or any Home Painters Info staff or related parties. The publisher, Home Painters Info and Aussie Painting Contractor Magazine personnel are not liable for any mistake, misprint or omission. All information contained in Aussie Painting Contractor Magazine is intended to inform and illustrate and should not be taken as financial, legal or accounting advice. You should seek professional advice before making any business related decisions. We are not liable for any losses you may incur directly or indirectly as a result of reading Aussie Painting Contractor Magazine. Reproduction of any material or contents of the magazine without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited.
Membership Consultant Wow! Here we are again, March already and with all the wet weather here in Queensland, we are rapidly losing our status as the ‘Sunshine State’. We hope that all painters have enough work to go on with despite the weather disruptions. How about jumping onto www.aussiepaintersnetwork.com.au and join us?! MEMBERSHIP IS TAX DEDUCTABLE! Remember, we offer great benefits to our members but we can’t make you use them. It is up to you as members to utilize the benefits to maximize your business opportunities. If you use your benefits, you will be recouping your initial outlay of membership in no time! As usual, we welcome suggestions to further improve our service to you. With the suggestions that you provide, we will continue to expand and seek further benefits that you may use when you join us at Aussie Painters Network. Why pay hundreds of $$$ for your membership to a business which doesn’t keep you as informed and as up to date as Aussie Painters Network do? Pay one annual fee of and reap the rewards of our ever increasing list of benefits for you and your business. We hope that you enjoy this edition of our emag, and until next time. Bye for now,
Stephanie Gadd
steph@aussiepaintersnetwork.com.au
0433 724 794
Visit us on Facebook www.aussiepaintersnetwork.com.au
F eatured
S
ome of you will be aware that we recently circulated a survey via one of our regular emails. The purpose of the exercise was to help us to assist you better, so thanks to everyone that took time to complete it. The answers were very interesting, some of them entertaining and all of them useful to us. Greatly appreciated are those that took the opportunity to let us know that we’re providing a service that is of value to them, and those that used the chance to let us know what we can do differently. Quite a few of the issues raised have been addressed in previous issues of Aussie Painting Contractor Magazine, so we plan to rerun some of these articles or publish updates of others in coming issues.
Survey Results 3. Would you be interested in business webinars? 52% said they would be interested in Business Webinars. Just last week we have circulated information on government run Webinars, and Aussie Painters Network has plans to host some of our own in the future. 4. Do you know and/or do you want to know your Break Even Rate? 66% of respondents said they know their Break Even Rate which is good to see. The concern is for the 34% that don’t know their Break Even Rate; do they know if they are making a profit or are they just making ends meet job to job and week to week?
Here’s a summary of what we found: 1. Where does the majority of your work come from? It was heartening to read that at 74%, Word of Mouth was by far the highest response. It’s good to see that the old ways still work. Others found success with local papers, yellow pages and google ads. 2. Do you have a business plan? Good to see that 58% of painters that did the survey have business plans and 25% would like assistance in making a business plan. Look out for articles on this topic soon.
8 | Aussie Painters Network
For those that would like assistance working out their breakeven rate, we are re-running a comprehensive article on the topic in this month’s edition. The piece elicited a high response when it was run back in November 2012. We hope it will help you work out what you need to run more profitably.
5. What brand of paint do you generally use? Dulux was the most popular with 52 respondents; Wattyl and Taubmans came next with 17 and 16 respectively, then Solver with 14, Haymes with 10, Bristol & Resene with 2, Astec Paint, Ecolour, Jotun, Paint Place or Covermax, Porters and Regents Paints all rated with one each. 6. What is the one tool you could not do without? This question was answered with a wide variety of responses. We won’t name them all (they range from the trusty sandwich maker to ‘my wife’!) The majority are covered by the following: Paint brush – 18 (good quality, new nylon ones, etc) Paint Scraper/tungsten scraper - 13 Spray unit/Airless Sprayer- 8 Putty knife/filler blade – 6 Rollers – 3 Sander - 2 7 - said their mobile/smart phone was the tool they couldn’t live without and 5 listed their vehicle as the most important tool (van, car, ute and trailer etc) 4 - respondents stated their most valuable tool was their staff; tradespeople or business administrators. 3 - said their computer/computer programs were crucial to their operation.
7. What can Aussie Painters Network do to assist you and your business? Thanks to those survey participants who responded with positive comments; it’s great to know that you think we are already doing a good job. ‘You are already doing a great job. Imagine what else you could do. Thanks for all the valuable information.’ ‘Always enjoy reading the magazine. Cheers’ Over the next 3 months we will attempt to respond to the suggestions you’ve made to help us assist you more. A few of the things asked for are already available to our Members, so have a look at our benefits to see if they can assist you. For example: 1. Price Rates and off the plan rates? These are available as part of our Membership. 2. Any painter can have 1 listing on our site in the Find A Painter area at no cost if you want more postcodes to be listed in just join as a member. For your free listing all you need to do is send us an email and your details will be updated. 3. For this we need Member numbers and currently we don’t have enough for a true voice. The government are looking at National Licencing so those states that currently have nothing in place will hopefully have that in a few years. We will keep you updated as more comes to hand. 4. In some areas ,we are advertising to the public and we are now sponsoring in a few areas around the country. Obviously for us to advertise we need funds and the only way we can get those is by the painters getting behind us for less than $100 per year or companies advertising with us. We are only 18 months old but we are starting to get a presence and will continue to grow.
www.aussiepaintersnetwork.com.au 2013 March Issue | 9
Introducing
Jason has been playing the professional circuit for over 15 years. He was the winner of the 2010 Victorian Open, the 2007 Western Australian PGA & the 2007 New South Wales Open. We’re proud to be sponsoring him and look forward to seeing Jason sporting our logo!
Members of Aussie Painters Network will be in draw to play a round with Jason in your state...
B usiness
‘Break-Even’ Rate
D
o you know your ‘break-even’ rate? How much do you want to earn each year and how would you achieve it? Is it possible that you would you be better off working for wages? These are some of the most important questions any business person could ask themselves and know the answers to. If you don’t, you are possibly setting up to fail in your business. All businesses have a break-even rate; it’s easy to work out. If you don’t know how, consider replicating the table below to reflect your own expenses.
What are your real costs? Advertising, Vehicle Expenses, Phones, Insurances, Licencing, Accounting, Bank Fees & Charges, Office Expenses, Membership Fees, Tool Replacements, Training, and Waste Management just to name a few. The average painter only works 44 weeks of the year due to external conditions; weather, vacation leave, down time between jobs. Obviously, you are not paid for those hours. Based on a 40 hour working week, this table outlines an example of basic business costs.
(Keep in mind that these expenses cover only the basics; there may be many more costs (Including, but not limited to other promotion, tools, vehicle leasing, rent, etc…) that we haven’t itemised and so have allowed $ 5,000.00 in the ‘other expenses’ column.. Obviously these costs can run a lot higher.)
www.holzlaw.com.au
12 | Aussie Painters Network
So, $22+ per hour is required purely to cover the basic running costs of your business. Add your salary at a bare minimum of $60,000 gross, and your rate would need to be at least $50.25 - Just for a salary of 60k, and no profit factored in yet! Profit is the reason you should be in business for yourself. If it’s not profitable, you may be better off working for someone else, without the worries and stresses of a small business. On wages, at a rate of $30 per hour, you could be earning $52,800 plus super etc., over a 44 week year. Hopefully this will give a better understanding of why a too low hourly rate can crucify your business, and defeat the purpose of running one.
Telephone: +617 3808 2868 Fax: +617 3808 8600
If you run your own show, and you’re struggling to make it profitable, you may need to start thinking more like a business person first and foremost; not a painter trying to run a business. There are successful painters achieving fairer rates who have a constant flow of work. Think like a business person and run your business accordingly.
2013 March Issue | 13
F eatured
Overspray
W
henever you’re using your spray gun there is always the worry that this time you might overspray something. On a bad day you might even miss a brush stroke, but the spray gun is the biggest culprit when things go wrong. It does not help that overspray can be excluded, limited or have additional excesses with some insurance companies. Thankfully, not every insurer has these restrictions on their policy.
Most painters have probably heard stories where spraying has gone badly. No matter how well you guard yourself when spraying a fence, a simple gust of wind can spread that paint to a neighbour’s car or tinted glass. It wastes time, lowers your company’s credibility and can be expensive to remedy. That’s why it’s important to make sure you get the right insurance policy. If you’re spending money on insurance, you may as well make sure that the policy actually covers you for the issues that matter. The easiest way to find out if you have restrictions for overspray is to take a few minutes and have a look over that insurance paperwork you normally just file away and see: 1. Does the policy describe you as a “Painter with no spray painting”? 2. Does the policy have any special “Endorsements” – things that add special terms to your schedule – e.g. “Exterior Overspray Additional Excess” 3. Does the policy list a special excess for spray painting activities? If the answer is “yes” to any of the above – you should call your insurance broker to ask what they mean, or correct them if your occupation doesn’t list you as doing spray painting. If there are limitations on your policy, shop around – for the same money, you can often find yourself a similar policy with better cover for overspray!
www.consolidatedi.com.au 14 | Aussie Painters Network
W ellness
The Life Sustaining Bacteria
Y
ou may be shocked to discover that we all need bacteria to live. Within the depths of our bowel lay colonies of bacteria whose presence help stave off disease, support the immune system, help maintain gut health and life itself. It is through consuming fermented foods teeming with probiotics (good bacteria) that we are able to replenish and maintain the delicate ecosystems of the gut. Probiotics are the friendly bacteria or micro organisms that have health benefits and when consumed in sufficient quantities have a positive effect on our health and wellbeing. I am saddened to say that our modern diets and lifestyles are having a destructive effect on our bacterial ecosystems. Over consumption of refined sugars, processed foods and alcohol all disrupt the natural bacterial balance of the bowel. It is well known that good bacteria help our digestive systems and our bowels to function properly, so why are we going out of our way to destroy them. Many modern health conditions can be connected to poor gut and bowel health, making this a crucial aspect of wellness. Fermented foods have lain at the heart of human nutrition for thousands of years, and through modernisation we had forgotten our nutritional roots in favour of processed foods. Only two hundred years ago, as much as 1/3 of our diet was made up of fermented (probiotic) foods. (examples of fermented foods being yoghurt, some cheeses, whey, pickled vegetables etc). In more recent times the consumption of probiotic foods has sharply declined, and we’re lucky if we actually get enough good bacteria in the diet each day.
Scott Collins Naturopath/Nutritionist info@wellinnovations.com.au 07 554 92 554
www.wellinnovations.com.au 16 | Aussie Painters Network
According to many researchers the nutritional value of a food is increased through the fermentation process, making it more valuable to the body. Numerous benefits of consuming a probiotic rich diet have been reported, which include lessening of diarrhoea, improved IBS symptoms, improved inflammatory bowel disease, improved immune systems as well as having antibacterial properties. Researchers also report the benefits of probiotics may actually go beyond the gut and may help with many other diseases, including improving insulin resistance and cholesterol. Probtiotics foods are not a new concept in healthcare, having been a part of many cultures dating back over 2000 years. Many cultures who benefit from long and healthy lives, regularly consume fermented foods as a part
of their diet. These people regularly consume soured milk (fermented), are recognised for their longevity, physical prowess and active lives. Every single day there is a David and Goliath battle raging within us, a power struggle between unfriendly and friendly bacterial organisms. The food choices we make, including the decisions on how we live life are important factors in the survival and proliferation of good bacteria. The scientific evidence is growing and the message is becoming loud and clear, we should all consume probiotic bacteria every day. I feel so strongly about probiotic fermented foods that I recommend them to all my patients as the most basic starting point for rebuilding the body.
2013 March Issue | 17
Football Tipping Competition
Free
for Aussie Painters Network
Members
$20 for non-members
18 | Aussie Painters Network
March Issue | 19 20132013 February
P rofile
The Reliable Painters in Brisbane
Giving Client’s Confidence
R
ossi Painters – Above & Beyond are dedicated to providing the highest quality painting work with the best possible service to all their customers. We pride ourselves on our honesty and quality workmanship and we understand the importance of professionalism and friendly service. The Rossi Family name has been in the painting industry since the 1950’s. Deni Rossi the owner of “Rossi Painters” has over 35 years experience in the residential and commercial painting industry plus he also has accumulated during this time a University Bachelor of Arts in Interior Design/ Architecture and has completed many other courses and gained Certificates.
With all this experience and added education over the years plus onsite supervision, quality control, an acute eye for detail and perfectionism with minimal fuss or disruption you get a quality experience that is unique in the painting business, going above and beyond the basic painting services – and you will get all this experience at competitive prices.
20 | Aussie Painters Network
All of our projects are managed by a true professional. The owner and Director of “Rossi Painters”, Deni is the Job Site Supervisor and he will personally oversee your entire painting project from start to finish. – (No sub-contracting out to people you don’t know) He will meet with you to give you a quote and he will also return and carry out the work accompanied by his fully qualified and registered employees. Interior Decorating and Colour Consulting Rossi Painters provides a unique service of Colour consulting and interior decorating, we can help you choose colours that are right for your home. This is a complementary service to all of our clients on accepting our quote.
Rossi Painters are Dulux Accredited and also Accredited installers for the Dulux Cool Roof product, which is proving to be very popular with our clients particularly in our Hot Brisbane Climate.
Interview with Deni and Michelle Rossi Q: Deni - What makes you stand out from the rest of the painters out there today ? A: “Our Painting Business is based on experience combined with education and an acute eye for detail giving our clients a top quality painting job as well as true pride in our reputation and the work we produce, we also take extra time to build relationships with our clients so before the job has even started there is trust and communication” Q: Michelle – What kind of experience do you and Deni have that makes you different from the average painting company.? A: “A lot of our difference is based on Deni’s background in higher University education, with his “Bachelor of visual arts in Interior Design/Architecture - BVA” and a “Certificate in Adult Education”, he also has set up and taught the teaching modules at 2 campuses to Painting and Decorating apprentices. This gives Deni a unique ability to combine his experience with colour consulting and interior Design/Architecture and builds a lot of confidence for our domestic and commercial clients a definite edge when choosing Rossi Painters. My experience comes from running my own businesses and in the past 5 years my focus has been building “Rossi Painters” and focusing on customer service and all the paperwork and administration, freeing up Deni to do what he does best, running the jobs and maintaining strong communication with our clients and staff – WE ARE A BALANCED TEAM.” Q: What other important information would you like prospective clients to know: A: It’s important for people and prospective clients to know that: o We are fully licensed with the BSA o We are fully insured o We are Dulux accredited Painters o We are Dulux Cool Roof Accredited Installer o We are members of Aussie Painters Network o We are members of HIA (Housing Industry Australia) o We are members of MPA (Master Painters Association) o We only employ qualified Painters for our team o We use quality materials and top quality paint
www.rossipainters.com.au 2013 March Issue | 21
info@zebraweb.com.au 22 |Aussie Aussie Painters Painters Network Network
What is Google Plus? Google Plus, or Google+ or G+ is yet another social networking site, this one developed by, you guessed it, Google. Started in 2011, Google+ has been described as more of an information network rather than a purely social networking site like Facebook. Google+ is a place where people can share and follow interests as well. You can decide which people you want to share with by grouping people into different circles, such as friends, family, work colleagues etc. These circles are private so no one person will know which circle you have put them into. This is great when you want to separate family and work. Another feature of Google+ is the ‘hangout’. This is a similar device to Skype where you can have live video chats with single or groups of people. From a business point of view this allows you to hold meetings with various group of people online easily.
To put a post on Google+ is as simple as clicking the ‘Share what’s new” box and start typing. You can add images, video, events and links to your post as well. You can ‘like’ things with +1, or reshare the bits you really like too. A nice little difference is that you can choose whom to share with depending on your circle groups. Customising your sharing is a great feature so that you aren’t overwhelming followers with too much content. Google+ is fast becoming a great marketing tool for business. It allows more content upload than twitter while controlling the outflow of that content so that you don’t drown your followers. It could be a good tool to use to increase your online business profile. You can post your great customer’s testimonials, new tips or industry news.
Check it out!
Getting started on Google+, you need to have a Google mail account. You can set one up by creating your email account and password through Google. You can then start your Google+ profile.
2013 March Issue | 23
P rofile
New Safety Legislation for Painters
T
he Work Health & Safety Act has replaced the OHS Act in NSW, QLD, SA, TAS, ACT and NT. The Work Health & Safety Regulations have replaced the OHS Regulations in those states, and eventually will be adopted Australia-wide. Having national legislation makes it easier for you to comply should you work in more than one state, or move interstate. How do these new laws affect you? There are important changes for employers, sub-contractors and employees. In general, the rights and responsibilities of all people in the workplace are defined in the Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act. There are also Regulations that expand on particular aspects of the Act and provide details on how it should be implemented. The various state and territory governments have been working towards aligning their Acts and Regulations with ‘model’ laws developed by the federal government body called Safe Work Australia. Everyone has a duty of care to ensure that their actions don’t jeopardise the safety or welfare of others. Everyone in the workplace is also required to report any hazards that they notice, so that steps can be taken to minimise the risk of the hazard causing an injury or illness. As painters we may complain about compliance with new laws, but they are there to protect us, and prevent injury. In addition to this shared responsibility for safety, there are specific responsibilities relating to each level of employment.
24 | Aussie Painters Network
Responsibilities Below is a summary of the main responsibilities for each level of authority in a business. Note that different companies will have their own sets of job descriptions, and particular duties may vary between positions, depending on the way the company has decided to share out the tasks. But in the end, each of the responsibilities needs to be designated to an appropriate person. Directors are responsible for: • ensuring that the company’s WHS policies are effective in keeping the workplace safe • ensuring that the company’s activities comply with all WHS legislation. Managers are responsible for: • developing and implementing safe work policies and procedures • consulting with the workforce on WHS issues • distributing all relevant information to employees. Supervisors are responsible for: • supervising employees’ work performance • ensuring that appropriate training is given to employees • carrying out regular safety inspections • correcting unsafe work practices and disciplining employees who disregard WHS policies. Workers are responsible for: • taking care of the health and safety of themselves and others who may be affected by their actions • working in accordance with safe operating procedures and other safety directions from management • reporting hazards or unsafe work practices to their supervisor • reporting any injuries to their supervisor • cooperating in health and safety programs.
Consultation Consultation between management and the employees is essential for any WHS system to work properly. It’s also a requirement under the law. Employers are required to consult with their employees whenever: • issues arise that have WHS implications for employees • risk assessments are undertaken • new measures are put in place to control risks • new work or safety procedures are introduced • decisions are made about the facilities provided for the welfare of employees • changes to the workplace, plant or systems of work occur which may affect safety Meeting your safety obligations New legislation may affect • high risk licences • Safe Work Method Statements • working at heights • manually handling of materials • safe lead paint and asbestos work practices If you are a Person Conducting or Undertaking a Business (PCUB) it is your responsibility to ensure your staff are properly trained. A person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure that information, training and instruction provided to a worker is suitable and adequate, having regard to: • the nature of the work carried out by the worker • the nature of the risks associated with the work at the time the information, training or instruction is provided • the control measures implemented. The person must, so far as is reasonably practicable, ensure the information, training and instruction is provided in a way that is readily understandable by any person to whom it is provided.
The areas where painters are most likely to need to update their knowledge are: Working Safely at Heights Did you know that if you are working higher than two meters off the ground it is now classed as high risk’? This means you must conduct a risk assessment and may need to take appropriate measures, such as using handrails on trestles/planks, or having fall protection or fall arrest devices when working on a roof. Are you sure of the correct method of setting up ladders? Lead Paint and Asbestos Are you and your staff trained to identify lead paint and asbestos? Are you aware of reporting requirements in your state? Safe Work Method Statements Do you and your employees understand Safe Work Method Statements, or JSAs (Job Safety Analysis) documents? Erecting and Dismantling Restricted Height Scaffolding Do you and your staff know how to erect scaffolding up to 4m correctly, and how to access scaffolding platforms? Handling Paints and Chemicals Do you and your staff know how to read Safety Data Sheets, and how to store paints and solvents safely? Need Help? To watch videos demonstrating how to work safely go to www.painters.edu.au. You can use these videos during a tool-box meeting, or watch them on your smart-phone.
Call NIPD Painters Safety Services for help and advice:
1300 319790 For more information on your WHS obligations check the following web-sites:
www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au www.painters.edu.au 2013 March Issue | 25
F eatured
Do you know YOUR Why?
k
nowing your WHY is one of the hardest questions for most new business owners to answer. I find in my MasterMind Groups that most people who have been in business some time still can’t answer this question. I believe that if you do not understand the WHY of your business (and your life), what you want and what legacy you can leave behind, your why is not big enough to sustain you and your business in the long run. Being in business today is hard for solo and small business entrepreneurs and most often they have to do nearly everything themselves. Usually it is one person working hard to do the roles of up to 8 people. We all have our own innate gifts. These are the things we do without thinking and wonder at times why we get paid to the do them as they are so easy for us. It is the other things we have to do that aren’t easy and we struggle with, that have to be done, that take us out of our flow.
what they want to achieve, especially when it isn’t in their flow. We are all born with something special and often it is our hobby initially … until one day we realise that we have a special something that we can share with others. Whatever that is, and if it is all consuming, you will most likely find that this is the WHY that you have been blessed to have and to share. Only you can know your WHY. This is something that you need to sit with, think and write about, being aware of where your consciousness is and what you feel. What is your cause and belief? What inspires you to be who you are? Does it brings tears to your eyes? What brings up an overwhelming feeling in your heart that almost chokes you at times? Understand that, and you will know your WHY!
For me, one of the most difficult parts of my business to contend with is the accounting side which is the most important part if I want to get paid! I now understand that this is not my innate gift so I need a good book keeper and an accountant to look after these things for me, explaining what I need to know and understand if my business is to be successful. This is why outsourcing in business can change your world, allowing you the time to work on and with your innate gifts that you have to present to the world. So, getting back to your WHY! If your why makes you cry, you know you are doing what you need to be doing. When I talk about my WHY, I can’t help but cry, because for me it is my overwhelming passion and reason for being alive. I want to share this with others to give them the opportunities to achieve
©
Jennie Gorman 2013 (07) 3262 5343
www.connexionsunlimited.com.au 26 | Aussie Painters Network
27 | Aussie Painters Network
2013 March Issue | 27
B usiness
The birth of ‘Backbones of Business’ A
As we know women have many special qualities. Their natural abilities to nurture, assist in development and provide safe and secure environments doesn’t just relate to their roles as partner, wife, mother or friend. For a large percentage of businesses within the MPGA, the woman stands beside the man who works in the trade providing integral support in the operation of a successful business. General speaking most tradesmen spend their days on the tools not having the time to stop, look and listen to the information that is being sent during working hours. As we evolve and upgrade our systems, we feel it is time to recognise the administrators and provide them with resources and support to address their needs on a regular basis. Introducing ‘Backbones of Business’ a networking group for women and administrative staff proudly support by the MPGA together with the Master Painters & Decorators Australia. Both associations have recognised the vital role these women and administrators play in ensuring that our member businesses remain professional and successful. Through this program, the ‘Backbones’ will be able to meet on a regular basis in various venues throughout not only the metropolitan area but from Geraldton to Bunbury over the coming year. We have a host of speakers lined up to talk to you, so look out for us as we are on our way! Proudly supported this year by the Commonwealth Bank, Backbones of Business gets a kick start. Our first event was held at the MPA Group’s head office where 15 women of various sized businesses came together to update their knowledge on current banking tools and to hear Michael Hinsley from H & H Business Services presenting effective ways to manage cash flow and develop systems that will enable decision making to be quicker and easier. But that wasn’t all the morning offered. It gave every woman in the room the opportunity to share their experiences of running a business.
28 | Aussie Painters Network
For the women who attended the first gathering in October here were some of the comments; “Thanks so much to you and your team for this morning’s get together. It was a really fun morning and very informative.” Melanie Hood – Eric Hood Pty Ltd “Thank you for the enjoyable and informative morning tea.” Susan Hoy – Ocean Keys Plumbing & Gas.
Mark your diary
for Backbones of Business morning tea’s: MARCH 2013 6 March 7 March 14 March 15 March 20 March 21 March 28 March
Bunbury Mandurah Hillarys Canning Vale Swan Valley Geraldton Perth CBD
JUNE 2013 6 June 7 June 12 June 13 June 19 June 20 June 27 June
Bunbury Mandurah Canning Vale Hillarys Swan Valley Perth CBD Geraldton
www.masterpainters.asn.au/Painters/ Events/Backbones-of-Business.aspx
2013 March Issue | 29
Insurance Premium Funding A lending facility for business clients who wish to spread the cost on annual insurance premiums over monthly instalments so that they can smooth out their cash flow.
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Worth thinking about! Unsecured or secured by policies financed: Finance is generally available without tying up the business and personal assets. In most instances no additional security is required. Directors’ guarantees are usually required when financing is $250k. Flexible financing term: Terms of 6 – 12 months, smooths out cash flow by breaking one lump sum into a series of payments over the year. Finance a variety of insurance types: Bundle all insurance costs together, such as PI, Workers Compensation, general business insurance, motor vehicle fleet registrations etc.
30 | Aussie Painters Network
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Rod and Ian Scanes Phone: (07) 3278 0825 Fax: (07) 3278 0894 Mobile: 0421 383 314 (Rod) 0421 383 315 (Ian) rscanes@firstcharteredcapital.com.au
P: (07) 3283 8848 F: (07) 3283 8847 E: admin@austplanfs.com.au 2013 March Issue | 31
F eatured
I
n the last issue of Aussie Painting Contractor I wrote about paint having four main components, the Binder, Pigment, Liquid, and Additives. We also produced a video that briefly explains this
In this issue we will focus on one of these components, the Binders. We have already mentioned that the binder is like the glue of the paint. When the binder dries it locks the other key component, the Pigments, into the dry coating. The binder has an impact on other properties in paint such as gloss level, durability, flexibility, and hardness of the coating. Binders can be made from synthetic or natural resins. The three most common binders used in the domestic paint market (excluding clear coatings) are: • Alkyds, • Vinyls • and Acrylics
Paint Binders You will note that the name of the binder is also the name of the paint. So an acrylic paint has acrylic binder, a vinyl paint has vinyl binder and so on. This is because the binder is a critical aspect of the paint.
Binders will dry differently depending on the nature of the binder. Most domestic house paints in general terms are referred to as water based or water borne and solvent based or solvent borne. Sometimes people refer to solvent borne paint as oil based paint, this can be confusing because to some extent, all paint has oil in it. Even water borne paint has oils in it. These binders are referred to as solvent borne/water borne because the liquid part of the paint that carries the binder and evaporates will be a hydrocarbon or water in these instances. When applying paints with these binders you will need to use water, or solvents such as mineral turpentine to clean the tools and thin the paint to control the viscosity. In general
it is water for water based paints and mineral turpentine for solvent based paints.
Alkyds Alkyds are often called enamels by many painters. The term enamel though relates to a paint being designed to create a hard finish. Alkyd paints are mostly used on doors, windows, hand rails and trims. Alkyds were, for many years, only available as an oil based paint and thinned with a hydrocarbon such as mineral turpentine. But thanks to new technologies in dispersions these are now available as a water based paint as well. Alkyds are made from oils that oxidize and continue to get harder with age. Because these oils form a hard surface they are a very good coating for doors and trims due to their hard wearing properties. That is why traditionally these were referred to as “enamels” because of the hard coating they formed. It is important to note, that Alkyds should not be used on exterior environments. That is because they tend to become brittle and breakdown under UV light. Because of the oils in most alkyds they are not very suitable for areas that are prone to mould and mildew. In fact, the coating itself can be a food source for the mould.
www.painters.edu.au
32 | Aussie Painters Network
Emulsions/Latex
Acrylics, a more recent introduction Emulsions or latex paints are water to emulsion paints, has stormed the based in the domestic market, this industry as the most common type means that the paint is thinned and of paint used in domestic market. the tools cleaned up with water. Acrylics are thermosetting so they expand and contract in hot or cold Terms to identify water based binders are “emulsion” or “latex” temperatures making them more depending on what country you durable in exterior environments. are in. Originally the term “latex” referred to rubber from the rubber They are amazingly flexible and are tree, however this isn’t an ingredient not that dissimilar to natural latex in paint today. Because water based as is found in the organic state. This paint when it’s dry exihbits similar property makes it like a raincoat properties to latex, it came to be for a home. Being a completely called “latex”. These dispersions synthetic resin it provides no food are prepared by a process called source for mould and is less likely emulsion polymerisation, hence the to be affected by mould growth. term emulsion is probably more Another feature making acrylics accurate. very good for exterior environments Within this category of binders are is its ability to withstand UV light. many different types of emulsion Some companies guarantee their paint. In very brood terms there paint will last for more then ten are the 100% Acrylics that have years. This is definitely not an excellent UV resistance and remain unreasonable expectation for acrylic flexible enough to expand in the and would no doubt last many years heat and contract in the cold, and after that, apart from getting dirty. the very common, vinyls. The main down side of acrylics is In broad terms vinyls are the less that they are more expensive then expensive emulsions and are mainly vinyls and they tend to stain more for interior surfaces. These were when exposed to human fats and oils the first water based emulsions on such as you would see on substrates constantly exposed to human hands the market. such as handrails or door handles. Though vinyl paint is less expensive it is still a very good coating for interior Be aware of inexpensive exterior surfaces and is often modified by paints claiming to be acrylic, the acrylics to make paint wear better. term to look for in selecting an
exterior coating is “100% acrylic” a manufacturer cannot lay claim to that if they have modified the acrylic with vinyls to make the paint less expensive. Acrylic paints that are modified with vinyls will not last as long as a 100% acrylic.
Acrylic paints have water soluble oils and other properties that are very beneficial for preserving timber. Unless the timber stains or bleeds resins then it is best to apply 100% acrylics straight on timber without using solvent based primers. Of course there is much more that can be mentioned about binders, but it would take more then one article in one magazine. The National Institute of Painting & Decorating is committed to the ongoing professional development of painters. Please be assured that we will continue to write information such as this. Please feel free to visit our site. By Michael Farrugia
2013 March Issue | 33
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2013 March Issue | 35
F eatured
Disaster Relief goes Digital How social media has come to the rescue...
I
t’s hard to believe that many Aussies are being hit by yet more floods and fires in recent weeks and it’s sometimes easy, for those unaffected, to forget the scale of devastation and the epic challenging months and years ahead to rebuild lives and communities. For some it is the second, even third time they are surrounded by the heart-wrenching wreckage. It has been inspiring to see the incredible efforts made by individuals to rally with urgent assistance right from the start, when need is greatest. As well, it’s been fascinating to observe an evolving community response in the age of social media and related technologies. Suddenly there is the ability, for the average person with a will to help, to mobilise an enormous coordinated response to specific requirements; connecting thousands of willing people with those in need. In early 2011 a number of organisations were born to respond to the need of those hit by flood and fire. Just two years on the crushing repeat of flooding with Cyclones Oswald and Rusty, and fires in other states has seen the reassembly of many of these organisations, and a streamlining of the collection, sorting and the dissemination of goods and services. Genuine concern and lateral thought for what the affected communities need has brought creative individuals to the fore. Some, like Givit.org.au,
36 | Aussie Painters Network
have become permanent fixtures on the charity front and do an amazing job assisting registered charities with donations with their online matching system for donation to need. At any time, you can check their list of needed items, and they’ll help you to get it to the right people.
Connected Inc. is a Relief Centre in Banyo, North of Brisbane, founded by Craig Michales, a disability pensioner who was moved by the plight of locals in the wake of tragic events in Queensland early 2011. There they gather and disseminate new and quality goods for circulation and encourage the donation of care packages, and everyday necessities to families. Connected Relief and other community groups provide a much needed avenue to support volunteers of all kinds as well; whether they are providing a truck for transportation, or a tray of brownies. Baked Relief was started by Danielle Crismani aka Digella with some baking for the State Emergency Services volunteers who were sandbagging around Brisbane. Using their Blog Twitter and facebook,
Baked Relief coordinates gathering points for drop offs of baked goods for clean-up volunteers and victims. They’ve also led a drive to circulate masses of new and pre loved cookbooks to those affected and helped them to get cooking again and assist those providing baked relief. Their efforts have reached as far as Darwin and Christchurch to assist Baked Relief NZ earthquake volunteers with recipes. Undies for Bundy have been making lives more comfortable calling for new underwear, toiletries and other necessities, and getting them directly to the affected. Up and Run for Bundy has been coordinating drop off points, circulating widely on facebook, culminating in a convoy of assistance going to The Bundaberg Mud Army. They’ve done a fantastic job of keeping their donors updated acknowledged, and involved in the efforts. With a practical approach to what will help, Brisbane resident Elissa Churchward created an emergency washing service for those displaced or without power during the 2011 floods. Adopt a Wash relaunched in 2013, picking up where it left off on Facebook. The endeavour has now grown with the creation of Adopt a Wash – Bundaberg District by a Bundaberg local with more regions likely to follow.
Most of these grass roots organisations rely solely on public support for donations. In some areas where the locals feel they have been left high and dry by their council, these groups are filling the gaps. Facebook, Twitter, Blogs all help provide immediate and direct communication from donor to recipient acting as a conduit for the critical information and removing the potential ‘noise’ and red tape from the media and the government departments. They are also key to provide a focussed useable response – it’s important to note that large donations of goods made where there aren’t hard working volunteers at the ready to sort, pack, label and disseminate, can easily end up as landfill. (see Donations - the good, the bad the ugly ) Huge amounts of respect to those people who have stepped up in these organisations with their time and hard work. These are your community heroes making a difference at the frontline - please consider how you may be able to support them. If you are in need of their assistance, please go to their sites and let them know. Or if you or your business is in a position to help with quality goods, basic services or cash donations, or even time, please get in touch with them to ensure that your donation is directed successfully.
www.connected.org.au
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed, citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” ― Margaret Mead For information on Government Assistance available to flood and fire affected families and businesses, go to: http://australia.gov.au/content/disaster-assistance
The gumboots arrived in Bundaberg. Here are the RedCross crew wearing some!
2013 March Issue | 37
F eatured
Colours of Emotions
I’m sitting here in my office, making a terrible attempt to write something cheerful about colour, and all I am seeing around me is brown water, sodden ground, grey skies, no moon (although I know there is a full one happening where someone can see it), and I’m feeling pretty blue about this whole writing thing tonight. It made me think about the emotions of colour, and the perceptions we put around colour especially in the way we describe things. It’s really hard to describe something without mentioning a colour, just try it. Explain to me a sunny day without using a colour. Explain to me a trip to town in the bus without using a colour. Explain to me a wedding without using a colour. Explain to me your lounge room without using a colour.
It’s pretty hard, and the interesting thing is that we ALWAYS add an emotion to colour. Whether we mean to or not, we do. And the other interesting thing is that depending on the particular shade of that colour it can mean different things.
38 | Aussie Painters Network
Here are a few examples: “Colour my world with Sunshine Yellow each day” sings Petula Clark. If you know the song sing along, like the green of the grass and the blue of the sky up above… and it goes on.
Red with rage, ever been that angry that you’ve actually gone red in the face, you feel the blood pressure rise, your body gets hot from the inside like you are about to combust.
Colour and emotions go together like, well sunshine and yellow, how can that not make you smile? Even if yellow is not your favourite colour, the term sunshine yellow conjures up an emotion in all of us. It’s warm, fresh, inviting, you can see the flowers, the green, green grass (of home), feel the warmth on your face. Ahhh! the emotion of colour.
Then we have ‘Strawberry kisses’, Pretty in Pink, passion, perfect. ‘Somewhere over the rainbow’, just the thought of a rainbow gives hope, courage, strength, a good mind, that is if you are the tin man, lion, or scarecrow, hope of a new beginning, a favoured journey, a pot of gold if you are a Leprechaun.
“It’s gonna be a Blue, Blue Christmas” sings Elvis. Sad, unhappy, empty… The Blue Day Book is all about how to overcome Depression. Happy little quotable quotes, that are uplifting and good for the soul. Blue skies shining at me, nothing but blue skies do I see - Willie Nelson. Well this is a country song and I’m not quite sure whether he’s happy or sad!
Ah! to be sure, to be sure. St Patrick’s Day is just around the corner and we have green beer, Guinness pie, and play terrible jokes, and tell even worse ones. We wear a touch of emerald green, for those with a connection to the Emerald Isle. And then we try to figure out just when the parade will be, because the 17th is actually on a Sunday. Will it be the weekend before or on Saturday? Who knows, Green Green Grass of home, makes but one thing is certain, I’ll be wearing you feel like you want to just go to just a touch of green, not drinking it! family, have connection with heart, be where you know and love to be. Enjoy your month, happy reading, any questions call or email me. Till Now, here’s green with a twist, Pea next time take care. Green with envy, the green eyed snake, we’ve all been there at least once! Not necessarily a great place. Different shade of green, but in your mind you can distinguish between the two, am I right? ‘Big Red Car’ – the Wiggles, well theirs probably doesn’t go fast, but red cars are sports cars and the ‘Little Red Corvette’ gives us a much better look at red…
Belinda Ross
Colour Transformations 0413 464 289 07 3886 4488
2013 March Issue | 39
40 | Aussie Painters Network
Even low levels of lead are harmful... Paint Contractors, Parents, Renovators, Child-care Centre Operators,Teachers, Landlords, Agents, Pet-owners: Find out if paint, dust, Soil, drinking water, toy paint, Plastics, ceramics, jewellery, and other items are safe for humans and pets.
Buy a DIY-sampling / lab analysis lead kit Order online • print form • fax/call : 1800 626 086
The LEAD Group’s lead test kits are the only ones available in Australia for testing a wide variety of samples at a lab (which charges us a charity rate so you pay less). *The water test kit requires less lab work and a lot less interpretation that is why it costs less Prices include postage within Australia, handling, lab charge, results, interpretation & GST.
You take the samples, and send them to Sydney Analytical Labs. The lab analyses the samples, and we explain the results. Click here for videos on
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S chedule
Training Schedules for 2013 National Institute for Painting and Decorating
March 6 GreenPainters Accreditation Gold Coast March 13 Green Painters Course Sydney March 13 GreenPainters Accreditation Gold Coast March 14 Painters Business Management Sydney March 15 Decorative Finishes Course Sydney March 20 GreenPainters Accreditation Toowoomba April 3 GreenPainters Accreditation Northern NSW TBA Wallpaper Course Launceston TBA Safe Lead Paint and Asbestos Work Practices Launceston TBA Painters Business Management Course Launceston TBA Decorative Finishes Melbourne TBA Green Painters Course Hobart TBA Safe Lead Paint and Asbestos Work Practices Adelaide TBA Wallpaper Course Adelaide TBA Decorative Finishes Gold Coast TBA Protective Coatings Gold Coast TBA Protective Coatings Gladstone TBA Safe Lead Paint and Asbestos Work Practices Gladstone TBA Anti-Graffiti Coatings Gold Coast TBA Anti-Graffiti Coatings Sydney TBA Painters Business Management Canberra Boom Lift Ticket, Sydney, on demand ($750) EWP Yellow Card, Sydney, on demand ($250) Painters Business Management Course (distance learning) on demand. Suitable for BSA Queensland license ($290)
National Institute of Painting and Decorating 7 Glenbrae Crt | Buderim QLD 4556 T 1300 319790 | E : daniel.wurm@painters.edu.au | www.painters.edu.au
Certificate III Painting and Decorating,
Subsidised in VIC, QLD, TAS, SA, NT, NSW and ACT
Free for painters over 50.* Conditions apply +
42 | Aussie Painters Network
This course is licensed by Sustainability Victoria
Course
Date
Time
Establish Legal and Risk Management Requirements of Small Business
25,26,27,28 Mar. 17,18,19 June 24,25,26 June 2,3,4,5,6 Sept. 25,26,27 Nov. 2,3,4 Dec. 8,9,10 April 15,16,17 April 23,24,25 April 29 April – Rev* 30 April – Exam 1 May - Resit 15,16,17,18,19 July 22 July - Rev* 23 July- Exam 24 July – Resit 16,17,18 Sept. 23,24,25 Sept. 1,2 October 7 Oct. – Rev* 8 Oct. - Exam 9 Oct. - Resit 5,6,7,8 March 2,3 April 7,8 May 14,15 May 20,21,22 May 27,28,29 May 4,5 June 11,12 June 6,7 Aug. 12,13,14,15,16 Aug. 10,11 Sept. 15,16 Oct. 22,23 Oct. 28,29,30 Oct. 4,5,6 Nov. 11,12,13 Nov. 26,27 Nov. 10,11 Dec. 2-Jul 12-Nov 16,17 April 6,7 Aug. 26,27 Nov. 4-Jul 13-Nov
8.00am to 4.00pm 5.00pm to 8.30pm 5.00pm to 8.30pm 8.00am to 4.00pm 5.00pm to 8.30pm 5.00pm to 8.30pm 5.00pm to 8.30pm 5.00pm to 8.30pm 5.00pm to 8.30pm 8.00am to 12.00pm 8.00am to 12.00pm 8.00am to 12.00pm 8.00am to 4.00pm 8.00am to 12.00pm 8.00am to 12.00pm 8.00am to 12.00pm 5.00pm to 8.30pm 5.00pm to 8.30pm 5.00pm to 8.30pm 8.00am to 12.00pm 8.00am to 12.00pm 8.00am to 12.00pm 8.00am to 4.00pm 8.00am to 4pm 8.00am to 4pm 8.00am to 4pm 5.00pm to 8.30pm 5.00pm to 8.30pm 5.00pm to 8.30pm 8.00am to 4pm 8.00am to 4pm 8.00am to 4.00pm 8.00am to 4pm 8.00am to 4pm 8.00am to 4pm 5.00pm to 8.30pm 5.00pm to 8.30pm 5.00pm to 8.30pm 8.00am to 4pm 8.00am to 4pm 8.00am to 4.00pm 8.00am to 4.00pm 8.00am to 4.00pm 8.00am to 4pm 8.00am to 4pm 8.00am to 4.00pm 8.00am to 4.00pm
Prepare Surfaces for Painting PRB Colour & Wall Papering
Identify and Produce Estimated costs for building & construction projects
Course in Sustainable Painting Practices Remove Graffiti & Apply Protective Coatings Course in Restricted Asbestos Removal
2013 March Issue | 43
The Industry
44 | Aussie Painters Network
Idiots
Important Contacts Aussie Painters Network www.aussiepaintersnetwork.com.au
Ph. 0430 399 800
Master Painters & Decorators Australia www.masterpainters.asn.au Ph. 08 9471 6662 Australian Tax Office www.ato.gov.au
Award Rates www.fairwork.gov.au
Ph. 13 72 26 / Ph. 13 28 65 Ph. 13 13 94
Fair Work Building & Construction www.fwbc.gov.au Ph. 1800 003 338 Mates In Construction www.matesinconstruction.com.au
Ph. 1300 642 111
Workplace Health and Safety Contacts STATE ACT NSW NT QLD SA VIC WA
Website www.worksafe.act.gov.au www.workcover.nsw.gov.au www.worksafe.nt.gov.au www.deir.qld.gov.au www.safework.sa.gov.au www.worksafe.vic.gov.au www.safetyline.wa.gov.au
Phone (02)62073000 13 10 50 1800 019 115 1300 369 915 1300 365 255 1800 136 089 1300 307 877
Cancer Council Australia STATE ACT NSW NT QLD SA VIC WA
Website www.actcancer.org www.cancercouncil.com.au www.cancercouncilnt.com.au www.cancerqld.org.au www.cancersa.org.au www.cancervic.org.au www.cancerwa.asn.au
Phone (02) 6257 9999 (02) 9334 1900 (08) 8927 4888 (07) 3634 5100 (08) 8291 4111 (03) 9635 5000 (08) 9212 4333 2013 March Issue | 45
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