The Tradie October-November 2024

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NEW ELECTRONICS SYSTEM ENABLING HIGHER PERFORMANCE WHEN REQUIRED

TRIPLE POWER

Easily switch between Bosch ProCORE18V, Professional 12V or standard alkaline batteries.

BLUETOOTH CONNECTIVITY

Levelling Remote app for hand-free line control, to save time and ensure better accuracy.

IP65 RATING

Rubber-enforced housing and laser windows, for high precision in tough conditions.

PRECISE

Due to integrated mount with strong magnets and pivot fine adjustment.

FROM THE EDITOR

Gunna

I’ll get to it … one day

EACH AND every one of us has our patience tested from time to time. Whether it’s at work, in line at the supermarket or airport, on hold with customer service, you name it!

At some point or another, we wonder why it’s taking someone else that bit longer to get something done for us.

My mother used to call them ‘gunnas’.

“Anyone who says they’re gunna get to something is gunna get to it in their own time,” she’d tell me.

And yet, when someone

voices their impatience to us, we suddenly feel unjustly judged.

“Do they not realise how busy I am?!,” is something we might think to ourselves while we manage to balance our chaotic lives.

Fact is, we simply expect ourselves to be front of mind for everyone else.

In the tradie world, this can be seen in full effect.

Tradie customers expect jobs to be done quicker – tradies expect materials to come in quicker – and on it goes.

It’s not necessarily a bad thing we push time

sensitive expectations on each other – it keeps everyone honest and alert.

Imagine if no one ever did anything in a timely manner ever? Houses wouldn’t be built, coffees wouldn’t be made, The Tradie magazines would never see the light of day. It’d be pure chaos.

Waiting for the person in front of you to give an overly elaborate coffee order is a particular pet peeve of mine

On that note, there’s plenty of timely pieces in this edition to keep you on your feet … so dig in!

EDITOR

Harry Murtough

FRONTUP

BREAK FAST

Move over Raygun…

B-Boy Neguin is one of many Aussie breakers – a sport that’s had a diehard following Down Under for decades

AUSSIE BREAK dancing – or breaking as it’s professional known – has certainly been in the limelight in recent months.

No matter what you thought of Aussie breakdancer Raygun’s performance, it certainly put the sport on the radar for millions who didn’t realise what the sport was actually about.

In August, Red Bull Australia hosted the BC One National Final in Sydney.

Local breakers Holly Molly (women’s) and B-Boy Cielo (men’s) won their respective competitions.

They’ll head to Rio de Janeiro in early December to compete in the World Final.

Image: Ken Leanfore

Red Bull Content Pool

ARMA UP

This latest safety brand has everything a tradie needs to stay protected

Bremick’s motto ‘empowered by innovation’ has just taken on a whole new meaning. The Aussie fastener and hardware brand has recently introduced its WorkArma safety gear brand to tradies, offering more innovation and even more variety

The PPE safety market in Australia is rapidly evolving and innovating.

This makes it crucial for tradies – no matter what profession – to be as safe as possible.

Enter WorkArma – a fresh brand aiming to provide tradies with a wide variety of PPE gear that not only meets their requirements, but exceeds them.

“The WorkArma range has been a great option for me on my projects as a chippie,” Sydney-based carpenter Christian Gray said.

“I have been wearing the safety glasses and goggles when

using power tools as they are comfortable and durable.

“Also, the rubber-padded impact resistant gloves have saved my knuckles more than once when ripping into some demo work the other week.”

WorkArma Safety Technical Sales Manager Paul Bozkurt said Bremick was no stranger to the significance of thorough testing and compliance, making them the perfect brand to be diving into the PPE space.

“That mentality around the importance of certification has followed through to the WorkArma range as well,” he said.

“It’s great for us to come out with a bang and show how the vast majority of our products are certified.

“It’s a significant range, that’s what enticed me to come on board … they’re covering so much right off the bat.”

The co-moulded TPR dust seal used on some WorkArma eyewear provides dust and splash protection while delivering greater comfort to the wearer

DIGIT PROTECTION

Many, if not most tradies will need gloves in their line of work. The comprehensive WorkArma hand protection range is designed to meet the needs of various applications. With expertise in safety and comfort, WorkArma’s gloves are engineered using high-quality materials to ensure optimal performance.

The WorkArma Cut Resistant, Mechanics, and Riggers Gloves are crafted to provide superior comfort, dexterity, and protection. Available in cut ratings from A to F, the Cut Resistant gloves are a particular standout, offering protection from low to maximum cut hazards. They feature reinforced thumb crotches for enhanced durability, a full range of dips for different applications, and are colourcoded for easy selection.

While safety is the top priority, the gloves are equipped with touchscreen technology for added convenience.

“This is a game changer,” Christian said.

“I can swipe and scroll with no problems also not having to remove your gloves means you don’t have to remember to put them back on.”

Paul added that accessibility was just as important when it comes to keeping hands protected.

“The one thing a tradie doesn’t want to be doing is taking their gloves on and off,” he said.

“They need to access their phones or tablets … typically a lot of quotations and other business a tradie does in this day and age is on a touchscreen.

“Having those touch screen compatibilities aspects on a wide range of gloves means they stay on. That’s hugely important.”

For tradies working with chemicals, welding or requiring disposable options, WorkArma Chemical, Disposable, and Welding Gloves provide reliable protection. For example, its Welding Gloves are rigorously tested and certified to Australian Standards AS/NZS 2161.2:2020 and

cut-resistant gloves range between Cut A – Cut F for low-to-maximum cut protection

2161.3:2020, which means they’re built featuring premium cow leather, aramid stitching, and 100 per cent cotton lining for sweat absorption.

DEEP BREATHE

As awareness continues to rise around dangerous dusts and fumes on the worksite, so does the crucialness of proper respiratory equipment.

Breathe easy on-site with WorkArma’s full range of reusable and disposable masks - in full and half-face options - with filters to protect against the inhalation of dangerous substances. WorkArma’s disposable respiratory range features colour-coded straps and valves for easy selection, with options available in both valved and non-valved masks, offering P1 and P2 protection.

Paul said an increased enforcement of WHS legislation has led to tradies making more informed choices about their PPE masks.

“Legislation is driving workers to make sure they’re safe and protected,” he said.

Images: WorkArma

AS/NZS

WorkArma’s

WorkArma has burst on to the scene to provide a range of safety gear for tradies that covers all bases

WorkArma faceshields are high impact rated to AS/NZS 1337:1:2010

Personal Eye Protection (when used with a WorkArma visor)

“For WorkArma, the safety industry is growing bigger and bigger. We want people to be safe – no one should have to go to work not feeling safe.

“In addition to that, no one should have to find out they’ve become sick over time because of something related to their workplace.”

WorkArma provides a comprehensive selection of reusable respiratory gear along with a full range of filters. Ready-made kits are available, featuring a half-face mask, filter, and reusable storage container. All products are tested and certified to Australian Standards AS/NZS 1716:2012, ensuring protection against hazardous particles such as smoke and welding fumes. The flat-folded threepanel design accommodates a wide range of facial shapes and sizes.

“Just knowing the product has been tested and certified gives me the peace of mind to get on with the job at hand,” Christian said.

“[it] Helps to know I have myself covered from a safety perspective.”

EYES UP

WorkArma’s Eye and Face Protection range includes glasses, goggles, and face shields with various coatings, lens types, colours, and accessories. Each piece is tested and certified to Australian Standards, specifically AS/NZS 1337.1:2010, ensuring medium impact protection.

WorkArma uses premium Anti-Fog coatings and hard-coated polycarbonate lenses to resist scratches while providing 99.9 per cent UV protection. The innovative eyewear range is also built for any and all tradies, offering adjustable features to ensure a perfect fit for every user. Beyond just protection, the designs prioritise comfort, helping to promote airflow and protect against dust, minor splashes, and particles.

SOUNDBITE

When things get loud on-site, WorkArma’s innovative range of hearing protection, which includes Earmuffs and Earplugs, has tradies’ ears protected. The WorkArma Earmuff range features all manner of ear coverage, offering protection levels up to Class 5 110dB.

WorkArma’s earplug range includes everything from Uncorded Disposable Earplugs to Reusable Silicone and Metal Detectable Corded Earplugs, also providing protection levels up to Class 5 110dB.

All Earmuffs are tested and certified to Australian Standards AS/NZS 1270:2002 for Acoustics - Hearing Protectors, featuring soft cushion pads for a comfortable seal and offering Class 5 protection. Much like the rest of WorkArma’s gear, its Earmuffs are as comfortable as they are protective, so tradies aren’t fidgeting around with them while on the job.

“The true test for comfort is you forget you are wearing them,” Christian said.

“The compact Earmuffs are my new favs, they fit so well and the low profile shape makes them a must on the job site.”

WorkArma Earbuds, also tested and certified to Australian Standards AS/NZS 1270:2002, are available in Class 4 and Class 5 protection levels, with bell and bullet shapes for ease of fitting and corded designs for safety and security.

CERTIFIED INNOVATION

No matter the location, WorkArma is ready to deliver its array of PPE gear to Aussie tradies.

“The distribution process we’ll have around the country will be the best in the safety industry,” Paul said.

“We’ll have locations around Townsville, Brisbane, Newcastle, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth and Darwin.

“That will be huge – getting the product quickly to our distributors who can then in turn get them quickly to the users of the product.”

As well as the above categories, WorkArma also features Hard Hats, Hi-Vis apparel, Knee Protectors, Hoods and Aprons.

No matter the trade, WorkArma aims to establish itself as a trustworthy PPE brand for tradies.

For more information about the WorkArma range or to find the nearest stockist, check out workarma.com.au

Tradies no longer need to choose between safety and comfort when it comes to earmuffs, with WorkArma’s range providing both in spades

NEW E - EXPERT

From the redesigned radiator grille showcasing the new PEUGEOT emblem, to the sleek full LED headlight signature, E-Expert boasts a refreshed new design aesthetic. Inside, the generous cabin and cargo area is primed for business with comfort, advanced tech, safety and a cargo carrying capacity of up to 1 tonne, combining efficiency with practicality. E-EXPERT ON SALE NOW.

TEST DRIVE TODAY

IN FOCUS: SUSTAINABILITY IN TRADES

Power up Bosch

unleashes its latest ProCORE18V+ batteries

IT’S NEVER been a better time to get around batterypowered tools for more power and more runtime.

Bosch has given tradies even more reason to jump on board with its latest offering: The ProCORE18V+ battery.

MORE JUICE

The ‘+’ in ProCORE18V+ comes in its runtime – up to 71 per cent longer than the standard ProCORE18V battery.

This significant extension means less downtime and getting the job done faster, allowing tradies to tackle demanding tasks without constantly needing to recharge.

One of the key innovations behind the ProCORE18V+ battery’s superior performance is Bosch’s tabless cell technology. This advanced design reduces cell resistance, leading to less heat generation

during use. As a result, the battery stays cooler, which means the battery isn’t compromising on power despite its long runtime.

Heat is a major factor in battery degradation, so this technology is crucial in ensuring the ProCORE18V+ remains reliable and effective even under heavy workloads.

In addition to the tabless cell technology, Bosch has integrated its COOLPACK 2.0 hardware into the ProCORE18V+.

This system further enhances the battery’s cooling capabilities, reducing heat by about 36 per cent compared to previous models.

The combination of these technologies means the ProCORE18V+ can handle intense, prolonged use without the risk of overheating, making it a dependable choice for professionals who demand the best from their tools.

LOCKED IN

Despite its enhanced power and performance, the ProCORE18V+ battery remains the same size as its predecessor, ensuring compatibility with existing Bosch tools and chargers. This means tradies can easily swap out batteries on the job without needing to upgrade their entire setup. Bosch has managed to pack more power into the same compact design, offering tradies an unbeatable combination of power, efficiency, and convenience.

The Bosch ProCORE18V+ battery range is a gamechanger for tradies, delivering unmatched runtime, reduced heat, and longer lifespan, all while maintaining compatibility with existing Bosch tools and chargers. It’s a testament to Bosch’s commitment to innovation and its understanding of the real-world needs of professionals.

Despite delivering high power and a longer runtime than other batteries, the ProCORE18V+ remains compact in size

The tables cell technology and COOLPACK 2.0 integration, ProCORE18V+ stay cool after extended use

emBARK on your journey today

Sharp sighted

Here’s what sets the Navigator™ X apart:

• A nti-fog and antiscratch coating

• Impact resistant

• Eco-Friendly, biobased frame

• Lightweight design

• Ergonomic tinted side shield

• Anti-slip, secure nose piece

• Tapered rubberised arms

Safe Sunnies unveils Navigator™ X range

SAFE SUNNIES’ origins are about as True Blue as they come.

Tradies have historically had to trade in style for safety, but the creators of Safe Sunnies wondered, why can’t it be both?

And with that question, a new era of stylish safety eyewear for tradies began.

With 20 years of safety experience and Riley Eyewear’s 30-year manufacturing heritage, Safe Sunnies embarked on a journey to change the game. The result? A range of safety glasses that not only protect but also impress. Safe Sunnies partnered with Riley Eyewear, pushing the boundaries of what safety eyewear could achieve in Australia. The mission was clear: deliver best-in-class manufacturing with zero compromise on safety, all while paying meticulous attention to detail.

THE BIRTH OF THE NAVIGATOR™

The team noticed something interesting in the world of the trades. Tradies weren’t just grabbing safety glasses for protection— they were checking themselves out in the mirror. It was a clear sign that people wanted more than just safety and performance; they wanted to look good while staying protected. And so, the Navigator™ was born, combining style, performance, and safety into one iconic piece of eyewear.

The journey to create the Navigator™ wasn’t a quick one. It took more than 18 months perfecting every detail to meet the highest safety and performance standards. This eventually led to the creation of the latest model - the Navigator™

X - designed to bring style and safety to everyday wearers across various fields.

NAVIGATOR™ X: SETTING NEW STANDARDS

The Navigator™ X isn’t just a pair of safety glasses; it’s a statement. Engineered to the highest safety standards, these glasses offer unparalleled comfort for prolonged wear in diverse working conditions.

Safe Sunnies has raised the bar on what safety eyewear can be, and they’re far from finished.

The Navigator™ X is a glimpse into the future of safety eyewear, where innovation, protection, and style converge. The Navigator™ X is proof that safety eyewear can be as stylish as it is functional for the everyday tradie.

The Navigator™ X sunglasses are equipped with Riley Eyewear’s cutting-edge FlowTec™ dual lens technology, designed to withstand the toughest industrial and hazardous environments.

Both sides of the lenses receive the FlowTec™ coating, providing exceptional anti-scratch and anti-fog properties, along with UV400 protection and moisture repellent. This premium coating ensures 100 per cent UVA and UVB protection by filtering high-energy visible light up to 400nm, while also resisting temperature extremes to prevent fogging. Ideal for outdoor workers, Navigator™

Navigator™ X comes with UV400 protection, shielding tradies’ eyes from harmful UV rays while working outdoors

X offers unparalleled vision clarity and durability, maximising the lifespan of your eyewear and ensuring reliable performance in demanding conditions. Whether you’re on a job site or out in the sun, make safety your style with the Navigator™ X.

Not only are they trendy and safe, but Navigator X™ frames are made with environmentally friendly bio-based materials

Images:

IN FOCUS: SUSTAINABILITY IN TRADES

Clean living

Cement Australia reveals an Aussie-first

CEMENT AUSTRALIA

has brought an environmentally sustainable Aussie-first to tradies that is packed full of innovation.

Cement Australia’s

Low Carbon Cement provides users with a direct replacement to GP Cement, made right here in Australia, boasting 30 per cent less embodied carbon than GP Cement.

GAME CHANGING TECHNOLOGY

Low Carbon Cement significantly reduces its environmental footprint with 30 per cent less embodied carbon than GP Cement.

How was Cement Australia able to do this?

Its technical team has spent years of research and development developing GREENCEM® technology.

Cement Australia

Product Development

Manager Martin Lynch said the mixture for Low Carbon Cement uses supplementary cementitious material such as fly ash.

“The challenge with high fly ash content in cement and mortar is the reduced early strength” he said.

“The technology we’ve included in this new product boosts that early strength so it’s comparable to GP Cement.

“That’s something novel in the market, particularly for packaged cement –

it’s the first of its kind in Australia.”

Being the equivalent to Cement Australia’s GP Cement, the Low Carbon Cement can be used for a variety of domestic and commercial jobs. This includes construction on mortar, render, small concrete slabs, footpaths and footings.

SUSTAINABLE SCIENCE

Australia uses a staggering 29 million M3 of concrete per year^. If Low Carbon Cement was only used in this concrete, tradies can help contribute to saving the same amount of carbon stored by 2,234,651 acres of forest*

That would be a forest

about the size of Melbourne.

“It’s rewarding to be a part of a company that has such an environmental focus,” Martin said.

To provide independent verification of Low Carbon Cement, Cement Australia has just released an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD).

The EPD Australasia register hosts verified documents from brands across Australia that provide data on the lifecycle environmental impact of a product.

“We’re the first company in Australia to release a dedicated EPD for a packaged cement product via EPD Australasia,” Martin said.

EVEN MORE DURABLE

As well as a lower environmental impact, tradies can also expect some other advantages of using Low Carbon Cement.

Concrete using Low

Not only does the Low Carbon Cement come with a lower environmental impact, but the use of fly ash addeds certain benefits to the final product as well

Carbon Cement may require less water to achieve a suitable workability, pumpability and durability compared to concrete produced with GP cement.

All this innovation was made right here, with Cement Australia able to develop the Low Carbon Cement at its NATA-accredited testing laboratory in Brisbane.

“Our words are backed up by our laboratory testing and independently verified EPD,” Martin added. Cement Australia is currently rolling out its Low Carbon Cement across select projects, and tradies can trial the product by contacting Cement Australia’s Customer Management Team.

^ Source: CBP_Infographic.pdf located at https://www.ccaa.com.au/CCAA/CCAA/Public_Content/INDUSTRY/Concrete/Concrete_Overview. aspx accessed March 2024.

* Source: https://www.epa.gov/energy/greenhouse-gas-equivalencies-calculator accessed March 2024

Image: supplied by Cement Australia

RENAULT TRAFIC

big space for big things

built for tradies, engineered for excellence

maximise your workday with best in class driving range and the longest load length in its category, up to 4.15m in stock now

Shears That Cut Through Anything!

IN FOCUS: SUSTAINABILITY IN TRADES

Power-in Advanced

Battery Technology: The heart of STIHL’s latest tools

THE FSA 200 and FSA 200 R brushcutters are powered by STIHL’s 36V lithium-ion battery system, specifically designed to meet the demands of professionals. When paired with the AP 500 S battery - the most powerful battery in STIHL’s AP Systemthese tools deliver longer operating times and top-quality cutting power.

The AP 500 S battery ensures the longest working duration of any battery in the series, allowing tradies to work longer without needing to recharge.

This battery system is modular and compatible with more than 30 other STIHL tools, making it a flexible solution for various landscaping tasks. Whether switching between a trimmer, blower, or chainsaw, the AP 500 S battery

provides the power needed for any job.

The FSA 200 brushcutters deliver an impressive 1.6 kW of mechanical power, matching the FS 361 C-M petrol clearing saw in performance. This level of power makes the FSA 200 series ideal for heavy-duty tasks, such as clearing thick brush or dense vegetation, while offering all the benefits of batterypowered equipment—zero emissions, less noise, and no need for fuel.

CLEAN AND EFFICIENT OPERATION

One of the key benefits of the FSA 200 series is its low-noise operation. Unlike traditional petrol-

powered tools, which can be loud and disruptive, these brushcutters operate quietly, making them perfect for use in noise-sensitive environments like schools, hospitals, cemeteries, and residential areas. Despite the quiet operation, the FSA 200 delivers a powerful performance

with a large mowing circle diameter of up to 450mm, allowing for rapid progress when cutting.

STIHL’s innovative EC motor enhances efficiency and performance. With speed adjustability in three increments, users can optimise the brushcutter’s performance for different tasks, ensuring the right balance between power and energy conservation. This adjustability makes the FSA 200 an incredibly versatile tool, able to handle both light

STIHL continues to work at the forefront of battery-powered tools

trimming and more demanding jobs with ease.

The motor also features an air filter that is easy to clean, ensuring proper cooling and extending the motor’s lifespan. This attention to durability and ease of maintenance ensures that users can rely on the FSA 200 for long-term, consistent performance.

The energised motor on the FSA 200 makes it the most powerful using STIHL’s AP System to date

IN FOCUS: SUSTAINABILITY IN TRADES

ERGONOMICS AND USER COMFORT

STIHL has put a strong emphasis on ergonomics with the FSA 200 and FSA 200 R brushcutters. Both models are equipped with an anti-vibration system, which significantly reduces the vibrations felt at the handle. This reduction in vibration minimises fatigue, allowing users to work for longer periods without strain on their joints and muscles.

The bike handle version of the FSA 200 is designed for easy adjustment, without the need for tools.

THE KMA 80 R KOMBIENGINE

STIHL’s commitment to battery technology is further showcased with the KMA 80 R Battery KombiEngine, part of the AK battery system. The KMA 80 R combines

the convenience of battery power with the performance typically expected from petrolpowered equipment, offering flexibility and efficiency for a range of gardening tasks.

Powered by the same battery system as the FSA 200 series, the KMA 80 R can be used with over 15 existing STIHL KombiTools. This means that users can switch between tasks like trimming hedges, edging lawns, or pruning trees, all while using the same power source. This versatility makes the KMA 80 R an essential tool for both professionals and serious garden enthusiasts.

The high-performance brushless motor in the KMA 80 R offers impressive power and efficiency while minimising wear and tear, ensuring a longer motor lifespan. The variable speed trigger and multi-function control handle give users precise control over the tool’s performance, allowing for adjustments based on the task at hand.

ENVIRONMENTAL AND ECONOMIC BENEFITS OF BATTERY POWER

The transition to batterypowered tools comes with several important benefits, both for the environment and for users. By eliminating the need for fuel, batterypowered tools reduce carbon emissions, making

them a more sustainable choice for landscapers and homeowners alike. Additionally, they contribute to a quieter working environment, which is particularly valuable in urban areas and during early morning or late evening jobs.

SEAMLESS INTEGRATION WITH STIHL SMART CONNECTOR 2 A

Both the FSA 200 series and the KMA 80 R are compatible with the STIHL Smart Connector 2 A, allowing for integration into the STIHL connected cloud-based system. This digital solution provides commercial users with detailed equipment data, including operating time, age, and maintenance schedules. This feature simplifies fleet management for professionals, ensuring that their equipment is well-maintained and operating at peak performance.

STIHL’s FSA 200 and FSA 200 R battery brushcutters, along with the KMA 80 R KombiEngine, represent a new era in batterypowered outdoor equipment. By delivering the performance of petrol-powered tools while offering the environmental benefits of battery technology, STIHL is paving the way for a cleaner, quieter, and more efficient future in landscaping.

The shared battery platform of the KMA 80 R means users can easily switch between tools without the hassle of managing multiple batteries and chargers, enhancing productivity and reducing downtime

TRADIE PROFILE

Top End TALENT

Darwin sparky Victoria takes huge bite into tradie world

Victoria has always been keen on the trades. While life kept her busy in her 20s, she’s as ready as she’s ever been to pick the tools back up in her 30s

VICTORIA CARTER is as excited as anyone you’ll find to being a sparky.

The 33-year-old Darwinbased second-year apprentice may be in the minority on-campus, but she’s no fish out of water.

“I’ve always wanted to do work with my hands, always helped my dad when he was in the shed,” Victoria said.

Her 20s weren’t quiet by any means, with her husband’s job requiring them to move around the country while also raising three kids.

“We moved around a lot for my husband’s job, so that didn’t really allow

Victoria said she was “ecstatic” to be named a Women in Apprenticeships award-winner

me to get settled into anything,” Victoria said.

“He’s settled in Darwin for his career, so I’ve taken that chance to get into something I really wanna do.”

When she’s not on the tools, Victoria said she was mostly on mum duty - taking her three kids to school, sports and music rehearsals among other things

SPARKING UP

Victoria is undertaking her electrical apprenticeship with Molloy Electrical Contractors (MEC) NT.

Through the apprenticeship, she’s gotten plenty of experience working across both commercial and domestic builds.

“I’ve done civil works underground, I’ve done work on new industrial buildings for Defence,” she added.

“I’ve worked on new domestic builds, demountable houses being sent out to rural communities … I’ve done quite a bit, you could say.

“I’ve gotten a deep knowledge of how

everything electrical operates. It’s getting that understanding of all aspects of electrical – how everything interconnects.

“From starting a car engine to powering up substations –understanding how that all works has been really cool to see.”

Victoria is still one of few women in trades becoming a sparky, but so far she’s fit in just fine with her male electrician coworkers.

“There’s one other female apprentice I work with, and I’ve only seen a handful of women at trade school when I’ve gone,” she said.

“It’s very much male dominated, but they’ve

all been really accepting and my employers’ and coworkers are really great … I’m just one of the guys.”

STANDING STRONG

Victoria was one of 10 women to win a Women in Apprenticeships award presented by the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) and Bunnings Trade.

“I was ecstatic – I never would have thought someone from Darwin could win an award like that,” she said.

“I was really surprised, but grateful for the opportunity.”

Award winners received a bevy of goodies, including a $5000-worth in

Bunnings Gift Cards and a NAWIC membership.

“I was at trade school, and we had some people from Bunnings Trade come in and chat to the women and they mentioned the Women in Apprenticeships award which I was really lucky to be one of ten to win,” she said.

“I got in touch with NAWIC NT as part of that and I also ended up winning a local award as well.”

It’s early days in her life as a tradie, but Victoria has big plans about how she wants to grow female

participation in the electrician space.

“I’d love to have start my own business and encourage more women to come aboard the construction industry,” she said.

“I’d love to bring on female apprentices under me and female colleagues to allow women to see they can have really great careers in the construction industry.”

Victoria said she’d love to one day build her own team of women sparkies

A fine trim

Precise handling and safety with Bosch’s new tools

POWERED BY an 18V brushless motor, Bosch’s GLF 18V-8 and flagship GKF 18V-8 Laminate Trimmers go beyond being just run-of-the-mill, offering a range of safety and performance features that set it apart from the competition.

Safety is a top priority with the GLF 18V-8 Laminate Trimmer. A standout feature is the in-built surface and edgerouting vacuum adaptors – a world-first. These adaptors dramatically reduce dust production by up to 95 per cent, ensuring a cleaner workspace and protecting the tradie’s

respiratory health. This feature, combined with a high-quality parallel guide interface, not only makes the job more efficient but also contributes to a superior final product equalling a happy customer for tradies.

The trimmers also boast Bosch’s unique drop control feature, which automatically shuts off the tool if it’s dropped, adding an extra layer of safety for users.

This is particularly important on busy job sites where accidents can happen, and routers that can protect themselves (and tradies) is invaluable.

POWER IN THE PALM Performance-wise, these Laminate Trimmers are workhorses. The 18V brushless battery motor delivers the equivalent of 600W of corded power on the GLF 18V-8 and 1,000W of corded power on the GKF 18V-8, making them perfect for tasks like edge trimming, grooving, and profiling templates. With an adjustable speed range of 10,000 to 30,000 RPM, tradies can easily tailor the tool’s performance to the specific needs of the job. The constant speed function ensures a stable cutting speed, delivering a smooth and precise finish every time. Additionally,

the tool’s optimised cooling ventilation design prevents overheating, even during extended use, ensuring that it can keep up with demanding tasks.

One of the most convenient features of both laminate trimmers is their spindle lock button, which allows for quick and easy bit changes without the need for two wrenches. This feature not only saves time but also reduces the frustration of tool adjustments, making the trimmer more user-friendly. Both these new Laminate Trimmers

These Laminate Trimmers from Bosch come standard with a number of attachments, including an edge routing vacuum adaptor, parallel guide and trim roller guide (pictured: GLF 18V-8)

from Bosch are versatile, high-performance tools that excel in edge routing to grooving and profiling. They combine the power of corded palm routers with the convenience of being cordless, all while offering innovative safety and performance features that make it a top choice for professionals in the trade industry.

Images:

Bosch Professional Power Tools

To the teeth

Warren & Brown 100-Teeth Ratchet

Sets: A must-have for any workshop

WARREN & BROWN is known for its innovative and high-quality tools, and its 100-Teeth Ratchet Sets are no exception. These ratchets are made with precision and power in mind, making them ideal for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.

One of the key features of the 100-Teeth Ratchet Sets is their super strong high tooth gear. This gear has 90-100 teeth per ratchet, compared to the 60-70 teeth found in most other ratchets. This gives Warren & Brown’s ratchets unmatched precision and torque, making them perfect for even the most challenging jobs.

GEARED UP

Another key feature is the aluminum handle design. This design makes the ratchets lightweight and easy to handle, even for extended periods of time. The quick release lock also makes it easy to change sockets quickly and efficiently.

The 100-Teeth Ratchet Sets are available in a variety of lengths, ranging from 150mm to 400mm. This makes it easy to find the right ratchet for any job, whether tradies are working in a tight space or need a longer reach.

The Warren & Brown 100-Teeth Ratchet Sets are the perfect choice for those looking for a set of

ratchets that will deliver precision and power.

A TOOL ABOVE

If tradies need even more flexibility and precision, Warren & Brown also offers a 100-Teeth Swivel Ratchet Set. These ratchets have a round swivel head that pivots through a 180-degree range. This makes it easy to reach fasteners in difficult-toaccess areas.

The 100-Teeth Swivel Ratchet Set is available in the same three drive sizes and lengths as the standard 100-Teeth Ratchet Set, so there’s a right ratchet for any job.

From professional mechanics or a DIY

enthusiast, the Warren & Brown 100-Teeth Ratchet Sets are a must-have for any toolkit. These ratchets offer precision, power, and

This ratchet set comes with three sizes to suit any application

versatility that can’t be found anywhere else.

Images: Warren & Brown Tools

Hardcore you ripper!

Ramset™ brings new flavour with next-gen TrakFast™ range

TRADIES WILL feel the power in their hands with the next-generation Ramset™ TrakFast™ cordless gas-powered tool range, which now includes the powerful Ramset™ TrakFast™ 65 & the small but mighty Ramset™ TrakFast™ C-Plus®.

The Ramset™ TrakFast™ 65 is a legend when it comes to versatility. With increased power, a well-balanced body and greater fastener capacity,

the TrakFast™ 65 suits all track & partitioning jobs, and will tackle framing applications including bottom plate fixing into concrete with ease.

It punches harder and buries pins from 15mm to 65mm long into concrete, backed by its 105J power force capability.

The TrakFast™ 65 is the highest-powered gas tool from Ramset™ that will outlast all the others, with one gas cannister

required to complete a whole residential frame, paired with a box of pins and it’s all set, creating productivity and efficiency like never before.

SHOOTING THROUGH Happy Haus Boutique Home Builders carpenter Simon Mee got his hands on the TrakFast™ 65, and loved the results.

“We’ve used the TrakFast 65 to shoot down the last few frames and I’ve been

really impressed with the tool,” the Queenslandbased chippy said.

“The versatility has been great. We’re able to adjust the depth of drive to a bunch of different pin sizes. It’s fast. It’s been a great all-around tool. I can’t wait to see what else its capable of!” With reduced recoil & vibration in the tool, tradies won’t end their day overworked and fatigued. Even better; the tool is lighter ensuring you maintain momentum on the job and with 10,000 shots per battery charge, there’s no downtime required to recharge.

A tradie’s safety is a top priority whether they’re on the site or on

The TrakFast™ 65 is lighter than its predecessors, making it easy to handle while shooting up to 10,000 shots per battery charge

Simon had a blast testing out all the versatility of Ramset™’s TrakFast™ cordless gas-powered tool range

the way home, without consumables like PA charges, they don’t have to stress about additional safety measures when storing their gear.

SMART CHANGES

The Ramset™ TrakFast™ C-Plus® joins the crew as a lighter, more compact cordless gas-powered tool designed for a durable, better fix into concrete, masonry and steel. It is the ideal tool for the installation of steel track and plywood into concrete plus pest control mesh and waterproofing in commercial applications. The compact, lightweight and well-balanced design means that you can get into hard-to-reach places with comfort, supported by 95J of power – the pins will pierce the substrate without fuss ensuring you maintain productivity onsite.

The TrakFast™ C-Plus® is a tradie’s next-gen upgrade that will reduce dust and recoil so it’s safer to use, plus increase stamina and efficiency with its fast-charge Lithium-Ion battery, so you will get 10,000 shots per charge.

The Ramset™ TrakFast™ 65 and TrakFast™ C-Plus is purposefully designed to get the job DONE. Head to ramset.com.au to learn more

Images: Ramset

Time to burn with Hot Devil

Heat-to-go

WHILE TRADIES are most likely familiar with the quality range of blow torches, soldering irons, and accessories from Hot Devil, the highly anticipated Hot Devil Brazing Torch Kit (HDBTK) has just landed. This great new bit of kit is supplied with a new larger 950ml Oxygen Cylinder (HDOC) which will last for 45 minutes… or more! And, of course, the tried and tested 400gm Trade Map Gas Cylinder (HDTRD).

The new Hot Devil Oxygen Cylinder 950ml (HDOC) which feeds this powerful new brazing torch will keep you burning for well

If a tradie only needs to braze occasionally, the HDBTK is the perfect option

over 45 minutes, whilst being compact enough for even those ‘hard to reach’ places, making this great blow torch a ‘must have’ tool for any workshop, toolbox or ute.

ALL-IN-ONE

With gas and oxygen flow control valves built into the lance, the Hot Devil Brazing Torch Kit couldn’t be easier to use (and igniting it is a breeze). Powered by a mix of Trade Map Gas and Compressed Oxygen, the Brazing Torch Kit by Hot Devil provides a burn temperature of almost 3000°C (2926°C to be exact), making it ideal for a multitude of jobs, whether in the workshop, or out on site. With the ability to weld and braze various metals, loosen off that stubborn

rusted bolt or nut, or even get through up to 3mm mild steel plates, the Hot Devil Brazing Torch Kit

The HDBTK comes with everything a tradie needs for their brazing needs

does it all with ease. The kit includes a lightweight metal cylinder stand, a 1.7m long hose kit complete with solid brass valve fittings and a 1mm pin-point burner tip. Also included are an Oxygen cylinder 950ml and a Trade Map gas cylinder, as well as a hand sparker with spare flint and tinted safety glasses.

TIME AND MONEY SAVER

Expensive bottle rentals can be a drain on businesses, especially if they’re only used occasionally. Not to mention the time lost moving them around site, up ladders, under houses, etc. With the lightweight and portability of the Hot Devil Brazing Torch Kit, this problem is solved.

Images: Prime Creative Media and Hot Devil

TOOL UP!

As well as adding new applications, the ALLSAW added an easy click-on blade replacement feature to make it easy for tradies to swap out blades quickly

Crucial cuts

New cordless ALLSAW from Arbortech brings big upgrades

TRADIES looking for a True Blue power tool for masonry work have plenty of reasons to check out Arbortech’s new ALLSAW BA200X Cordless saw.

This new piece of kit from the renowned Australian tool brand delivers big on the power and application front, ushering in a new era for Arbortech.

NEW GROUND

Arbortech’s ALLSAWs have built a firm following of masonry tradies for brick-cutting applications.

A major drawcard of the tool is its saw shape, which allows for more precise square cuts.

With the era of cordless power tools in full swing, however, the ALLSAWs range of uses has expanded tremendously according to Arbortech Technical Director Ben Inkster.

“Historically, this has been a brick and mortar saw, and it does that job very well,” he said.

“We really love that the cordless avenue has opened up more applications for more tradies to use the tool.

“I’ve spoken to electricians who are running around a site doing work inside a house – they don’t wanna drag a massive extension lead around the house.

“They wanna go in, cut a switch box, and get out nice and clean. They can pick up this tool – cut a beautiful and clean box into a brick wall with no overcut that you might get from an angle grinder, and no mess at the end.”

Not just indoors; but tradies working in gardens can find this ALLSAW to be a solid sidekick.

“This thing loves the dirt,

we think it’s a really good solution in the landscaping space,” Ben added.

TEAMING UP

So how is all this possible? This latest ALLSAW is able to deliver an impressive 2.3kW of power thanks to its brushless motor and DEWALT®’s FLEXVOLT® batteries.

“That combo with a highpowered motor and the Flexvolt battery is really good for us,” Ben said.

“Working with DEWALT® to use that battery is huge for us. We wanted our customers to have options and flexibility with the battery.”

Ben added that most tradies won’t need the full 2.3kW of power the new ALLSAW can deliver but as the old saying goes – it’s better to have it and not need it, than need it and not have it.

“We don’t need all of that 2.3kW, but it’s good to have it when you do need it on those rare jobs,” he said.

“It’s something we haven’t had until this point; our corded version is 1.5kW.”

AUSTRALIAN INNOVATION

When it comes to knowing what Aussie tradies want, Arbortech’s fairly close to the mark.

Ben’s dad Kevin Inkster founded the business in WA nearly 40 years ago.

To this day, the company remains entrenched in Perth, which includes calling on local tradies to test out their latest tools.

“We definitely test the tools in the market … being in Australia and more specifically WA, we’re very proud of the innovations we have with our power tools, ” Arbortech CEO Sven Blinks said.

“We also do testing around our offices in the

Check it out Check it out

Like other Arbortech tools, the new ALLSAW was 100 per cent assembled in Australia

US and Canada as well.”

Ben added that being able to test the ALLSAW on the typically harder concrete used in North America meant the tool was even more adept at handling concrete Down Under.

“In Perth, almost 95 per cent of homes are full brick construction, it’s really unique,” he said.

“Cutting brick in Australia is really different to cutting brick in North America, where there’s more cement used in their mortar mixes.

“We make a point of testing our tools in North America because it’s such a hard region.

“But there’s no difference in design around the world – we have one tool that meets the tradie’s requirements no matter where they are.”

Wave goodbye to corded cutting, tradies can pick up the new ALLSAW BA200X from Sydney Tools or from other trusted dealers from October 1

Images: Arbortech

TOOL UP!!

Hold fast(en)

Bremick brings the power with new bugle batten screws

WHEN IT COMES to fastening timber, Bremick has tradies sorted with another inspired product that delivers speed, precision, and durability. Designed to comply with stringent Australian Standards, Bremick’s Fasten Strong Bugle Screws stand out as the cutting-edge solution. These screws deliver performance and reliability across a range of demanding outdoor environments, including severe marine conditions.

on projects. How is this done? Bremick has crafted a specialised point that eliminates the need for pre-drilling, a game changer for users working with softwood and hardwood timber. The point bites instantly into the timber to provide stability and rapid acceleration.

In combination with Bremick’s advanced serrated threads, the screws are built to reduce driving torque, speeding up the installation process.

CUTTING EDGE

superior corrosion resistance, ideal for harsh conditions such as coastal/seaside projects. This stainless-steel finish also gives an architectural quality that ensures the screws make for a highquality final product both visually and functionally. One of the most notable features is the selfembedding bugle head, which ensures materials are pulled tightly together for a clean, professional finish.

and controlled. With its advanced design features - such as countersinking ribs for a flush finish, serrated sharp threads for secure grip, and a straight cutter for reduced driving torqueBremick’s Bugle screws deliver unparalleled efficiency.

EASY ON THE KNEES

While all these innovative features make Bremick’s Fasten Strong Bugle Screws a stand-out, it’s the logistical impact on a tradie’s workload they’ll notice the most.

The screws extend battery life on impact drivers by up to 35 per cent, reduce coating loss, and offer a comparable pull-out performance, making them the top

Bremick’s Fasten Strong range sports a plethora of upgrades that make fastening cleaner, stronger and more efficient

choice for demanding builds.

Whether working in awkward positions or low-to-ground spaces, Bremick’s Fasten Strong Bugle Screws reduce fatigue, which means they’re as easy on the back as they are to screw in.

Ultimately, the Fasten Strong Bugle Screws deliver a seamless fastening experience, making them the ideal choice for tradies seeking both performance and durability. They come in a variety of finishes, lengths, and pack quantities.

Check it out Check it out

Bremick Bugle screws install 2x faster than standard bugle battens, offering tradies substantial time savings Visit bremick.com.au to find the best ones for your next job

The benefits go beyond speed. The stainless steel 304 & 316 screws provide

The T40 precision drive recess allows for maximum stability during installation, ensuring that even one-handed operation remains secure

Image: Bremick

Premium Protection, Uncompromised Style.

Pushing the boundaries on style and innovation, the NEW Navigator X offers a protective eyewear solution without compromise. Featuring the iconic wayfarer design, high quality materials and specialist lens options, the Navigator X is the next level for style & safety.

10% FORDISCOUNT FIRST PURCHASE

KEY FEATURES

+ Market first HD lens dramatically improves clarity and contrast, heightens colours whilst relaxing the eye

+ Made using ethically sourced Bio-Based materials

+ Premium UV400 FLOW-TEC Anti-Fog and Anti-Scratch lenses (including polarised and mirrored)

+ 100% tax deductible

Need 4 speed

Fluke’s

1670

range makes testing simple as for tradies

FLUKE IS well-known among tradies for delivering high quality testing and inspection equipment.

More specifically, its multifunction installation testers provide simple, yet elite support to those routinely working in electrical installation.

Fluke’s latest 1670 Series Multifunction Installation Testers enhance testing and reporting accuracy, helping to streamline processes and increase efficiency.

SETTING THE STANDARD

Designed with an intuitive interface and integrated data management capabilities, the Fluke 1670 Series Multifunction Installation Testers enable immensely faster testing and reduced documentation time, all while ensuring the

Check it out

highest confidence in the data collected. These testers verify the safety of electrical installations across various applications. Compliance is always front-of-mind for Fluke, which is why they meet both IEC 60364 and local standards to AS 3000.

Check out the Fluke 1670 Series and other testers at fluke.co/1670-t10e

*Included with 1673FC and 1674C only.

The new tool bringing bedroom confidence to tradies

Hard science TRADIE HEALTH

TRADIES KNOW as well as anyone just how frustrating it is when something doesn’t work.

This applies just as much in the bedroom as the worksite, where not ‘getting wood’ can take on a whole new meaning.

“You’ve got about 350 million men suffering from ED [erectile dysfunction] around the world and yet a high percentage of these men don’t undergo any ED treatment,” CEO and founder of Ohh-Med Medical Daniel Lischinsky said.

“Not because they’re

unwilling, but because they are either embarrassed to talk to their physician about the problem or they have already tried various treatments and nothing has worked well enough.”

It’s not easy for many blokes to ask for help on the worksite, much less the bedroom.

Thankfully, Lischinsky has leaped into the market with a gamechanger – Vertica.

VERTICA EXPLAINED

Men have tried everything to combat ED, from pills, injections and even surgeries. Vertica offers a more reliable, less invasive solution.

The device – which looks somewhat like a video

game controller – has handles on the side and a hole in the middle for the penis.

Electrodes then deliver warmth to the penis using radio frequency (RF) energy.

Lischinsky is an expert when it comes to the application of RF energy, and said its use on mens’ nether regions is safe and effective.

“You have to understand that ED is usually caused by reduced blood flow to the penile erectile bodies or due to penile blood leakage during erection (a condition called ‘venous leakage’),” he said.

“Venous leakage is directly associated with impaired integrity of collagen fibers in the ‘tunica albuginea’ - the penile tissue which has a central role in the erectile mechanism. “Its function is to stretch and occlude penile blood outflow while trapping the blood within the penis during erection.”

“However, age-related degenerative changes and atrophy of collagen

fibers in the tunica albuginea result in tissue floppiness and the loss of this occlusive function, leading to leakage of blood from the penis during erections with a resulting erectile dysfunction.”

TRIED AND TESTED

An important questions is, of course: does it work?

Vertica was clinically tested at the NeuroUrology unit at the Ramban Healthcare campus in Israel.

Trial lead Professor Ilan Gruanwald said “The results demonstrated a significant enhancement of penile erections (up to 89 per cent success rates) and furthermore, a high sexual quality of life and high satisfaction from treatment.”

With Vertica, men can wave goodbye to planning out their pill-based solutions or forking out for

Blokes looking to bring back their bedroom confidence can do so with Vertica

painful alternatives. This handy device brings confidence and spontaneity back to the bedroom with researched-backed results.

Each Vertica unit comes with:

• Vertica® device

• Electrode PAD

• Charger/Adapter

• Ultrasound or RF conductive gel*

• Quick reference guide

• User manual Device warranty

It is recommended that the device is used three times a week for the first month of use, then twice a week for the second and finally once a week in the third.

Check

To find out more about how Vertica can help you, visit vertica.com.au

Vertica’s game controllerlike construction makes it easy and comfortable to use

A municipal works, civil and commercial construction event.

17-18 September 2025,

In September 2025, a new event will be landing at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. Converge will bring together leading decision makers in the Municipal Works, Civil and Commercial Construction space, to share the tools, ideas and technologies that are shaping these sectors.

in Check

Tending to your mental wellbeing

Tradie wellness coach Aaron Huey talks through some common issues tradies might encounter, but not want to talk about

Q: HOW DO I BRING UP THE TOPIC OF MENTAL HEALTH WITH A WORKMATE ON WITHOUT MAKING THEM UNCOMFORTABLE?”

A: Start the conversation casually and in a comfortable setting, such as during a break or at the end of the workday. You could say something like,

“Hey mate, I’ve noticed you’ve seemed a bit off lately. Just wanted to check in and ask, are you doing, okay?” The key is to approach the conversation from a place of care and concern, without pushing too hard. Sometimes simply opening the door to talk can be enough.

Q: “WHAT IF MY WORKMATE SAYS THEY’RE FINE, BUT I DON’T THINK THEY ARE? SHOULD I PUSH FOR MORE DETAILS?”

A: If your workmate says they’re fine but you still have concerns, you can gently let them know you’re there if they ever want to talk. You could say something like, “No worries, but if things ever get tough or you need someone to chat with, I’m always here.” Respect

their boundaries, but leave the conversation openended so they know you’re available when they’re ready.

Q: “HOW CAN I FOLLOW UP AFTER RU OK DAY IF I’VE STARTED A CONVERSATION WITH A WORKMATE, BUT THEY DIDN’T OPEN UP RIGHT AWAY?”

A: Following up is important if the person didn’t open up during the initial conversation. You

Wellness Coach Aaron Huey

could casually check in a few days or weeks later by asking.

“I’ve been thinking about you since we last talked. How are things going?” This shows that you genuinely care and that the conversation wasn’t just a one-off.

Q: “WHAT IF I’M NOT SURE HOW TO HANDLE THE CONVERSATION IF MY WORKMATE DOES OPEN UP ABOUT THEIR STRUGGLES?”

A: If your workmate opens up, listen without judgment. You don’t need to have all the answers, just being there and showing that you care is often enough. You can also encourage them to

seek professional support, like talking to a counselor or using your company’s employee assistance program (EAP). Saying something like, “I’m really glad you shared that with me. Have you thought about talking to someone who might be able to help more?” can be a supportive next step.

Q: “WHAT IF MY WORKMATE SAYS THEY DON’T WANT TO TALK ABOUT THEIR MENTAL HEALTH? SHOULD I JUST DROP IT?”

A: If your workmate says they don’t want to talk, respect their decision but keep the door open for future conversations. You might say something

like, “That’s okay, but if you ever do want to talk, I’m here for you. You don’t have to go through things alone.” Sometimes just knowing someone is available can make a big difference when they’re ready to open up.

Starting these conversations can be difficult, but Mental Health Month is a great opportunity to normalize mental health discussions in the workplace and let your mates know that it’s okay to not be okay.

You can find out more on Instagram @aaron_wd_huey

Lifeline: 13 11 14

Tools of the Trade tradie mental health event, Oct 24

THE MALE PROBLEM, THE EMOTIONAL

REASON AND NOW THERE IS VERTICA®, THE ‘LIFE-CHANGING’ SOLUTION

MEN encountering difficulties with their sexual function often do not know how to cope.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is often feared due to the intense shame, leading many men to avoid treatment. These problems often bring with them difficulties on a much broader scale – such as a decrease in self-confidence and male image, depression, functional difficulties, and above all, a feeling of helplessness with respect to intimacy and marital life.

Ohh-Med Medical has developed Vertica®, a clinically tested medical device for the home treatment of erectile dysfunction. The device operates through

radio waves and addresses the root cause - ageing collagen fibers and blood leakage. Apart from reducing sexual function, ED has significant emotional and mental consequences. Dr. Daniella Mazor, a certified sexologist, explained: “Men are not used to talking about their feelings, and it’s not accepted by society either, so when something intimate happens, men usually won’t share it with their partners or friends.”

Alongside emotional therapy, modern medicine has innovative solutions to treat the problem. The Vertica® Treatment is performed by the man himself, at home and at his own pace. There is no need for a doctor’s prescription, and the man can essentially treat himself discreetly, without sharing his condition with others and feeling embarrassed about it.

Developed by urologists, Vertica® has been described as ‘revolutionary’ by doctors after a clinical trial revealed it improved erectile dysfunction in more than 85% of participants. Some men reported experiencing positive results in just four weeks, and this lasted up to at least six months after the conclusion of the trial.

Radiofrequency devices use safe levels of low-frequency electromagnetic waves to generate heat that slips into the skin’s layers, which has already been proven to stimulate the remodeling of collagen, a protein that supports normal function of the erectile mechanism.

Vertica® works in a similar way, and in contrast

to medical solutions based on improving blood flow to the penis, such as prescription drugs, the medical device relies on the use of low-frequency radio waves to ‘warm’ the collagen and elastin fiber tissues in the penis, which ‘renews and rejuvenates’ them.

The device is designed to restore the physical mechanism that ‘traps’ the blood in the organ for a sustained amount of time and subsequently improved performance for a lengthy period.

Vertica® is TGA registered ARTG No: 458 309 in Australia.

For a limited time, Vertica® is also being offered at a 20% pre-order discount.

Call 0452 348 895 for more information.

TRADIE HEALTH

Business (not as) usual

Tradies! Take care of yourself as much as your business

TRADIES OFTEN face a tough and demanding work environment, where prioritising mental health may not come easily.

The expectation to be emotionally strong and not show vulnerability can make it hard to open up.

August was Tradies National Health Month, co-ordinated by the Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA).

A tradie survey from the APA found that 50 per cent of participants were affected mentally by the current skills shortage.

“As an ex-tradie, I remember how working alone or in small teams could sometimes make me feel disconnected from my family and community,”

Fergus founder Dan Pollard said.

“The demands of the job can often intrude on personal time, leading to a poor work-life balance.

“Mental health won’t happen by itself. It takes focus, prioritising selfcare, and finding time to relax with loved ones.

Let’s face it, as tradies we aren’t always good at recognising or admitting that we need more emotional support. But it’s time to change that.”

There are simple steps that tradies—and their mates—can take to make a significant difference in mental health.

HAVE A CHAT

Don’t keep things bottled up. If something is bothering you, talk about it. Whether it’s a chat with a mate during a break

or a call to a helpline like Lifeline or Mates in Construction, reaching out can be the first step toward feeling better.

Just as safety on the job is a team effort, so is mental health. If you notice a mate struggling, don’t ignore it. Sometimes, simply asking, “You alright?” can open the door to a conversation that makes all the difference.

REGULAR MAINTENANCE

The ASA survey found 87 per cent of tradies medicate or self-medicate to manage their pain, with 30 per cent resorting to drugs or alcohol. Enjoying a cold drink is fine, but moderation matters. A clear mind is always better than a foggy one. Try swapping a beer for a book or a movie night with friends or family. If you find it hard to avoid alcohol or drugs in social settings, consider trying a zero-alcohol option.

According to the APA’s

survey, 76 per cent of tradies report pain affects their quality of life and mental health, but more than half do not seek professional help.

You wouldn’t ignore a leaky pipe, so don’t overlook signs of mental strain. Regular checkups with your doctor can help catch mental health issues early. GPs can also refer you to mental health professionals if needed. Don’t wait until things get worse—seek help early.

After a long day, exercise might be the last thing on your mind, but physical activity releases endorphins, the body’s natural mood boosters.

Even a 30-minute walk after work can help clear your head.

“The physical exhaustion and chronic pain associated with physically demanding work also affects mental well-being, and we need to be talking about it,” Dan said.

“Time pressures add

Mental exhaustion is real for tradies, so being aware of limits is vital for longterm health

another layer of stress, as tradies often find themselves meeting tight deadlines and managing emergency callouts, which makes them feel like they are living in a constant state of urgency.

“Those that own their own business or are sole traders have the added stress of keeping admin at bay, cash flowing, and jobs coming in, so it’s just a pipe ready to burst without an outlet.”

Though fast food might be tempting, your body—and mind—deserve better fuel. A poor diet can contribute to poor mental health. Next time you’re about to grab that meat pie, consider going for a chicken salad instead. Or, if you don’t mind leftovers, pack a portion of your dinner for lunch the next day.

Images: amorn/stock.adobe.com and Nicholas Felix/peopleimages.com/stock.adobe.com

MIND YOUR MIND

Hitting the gym is one way for tradies to sharpen their body both physically and mentally Check

It’s easy to think that pushing through the pain is the way to go, but that approach can quickly lead to burnout. Everyone needs a break now and then, whether it’s a weekend off or a longer holiday. Stepping away gives your mind a chance to reset and recharge. Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to mental health. Equip yourself with the facts by exploring resources from organisations like the Black Dog Institute or Beyond Blue.

Understanding what you’re going through not only helps you but also better positions you to support a mate who might be struggling.

Business management is one thing that can cause unnecessary stress for tradies. Why make things harder than they need to be?

Visit fergus.com to learn more about its job management software or sign up for a 14-day free trial

Great Just

What’s so great about the Great Barrier Reef?

In this feature, Tim O’Reilly explores the length and breadth of the Great Barrier Reef (GBR)

Words and Images:

Tim O’Reilly

A singular living organism that provides shelter, sustenance and joy in equal amounts. Where ten lifetimes could be spent in the pursuit of uncovering just a fraction of her secrets. The Great Barrier Reef is mother to millions of other worldly creatures. All coexisting in a crazy concoction of life. Most books and articles start with how long and how many islands. For some reason these two features express in words the true enormity of the beast. From my experience, the Great Barrier Reef is best thought of in a different context. There is the inner reef lagoon, the islands, mid reefs and finally the outer Barrier Reef.

Perhaps some readers will only envision those cutting iridescent lines where colourful coral tops plunge into unimaginable depths. And this is the image of the GBR I grew up with, the outer reef stretching on for eternity up towards Papua New Guinea. But when you start to visit and uncover the many faces of this coral labyrinth, you begin to realise so much more.

A quick dip and gaze at the underwater world somewhere on the Great Barrier Reef should be on every person’s bucket list. The fish life is extraordinary. Anyone thinking the GBR is dead only need have a casual snorkel through any of the Green Zones left behind by an erratic planning scheme. Even when coral is damaged, ravaged by storms, bleaching or crown of thorns starfish, there are the fish. A kaleidoscope of colour darting around you in every direction.

When viewed from Google Earth or photographed from satellites, the GBR reverberates back through the screen. With only the slightest zoom, you can start to make out the 3000 odd individual reefs. Zooming in further shows how each large reef is usually made up of countless other individual reefs within a larger plateau, discreet yet joined. Fisherman can use modern tools to pinpoint these smaller reefs and target current lines, pressure points and establish where bait and predators are likely to be hiding.

Gun guide Andy with a prized Māori sea perch

The Inner Reef Lagoon

Somewhat overshadowed by the more frilly, colourful sections of the GBR, this inshore areas provides a thick soup of life. A transient world between the coast, creeks, rivers and offshore sections of reef. The inner reef lagoon is typified by shallow sandy, silty and muddy waters where isolated pockets of reef grow on any kind of substrate.

Inshore rocks, shoals and genuine reefs in this inner reef lagoon tend to be a little more silty in nature, carrying sediment loads between the coast and cleaner water out further. Tides and the monsoonal wet season play an enormous role in the fishing. At times after huge rains over the east coast of Queensland, much of this inner reef lagoon area is severely affected by freshwater, nutrient and runoff.

There tend to be slightly smaller iterations of most reef fish species in this inner lagoon. There will always be notable exceptions to this, fish such as tusk fish, fingermark and large mouthed nannygai at times bucking the trend to be large inshore. Ornate and painted crayfish are a free divers delight and often push close inshore amongst scattered shallow reef patches.

Coral trout in mainly their bar cheeked and common forms tend to rule in these parts providing some fantastic sport and quality eating. Too many cod species to mention inhabit these inshore reefs, voracious in every size and colour imaginable. Coral cod, stripies, moses perch, grassy sweetlip, queenfish and a whole host of trevally species are just a few prolific in these areas.

Clear water fly fishing the mid reef lagoons

Hooked up solid on a remote sand cay

FEATURE

The inshore islands

The Great Barrier Reef is absolutely littered with islands clusters. About 1800 kilometres in length and islands strewn about all over the place. In this context it is best considered as Central Queensland, Northern Queensland and Cape York. All very generous areas geographically speaking.This multitude of inshore islands make up some of Australia’s most pristine and scenic areas. From the Bunker group right down in the south all the way up into the Torres Strait above the tip of Cape York, there’s around 1000 islands!

Many of these are tend be rock and mangrove riddled and a little harsh. Oyster covered rocky shores and storm ravaged shorelines can look all too familiar at times. Some however are white beached nirvanas with beautiful rocky outcrops, towering rainforest and fringing coral reef.

Nestled amongst many of these continental islands are some of the GBRs famous white sand cays. These cays are usually accumulations of either sand or dead coral pushed up by the winds and current to form accumulations above the surrounding reef. Dazzling white sand cays with turquoises water lapping at their margins are what many a postcard featuring the reef has included.

Mid reefs

Much of the action starts to kick in from a fishing perspective around the Mid Reefs. Most species will reside somewhere in this mid reef mix, venturing out from inshore or in from offshore. Plenty of organisms will spend their life cycle in this zone. A quick glimpse at the entire length of reef will show mid reefs occupying a staggered breadth between coastline and outer reef. Much of the reef structure lies in this heavy abdomen of reef. Reefs as large as metropolitan suburbs are common.

For fisherman, divers and snorkelers, these mid reefs provide much of the action associated with exploration. Water depths vary markedly up and down the length of the GBR but generally we are talking about areas between 20 - 60m deep. With shallow reef flats punctuating the scene. Some of the islands and many of the cays of the GBR will be found out within these mid reefs. Plenty of yachts cruise up the coast each year, chasing desolate sand cays of which there are some absolute beauties.

Most of these mid reefs are dissected by channels and provide an enormous amount of structure and habitat. Habitat in the form of coral reef, gutters, lagoons, holes and hard rocks patches. Fish life in it’s natural state congregates in these spaces, funnelled by tide and channel. Life begets more life and fish tend to hang around

Hooked up on the reef flat

Young guns holding a giant wrasse from the shallow coral

Two colourful reef critters on the one lure

FEATURE

other fish, often times predator and prey undulating around a space. That’s until lights out, feeding time!

The Outer Great Barrier Reef

The outer reef is where you find dazzling clear water, where visibility is likely to be 30m+ and all the colours, shapes and sizes are at their most vivid. The fish seem bigger, the corals appear brighter and all the different shades of blue from the sky down to the depths can be a little overwhelming to the senses. Simply drifting out one of the outer reef passages with the tide is something to behold. Imagine the biomass of living critters swimming in and out of all the reef passes in a day. Our minds struggle to comprehend the sheer diversity of life.

Spinning the world on it’s axis the Great Barrier Reef can look a little like an elongated human spine, the neck and head tapering off into the Torres Strait. A look at the bathymetry maps (see DeepReef.org) shows clearly that the defining edge of the Barrier Reef is simply an old shoreline, where deposited sediment washed over a coastal plain below the great dividing range. A changing

interface between a warm climate and ice age. Remember that more water trapped frozen and around the poles will lower the sea level.

The gaps in the outer reef are caused by current and erosion, but a birds eye view shows clearly that ancient creeks and rivers cut their path to the edge of this plateau. The many passes and entrances through the outer reefs are congregation points for life, much the same way a river mouth is. All the mid reefs, inner reefs and islands are depositions that are either too resilient to disappear or are actually growing through reef building, sand and coral shift.

This outer reef stretching for hundreds and hundreds of kilometres is the defining feature of the ‘seen from space’ call you hear bandied around so much. It is like a fortress wall for all the reef laying inside it’s hard outer shell. Let us not forget the treachery yielded upon many boats who tried to find safe passage between these limestone walls before modern navigation. There is not a single person alive who could claim to have been through every Barrier Reef passage. There are simply too many and many are too treacherous.

The Great Barrier Reef seems endless

Natural Wonder of the World

So what is it about the Great Barrier Reef that makes humans journey from around the globe to glimpse it’s beauty? Being one of the 7 Wonders of World helps. Over 2 million people every year visit this iconic conflagration of coral polyps doing their thing. Threats aplenty scare the public about the health and virility of the GBR. But keep in mind, this is a fluctuating, breathing organism that shape shifts with the climate. It endures acidity, salinity, turbidity and almost anything flung its way.

As the worlds great coral reefs fall into despair and disrepair under the vile actions of pollution, changes in oceanic condition and climate change, the sheer enormity of the GBR might offer it some protection from this alarmingly rapid demise. One thing is for sure, the Great Barrier Reef is well armed to defend itself and will adapt in part or as a whole. Just watching coral bounce back after the upheaval of cyclone damage and coral bleaching is a thing to behold. Sure it takes years, but the shoots of life spring forth remarkably quickly.

Leaving coral bleaching out of the equation, the outer Barrier Reef and far northern section (from Cairns to the Torres Strait) remains largely unaltered by human interference. The iconic dives sites on the Ribbon Reefs and the annual migration of nesting green turtles to Raine Island hit the front pages and documents annals. But it is the day to day lives of billion upon billion marine organisms that keeps the reef abuzz.

David Attenborough listed the GBR as the most memorable place he has ever visited. Pause to consider this simple fact. We are talking about someone who has spanned the globe looking to unlock its secrets. He has shared a simple love affair lasting 60 years and returns time and again to film the remarkable structure. Nothing can bend your mind enough to contemplate the entirety of the reef. All you can do is hover over, jump in or whisk across part thereof. Astonishment is calling you, never miss a chance.

Andy with a nice big bluespotted trout

Tuna anyone?

laser

focus tough TRADIE TESTS

Bosch’s Professional GLL 18V-120-33CG Line Laser

Tradies working on a variety of sites can do so efficiently and accurately thanks to Bosch’s latest GLL 18V-120-33CG laser. This intelligent piece of kit is packed with loads of capabilities that make it a reliable sidekick on-site

BRAND:

BOSCH CONTINUES to be at the forefront of laser technology, and their 18V laser is no exception. This line laser is packed full of awesome features that make it one of the best for all-round tradie use.

Nathan ‘Nath’ Powell put the GLL 18V-120-33CG to the test for us while he was working on a site in Frankston.

TEST #1: BATTERIES INCLUDED

As the name suggests, the GLL 18V-120-33CG is the first 18V laser in Bosch’s arsenal.

It uses the same ProCORE18V batteries you’d use for your other Bosch tools and delivers the same amount of power to the laser.

“It’s lasted way longer than my old laser,” Nath added.

“In the time I’ve been testing it – which has been over a week – I think I only charged it twice.

“With my old laser, I was charging that thing once a day. But for this Bosch one, lasting a day is a piece of cake.”

Prefer to use 12V batteries? Easily switch between

Connectivity via Bluetooth means Nath could operate some functions remotely

It’s lasted way longer than my old laser

The GLL 18V-12033CG is the first Bosch laser to use its powerful 18V battery

18V, 12V, and alkaline C-cell power sources to avoid downtime.

The power of Bosch’s 18V batteries meant that —no matter what conditions Nath was measuring in, the green lasers were as strong and as visible as they’ve ever been.

TEST #2: MICRO DETAILS

The GLL 18V projects three 360 laser lines and was the perfect tool for Nath while he was measuring out walls and entryways on his worksite.

One thing he loved was the laser line fine adjustment which allowed Nath to adjust the vertical line without losing the reference point.

“Those micro adjustments are a game changer –when you only need that extra mm, you can twist the dial and you don’t lose where you’re at,” he said.

Like other Bosch lasers, the GLL 18V can be used with Bosch’s Levelling Remote app. This meant Nath could make beam adjustments and gather the readings he needed from his phone on the other side of a room.

All this tech doesn’t make the GLL 18V delicate by any means. It’s as sturdy as they come and could handle everything Nath threw at it.

“It’s got an IP65 rating which protects it from water, dust and impact,” he said.

“It’s got a tough rubber outer shell, it’s a laser so you still wanna be careful, but if you drop it - it’ll hold up just fine.”

Speaking of secure, the laser’s in-built L-mount is a cinch to configure based on the area being measured. Once placed, it’s got super strong magnets that keep it in place while tradies go about their work.

PUNCH IT IN

For tradies working on a plethora of everyday jobs – such as installing drywall, studs, piping or aligning doors/windows – Bosch’s GLL 18V-120-33CG is as reliable as they come.

Not only does it utilise Bosch’s 18V battery technology, but it’s brought over some of the best assets from previous lasers, making this a fitting new addition to any tradie’s daily toolbox.

CHECK IT OUT

You can find out more about Bosch’sProfessional GLL 18V-120-33CG Line Laser online.

Those micro adjustments are a game changer

The robust casing of the laser makes it a sturdy companion on the worksite

1 The 18V power brought to this laser provides powerful green beams that are easy to see

The strong magnets on the L-mount allow for the laser to be configured easily while remaining securely in-place as measurements are taken

TESTS

Cool tough TRADIE

vision

Safe Sunnies’ Navigator X safety glasses

Trendy tradies balancing peak style and safety need look no further than the Navigator™ X. This latest range of safety sunnies combines some of the best safety tech out there with cuttingedge design

IT DOESN’T feel like long ago that tradies roamed worksites with clunky, ugly safety glasses.

As years have gone by, safety eyewear brands have focussed on making glasses lighter, more comfortable, safer and ultimately more stylish.

Safe Sunnies teamed up with Riley Eyewear to deliver on all of the above with the latest Navigator™ X range of safety glasses.

Nathan ‘Nath’ Dowell from Nudg1e Constructions wrangled us a few of his tradie mates to model this extensive range on-site for this Tough Test.

TEST #1: A DIFFERENT LENS

The Navigator™ X range is built to handle tough conditions just like their wearers, and are built to the highest safety standards.

As soon as Nath slid a pair on, he could tell the make quality and protection he was getting were next level.

“I can’t complain, these glasses are awesome,” he said.

“These sunnies are anti-fog, which is very noticeable, they haven’t fogged up once in the week I’ve been testing them.

“ They’re also anti-scratch too which I’ve noticed – [I] haven’t seen a single scratch on them this week.”

Both the anti-fog and anti-scratch factors are thanks to Riley Eyewear’s FlowTec™ dual lens coating, which protect the wearer’s eyes from some of the toughest industrial and hazardous conditions.

lens coating also provides a UV400 protection, keeping a tradie’s eyes protected from harmful UV rays

BRAND:

This special coating also provides 100 per cent UVA and UVB coverage, ensuring tradies have clear vision no matter how bright it gets.

I can wear them all day, and they don’t slide at all

A tradie who values style will love putting a pair of these on

Riley Eyewear’s FlowTec™

While Nath said the glasses were super comfy to wear, he said they were still super secure thanks to the rubber ends on the arms as well as the nosepiece.

“I can wear them all day, and they don’t slide at all,” he said.

“Other brands have plastic nose tips, and they can make my nose sore. The rubber is great at keeping the glasses from slipping.”

TEST #2: HOW DO I LOOK?

One thing Nath couldn’t get over was just how awesome the Navigator™ Xs looked on-site.

“I love the purple HD ones, there’s nothing like them on the market – they’re bloody beautiful,” he said.

For some tradies, it’s all about the aesthetics. Thankfully, the Navigator™ X range is teeming with options to cater for every look.

While Nath loved the purple tinted sunnies, his team tried the clear lenses and blue lensed glasses with great results.

“I’m 100 per cent gonna replace my current pair of safety glasses with a pair of Navigator™ Xs,” he said.

Not only are they stylish, but environmentally friendly too.

The Navigator™ X range frames are made from biobased materials such as plants.

STURDY AND STYLISH

Tradies no longer need to choose between safety and style thanks to the Navigator™ X range.

Nath and his team loved how each Navigator™ X pair looked great, while providing a comfortable and safe experience throughout wearing them.

Prepare to throw out those poorly made, scratched up glasses made from cheap plastic and pick up a pair of Navigator™ Xs.

CHECK IT OUT

Nath was blown away by how clear the vision was through his Navigator™ X glasses despite all the dust and debris

No matter a tradie’s style, there’s a pair of Navigator™ X safety glasses to suit it

Nath loved the rubber nosepiece on the glasses, which kept them comfortably secure all day

Nail tough TRADIE TESTS

head

Bosch Professional Power Tools Finish Nail Guns

Simple, lightweight and efficient; Bosch’s latest line of finish nail guns offer a tonne of upgrades to tradies’ toolkits

NAILERS are the bread and butter for chippies and cabinet makers alike. The importance on delivering a clean, accurate and most importantly stable final product cannot be understated.

No matter what application you need one for, Bosch has you covered with its latest range of professional finish nail guns.

We tested out four nailers: the 20 Angle Brad Nailer, the DA Series Brad Nailer, the C1 Series Brad and the 6000 Series Stapler.

For the test, we brought in Melbourne-based chippy Toby Spicer from Pillar Construction.

TEST #1: COMFY CONTROL

This range is about as close to being a point-and-shoot nailing range as it comes. Each nailer has stepless depth adjustment – all Toby needed to do was roll the side thumbwheel for quick and accurate depth changes.

Don’t put that thumb away too soon, because tradies can also use it to activate the thumb-actuated power switch, which is unique to this nailer range.

That power switch made it easy for Toby to single handedly activate/deactivate the nailers making them both safe and efficient.

Everything about these finishing nailers is designed with ergonomics in mind, from switches to firing at different angles

A wide view contact tip on each nailer allowed Toby to get a comfortable shot in every time

“A lot of companies push out nail guns just to get them out to the market,” Toby said.

“With these nailers from Bosch, everything seems well thought through.

“They’ve actually thought about everything with the user in mind … these are super user friendly and easy to use.”

TEST #2: RELIABLE RELOAD

There are plenty of nailers on the market these days without air hose compressors or cartridges. Toby noted, however, that these nailers from Bosch delivered plenty of power thanks to their Brushless Motors. He also observed each nailer felt compact, ergonomic and easy to carry/manoeuvre despite the power they delivered on each shot.

“A lot of battery nailers – especially non-gas ones – are very heavy,” Toby said.

“These are very lightweight. The bump fire is just unmatched as well.

“I’ve seen other brands do bump fire, they tend to get a lot of jams. But I’ve put about 2000 nails through these bad boys, and haven’t had a single issue yet.”

If any of these nailers do jam, they have in-built toolless jam clearing making it a cinch to remove jammed nails.

Not only is each shot powerful thanks to the Brushless Motor, but Bosch has also used a unique flywheel drive which ensures less fatigue and very low recoil.

When you’ve shot through a magazine, each nailer has a dry-fire lockout system that prevents blank firing which can damage the timber.

LEAN AND GREEN

Toby was thrilled with each nailer’s performance after extensive use. Bosch has packed everything a tradie needs to get the job done efficiently and cleanly.

“These are some of my favourite finishing nailers I’ve used on the market,” Toby said.

“I’ve used everything from top-of-the-line brands to cheaper ones, and these are definitely up there.

“Bosch understands what the people want.”

CHECK IT OUT

Find out more by searching the Bosch Professional Power Tools Finish Nail Guns online.

Everything seems well thought through

Each of these nailers comes with new double LED lighting to make for precise and clear shots every time

Toby was a big fan of how easy it was to carry these nailers around the worksite, whether in his hands

Whether nailing timber flooring, windows, doors

glazing work – this line of Bosch Finish Nail Guns has tradies sorted

ON THE MOVE

Team player

How Renault Trafic can be a tradie’s best friend

WITH SUMMER on its way, it’s time for tradies to treat themselves with a new set of wheels.

For a van that works as hard as tradies and their team do, Renault Trafic delivers and then some.

POWER PERFORMER

Trafics have been roaming Aussie roads for 20 years, offering drivers a reliable and efficient addition to their businesses.

The latest Renault Trafic continues this; it’s equipped with a 2.0L turbocharged engine which delivers an impressive 125kW of power and 380Nm of torque.

This means tradies can trust Trafic to provide the strength needed to handle both worksite terrain and everyday driving.

In surprising complement to this powerful performance, Trafic remains fuelefficient with a combined cycle fuel consumption of just 6.5L/100km when paired with the EDC

automatic gearbox. Combine this with an 80L fuel tank and bestin-class service intervals of one- year/30,000km, Trafic offers an exceptional driving range, making it a dependable partner for long hauls.

Having a vehicle that carries a full day’s work worth of tools and materials is vital.

In this regard, Trafic has tradies’ backs.

Easy access to tools and materials is essential, and Trafic delivers with a class-leading load length of up to 4.15m. Whether it’s power tools, timber, steel or other materials, Trafic offers the capacity to carry the lot.

There are 14 anchoring points inside the cargo area as well as a 12v power socket, ensuring that everything stays secure and accessible. Despite its ample storage space, Trafic maintains a compact height of just 1.97m, making it easy to manoeuvre and park.

PLUGGED IN

Safety is always front and centre when it comes to Renault Trafic. The latest iteration is equipped with 10 of the latest advanced driver assistance systems. Key safety features include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, active emergency braking, traffic sign recognition, and blind spot warning. Additionally, front, rear, and side parking sensors, along with a rear-view camera, make parking hassle-free.

Trafic also includes a suite of modern technology at your fingertips, such as an eight-inch easy link touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, DAB+ digital radio, and USB connectivity. This ensures that you stay connected and in control, no matter where the job takes you.

When it’s time to put the tools down and do a bit of desk work, Trafic is ready to become an entirely

different workspace.

Modular seating allows for flexible arrangements and can be configured into a space to do paperwork, check emails, or call customers.

Tradies want peace of mind when it comes their daily drive, and that’s why Renault Trafic comes with a five-year/200,000km warranty with five years of roadside assist and five capped price services.

Starting at $49,000 before on-road costs, Trafic is a versatile and capable choice for those who need power, efficiency, and cuttingedge features.

Carpenters, plumbers, electricians … you name it; Trafic has the space to carry what a tradie needs to get the job done

Trafic makes its presence known on the roads with a sleek and professional design

Images: Renault Australia

Caterpillar hosts first-ever Dealer Technician Challenge

Techspert

CATERPILLAR presented its first-ever Global Dealer Technician Challenge to celebrate the essential role dealer technicians play in providing an excellent customer service experience.

This challenge, for independent Cat® dealers that chose to participate, was designed to showcase how skilled technicians are part of a high-tech, high-impact, high-demand career.

“This hands-on, skills-

based competition will test the technicians’ agility, resilience and versatility,” Caterpillar Global Service Vice President Henry Venneman said. “These trained experts are on the front line of support, working to keep machines and engines up and running to help ensure our customers’ critical projects are completed.” Cat dealers globally are experiencing a growing opportunity for technicians.

FILLING THE GAP

By the end of 2026, it is estimated that Cat dealers may need

to hire more than 44,000 technicians. This competition is also designed to help raise awareness of the opportunities in this career field. “There are thousands of opportunities available globally for those who are interested in a hands-on career,” said Venneman. “Cat dealers are often looking for individuals who

are problem solvers, mechanically inclined and tech savvy.”

The Global Dealer Technician Challenge will take place over a series of regional and semifinal competitions around the world. The top 10 finalists will have the opportunity to compete in the finals in March 2026 at CONEXPO/ CON-AGG in Las Vegas.

The full list of participants for this first Regional Qualifier in Melbourne included:

• W illiam Adams (Vic) – Ben Peters

• Ha stings Deering (Qld/NT) – Rhys Bishop

• WesTrac, WA – Leon Archibald

• Terra Cat, NZ – Brenton Page

• Tractors, Singapore – Seng Kin Wai

• Tractors, Malaysia – Umar Zakir Bin Lamiron

• Trakindo, Indonesia – Aditya Pandu Winata

Winners from the Regional Qualifier:

• 1st place: Leon Archibald – WesTrac WA

• 2nd place: Rhys Bishop – Hastings Deering

• 3rd place: Brenton Page – Terra Cat NZ

CHECK IT OUT! CHECK IT OUT!

People interested in learning about Cat dealer technician roles can visit cat.com/dealertech for more information

Rhys Bishop from Hastings Deering QLD/NT took second place in the Global Technician challenge Regional Qualifier

Leon Archibald from WesTrac WA finished in first at the Global Technician Regional Qualifier

Images: Supplied by Caterpillar

ON THE MOVE academic It’s

Want to ride a dirt bike? The Academy of Off Road Riding is the place to learn – from

Tradies

MOST OF US can ride a dirt bike, but to ride one well is a different matter.

Speed comes with good technique. So you can leave those go-faster goodies on the shelf and don’t bother calling your local suspension guru. Because if you want to ride a bike faster, your money is better spent on you rather than your bike.

That’s the thinking behind Yamaha’s Off Road Academy – the go-to place for honing dirt bike skills, and it’s run by Tradies –bonus!

“Think of it like footy training,” accredited coach and chippy Jason Cater said.

“You wouldn’t expect to rock up on Saturday and

play the perfect game without running through some drills mid-week. Well it’s the same with dirt bikes.

“We always tell riders no to worry about riding fast because if you het the basics right, the speed will come naturally,” the former pro enduro rider added.

A typical weekend at the Buckenboura training ground instils good habits from the ground up. The day kicks off with an essential safety gear overview, followed by a trip to the back paddock for the first skills session – using the correct body position for braking and accelerating. Next up, is a spot of cone weaving – using feet and

knees and body weight to steer the bike rather than your hands. It all sounds pretty basic and it is – but you’d be surprised at the number of riders who reach a certain level and are unable to progress due to poor basic technique. “It’s easier to teach beginners than riders with a bit of experience because old habits are hard to fix,” explained coach Dean Heffernan, son of former world MXGP rider and Academy boss Lyndon Heffernan.

“We also find that blokes are generally harder to coach than women –because blokes generally have more experience and listen less.”

HARD YAKKA

Next up are some braking drills – locking and releasing the rear brake, followed by the same with the front brake.

Dean demonstrates as Jason points out the best position to adopt and the reason for the drills –emergency braking on a dirt bike involves a human ABS scenario where braking, releasing and reapplying are crucial if you want to avoid becoming a Ford Ranger hood ornament.

Over lunch Lyndon ‘Heffo’ Heffernan explains the importance of nutrition and hydration – when, what and how much. Then it’s back to the training ground to practice cornering while standing and sitting.

Dean exaggerates his body position to highlight how much you need to move your mass to get maximum traction.

The 360-acre property at Buckenboura has everything a butting rider needs, including logs, hill climbs and water crossings

Next up the group practices clutch pops – the art of lifting the front wheel to get over a log or other obstacle. Different from a wheelie because the clutch pop is a low-speed exercise. All exercises are practiced by Academy participants on a large flat field that can handle more than 30 riders at a time. The day wraps up with a couple of laps on the Academy’s newly created natural terrain MX track. Jason and Dean – along with brother Jack - are on hand to pull over riders to offer invaluable advice and to correct poor technique. Buckenboura is located around 45 minutes inland from Batemans Bay but features everything you could want for a weekend away on a dirt bike –currently the 360-acre

property features an MX track, grasstrack, hillclimbs, single track, water crossings, logs, jumps and sand. An e-bike flow track is in the pipeline. Campers are well catered for with onsite camping, hot showers and toilets – and the Academy team can put on a camp fire - fireban permitting - that you can see from outer space.

Sunday rolls around with the fire still smouldering, and the students are keen to put theory into practice. Some on-bike stretches are followed by more braking drills – this time riders are advised to keep the rear brake on and steer by shifting body weight. By now it’s clear that each drill leads into the next to build confidence in a logical progression.

TWISTS AND TURNS

During lunch everyone gets the chance to see how the adventure bikes are going – their agenda is very similar to the lighter

The Academy of Off Road Riding doesn’t just offer a unique riding experience, but also a chance to soak in some fantastic Outback vibes

MX/enduro bikes and they are practising hill starts using the rear brake as a traction aid. Followed by how to turn around a bike on an incline – easy with the right technique, but good luck man-handling 250kg-plus without the knack. Next it’s our turn to conquer the two hillclimbs. One is a fair bit gnarlier than the other, but everyone conquers the pair.

Obstacles are next on the agenda – a second paddock has small, medium and large logs to practise on. There’s a surprisingly small amount of carnage on the logs largely due to the new clutch pop techniques mastered. The right way to rail a berm is demonstrated, ruts tackled, water crossings crossed and throttles pinned in the dreaded sand - which brings a few riders unstuck. Last technique of the day is jumps – when to apply the throttle and how to pre-load the bike on the up ramp for more distance. Participants leave the Academy with a weekend chock full of riding a wide variety of obstacles and terrain and a head full of new techniques to practice in the coming

weeks. But best of all - you can visibly see speed and confidence grow across the weekend as skills are absorbed and practised. Riders leave the Academy a lot faster and safer than they arrived – all for less than the cost of a loud exhaust.

THE CREW

The Academy of Off Road Riding: Yamaha’s Academy of Off Road Riding was formed by MX legend Stephen Gall in 1978 since when many dirt bike legends have received the benefit of Academy coaching. Names like Reed, MacFarlane, Marmont, and Caroll read like a who’s who of Aussie motocross. Heffo purchased the business from Stephen in 2002 and has been running schools alongside his Detour trail tour business and Dirt 2 Ride event business ever since. The Academy caters for all levels of age and ability and bikes from MX/enduro to ADV. The Buckenboura training venue is 45 minutes west of Batemans Bay, NSW. A two-day weekend course costs $300, or $260 if 15 years and younger. Contact academyofoffroadriding. com.au

Lyndon ‘Heffo’ Heffernan: Former world MXGP rider, multiple Australian champion and event organiser. Was sidelined due to a shoulder reconstruction on the weekend we visited and when fully fit Heffo and his team also run Detour trail rides and Dirt 2 Ride event company. Heffo is a level 2 MA accredited coach and member of the national coaching commission. Organiser and promoter of many successful dirt bike races and events including four A4DEs – one which featured tests at Buckenboura – and a number of Transmoto events from 2011 to 2020. Is a fitter by trade but now works in underground mining.

Jason Cater: Chippie and former top level enduro rider who has represented Australia in many ISDE events. Has been riding Yamaha’s since the two-stroke era. Very capable MA accredited coach who is great at explaining why as well as how. Runs a tall seat due to an old knee injury.

Dean Heffernan: Builder, racer, MA accredited coach and has competed in many junior off road, desert and MX events. Also a keen fisherman, snow boarder and paddle boarder. Performs a mean slow wheelie.

Jack Heffernan: Plumber, racer, MA accredited coach and winner of many Transmoto Ironman events. Has competed in Hattah, AORC and won his class numerous times at Amcross series in NSW. Makes the Tenere 700 look small, can also pull a mean stoppie!

Images: Yamaha

ON THE MOVE

Feel the charge

A compelling new electric van from PEUGEOT

PEUGEOT AUSTRALIA

is pleased to introduce the latest addition to its electric commercial van lineup, the all-electric PEUGEOT E-Expert.

Featuring a 100 per cent electric powertrain and backed by the reliability and cargo-carrying flexibility that tradies require, the PEUGEOT E-Expert presents a compelling choice for busy days on the road.

With modern and aerodynamic lines, this all-electric van represents PEUGEOT’s commitment to the electrification of its commercial range. Available in a single variant, the PEUGEOT E-Expert Pro Long Auto is on sale now.

EFFICIENT E-EXPERT

This popular mid-size van offers all the quiet

efficiency of a 100 per cent electric powertrain, with the robust and practical features that Expert drivers require.

E-Expert delivers PEUGEOT innovation and intuitive tech, powered by a lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 75kWh and featuring advanced regenerative braking to boost its range. The E-Expert produces 100kW of power and 260Nm of torque and delivers a WLTP test range of up to 330km1.

Tradies can also enjoy the convenience of business, public or home charging to simplify their daily work routine. With a range of charging options to keep you moving you can charge your E-Expert using a standard home outlet, a Wallbox, or a

public charging hub, allowing you to tap into the expanding network of charging points across Australia. The duration it takes to charge your E-Expert will naturally be based ona the selected charging station and onboard vehicle charger.

INNOVATION, SAFETY AND STYLE

From the redesigned radiator grille showcasing the new PEUGEOT emblem, and bold halogen headlights, E-Expert boasts a refreshed new design aesthetic. Inside, the generous cabin and cargo area is primed for business, offering comfort, advanced tech and safety paired with a cargo carrying capacity of up to one tonne.

Inside, the new EExpert’s driving position, dashboard and compact steering wheel have been extensively redesigned for greater driver

comfort, ergonomics and practicality. Built on PEUGEOT’s EMP-2 modular multi-energy platform, it is a nimble and powerful workhorse, with a smart cabin design which seats three people comfortably upfront.

The intuitive digital instrument cluster and the large central 10-inch touchscreen, make the interface between driver and vehicle enjoyable and effortless. Stay in touch while on the move with wireless Bluetooth® connectivity 2, plus Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ 3 compatibility.

Onboard the new PEUGEOT E-Expert, a comprehensive range of latest generation driving assistance systems are designed to create confidence behind the wheel.

The E-Expert comes with a Five Year/200,000km Warranty 4, with a

E-EXPERT

Key safety technologies include:

• Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with low light pedestrian & cyclist detection

• Forward Collision Warning

• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

• Emergency Braking Assistance (EBA)

• Electronic Braking Distribution (EBD)

• Electronic Stability Programme (ESP)

• Blind Spot Detection (BSD)

• Advanced Driver Attention Alert (DAA3)

• Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS)

• Front & rear parking sensors

three year paintwork and 12-year corrosion warranty as well as an 8 Year/160,000km Battery warranty 5.

PEUGEOT

provides a powerful workhorse for the modern tradie

Producing CHANGE

How CS Group and EWIT are driving for gender diversity

CS Group is no stranger to overcoming an issue, big or small. The architectural building products manufacturer has taken this same approach to its new partnership with Empowered Women in Trades (EWIT)

CS GROUP’S portfolio is far reaching across Australia and the world.

The company has produced architectural and interior product solutions globally for about 75 years, and Australia for about 35 years.

From wall and door protections specifically for hospitals, expansion joint covers, architectural grilles and exterior solar

shading to safety venting and louvres, CS Group is on it.

The company’s products can be found in notable infrastructure such as the Sydney Airport, the New Royal Adelaide Hospital, Sunshine Coast University Hospital, the Sydney Metro Project and Uniqlo stores nationwide.

“We do all the manufacturing in-house both here in Australia and at our locations overseas,”

CS Group Marketing Manager Jane Smith said.

“We have two different factories in Australia at Enfield and Condell Park (both Sydney).”

With such a major manufacturing portfolio, CS Group also stives to be a game-changer in terms of gender diversity.

It was this endeavour that eventually led them to EWIT.

JOINING THE ALLIANCE

Earlier this year, EWIT launched the EWIT Alliance – a tangible solution to tackling key issues around diversity in the trades.

The Alliance is formal recognition that a company or business supports EWIT’s ambitious goal of 30 per cent female

representation in trades by 2030.

Being an Alliance member presents bodies such as CS Group with support and resources including training programs and mentorship opportunities.

The Alliance also aims to tackle female tradie retainment, but promoting a supportive and inclusive workplace culture.

“I know we’d love to see more women on our factory floors,” Jane added.

“This is a way we can help provide a pathway for female tradies.

“It’s a great example of the industry coming together to support females in trades.”

FORGING AHEAD

Jane said as a whole, CS Group already maintained a fairly even split between men and women at the company.

CS Group has been a part of Australia’s construction landscape for more than 35 years

However, joining up with EWIT represented the company’s eagerness to be part of the wider solution, given its can-do attitude to manufacturing architectural solutions.

“For CS it’s about creating a stronger industry, one that’s supportive of females,” Jane added.

“One that helps fill skill shortages and creates pathways for females looking to take up a trade.

“Removing that stigma that trades are just for guys … We want to represent that at CS Group.”

To learn more about joining the EWIT Alliance, visit ewitrades.com.

Image: Supplied by CS Group

TRADIE PROFILE

bright

How Clarisse carved out a career in welding Burning

Clarisse Orchard considers herself extremely lucky she got a taste of welding in high school. Since then, the 27-year-old has crafted a career in the industry fuelled by passion for the profession

“I NEVER even thought about being a tradie ever,” Clarisse said when asked about her early school years.

“I wanted to be a psychologist, until I realised I’d be face-deep in books my whole life.

“That didn’t really fit with me, I’m a very hands-on person who loves to create things.”

It wasn’t until year 11 and 12 that welding sparked Clarisse’s curiosity.

“There was an engineering pre-

apprenticeship course you could do in year 11 and 12,” she said.

“One of the options through the course was welding, so I got a feel for it through that.”

After a gap year, and a lot of thinking, Clarisse

recalled how much she enjoyed her taste of welding in high school. It was then she decided to pick up the welding torch long-term.

“I thought about doing something exciting, and welding was something that really struck a chord,” Clarisse said.

“It was something I could get my hands into with cutting and shaping things, but also there’s a lot of money involved.

work with Callidus Group has seen her do all kinds of work on the floor as well as in the office

“It’s a career that can set you up financially, but it was something I was also really into as well.”

A WHOLE NEW WELD

With her mind set on welding, there was no stopping Clarisse.

Like many women entering the trades, Clarisse found her first

Clarisse’s

experiences in maledominated classrooms quite daunting.

“In the beginning I found it quite hard, there’s a lot of expectations,” she said.

“You’re the oddball in the room, so you have to pass those barriers of being judged or misinterpreted.”

She said, however, that it didn’t take long for those ‘new girl’ jitters to shake off before she felt comfortable among her blokey peers.

“By the end of it, I was just one of the boys,” she added. “We were all doing the same jobs and getting the same opportunities, it

eased up over time.”

Clarisse currently works for Callidus Group – A global market leader in total flow control solutions for severe service environments as a Technical Process Specialist. “I’m working behind the scenes to quote jobs, get jobs going and talking with clients and the guys on the shop floor,” she said.

“It’s really good because I’ve got both sides of the job covered now. I do have to go on to the shop floor sometimes if we’re shortstaffed or if there’s shut down work to be done.”

ROOM TO GROW

Clarisse recently got involved with Weld Australia – Australia’s leading body for welding advocacy – after hearing a talk from its CEO - Geoff Crittenden.

“I told my boss when Geoff was done that I needed to go and speak to him because I loved the way he spoke,” she said.

“I went over and introduced myself and said I was a female welder, and he replied ‘I love meeting female welders!’.”

Clarisse has continued to raise the profile of women not just in welding, but

the trades in general. She said while she considers herself lucky to be exposed to trades in high school, many girls growing up still struggle to see themselves in hi-vis.

“If I wasn’t exposed to it in high school, I never would’ve pursued it as a career,” she said.

“It’s very fortunate for kids growing up now that there’s more and more opportunities in high schools.

“It’s a bit different for young boys who have dads, uncles and brothers who are tradies- I didn’t know anyone who was in a trade.

“It’d be great to see more of it promoted in schools where kids -especially girls - can grow up to envision themselves in the trades if that’s where they wanna go in life.”

Clarisse is taking her career as a welder day-by-day, but said she’d love to see in the future is more women taking up the tools

After Hours flexible returns!

Kennards Hire expands its industry-first After Hours equipment returns service

EVERY MINUTE counts in construction, especially when a tradie is on the tools. That’s why Kennards Hire is excited to announce the expansion of their popular After Hours Returns service.

After Hours Returns is a first-to-market hire industry service that allows Kennards Hire customers to return their equipment any time of the day (or night), so they can focus on the job at hand and not on the clock.

TOOLS, TIME, AND TRIUMPHS: CRUISE’S STORY

Across Australia, this service has made many tradies’ jobs easier, with over 80 branches across the country offering the unique service, and now the same is true for tradies over the ditch in New Zealand.

Cruise Iosefa, owner of Cruise Turf Services and frequent After Hours user, is a Synthetic Turf specialist with over 10 years of experience. His business owns some equipment, but there are often multiple jobs on-the-go at the same time, right across Sydney, requiring more gear to get the work done. With the juggle of tight project schedules, returning equipment posed a problem: either he had to rush to return the equipment before the branch closed or keep the equipment longer than needed – costing time and money.

“It can be very busy during the day, especially when I’m working on multiple projects at different locations. When I discovered Kennards Hire’s After Hours Returns service, this allowed me to maximise my work and personal time without compromising my schedule,” said Cruise. With Kennards Hire’s After Hours Returns service, Cruise now stresses less knowing that he’s got the flexibility to return equipment at a time that works for him – giving him back the gift of time.

WHY AFTER HOURS?

1. F lexible Return Timing: The most significant benefit is flexibility. For tradies, it means MIND YOUR BUSINESS they can return their equipment whenever suits them, whether it’s late at night or early in the morning.

Tradies needing all-hours access to returning hire equipment can do so with ease thanks to Kennards Hire giving back time to spend with family, friends, or on their overall well-being.

2. T ime Savings: Tradies can save time by working on jobs to completion without the pressure of meeting an equipment return deadline. Plus, the work-life balance benefits mean tradies can maximise work and personal time,

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3. Effortless Process: After Hours is incredibly simple and easy to use. With a straightforward four-step process, tradies can focus on what they do best, without the added stress of rushing a job Can Kennards Hire help you focus on the job, not the clock? Ken Oath!

Find out more about the After Hours Return service, and where

Image: Kennards Hire

Building the future

Ideas and innovation Converge at upcoming expo

CONVERGE will bring together some of the leading associations shaping the tradie landscape in Australia.

This includes Carpentry Australia, Empowered Women in Trades (EWIT), Municipal Works Australia, National Precast Concrete Association Australia (NPCAA) and NEXGEN Construction.

NEXGEN Executive Director Lauren Fahey said the event would provide a look at the future of Australian construction.

“At NexGen, we’re really

excited to partner with Converge because it’s the only Australian-owned event that brings together the latest tools and tech in municipal works, civil, and commercial construction,” she said.

“It’s a unique opportunity to connect with the industry’s key players who are all focused on building Australia’s future.

“With live demos and great opportunities to learn and collaborate, Converge is the perfect place to not only showcase innovation but also help

shape the next generation of leaders in construction.

“We’re thrilled to be part of an event that aligns so closely with NexGen’s values and vision for the future.”

As well as the sharing of ideas, Converge aims to showcase the hardware (and software) at the forefront of construction, and the kind of innovations the industry can expect in the future.

From live demonstrations to equipment showcases, attendees can expect an immersive experience.

ALL LEVELS

Tier 1 to Tier 3 contractors will get an in-depth look at the latest innovations and tangible work going into some of the nation’s biggest projects. This

includes key experts around Victoria’s Big Build and the $120 billion infrastructure pipeline.

The event will also feature an exclusive Inside Construction Summit, produced in partnership with Inside Construction magazine.

The summit will dive further into the latest tech and solutions being implemented in major construction projects.

Large scale projects are one thing, but Converge will also delve into the local government projects for councils and

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asset managers.

From road maintenance to landscaping projects, this section will be the go-to for anyone working on council jobs.

Tradies won’t want to miss Converge – an event that will present the best Australian construction has to offer now and in the future.

Subscribe to stay across updates at convergeexpo.com.au.

For more information or to enquire about sponsoring/ supporting the event, visit the website above.

Converge will be held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre between September 17-18, 2025

Converge aims to bring together the best minds in construction across commercial, civil and municipal levels

MIND

YOUR BUSINESS

The go-to

Trade just got super…

SUPERCHEAP AUTO has launched a major new initiative that cements them as a serious player for the trade. The launch includes a brand-new purpose-built website designed exclusively for automotive businesses and other trade-based industries. Among some of the new and substantial improvements to the Supercheap Auto Trade website is a full Account Management section that allows workshops to control purchases and purchase limits, view past invoices and apply for or increase limits on 30-day credit accounts. Particularly impressive is the ability for Trade Account Holders to manage their whole account including giving authorised access to all employees and even apprentices. This means that all authorised users gain the benefit of exclusive trade pricing and the Trade Account Holder or Account Manager still has full control to customise the level of access for each employee and manage areas like spend limits.

SUPER-IOR

In what is believed to be the first of its kind for the automotive industry, the Supercheap Auto Trade website will offer a Barcode Scanner facility where customers can scan any product, whether in store or at their workshop and it will provide full product information, including the tailored trade price. From there, customers can add products directly to the shopping cart and have them delivered or use the rapid 30-minute Click & Collect now available at Supercheap Auto locations. For those in automotive workshops, the Parts Guide feature has been improved with the addition of trade pricing now integrated into the section. Workshop, service schedule and repair time modules can even be enabled.

AT THE FINGERTIPS

There’s plenty of smarts behind the new e-commerce platform that integrates with all the key attributes of the website. Repeat orders and larger items have become super

easy and fast with a dedicated area to order bulk products and a reordering system for those items that are purchased on a regular basis. This means that customers can quickly reorder from a previous invoice or utilise the new Quick Order Form that’s designed to save time when placing a large order or stocking up on common items.

In total, there’s access to over 1 million products online from trusted brands like Bendix, Bosch, Brembo, Castrol, Century, Gates, Kincrome, Mobil, Penrite, Ryco and ToolPro, to name just a few and Supercheap Auto Trade have ensured that pricing is not only super competitive but is now listed on the website clearly and accurately.

A whole team behind the scenes are dedicated to making sure all the products listed are available to Trade Account Holders at the very best price, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Speaking of 24/7, a massive benefit to trade customers is that they can shop online anytime and anywhere. Whether they are on a jobsite or at the beach, shopping for the best brands and products can be done whenever a

Supercheap Trade Account Holders will have access to a range of purchasing controls and benefits with this new platform

Re-ordering products in-bulk has never been easier

customer wants. And of course, during business hours, products can be delivered or the 30-minute Click and Collect is available through all Supercheap Auto Stores across the country. When it comes to payments, there’s a host of new improvements in this area too. Flexible payment options are now available, with customers able to pay via Account Credit, Gift Card, Mastercard/ Visa and even through “Buy Now – Pay Later” platforms. If you’re a regular purchaser and want the convenience of 30-day credit, well that’s a simple application process, completed online.

ALL-ACCESS

The Supercheap Auto Trade program doesn’t stop at just a cutting-edge website built just for the trade. If you’re stuck, Supercheap Auto Trade have a dedicated team of Trade Experts available seven days a week. The Trade Hotline is available to all Trade Account Holders with specialised

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advice and assistance only a phone call away by dialling 1300 787 570. Orders can also be easily placed with the Trade Hotline Team along with over-the-phone payments and other account enquiries. Taking advantage of Supercheap Auto Trade’s supercharged program and becoming a Trade Account Holder is super easy. It’s just a matter of heading to trade. supercheapauto.com.au and registering online. From there, you’ll find out how Trade Just Got Super. The application process is simple meaning you’ll be experiencing a new and better way to shop for trade parts, tools, consumables, accessories and more in no time at all with Supercheap Auto Trade.

Whoever you are, whatever your trade, let Supercheap Auto Trade make it SUPER with a program that delivers more time-saving and better tools for your trade business.

Be prepared

One

way tradies can be ready for anything

MANY AUSSIE tradies rely on their hands and bodies to get the job done, but accidents can happen, and injuries or illnesses could leave you unable to work.

And accidents don’t just happen on the tools— tradies can get injured while playing sports, hanging out with mates, or even getting up at 2am to

get a glass of water. Fortunately, Personal Accident & Illness (PA) insurance can help protect a tradie’s income if they’re unable to work due to injury or sickness.

This insurance provides a weekly income benefit of up to 85 per cent of your salary (up to specified limits) if you’re signed off work by a medical

practitioner due to an accident or illness. Once you meet the eligibility criteria, the policy kicks in to support you when you need it most.

COVERED UP

Consider this real-life example of a tradie who was protected by PA insurance: A plumber sustained spinal and other injuries in a motorcycle accident, leaving them

unable to work for two years.

Result: The policy paid weekly injury benefits for the entire 104-week benefit period. The insured received $1,000 per week for the first 12 months,

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The last thing tradies need is a sports injury costing them work, so having the right insurance is vital

followed by $1,050 per week for the next 12 months, thanks to the policy’s Escalation Benefit.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Consider protecting your most important business asset - yourself - with Personal Accident & Illness insurance. For on the go cover, go BizCover.com.au or call 1300 805 821 to get covered in minutes

Polarised protection

Ugly Fish Polarised Safety Glasses

REDUCE GLARE and minimise eye strain and headaches from a hard day working outdoors in the Aussie sun.

Ugly Fish Polarised

Safety sunglasses are certified to protect your peepers on the messy jobs, and comfy enough to wear all weekend long.

WHY POLARISED SAFETY?

Anyone who frequently works in sunlight or is often exposed to glare can benefit from wearing polarised sunglasses.

Polarised lenses are designed to reduce glare by blocking horizontal light rays, which are caused by reflective

The Ugly Fish Polarised Safety Range offers:

• Wrap-around side protection.

• Polarised LensReduces glare to prevent squinting.

• U V Protection –Australians face some of the highest UV levels in the world. Ugly Fish sunglasses have Category 3 maximum UV protection.

• Lightweight TR-90 frame.

• Shatterproof Polycarbonate lenses - the lightest and most impact resistant of all plastic lenses.

• A nti-fog coating for maximum visual clarity.

• C ertified to the Australian Safety Standard AS/NZS 1337.1 for Medium Impact, and the Australian Standard for Sunglasses and Fashion Spectacles 1067

surfaces such as water, ice, and snow.

The filtering technology in polarised lenses provides better visual clarity, therefore reducing eye stress and fatigue, and preventing headaches caused by overexposure to glare.

Polarised lenses aren’t just ideal for outdoor work. Any activity that involves rapid changes in lighting conditions, such as fishing, driving, running, cycling, or boating, may benefit from these lenses.

Ugly Fish has recently

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Ugly Fish eyewear is not just suitable for tradies on the worksite, but off it as well

added two new styles to their Polarised Safety range. Best-selling Comet in Crystal Grey, and Hammer in Matte Black with wrap-around side protection.

Keep an eye out for more Polarised Safety styles dropping later this year, including female-friendly style, Gazelle.

Also available in over 200 workwear

Images:

Ugly Fish

Ugly Fish’s Comet Polarised Safety Sunglasses have shatterproof anti-fog lenses as well as side shield protection and a sturdy TR-90 frame

Building the future

Blundstone stands on the forefront of functional footwear

BLUNDSTONE has been building hard-working boots for over 150 years. In all that time, its team has never stopped innovating or stepping up to the next challenge. That’s how Blundstone’s kept Australians moving, whether they’re Everest expeditioners, Olympic athletes or everyday workers.

The tougher you need your boots, the tougher Blundstone builds them. Its Work and Safety range has you covered on the farm, the construction site or the factory floor. Blundstone will keep you pushing forward in transport, hospitality or

warehousing. Wherever the next job takes you, Blundstone has a rugged boot to get it done.

TOE

TECH

Blundstone prides itself on technology that gives you advanced protection and all-day comfort. If you work in harsh industrial environments, Blundstone’s rubber outsoles are heat resistant up to 300°C. Its steel toe caps are impact, cut and penetration resistant, without sacrificing comfort. You can even opt for a composite toe cap that’s lightweight and compression resistant. Blundstone offers a

specialised range of TPU, Nitrile Rubber and Vibram TC4+ Rubber soles. They’re designed with unique tread patterns and high-tech cushioning materials. That means tradies will enjoy optimum stability and comfort, while reducing your risk of slips, fatigue, and ankle injuries. Perfect for battling through the dust, mud and rain.

Inside Blundstone’s boots are added linings that draw the heat away from your feet in hot conditions and keep you warm in the cold. Plus, they’re anti-bacterial, breathable and quick

drying. Features delivered through Blundstone’s innovation partners, such as Infinergy® by BASF and XRD® Technology, absorb shock and reduce energy loss for every worker.

Tradies never stand still, so neither does Blundstone. In 2019, it got to work on its toughest, most advanced range yet. Blundstone interviewed hundreds of people, from the workers on the ground to the physicians treating their feet. After two years of development, the RotoFlex range was born, with every component backed by biomechanical science.

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STRONGER TOGETHER

Last year, RotoFlex was recognised with the highest honour for design and innovation in Australia. Blundstone received a Good Design Award for its tough, builtfor-purpose boots that are easy to wear, safe and ready for anything. Building the future means staying one step ahead, so you can focus on the job ahead. From new styles to the latest technology, Blundstone’s team keeps innovating so they can keep you protected – whatever your calling and wherever it calls you.

RotoFlex are available at participating retailers now.

Put Blundstone’s Innovation to work

Blundstone aims to inject as much safety and comfort into each new boot

Image: Blundstone Australia

Nick shares his painting journey

Brushin’ shoulders

Whether down in Tassie, or in Victoria, Nick Camino loves his painting. He tells The Tradie about how he got into painting, and why he’s stuck around

LIKE MANY budding young tradies-to-be before him, Nick wanted to be a carpenter when he was in high school.

But the apple didn’t fall far from the tree, it seems, as Nick ended up doing his painting apprenticeship through his dad Mark.

“My dad is a painter, so I ended up going on with him for a bit and then he offered me an apprenticeship,” Nick said.

“And the rest is history … I really enjoyed working with dad.

“The first year I didn’t really enjoy it but as soon as it all clicked down the road and I fell in love with it from there.”

NEXT GENERATION

While most of Nick’s work is in the residential space, he does the occasional retail job as well

12 years later, and Nick’s painting business is thriving.

“I eventually went out on my own, my dad had semiretired the year I finished

Since moving up to Victoria, Nick changed his business’ name from Northern Painting to Camino Painting.

my apprenticeship,” he explained.

“So then I decided to keep going on my own, dad helped me out a fair bit, the first few years.”

Nick’s business started out as Northern Painting, based in Launceston before heading up to Tasmania’s North-West Coast.

His clientele mainly revolved around domestic re-paints, both interior

and exterior with the occasional shopfront gig.

That work continued after he moved to Geelong and renamed his business Camino Painting.

“We had to change the name because Northern Painting doesn’t really make sense in Geelong,” Nick joked.

TAKE CARE!

One thing Nick recommended younger

painters do was look after their bodies, with years of painting on his knees taking their toll.

“I wish I was more mindful of PPE,” he said.

“The first six or seven years, I never wore knee pads or anything.

“I’m definitely paying for it now, you don’t really think of at the time … it definitely catches up with you.”

While his joints have taken a beating, One thing

Nick has continued to appreciate is the support from the Master Painters Association of Victoria/ Tasmania (MPAV/TAS).

MPAV/TAS helps thousands of painters both in VIC and Tasmania with business advice, as well as providing info on relevant legislation.

“It’s good to be aligned with the peak body in the industry,” Nick said.

“It definitely shows that level of professionalism when you’re going in for a quote or talking to clients and they realise you’re with the Master Painters – it goes a long way.”

Images: Supplied by Nick Camino

Forging ahead

Survey reveals welding industry is grappling with work shortages and rising costs

WELD AUSTRALIA has released the results of its 2024 Member Survey. The findings demonstrate that Australia’s welding and fabrication industry is facing chronic work shortages, along with cost challenges amid rising prices of energy, materials and labour. The Federal and state governments must commit to building sovereign manufacturing capability by legislating local content policy. This will create a capacity mechanism that generates a clear, long-term signal for in the necessary

technology, workforce, and equipment. With longterm demand a reality, local manufacturers will have the confidence to improve production efficiencies and global competitiveness.

Weld Australia’s 2024 Member Survey has revealed the key challenges facing Australian welding businesses. Distributed annually, the survey was completed by members across the country, which includes major players in the defence, power generation, mining, rail and infrastructure sectors.

The results show that half of welding workshops are currently operating at 80 per cent capacity or below. Almost seven in ten Weld Australia members say they have capacity for additional work or that their pipeline is drying up—overwhelmingly citing a lack of work (75 per cent). When asked what their main concern is right now, 21 per cent of business owners stated that a lack of work is what

keeps them awake at night. It’s no secret that Australian manufacturing has been suffering a slow decline for decades. Today, manufacturing is responsible for just five per cent of our GDP and only 5.4 per cent of total employment, despite its vital role in the Australian economy. For comparison, Canada – a similar economy to ours – has 1.7 million manufacturing workers where Australia has 47,500. While this demise can be partially attributed to market forces, offshoring of manufacturing work that could be handled by the local industry is to blame. However, recent government initiatives present a once-in-ageneration opportunity to reinvigorate Australia’s manufacturing industry while supporting the national transition to a net zero economy.

GETTING IN THE GREEN

The renewable energy revolution is Australia’s chance to undo some of

the damage done over the past 60 years – both to the environment and to the Australian manufacturing industry.

Australia is at a pivotal moment in its energy transformation journey. With the Federal Government’s commitment to reducing emissions by 43 per cent by 2030 and achieving net zero by 2050, the transition to renewable energy is not just a goal—it’s an urgent necessity. The scale of this transformation is unprecedented, demanding an increase in renewable energy generation from 64GW to over 218GW by 2050.

This shift presents both immense opportunities and significant challenges for the Australian manufacturing sector, particularly in the production of wind towers and transmission infrastructure. The domestic demand for wind towers over coming decades is huge. Based on AEMO scenarios, the market could range from

While the welding industry is tackling many issues, a majority of survey participants believed future prospects to be strong

$20 billion anywhere up to $80 billion.

To turn this vision into reality, a focused and actionable plan is essential. Specific, enforceable local content requirements must be implemented to ensure that Australia’s renewable energy projects are driven by domestic manufacturing. These local content mechanisms must be attached to government procurement, particularly initiatives like the Capacity Investment Scheme and the Future Made in Australia program.

Weld Australia strongly recommends that a significantly favorable merit weighting be given to tenderers who guarantee local content of Australian fabricated steel as follows:

• Onshore Wind Towers > 50 per cent

• O ffshore Wind Towers > 40 per cent

• S olar Farms > 60 per cent

• Monopole Transmission Towers > 60 per cent

• Lattice Transmission Towers > 60 per cent

Geoff Crittendon, Weld Australia CEO

The contracts awarded must then be drafted with sufficient power to be readily enforceable by the Federal and state governments.

RISING COSTS

Weld Australia’s 2024 Member Survey also revealed that inflation is key concern for the welding industry. When it comes to the factors most likely to inhibit business growth over the next 12 months, 64 per cent of business owners cited the rising cost of energy, 61 per cent cited the rising cost of materials, and 50 per cent cited rising labour costs.

Members rated themselves as highlyproductive: two-thirds of business indicated that the productivity of their welding staff as good or excellent.

However, out of the total labour hours per shift, 25 per cent of survey respondents indicated that they spend less than two hours of their shift doing actual welding (with the arc switched on); 58 per cent spend less than four hours. This is compared with five hours per welder per day in countries like the United States and Germany (that have similar Workplace Health and Safety Standards).

The factors most likely to impact on the productivity of welding staff are time spent on tasks like materials handling (42 per cent) and joint preparation and fit up (21 per cent).

A clear pathway to productivity is through the use of technology. When companies are focused on improving their processes, they naturally innovate—

implementing the latest technologies in a bid to streamline operations. However, Australian companies generally lag their global competitors in digital adoption and unfortunately the welding sector is no exception.

Uptake of advanced welding technology remains relatively slow, and this lack of tech adoption is impeding our ability to navigate the current challenges facing the industry.

The survey revealed that most businesses have not planned any investment in technology for the coming 12 months. Tech investment has not risen substantially since 2023, and in some areas has actually dropped. The types of technology that the welding industry has planned, in progress or completed include:

Industry 4.0 (42 per cent); robots (37.5 per cent); and cobots (25 per cent - down from 35 per cent in 2023).

By leveraging the benefits of advanced technology and automation, businesses can increase their productivity and reduce labour costs, while improving the quality of their welds. Given that the major barriers to productivity are materials handling and a lack of skilled staff, there is a significant opportunity for welding businesses to harness the capabilities of advanced welding technologies to overcome these issues.

Business owners are caught in a difficult position, juggling rising costs and a lack of work with the imperative to innovate and remain competitive. The reality is

that without a guaranteed supply of work, particularly from governmentbacked projects, many welding businesses will find it difficult—if not impossible—to justify the necessary investments in advanced technologies.

A FOCUS ON SUSTAINABILITY AND CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITY

The survey results highlight sustainability as a continued area of focus for the welding industry. A vast majority of Weld Australia members (69 per cent) support the Federal Government’s Climate Change Bill. However, almost as many respondents (66 per cent) say they would like to see Australian governments do more to help industry transition to net zero by the target date.

Welding businesses are doing what they can on their own to ramp up investment into sustainability initiatives. Most have already planned, started or completed the implementation of LED and sensor lighting (74 per cent), waste reduction programs (76 per cent), recycling programs (70 per cent), digital transformation (64 per cent), water use reduction (65 per cent), and the installation of solar panels (53 per cent).

While these numbers represent an enormous increase from 2022, it’s worth noting that all have fallen slightly since last year’s survey—which may indicate a shift in focus to the more pressing issue of rising operating costs. And with over half of welding businesses yet

to initiate a net carbon plan, the need for Federal and state government support for industry decarbonisation.- coupled with a long-term pipeline of work secured via local content requirements - is evident.

Similarly, in the area of corporate responsibility, all figures are down slightly from 2023—potentially due to a change in priorities amid cost challenges. But encouragingly, many welding businesses are still investing in a range of corporate responsibility initiatives including:

• Employee wellbeing programs (76 per cent)

• Opportunities for women (76 per cent)

• Mental health and fitness programs (75 per cent)

• Opportunities for apprentices and trainees (71 per cent)

• Diversity and inclusion initiatives (69 per cent)

• Modern Slavery Act initiatives (59 per cent)

• Implementing a Reconciliation Action Plan (48 per cent)

THE OUTLOOK FOR THE WELDING INDUSTRY

Despite the lack of work and cost challenges, sentiment across the welding industry remains fairly positive. 68 per cent of respondents

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rated the prospects of their business as strong or very strong.

However, this is a significant decline from 88 per cent in last year’s survey. And while 83 per cent are confident that their business will be in operation in 12 months’ time, this is also down from 90 per cent in 2023.

Despite recent government investment in infrastructure projects and a rising preference for locally manufactured goods, it’s evident that these efforts alone are insufficient.

The implementation of specific, enforceable local content requirements is crucial.

For business owners and senior managers, these mandates provide the long-term certainty needed to confidently invest in initiatives like advanced technologies, workforce skills, sustainability and corporate responsibility. Such investments are vital to boosting productivity and mitigating the escalating costs of energy, materials, and labour.

Without these guarantees, the industry risks stagnation, unable to keep pace with global competitors or capitalise on emerging opportunities like those in Australia’s renewable energy revolution.

Find out more about Weld Australia at weldaustralia.com.au

1. cdn.aigroup.com.au/Economic_Indicators/Economic_Outlook/Australian_ Manufacturing_in_2019.pdf

2. https://www.theaustralian.com.au/commentary/manufacturing-further-economicdecline/news-story/5357ac5f103f8abeac50010ccd8d3ed2

Strong allies

The EWIT Alliance: A village to drive change in trades

AT EMPOWERED Women in Trades (EWIT), we champion the idea that creating meaningful change requires collective action. That’s why we recently launched the EWIT Alliance - an initiative that brings together like-minded organisations committed to increasing female representation in skilled trades to 30 per cent by 2030. We’re delighted to have industry leaders like Steel Blue, Construction Specialities Group and Richard Crookes Constructions step up as early supporters, helping

Atherton

EWIT CEO and Founding Director

to pave the way for what we hope will be a seismic shift in the workforce.

The trades sector has long faced significant challenges, from the skills shortage to poor retention rates of female workers. Currently, women make up just 3% of the workforce in skilled trades, an imbalance that urgently needs addressing. The EWIT Alliance aims to tackle these issues head-on by not only advocating for gender diversity but also fostering a collaborative community where companies can share best practices, strategies, and resources to make lasting changes.

WHY WE NEED A VILLAGE

The EWIT culture is fostered around the saying, “it takes a village,” and in this case, it takes a village to drive systemic change in industries that have long been male dominated. The EWIT Alliance is designed to unite organisations across various sectors, such as construction, manufacturing, and renewable energy, to form a united front for progress. This isn’t

just about supporting women in trades; it’s about addressing the skills shortages that are crippling industries and hindering economic growth.

Members of the EWIT Alliance play a crucial role in driving this transformation. By joining, companies are gaining access to resources and networking opportunities whilst becoming part of something bigger a movement that recognises the value of a diverse workforce that prioritises the mental wellbeing of all within the industry.

INDUSTRY LEADERS AT THE FOREFRONT

We’re proud to have companies like Steel Blue, Construction Specialities Group and Richard Crookes Constructions as early adopters of the EWIT Alliance. Steel Blue, a leader in safety footwear, has shown its commitment not only through its products but also through its ongoing support for women in trades. Personally, I think this collaboration is especially meaningful. After suffering a horse-riding accident

in 2017, Steel Blue’s boots were the only ones that provided the support and comfort I needed on-site, and I’m grateful for their dedication to research and development that allows tradespeople to do their jobs comfortably.

Richard Crookes Constructions, another industry giant, has been an incredible partner in setting the stage for change. Their involvement demonstrates that large construction companies can lead by example, creating environments where women not only feel welcomed but can thrive.

Construction Specialties Group are helping shape a stronger and more diverse future, where everyone has the chance to thrive and contribute to the industry’s success. A mindset we need more organisations to adopt and lead the way with.

THE 30 BY 30 VISION

The EWIT Alliance is centred on the ambitious goal of achieving 30 per cent female representation in trades by 2030. This goal isn’t

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It takes a tradie village to achieve 30 per cent female representation in trades by 2030

just about reaching a number. It’s about creating better work environments, ensuring financial independence for women, and solving some of the biggest workforce challenges that trade industries face today. However, this vision won’t come to life without the collective efforts of companies, educational institutions, and policymakers. That’s where the Alliance shines. By creating a community where members can collaborate, share resources, and advocate for gender equality, we’re making strides toward achieving this goal. But there’s much work to be done, and we invite more organisations to join us in this journey.

Together, we can build the village that will create a stronger, more inclusive future for trade, one that benefits everyone.

For information about the EWIT Alliance head to www.ewitrades.com

Hacia

–

Green thumb

Building a better (more sustainable) Australia

AT CARPENTRY Australia,

we’re all about building a better Australia with a strong focus on sustainability, innovation, and supporting our industry to make ecofriendly choices. With environmental challenges on the rise, it’s crucial that we embrace sustainable practices. Timber and composite decking are leading the charge in reducing the carbon footprint of our buildings and supporting Australia’s ambitious net zero emissions goal.

TIMBER: THE NATURAL CARBON HERO

Timber is more than just a building material; it’s a

natural ally in our fight against climate change. Trees capture carbon dioxide from the air and store it in their wood, making timber a powerful tool in lowering the carbon footprint of construction projects. When used in buildings, this stored carbon remains locked away, helping to combat global warming.

COMPOSITE DECKING: AN ECO-FRIENDLY ALTERNATIVE

Composite decking is gaining popularity as a green alternative to traditional wood. Products like Ekodeck, which mix reclaimed timber with recycled plastic, are leading the way in sustainable construction materials. This approach helps cut down on waste and reduces the environmental impact of decking materials. Composite decking is made by combining reclaimed timber (ground into a fine flour) with recycled high-density polyethylene (HDPE) from items like plastic bags and milk bottles. This blend creates a material that combines the look of

wood with the durability of plastic. With added UV stabilisers and anti-mould agents, composite decking stands up well to tough conditions and looks great for years without the need for annual oiling maintenance.

AUSTRALIA’S NET ZERO VISION: A TEAM EFFORT

Australia’s goal to reach net zero emissions by 2050 is a significant step towards a more sustainable future. The construction industry has a big role to play in this, as buildings and infrastructure are major sources of carbon emissions. At Carpentry Australia, we’re committed to supporting this goal by promoting sustainable materials and practices.

Timber and composite decking are crucial in this effort, offering real solutions to lower embodied carbon in our projects. By using these materials, we help reduce our environmental impact and support broader sustainability goals.

Industry bodies like ours, with the support of partners like Wood Solutions, are key to

driving this change.

We’re here to provide the resources and guidance needed for builders, architects, and designers to make choices that align with net zero targets. Our commitment to sustainability isn’t just about the materials we use; it’s about fostering a culture of environmental responsibility in everything we do.

WORKING TOGETHER FOR A GREENER FUTURE

Our commitment to sustainability is reflected in the materials we champion and the partnerships we build. By supporting the use of timber and composite decking, we’re playing our

part in creating a more sustainable Australia.

As we move forward, we encourage everyone in the industry to adopt eco-friendly practices. Together, we can lower our environmental impact, promote sustainable building materials, and lead the way towards a greener, more resilient future. Let’s keep the hammer swinging for longer, with sustainability at the heart of our efforts.

Australia’s net zero plan is ambitious, but with the collective efforts of industry bodies, innovative materials, and a shared commitment to a sustainable future, we can make this vision a reality.

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Composite decking has become a popular choice for a sustainable alternative to traditional decking materials

Nathan Quinn, Carpentry Australia Head of Development

HAVE YOUR SAY!

Fresh ideas

How NAWIC strives for a greener future

CURRENTLY,

THE

Australian Construction Industry produces 27 million tonnes of waste annually and is globally responsible for 39% of all carbon emissions.

Focusing on ways we can come together, big or small, to reduce our environmental impact is crucial for awareness, driving meaningful change, and fostering a more sustainable future for industry and the planet.

Focusing on sustainability, the NAWIC ACT 2023 Awards for Excellence sets the standard for deliberate actions aimed at driving change and making conscious choices in your local community. NAWIC ACT chose the National Arboretum as their venue, supporting their efforts in sustainability and biodiversity since their establishment in 2013. The National Arboretum Canberra has been a symbol of hope and sustainability with over 44,000 rare and endangered trees spanning across

250-hectares.

With an aim to reduce fashion waste, a challenge was set to wear a secondhand outfit by hosting a sustainable dress swap group, giving

NAWIC is at the forefront of sustainable materials, including its merchandise

people in the community the opportunity to donate or loan formal wear. If all attendees chose to use a secondhand outfit, they would have diverted over 400kg’s of textiles from ending up in landfills.

By collaborating with DesignCraft, a local designer and manufacturer for trophy design, DesignCraft adopted the sustainability theme by crafting the awards from reclaimed timber. By partnering locally, they reduced emissions required to ship and deliver products.

A HELPING HAND

Another important way to combat transport emissions was through sponsorship with Transport Canberra and providing a courtesy bus to take guests from the venue to the city after the event.

Additional small but important initiatives that can be taken are using digital platforms for seating plans and flyers using QR codes and using recyclable paper for booklets, menus and printable items.

Creating event menus focused around locally sourced ingredients and incorporating native and local herbs.

Moving into their upcoming awards season, NAWIC ACT are committed to the same sustainable practices and improving on their eco-friendly offerings at awards and through general merchandise such as using Gobos for decoration, local fruit and vegetables as centerpieces, biodegradable cutlery, biodegradable pens with tomato seeds in the cap! NAWIC ACT

Sustainability Lead, Charne Esterhuizen uses key principles of sustainability when it comes to merchandise – Recycling, Upcycling, Amending or Repairing, Sustainable / Biodegradable Materials and Local Manufacturing. Utilising these general rules not only has a positive environmental impact, but also incorporates innovation which stimulates curiosity, equaling positive change. Every little bit counts.

The 2023 NAWIC ACT Awards of Excellence were held at the National Arboretum

Images: Supplied by NAWIC

Finish line

Master Painters Association of Victoria relaunches the Finishing Trades Association of Australia for Professional Trades

THE BUILDING and construction industry can be tough. When you are an independent business owner, what you often need is someone to listen to you, to give you good advice, and to advocate for you.

Employers in the finishing trades have never needed support and representation more than today. This is a time of great change in the industry.

Concerns with culture and practices between industrial parties, in particular across commercial construction.

The State Government’s plans to substantially update the Victorian Building Act giving regulators more scope to regulate the industry and power to enforce compliance. Significant changes in relation to the employee entitlement organisations, how they engage with, and impact, businesses. The clear need for better balance and genuine negotiation in industrial relations matters. Significant changes to federal employment law redefining what is an employee, the types of employment and potentially upending the industry’s sub-contractor model. Need for clarity on the new licensing requirements and timing in order to ensure that

the implementation of the Building Amendment Act meets the industry’s needs. The tough business environment with the slowdown of the economy, difficulty in finding good quality employees, increases in costs, and the ongoing challenges of getting paid. The future skilled workforce when the finishing trades are not held in high regard and quality training options are shrinking.

LAST TO LEAVE

While many of the issues the finishing trades face today are shared across the building and construction industry, enough are unique that they benefit from their own representation. Last on site, last to get paid, treated as an afterthought is the opinion often shared. The finishing trades need someone who is backing them, their own voice, their own seat at the table

and their chance to be heard.

This year the FTAA celebrates its 25th anniversary. For over 25 years the association has been representing the broader finishing trades by bringing together the employer member organisations for Painter and Decorators through The Master Painters’ Association of Victoria, Plasterers and Renderers through The Commercial Plastering Contractors Group, Tilers through The Master Ceramic Tilelayers Association of Victoria and The Australian Institute of Protective Coatings.

TRUSTED TEAM

The FTAA was born out of the support provided by the Master Painters Association of Victoria for the other finishing trades. The MPAV has

The FTAA has helped to unite finishing trades for 25 years

been representing painting, decorating and signwriting employers since 1895. Members of the FTAA have access to employer advice and support on Employment related matters, Business and Marketing and Technical practices and resources

The FTAA is a voice for the finishing trades through advocacy to government, industry stakeholders and the public.

As part of our 25th anniversary the FTAA is investing in our industry by launching a new website to provide members with better access to information and services, trialling new products and services to support the needs of members in the current market. We are also developing new employer and technical training programs.

FIND OUT MORE FIND OUT MORE

Get the support and advice you need by joining the Master Painters Association of Victoria/Tasmania. For more information, please contact the Master Painters Association on 03 9813 5922 or email us at mail@mpav.com.au

Jodie Rebbechi – MPAV General Manager

TRADIE PROFILE

Glaze of

glory

Zoe opens up about passion for glazing

Sitting still has never been Zoe Beattie’s forte. It was this eagerness to get out and about that led her down the road of becoming a glazier, and she’s loved every minute of it

BEFORE LOOKING into the trades in high school, Zoe had never heard of glazing as a profession.

The 21-year-old thirdyear apprentice originally looked into becoming a carpenter, but when she found out about the kind of creative work glaziers can do, she’s was 100 per cent on board.

“I initially was looking to be a carpenter, but when I didn’t get into that I looked into glazing,” she said.

“I’d never heard of glazing before, but I gave it a shot and I absolutely loved it.

“I love doing work that involves my hands, I can’t

really sit still and do work at a desk.”

COMMITTED CREATIVE

Zoe is undertaking a Certificate III in Glass and Glazing at TAFE NSW Lidcombe. The course is a blended delivery option of practical, online and workplace training.

Zoe travels to Lidcombe four times annually to undertake the course’s requisite hands-on blocks of training, which run

Only four per cent of Australian glaziers are women, something Zoe hopes changes in the future

Join the glaze

Images: supplied by Zoe

Beattie

One thing Zoe loves about being a glazier is all the creative things she gets to do with glass

for one week each.

She’s also completing her apprenticeship through Lockman Doors and Glass at Armidale.

“I love the work I do with Lockmans,” Zoe said.

“I get to do all kinds of stuff … at first I was doing a lot of substrates then I started doing more with glass this year.

“The more I work with glass, the more I want to pursue a future as a glazier to be honest.

“There’s something about working with glass that’s so satisfying. Scoring it, snapping

it, lifting it. It can be back-breaking at times because I’m not the tallest person, but I say it’s the most satisfying job someone can work in.”

GLASS CEILING

Zoe is one of only four per cent of female glaziers in Australia. Add to that being a glazier in Armidale, and she is certainly in the minority.

“I saw one girl at TAFE once doing glazing like me, but that’s about it,” she said.

“Other than that, I’ve seen no one other than myself. It’s very rare to me to see other females.

“That’s very heartbreaking to me

because we need more glaziers out there.

“The population is growing and more and more houses are being built these days.”

According to the NSW Government’s 2022 Population Projections, NSW will need 904,000 more homes in 20 years to house the growing population.

This makes trades such as glazing crucial to ensuring state and national populations have housing to meet the demand.

“I’d love to see more women getting into glazing,” Zoe said.

“I think it’s just about getting out there and trying new things.”

Zoe got a taste of glazing in high school, and she hasn’t looked back since