FLUID Magazine - PIRTEK fluid transfer solutions by PIRTEK

FLUID MAGAZINE october 2012 I www.pirtek.com.au

index

COVER In this first edition of Pirtek’s Fluid magazine, we introduce our brand new website at www.pirtek.com.au.

Hi Folks In a short few months we have managed to reach out to the majority of the Pirtek franchisee network and establish some valuable lines of communication.

We focus on the Pirtek BBQ for Prostate Cancer that was held in September, along with the annual Pirtek Fishing Challenge. The season has come to an end for the Pirtek Parramatta Eels and we farewell a legend, along with welcoming a new era under Ricky Stuart as the new coach. All this and a whole host more! 5

Stephen Dutton Welcome

6-7

Cover Story - New Website Unveiled

8-9

BBQ for Prostate Cancer Held Around Australia

10-11 Fishing Challenge a Success 12-13 Ambrose Flashback 14

Coffs Harbour Partners with Tex & Bundy

A Life-Giving gift at St Vincent’s Hospital

Milperra Doubles up in Franchise of the Year

New Digs - Welshpool

New Digs - Latrobe/Moorabbin

New Digs - Malaga

Ricky Stuart Gets to Work at The Eels

The Retirement of a Great Man

Media Watch

The key ingredient to the success of this magazine, the new website, our social media plan and our internal and external communication strategies is You! We want to know what is going on in your area, happenings with your staff and customers and stories that you think should be shared with our evergrowing network. It’s the stories that you and your customers want to hear about. Remember there is plenty going on and that builds excitement and opportunity around the Pirtek network. As we build this communication program, it becomes a valuable asset for the entire franchisee network - as a group and individually. Please do not hesitate to make contact with information and ideas, no matter how big or small - I can be contacted anytime at ben@bammedia.com.au. We hope you enjoy the first edition of Fluid and look forward to talking with many of you personally in the future. Editor Ben Beazley

21 10

12 FLUID MAGAZINE october 2012 I www.pirtek.com.au

Join us on the 10th Anniversary Tour in Las Vegas

See page 23 for details

FLUID MAGAZINE october 2012 I www.pirtek.com.au

editorial

A New Era Online Hi all, I would like to welcome you to the first edition of Fluid – Pirtek’s new quarterly e-zine publication. This document is part of a new communication, marketing and media strategy we have developed, which will help bring us in line with current technologies as well as helping us digest our daily news and information. We have done this in association with the BAM Group, who have had a relationship with Pirtek since our involvement with V8 Supercars and Stone Brothers Racing more than 10 years ago. The group has a good understanding of our business and people, and has some exciting developments in the pipeline, which will be a fantastic asset for all of us. This will benefit both our franchisees and our valued customers. While Fluid will have regular sections, we will also be creating unique new pieces from throughout the country – highlighting the experiences and stories of our franchisees and their staff and customers. We will also be bringing you closer to our initiatives to highlight the Pirtek brand and products through our local and national sponsorship programs, and our commitment to give back to the community. Fluid is designed to provide a regular behind-the-scenes look at our business, provide education on new products, be entertaining and informative and bring us all a little closer. We also look at the fantastic on-going work of the Prostate Cancer Foundation and Pirtek’s involvement with this great organisation. As the name suggests – Fluid is “liquid” in its format and we are excited about the input of its readers and all our stakeholders – it can be whatever you want it to be! We hope you enjoy the first edition of Fluid and we look forward to your feedback and suggestions. Regards, Stephen Dutton Group General Manager Pirtek Fluid Systems Pty Ltd

FLUID MAGAZINE october 2012 I www.pirtek.com.au

New website feature & social media

THE NEW-LOOK PIRTEK : ON-LINE Pirtek together with its media and publicity partner BAM Media has developed an all-new www.pirtek.com.au website to better inform customers as well as service the 92 franchisees across the country. Through months of planning and now through to its execution, Pirtek’s stance of industry leading standards has been applied to the website. All the key features and easy navigation is there, but also a personalised touch with images of each of our franchisees. With information needing to be close at hand, a mobile version of the website is also available. This is especially important for sales and service representatives in the field, plus customers who can have the information at hand. “The new corporate website embraces all the latest in new technologies of the internet” said General Manager of Sales & Marketing at Pirtek, Rod Chapman. “It’s such a critical part of communication for Pirtek that we had to ensure that we had everything covered. The full corporate site has everything required and the new mobile version will be something I know our franchisees and customers will welcome.” The www.pirtek.com.au site will be constantly updated with product information and other news of Pirtek, the franchisees and the brand in the community. As well as the main website, Pirtek has launched into the world of social media with our Facebook site at www.facebook.com/Pirtek. “This social site continues to become an important platform for people to see the regular goings-on in the Pirtek world” said Chapman. “Such things as social events for franchisees,

FLUID MAGAZINE october 2012 I www.pirtek.com.au

photo galleries, updates and on-going information about our sporting and community partnerships. “Growing the Facebook page is very important and Pirtek encourages customers to ‘Like’ the page and spread the social message.” Overall the new Pirtek website is set to become the company’s number one marketing tool to both new and existing customers. It also becomes a hub of information for franchisees and their staff as we continue to grow both the Pirtek business and the brand. While the new website and social program has been in the pipeline for several months, you can be assured it is a “work in progress” as we strive to deliver the best on-line product possible to everyone who requires it.

FLUID MAGAZINE october 2012 I www.pirtek.com.au

PIRTEK PROSTAT

irtek’s 92-strong network of franchisees joined together on Friday 14 September to raise funds in the fight against prostate cancer. Part of Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia’s ‘Big Aussie Barbie’ campaign, the nation’s leading provider of hydraulic and industrial hose products and services, threw the doors open across the country from 11.30am3pm. Barbeques were fired-up with Service and Supply centres offering visitors sausages and refreshments; all money raised through gold coin donations went directly to PCFA.

September is the perfect time for a barbecue with the arrival of spring, Father’s Day and the footy finals. “Raising funds and awareness for Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia is something Pirtek and its franchisees have a strong commitment to,” said Pirtek General Manager of Sales & Marketing Rod Chapman. “Pirtek has been holding these barbeques since 2009 and we have raised over $100,000. “September is the arrival of spring and a perfect time to host a barbie and to raise funds for such a worthy cause is even better.

FLUID MAGAZINE october 2012 I www.pirtek.com.au

“The Service and Supply centres across the country really came alive as the Pirtek franchisees really put on a great event on the day.” Pirtek Centres reported a greater response to the BBQ event this year - some raising double from previous years.

TE CANCER BBQ

FLUID MAGAZINE october 2012 I www.pirtek.com.au

2013 DATES: Sunday 24/3/2013 Registrations close Wednesday 20/3/2013

WINNERS ANNOUNCED

IN AUSTRALIA’S BIGGEST

ONE-DAY FISHING COMPETITION

nglers from across Australia have shared $130,000 in cash and prizes in the fourth year of the Pirtek Fishing Challenge.

a division for anglers on the Murray Darling Basin, 17 individual anglers won $4,000 cash prizes in the mystery length category.

The biggest tournament of its type in the Southern Hemisphere, this year’s Pirtek Fishing Challenge attracted 6500 entrants, up from 4000 in 2011.

Another $62,000 in prizes were awarded across a range of categories, including a popular junior’s section for entrants under 16 years of age.

The $20 entry fee from every competitor will go to the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, meaning $130,000 has been raised.

“A huge thanks to all the anglers who participated in this year’s Challenge, what a fantastic result with $130,000 raised for Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia,” said event organiser Michael Guest.

Broken into statebased groups, plus

FLUID MAGAZINE october 2012 I www.pirtek.com.au

“We had thousands of fishos all casting a line on

the same day and some terrific fish were caught and released right across the country. ” An industry-leading provider of hydraulic and industrial hose products and services, Pirtek has been overwhelmed with the growth of the fishing challenge. “For two year’s running now the participation rate has grown by 60% which is an incredible result said Pirtek Group General Manager Stephen Dutton. “This is allowing us to continue our goal of raising funds and awareness of Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia.”

Major On The Water Prize Draw Winners * Jack Clemens - Narre Warren East (Victoria) : Evinrude E-tec 75hp outboard engine. RRP $13,138. Listed here are the major prize winners in the $4000 Mystery Length Division: NSW/ACT * Bass - 37.4cm : Darren Pearson Nobbys Creek * Flathead - 65.1cm : Chris Rowland Charlestown * Tailor - 48.4cm : Robert Winch Kingswood * Whiting - 38.0cm : Ben McKittrick Singleton Murray Darling Basin * European Carp - 58.8cm : Bruce Popple - Rivett * Golden Perch - 43.2cm : Paul Dullard - Girgarre * Redfin - 30.7cm : Wayne Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Leary Kambah Northern Territory * Barramundi - 81.0cm : Matt Stapleton - Gracemere Queensland * Barramundi - 86.2cm : Peter Kenny Newmerella

* Flathead - 64.6cm : Andrew Janes Buddina * Whiting - 35.9cm : David Milgrom Wurtulla South Australia * Australian Salmon - 49.5cm : Gordon King - Kangaroo Island Tasmania * Flathead - 48.7cm : Jamie Harris Burnie Victoria * Australian Salmon - 46.2cm : Aaron Pettman - Lara * Flathead - 55.7cm : Paul Fairless Orbost

* Wayne Matters - Dalmeny (NSW) : Ocean Kayak Prowler Ultra 4.3 plus Humminbird fishfinder, Bladepro paddling vest and Carlisle arctic paddle. RRP $4,400. * Rod Snart - Nambucca Heads (NSW) : Lowrance HDS-8m Gen2 Multifunction Chartplotter. RRP $2,299.00. * Sam Curry - Wongaling Beach (QLD) : Berkley tackle pack. RRP $2000. * Russell Lakey - Ulladulla (NSW) : $1500 BCF spending spree gift voucher.

Western Australia * Bream (black/pikey/yellowfin) 33.6cm : Izzy Kalzee - South Hedland * Golden Trevally - 58.6cm : Dean Skennar - Port Hedland

For the full list of prize winners visit www.pirtekfishingchallenge.com.au FLUID MAGAZINE october 2012 I www.pirtek.com.au

FLASHBACK:

AMBROSE LEADS

PIRTEK FALCON TO GLORY 12

FLUID MAGAZINE october 2012 I www.pirtek.com.au

FLASHBACK:

t has been a decade since Stone Brothers Racing climbed another big mountain when its star recruit Marcos Ambrose guided the Pirtek Falcon to Championship-winning status. Stone Brothers came into existence in 1998 and immediately tasted success when the team landed the biggest endurance prize in touring car racing at Bathurst at the hands of drivers Jason Bright and Steven Richards. That was Pirtek’s first big reward and it came in rapid time. Over the next five years there were plenty of highlights, but it was not until 2003 that Pirtek landed the “big one” - when Ambrose topped a brilliant season by winning the V8 Supercar Championship. SBR had built the brand-new Pirtek BA Falcon for the season after the category fell into line with the Project Blueprint changes that were designed to make the Commodores and Falcons essentially technically the same. Ambrose had given the Pirtek Falcon the perfect baptism by claiming the first race on the opening Championship weekend in 2003, at the Clipsal 500 in Adelaide. More success was to follow soon after when Ambrose led home the first trifecta at Eastern Creek for Ford since 1997.

That would start a string of wins for Ambrose who would prove unstoppable winning the next three rounds at Winton, Perth and Darwin. Through all this success Ambrose did not clinch the lead in the race for the Championship until Round eight at Oran Park. The Pirtek driver’s team-mate Russell Ingall won the Queensland Raceway round before Ambrose pounced at the Sydney track. Ambrose arrived at the 13th and final round at Eastern Creek as the driver to beat although it was no forgone conclusion. He held a six-point lead over rival Greg Murphy and was 30 points ahead of Mark Skaife. It was a three-way showdown but after the first race it was reduced to a two-driver war after Murphy was forced to stand down after an existing back injury flared up and forced him out.

Then Skaife was caught up in the infamous ‘road rage’ incident with Ingall. Ambrose had prevailed during a wild weekend of twists and turns and won what would be the first of back-to-back Championships after finishing on 2085 points - beating Murphy (1983) and Skaife (1817) to the gong. The number 4 Pirtek BA Falcon stands as a proud reminder of how Stone Brothers, who had signed Ambrose in the 2001 season and subsequently rescued his career, had delivered a golden moment in the eponymous team’s history. Co-owners Ross and Jimmy Stone are fierce competitors and are racer’s down to their bootlaces, they have managed to line their trophy cabinet with the Championship prize in the Pirtek Ford which won universal praise in the sport for being the best-looking and best-prepared car on the grid. As such, it is a highly valued machine and the Stone brothers maintain ownership of the Pirtek-liveried Ford to this day. Ambrose campaigned the car the following year to successfully defend his crown and he ran the car again in 2005 when he narrowly missed a hattrick of Championship wins when he was beaten by Ingall - who also carried Pirtek livery on his Caltex Falcon. Currently the car is sitting undercover on a hoist in the Stone Brothers Racing factory at Yatala. It is ready to be brought back to life and rebuilt to the glory of its second Championship triumph carrying the coveted Number 1 from Ambrose’s 2004 campaign.

FLUID MAGAZINE october 2012 I www.pirtek.com.au

PIRTEK COFFS HARBOUR PARTNER WITH MEN’S HEALTH CRUSADERS Pirtek Coffs Harbour has partnered with the well-known men’s charity campaigner Tex (Terry) O’Grady and his blue heeler Bundy. Tex and Bundy travel around Australia on a Suzuki sports motorcycle raising funds and awareness for the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia and other charitable organisations that focus on men’s health issues. They are also campaigners for ‘Men’s Sheds’ and motorcycle road safety. Based in Macksville on the mid-north coast of New South Wales, Tex and Bundy raise in excess of $500,000 per year by travelling to major public events, hospitals, and are amongst the star attractions at the Australian MotoGP each year at Phillip Island. Six-year-old Bundy is a Stumpy Tail Blue Heeler or ‘Smithfield’ who sits on the fuel tank of the motorcycle in her own custom-made jacket and ‘doggles’. It is estimated that she has travelled over 500,000km in her lifetime.

O’Grady served for 20 years as a Royal Australian Navy submariner and is a qualified mechanic. Also on his resume is a commercial light pilot’s licence and he is a Justice of the Peace (NSW). A keen motorcycle enthusiast, the 55-year-old has held various national and local titles in road racing. He nowadays specialises in long distance endurance riding and is keen to point out that he still travels the most distance of any person on two wheels in Australia. Tex and Bundy are 100-percent self funded and support their crusade by only working part-time or on a contract basis. “I really appreciate the support from the group at Pirtek in Coffs Harbour,” said O’Grady. “Doing so much travelling we really do need to keep both the motorcycle and our support van in top shape. So we will certainly make use of everything that Pirtek can provide us.

Pirtek Coffs Harbour will supply a wide range of hoses, fittings, mechanical spares and lubricants to keep Tex and Bundy on their crusade across the country. Plus they assisted with the supply of a replacement engine for their Ford Transit support vehicle. “Tex and Bundy are heroes of the New South Wales mid-north coast region and it’s fantastic for Pirtek Coffs Harbour to get involved with their outstanding work,” said Pirtek Coffs Harbour Operations Manager Greg Marshall. “Pirtek is heavily involved with the Prostate Cancer Foundation so with Tex and Bundy being champions for the cause, it’s a great way that collectively we can continue to raise much needed money and awareness to battle the disease.

FLUID MAGAZINE october 2012 I www.pirtek.com.au

“I enjoy travelling the country and having Bundy along for the ride. There is not one single moment whether we are on the road or at a public event that people don’t want to know what we are about. “As a qualified Assistance Dog, Bundy is always in big demand to visit hospitals, hospices and homes for the elderly. “Having worked in male-dominated industries, I am passionate about supporting men’s health issues and I am delighted to see companies like Pirtek using their franchisee network to build awareness for the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia. “The demand from people wanting us to visit is truly humbling, but it means I can’t work fulltime. We are always looking for further support to ensure the Tex and Bundy road show can continue.”

Val and Peter Duncan open the new neuroscience unit

life-giving

Gift

at Sydney’s St Vincent’s Hospital

A new neurosciences unit at St Vincent’s Hospital in Sydney has been made possible after Peter Duncan, the founder and Executive Chairman of Pirtek, funded its establishment.

an array of new techniques in the fields of neurobiology, stem cell biology, neuroimmunology, neurovirology and neuropsychology to discover new knowledge.

Mr Duncan, a former patient of the spinal care section of St Vincent’s Hospital said he admired the level of care and dedication demonstrated by all nursing staff and doctors.

Working closely with the Hospital’s Department of Neurosurgery, the application of discoveries will be used in neurosurgical interventions such as deep brain stimulation and adult stem cell implementation.

Named in his honour, the Peter Duncan Neurosciences Research Unit will focus on turning research into treatments for patients with different diseases. Utilising a multi-disciplinary approach, the Unit’s research program will involve

The aim is to develop treatments for chronic neurological and neurodegenerative disorders such as Multiple Sclerosis, HIV-associated Neurocognitive Disorders, Alzheimer’s disease; Parkinson’s Disease and Stroke.

“The Peter Duncan Neurosciences Research Unit will bring benefits to individuals, and to the wider community,” said Mr Duncan. “Its life-saving work will result in lessening patients’ suffering and ultimately alleviating the distress of families with afflicted loved ones.” St Vincent’s Hospital is extremely grateful for Peter Duncan’s vision in establishing The Peter Duncan Neurosciences Research Unit at St Vincent’s Centre for Applied Medical Research. The unit was officially opened in midJune with staff from around the world expected to join the new facility in the coming months.

FLUID MAGAZINE october 2012 I www.pirtek.com.au

PIRTEK MILPERRA BACK-TO-BACK NATIONAL FRANCHISE OF THE YEAR For the second year running Pirtek Milperra has surpassed 91 other Pirtek Service and Supply Centres across Australia to be awarded the National Franchise of The Year for 2011/2012. Judged across an extensive set of criteria, Pirtek Milperra (New South Wales) won the award ahead of runner up, Pirtek Midland (Perth, Western Australia). Whilst Pirtek Milperra has been in operation for over 25 years, Jakki Dutton has owned the franchise since 2007 and employs 12 full-time staff, including six mobile service vans.

Pirtek Milperra was announced the winner at the Pirtek National Franchisee conference in Bowral recently. “It’s amazing for everyone involved with Pirtek Milperra,” said Centre Manager of Pirtek Milperra Jakki Dutton. “It goes back to the hard work and determination, plus the attention to detail that our team prides itself on. “There are some amazing franchisees in the Pirtek network that I look up to and learn from. It’s a fantastic business to be involved with and one that continually strives to improve its range of products and services. “In recent months we completed a major overhaul of our showroom and service centre which was on the back of winning the previous Pirtek Franchise of the Year award.

FLUID MAGAZINE october 2012 I www.pirtek.com.au

We identified then that we had to continually improve the business if we wanted to set new standards. “Awards like this demonstrate to our customers that they can feel confident they are receiving the best level of service possible.” General Manager of Sales & Marketing at Pirtek National Office Rod Chapman praised Pirtek Milperra for going backto-back. “Jakki and her team have once again set the standard amongst 92 Pirtek centres across the country,” said Chapman. “Like in the previous year, it was a very close decision as the standard across the country was extremely high. “Awards like this cover a wide range of criteria, but most importantly it’s about the end result for the customer.”

CHECK OUT

THE NEW DIGS! Across Pirtek’s 92-strong franchisee network there has been plenty going on with new premises and upgrades around the network. Here is a rundown on what’s been happening so far in 2012.

Pirtek Welshpool - Western Australia Western Australia’s original Pirtek outlet at Welshpool has been totally transformed with a totally new 1200 square metre facility. First opened 25 years ago at 220 Welshpool Road, the new building is on the same site after a clever rebuilding process which kept business operating at that address. The business now has a bold new look, plus extensive service, sales and administrative facilities. For a business that already boasts 18 full-time staff and six mobile service vans, further expansion is now a real opportunity. “Two years ago we recognised that we had simply outgrown the existing building,” said Pirtek Welshpool owner Rachel Anderson, who has been involved in the business for 22 of the 25 years of operation.

“It was obvious that we needed a new facility. However, the key to our business was our location and the landowners were outstanding in sharing our vision for the future. “We now have the most modern building not just in our line of business, but also the newest in the entire area. This is great for our existing customers, plus its presence is sure to draw plenty of street traffic and new business. “Pirtek has a key relationship with servicing Komatsu machinery and the new building will be a key to providing to that area of the business.

Pirtek Welshpool owner Rachel Anderson

“For customers we can better service their needs, including the establishment of an in-house testing facility, which will really separate us from the competition.” FLUID MAGAZINE october 2012 I www.pirtek.com.au

Pirtek Latrobe - Victoria The Latrobe Valley now has a service and supply centre, located at 4/2 Vestan Drive, adjacent to Princes Drive in Morwell. Pirtek has operated a mobile service only operation since 2008, but the growing demand has seen the establishment of the newest service and supply centre in the country. Pirtek Latrobe includes an outstanding showroom. A large warehouse facility with an extensive stock holding of hydraulic hose and fittings, industrial hose and fittings, lubrication gear, spill control products and a vast array of ancillary lines. Plus a workshop area that includes lathes and milling equipment to cater for specialised requirements. One of the key features of Pirtek Latrobe is a static pressure test machine that can pressure test hose assemblies and fittings up to 65,000 psi. It is the only machine of its type in Latrobe Valley thus allowing Pirtek to provide a full service meeting the exacting standards of Mechanical Design Guideline #41. MDG41 is a document designed to outline ‘best practices in relation to fluid power safety in minesites? Centre Manager/Director Geoff Ponton says the move to a fulltime service centre was to meet the growing customer demand. “The Latrobe Valley is a busy region with power generation, coal mining,

Pirtek Latrobe’s Geoff Ponton with Pirtek Victorian State Sales Manager Gary Dunkinson

timber mills and the associated industries that support all these businesses,” said Ponton. “The highly-visible location is outstanding and the showroom is like nothing else in the entire region. Customers, whether they are trade orientated, or the weekend handyman are well and truly catered. Even to the point that we will operate a half day opening on Saturdays. “Our workshop capabilities will be welcomed by the larger industries in the region. Laths and mills are a must in this type of business, but the hose pressure testing machine has

Pirtek Moorabbin - Victoria The busy manufacturing region of Melbourne’s south-east bayside suburbs is benefitting from an improved sales showroom at Pirtek in Moorabbin. Located at Unit 8/265 Wickham Road, Pirtek Moorabbin first opened its doors in 1995 and since 1998 has been under the management of George Vogdanos. With business expanding, Pirtek Moorabbin moved across the street on Wickham Road in 2006, and has now opened a fresh new showroom to better service customer demand. George Vogdanos of Pirtek Moorabbin

FLUID MAGAZINE october 2012 I www.pirtek.com.au

already drawn plenty of inquiries from throughout the Latrobe region. “We have also invested in a new Ford Ranger service vehicle, our third mobile service unit, so that we can continue to deliver the outstanding service that customers have become accustomed to. We have a massive region to cover from Pakenham to Bairnsdale, plus north and south. It’s not unusual for our service team to travel two hours to complete a job. “The great thing with all of this is that we are not only meeting the demand of today, but also the future needs of customers in the region.”

“With the ever expanding range of Pirtek products we decided to upgrade our retail area to better service our customers,” said George Vogdanos. “Our location is so important for our business. People not only know where we are, but also a lot of our customer

base is situated in the surrounding streets. “The benefit for our customers is that they can quickly view our range, including new items and products that they otherwise would not have known that we stock.

“Now that we have the new look, everyone is very proud and the showroom presentation has rubbed off on our mobile service vehicles as well.” Pirtek Moorabbin boasts six full-time employees, including three mobile service units and one sales representative.

Pirtek Malaga - Western Australia Businesses and individuals in Perth’s northern suburbs are set to enjoy the benefits of a revamped Pirtek Malaga.

“Pirtek is a leader in everything from the products we offer to sales and service,” said Jason Hogan.

Located at 4/321 Victoria Road, Pirtek Malaga has been under the guidance of Jason Hogan since 2001. Pirtek Malaga has grown to 14 employees, including five mobile service units, three workshop-based technicians and two sales representatives.

“As the business is constantly evolving, we made the decision to go for a major upgrade to better showcase the Pirtek product and provide clients with a greater means of viewing the entire range.

To better deliver to clients in Perth’s northern corridor, Pirtek Malaga has undergone extensive renovations including an all-new sales and service area.

“The new showroom is in effect another salesperson. Acting as an information point it caters for our existing clients, plus the fresh new look attracts new customers. “First impressions can make a major difference and we now have a far

more user friendly store, none of our competitors offer anything like this. “As well as the new look at our sales centre, we are promoting our external field service and sales capabilities. Manufacturing is a big part of our clientele, but certainly indirectly we are also benefiting from the ever-growing associated business from the mining boom throughout WA.” As part of the layout at Pirtek Malaga customers can view and touch the entire range of products, plus get detailed information, including pricing, view samples and enjoy a fresh cup of coffee in the comfort of the display centre.

Jason Hogan of Pirtek Malaga with another happy customer.

FLUID MAGAZINE october 2012 I www.pirtek.com.au

Breaking News

RICKY STUART DOWN TO WORK WITH PIRTEK EELS

fter signing a three year deal to coach the Pirtek Parramatta Eels in July, Ricky Stuart has wasted no time in getting settled into his new surrounds at Parramatta Stadium.

The former international has replaced incumbent, Stephen Kearney. In taking up the role as coach of the Blue and Golds, he has relinquished his position as New South Wales State of Origin coach.

With the Eels sadly finishing the 2012 season at the bottom of the NRL ladder, Stuart has quickly identified several areas that need addressing. Having taken the Sydney Roosters to three consecutive NRL Grand Finals in the past, there is little doubt in the mind of the Pirtek Eels board he’s the man to turn the club’s fortunes around.

After bringing the Blues to within a whisker of taking their first Origin title in seven attempts this season, he hands the coaching baton to his former Raiders halves partner, Laurie Daley. The news broke in July just after it was announced that Kearney was stepping down. The Pirtek Parramatta Eels had numerous nibbles at enticing Stuart and eventually they got their man. Stuart’s manager, John Fordham was instrumental in brokering the deal, which sees the former Champion halfback and his family remain in Sydney, which he was keen to do. Born in Queanbeyan, Stuart became one of the greatest club players to

FLUID MAGAZINE october 2012 I www.pirtek.com.au

come out of neighbouring Canberra. The playmaker during the Raiders halcyon days, Stuart was involved with three premierships in 1989, 1990 and 1994, whilst also tasting success as New South Wales and Australian halfback. Prior to signing with the Eels, the Raiders had been showing interest in having Stuart take the coaching reins. Steve Edge, a three-time premiership winning captain at Parramatta, hailed the appointment of Stuart. “Ricky is a winner,” said Edge, who led the Eels out for their trio of wins in 1981, 1982 and 1983. “He will bring in a new culture and has the necessary experience to turn the club around. “Ricky brings passion. What he has done for NSW has been fabulous. We haven’t won, but we’re not far away. He is a great appointment for the Pirtek Parramatta Eels.”

The

Retirement great man of a

ne of Pirtek’s favourite footballing sons, Nathan Hindmarsh has signed off on his mighty Rugby League career. After a tremendously successful association with the Pirtek Parramatta Eels, Hindmarsh has hung up the boots after more than 300 games for the Eels, where he has given 15 years of loyal service to the club. Renowned as a modern day player in the mold of players past, it was fitting that the final play of Hindmarsh’s career channeled the players of the 70’s he was so often compared with. With Parramatta no chance of taking the victory against old foe, St George Illawarra, a late match penalty was awarded close to the posts. The ball was tossed to Hindmarsh who threw away the kicking tee in favour of an ‘old school’ bucket of sand and as the siren sounded, kicked the ball right over the black dot. At Pirtek, we are fiercely proud of what Hindmarsh has achieved during his fabulous career and he has carried his club and his sponsors extremely well through the good times and the tough times. Pirtek is honoured and very lucky that he is winding up his career with our brand as the major sponsor of the Eels. Being born on September 7, 1979 in the New South Wales Southern Highlands town of Bowral, Hindmarsh typifies excellence, honesty and integrity and has become known as one of the most prolific defenders the game has ever seen.

“I will retire as a one club player which I am very proud of. I have finished my career the same way I started - utterly and deeply exhausted, knowing I have tried my best and left it all on the field.”

With the Eels being forced to move the game from Parramatta Stadium, the blue and gold took on the Red V in front of an NRL record regular season crowd of 45,863.

“Fifteen years at this legendary club. It’s hard to believe,” said Hindmarsh. “I made the decision to retire late last year and informed the coach and the people close to me that 2012 was going to be my last season.

Whilst the Pirtek Eels weren’t able to give the retiring Hindmarsh - and his fellow Parramatta stalwart, Luke Burt - a Grand Final send-off, the stage at ANZ Stadium could not have been any bigger.

Pirtek could not have been happier to have a player of the fortitude of Nathan Hindmarsh to represent our brand name. All the best in the future mate. Cheers from everyone at Pirtek.

FLUID MAGAZINE october 2012 I www.pirtek.com.au

media watch

media watch Through our community par activity, Pirtek is regularly

tnerships, sponsorships and

highlighted in all forms of me

Watch is designed to provid happening in print, electro

e everyone a snapshot of

business

dia. Media

what is

nically or on-line. This qua rter we have focused on a front page sto ry in the Brisbane Courier Mail on Dani Samuels on the eve of the Olympics and her relationshi p with rugby league coaching leg end Wayne Bennett.

FLUID MAGAZINE october 2012 I www.pirtek.com.au

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