SPLASH August - September 2017

Swimming Pools / Leisure / Aquatics / Spas / Health

Issue 113 August/September 2017

SPLASH!

celebrates 20 years

www.splashmagazine.com.au

Council considerations For splash parks Pool and spa awards From around the country

NEW

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With TDS levels as low as 1,200ppm, pool water is disinfected inline via electrolysis using the salts and minerals already present in the water.

> Compatible with sandstone feature tiles > Less corrosive on metal fences & fittings > Softer on skin and hair

> Kinder to natural waterways > Integrated acid dosing system > IP56 - high degree of protection

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*AIS defines freshwater swimming pools as having TDS levels of 1,200ppm-2,500ppm

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RESIDENTIAL CHLORINE GENERATOR

For freshwater* swimming pools

For enquiries please contact Australia wide

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Meet the Viron XT.

Light on energy.

Powerful in performance.

The Australian designed and manufactured Viron XT variable speed pump is incredibly energy efficient. Whisper quiet performance combined with a new 9 Star Energy rating ensures that the XT keeps your pool & spa equipment running longer, all while saving you over $750 a year* compared to other single speed pumps!

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LONGER EQUIPMENT LIFE

Published by The Intermedia Group Pty Ltd ABN 940 025 83 682 41 Bridge Road, Glebe, NSW, 2037 Australia Ph: (02) 9660 2113 Fax: (02) 9660 4419 Managing Director: Simon Grover Managing Director Interpoint Events: Simon Cooper Managing Editor: Chris Maher Phone: 0412 048 639 Email: chrismaher@intermedia.com.au

editorial Thank you

Contributors: Cal Stanley, Charles Watson Advertising Manager: Karen Jaques Phone: (02) 8586 6135 Email: kjaques@intermedia.com.au

At SPLASH! we like to just get on with the job of delivering timely news and engaging features to you, our readers.

Senior Designer: Chris Papaspiros Production Manager: Jacqui Cooper Head of Circulation: Chris Blacklock

But occasionally we must pause to acknowledge how far we’ve come.

For Subscriptions Call: 1800 651 422

Way back in the 1990s, when I was putting together consumer magazine Poolside, Carol and Kevin Benger were sitting at their kitchen table, putting together the first edition of the industry magazine SPLASH! No one thought back then – 20 years ago – that SPLASH! would evolve into the biggest information brand in the local swimming pool and spa industry. (And back then it never crossed my mind that I’d be the editor!)

Copyright All material in this publication is copyright to the publisher and/or its contributors. No material may be reproduced without the express permission of the publishers.

Disclaimer: This publication is published by The Intermedia Group Pty Ltd (the “Publisher”). Materials in this publication have been created by a variety of different entities and, to the extent permitted by law, the Publisher accepts no liability for materials created by others. All materials should be considered protected by Australian and international intellectual property laws. Unless you are authorised by law or the copyright owner to do so, you may not copy any of the materials. The mention of a product or service, person or company in this publication does not indicate the Publisher’s endorsement. The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Publisher, its agents, company officers or employees.

Any use of the information contained in this publication is at the sole risk of the person using that information. The user should make independent enquiries as to the accuracy of the information before relying on that information. All express or implied terms, conditions, warranties, statements, assurances and representations in relation to the Publisher, its publications and its services are expressly excluded save for those conditions and warranties which must be implied under the laws of any State of Australia or the provisions of Division 2 of Part V of the Trade Practices Act 1974 and any statutory modification or re-enactment thereof. To the extent permitted by law, the Publisher will not be liable for any damages including special, exemplary, punitive or consequential damages (including but not limited to economic loss or loss of profit or revenue or loss of opportunity) or indirect loss or damage of any kind arising in contract, tort or otherwise, even if advised of the possibility of such loss of profits or damages. While we use our best endeavours to ensure accuracy of the materials we create, to the extent permitted by law, the Publisher excludes all liability for loss resulting from any inaccuracies or false or misleading statements that may appear in this publication.

Chris Maher Managing Editor chrismaher@ intermedia.com.au

As well as the print magazine, the brand now includes informative online components as well as the biggest dedicated pool and spa industry event in this part of the world. That’s quite an achievement, so we shouldn’t be shy about celebrating it.

There are many people we need to recognise on this journey to the brand’s current success, but one I should mention at the outset is Karen Jaques, whose dedication to our advertisers, sponsors and exhibitors has played a significant role in our growth.

On page 36 we go into more detail and highlight changes and improvements we’ve seen in our industry over that time.

Full page ad

But there is one enormous thank you that needs to be made that far outweighs all the others. And that is us thanking you – our readers. Without your interest and engagement with the magazine, the online information and the expo, there would be no SPLASH! It’s as simple as that. And for that we are forever grateful.

And while we’re excited to reach 20 years and achieve a successful position in the industry, the journey has only just begun.

This issue of SPLASH! magazine published by The Intermedia Group Pty Ltd (Intermedia) may contain magazine or subscription; offers, competitions, forms and surveys (Reader Offers) which require you to provide information about yourself, if you choose to enter or take part in them. If you provide information about yourself to Intermedia, Intermedia will use this information to provide you with the products of services you have requested and may supply your information to contractors that help Intermedia to do this. Intermedia will also use your information to inform you of other Intermedia publications, products, services and events. Intermedia may give your information to organisations that are providing special prizes or offers that are clearly associated with the Reader Offer. Unless you tell us not to, we may give your information to other organisations that may use it to inform you about other products, services or events or to give it to other organisations that may use it for this purpose. If you would like to gain access to the information Intermedia holds about you, please contact Intermedia’s Privacy Officer at The Intermedia Group Pty Ltd, PO Box 55, Glebe, NSW 2037.

Some big news involving SPLASH! is due to be announced imminently.

I can’t say much about it as I write this (the last page I write before the magazine goes to the printer) – but it won’t be very far away.

What I do want to say is that SPLASH! will always continue to respect our readers by striving our utmost to be factual, objective, interesting and useful, and we will continue to do that long, long into the future.

Once again, thank you and I hope you enjoy this issue, and all the others to come.

Copyright © 2017 - The Intermedia Group Pty Ltd.

SPLASH! contains NO advertorial.

Proudly supported by

This issue’s cover

Swimming Pools / Leisure / Aquatics / Spas / Health

The views expressed in this magazine do not necessarily represent those of the above supporters, nor should any product advertised in SPLASH! magazine be seen to be endorsed by the above.

Issue 113 August/September 2017

Members of

SPLASH!

celebrates 20 years

Audited Circulation Average Total Distribution: 5,706 AMAA/CAB Yearly Audit Period ending 31 March 2017.

Happy people celebrating in a swimming pool represents the excitement SPLASH! feels for our anniversary. There is much more on our anniversary and the history of SPLASH! and the local industry on page 36.

Council considerations For splash parks Pool and spa awards From around the country

www.splashmagazine.com.au

August/September 2017

SPLASH!

7

Contents

46 54

28

Boundary fences deterring toddlers Cal Stanley forcefully argues that an external 1800mm barrier at the boundary is a sufficient deterrent for under-fives.

54

It’s award season!

Over a number of pages we showcase the winners of the state awards from NSW & ACT, Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia.

30

The global solar market In the fourth interview recorded with global leaders at SPLASH! on the Gold Coast, Michael Sessler of Magen Eco-Energy talks about the international and local solar markets.

33

Who will win Australian Pool of the Year?

All five State SPASAs have now held their awards of excellence, with all Pool of the Year winners vying for the prestigious national award.

34

Do casual workers have the right to become permanent?

Charles Watson explains the latest determination by the Fair Work Commission, and how it is likely to impact employers and employees in the industry.

36

SPLASH! celebrates 20 years informing the pool industry From its origins as a tiny magazine put together on a Brisbane kitchen table to becoming the leading source of information for the pool and

spa industry, SPLASH! celebrates its past – and its exciting future.

68 68

Creating successful council splash parks In the second of our three-part series, we look at how councils have included splash parks in their local area for the benefit of the community, and detail the obstacles they faced – and how they overcame them.

regulars News. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Chemistry tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Pool DAs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Commercial news . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

New products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76

Spa tech tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Ad index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

Industry moves. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

August/September 2017

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news

The Pool represents the connection between landscape, culture and architecture

Culture

The Pool comes home The 2016 Australian exhibition at the prestigious Venice Architecture Biennale, The Pool, offers a lens through which to explore Australian cultural identity by exploring the swimming pool.

The exhibition has now come home to Australia, and will be on exhibit at the National Gallery of Victoria in Melbourne from August 18.

The Pool explores important pools of Australia through a series of “lanes”. In a playful reference to the eight competition lanes that make up the standard Olympic pool, eight public personas, tell their stories of architecture and culture: Giving of Life (Tim Flannery); Bodies of Water (Ian Thorpe); Childhood Memories (Romance Was Born); Other Worlds (Christos Tsiolkas); Public Dreaming (Anna Funder); Contested Space (Hetti Perkins); Theatre of Competition (Shane Gould) and Deeper Water (Paul Kelly).

Go to the splashmagazine.com.au/links to see a visually exciting online book based on the exhibition.

Acquisitions

Investors acquire Hayward Industries A partnership of capital investment managers has agreed to buy pool and spa giant, Hayward Industries.

The partnership, led by CCMP Capital Advisors and MSD Partners and including Alberta Investment Management Corporation, has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire the 92-year-old firm.

SPLASH! understands it will be business as usual at the Australian arm of Hayward, and the buyout will not precipitate any change in operations or staffing in Australia or overseas. President and CEO Clarke Hale, together with the executive staff, are expected to retain their positions.

Hayward is a global market leader in the residential and commercial swimming pool equipment industry with the most recognised brand and largest installed base in North America.

Davis family leadership Under the Davis family leadership for more than 50 years, Hayward has grown through organic development and strategic acquisitions to expand its product offering to include a complete line of pumps, filters, heaters, cleaners, sanitisers, IoT driven automation and controls, lighting and accessories, and has built its global footprint through acquisitions in North America, Canada, Europe and Australia.

Hayward has achieved an average annual growth rate above 10 per cent since the Davis family initially purchased control of the business in 1964.

Robert Davis, co-chairman of the Hayward board says he is extremely proud of the accomplishments realised by his team in positioning Hayward as a leading provider of pool equipment throughout the world.

“As I approach retirement, I am very confident this next generation of ownership will carry on the Hayward tradition and that our legacy is in excellent hands,” he says.

Clark Hale says that Hayward and its employees are grateful for the vision and leadership that Oscar and Robert Davis have provided.

“We now look forward to partnering with CCMP and MSD Partners to continue our investments in product innovation, geographic expansion, and synergistic acquisitions,” he says.

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August/September 2017

Recent acquisitions by Hayward Industries include Poolvergnuegen, a suction cleaner manufacturer in the United States, as well as Kripsol, a Spanish based manufacturer of residential and commercial pumps and filters, and Sugar Valley, a Spanish based manufacturer of intelligent automation systems, water chemistry and sanitisation products.

Hayward bought Australian sanitisation control innovator and Hayward distributor ClevaQuip in 2011.

Partnership members CCMP Capital Advisors has office in New York, Houston and London, and invests mainly in the middle markets in the consumer retail, industrial and healthcare sectors.

Mark McFadden, a managing director at CCMP, says they are thrilled to partner with Clark and his team to acquire Hayward, which has built an outstanding leadership position and brand loyalty in the pool equipment market.

MSD Partners has offices in New York and London, and invests in public and private companies, credit, real estate and other asset classes and securities.

Kevin Brown, a managing director in the private capital group at MSD Partners, says they are delighted to have the opportunity to partner with Hayward’s management in this seminal event in the company’s distinguished history, and are pleased to be trusted with the stewardship of the business in the next chapter of its evolution.

“Hayward is a perfect fit with MSD Private Capital Group’s strategy of investing in companies that can deliver stability and growth over the long term, and we look forward to supporting its continued growth,” he says.

Alberta Investment Management Corporation, AIMCo, is one of Canada’s largest and most diversified institutional investment managers with assets under management in excess of $C100 billion.

The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of 2017.

Goldman Sachs is serving as financial advisor to Hayward and McCarter & English, LLP is acting as legal counsel.

Distribution

Maytronics strikes Ozone Swim deal

Warm winter sees market up five per cent up

Maytronics Australia has announced a new industry partnership with Brauer Industries to exclusively distribute Ozone Swim domestic products Australia-wide.

The available May to July 2017 pool DA numbers have shown an increase of five per cent over the same period last year.

Maytronics Australia managing director Dan Kwaczynski says Ozone Swim has made a name in the market for delivering a premium pool water purification system that effectively eliminates chloramines.

Over the three months, the states to show a decline were Western Australia (down 38 per cent) and South Australia (down seven per cent) while all other states showed improvement. Queensland was up 23 per cent, Victoria up 14 per cent and New South Wales up 11 per cent.

“It is ideal for any swimmer with allergies, asthma, eczema and sensitive skin,” he says.

Kwaczynski says this is a great opportunity for both organisations to benefit from each other’s strengths.

The annual figures comparing the 12 months to July show an increase of nine per cent. Queensland was up two 27 per cent, South Australia was up 18 per cent, and Victoria and New South Wales were both up 13 per cent. Western Australia was down 30 per cent.

“The team at Brauer Industries manufactures the best pool water purification system available on the market and Maytronics has extensive retail network contacts to channel the product effectively nationwide. It is a very exciting time for both companies.”

Yearly comparison by month

David Brauer of Brauer Industries says he is excited about the opportunity to join forces with Maytronics.

“They are a good fit to help us distribute our patented Ozone Swim technology to residences across Australia,” he says.

“We have invested considerable time and effort on research and development which has led to us to become an innovative market leader in the provision of safe, environmentally responsible solutions that will decrease dependence on harmful chemicals.”

Kwaczynski says that with summer quickly approaching, transition plans are in place to hit the ground running.

“As the roll-out ramps up, Maytronics invites any interested dealers who are keen to stock Ozone Swim or find out more about the award winning technology Year old to contact us,” he says.

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Shane Walker (left) of Maytronics picks up Maytronics first Ozone Swim order from Damen Carrington of Brauer Industries

SA

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Contact: 1300 693 657 or infoau@maytronics.com.

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While these figures give an indication of the way the market is trending, they are not comprehensive and don’t include all pools built or even all DAs lodged. By some estimates, the total national numbers including all types of pools could be almost double these figures. They do not include pool projects that are approved as part of a new home, smaller projects under the cost threshold, renovations that don’t require a DA, or some aboveground pools. Additionally, not all councils are forthcoming with data or report on time; councils in some states such as Queensland and Victoria are particularly reluctant.

For further information, call Cordell Information on 1800 80 60 60.

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news

Distribution

The Pool Systems stand at SPLASH! on the Gold Coast 2016

Vendart changes name to LaMotte Pacific Having continuously marketed and supported LaMotte’s products and services in the Australian market since 1988, exclusive distributors Vendart Pty Ltd will now be known as LaMotte Pacific Pty Ltd. The name change highlights not only the many years of marketing and representation for LaMotte Company, headquartered in Maryland, USA, but the close ties and business relationship between the two companies.

“The relationship has now grown to the point where we are partners in providing quality equipment and guidance for water analysis to the Australian market and the Pacific,” says LaMotte Pacific managing director Jason Leach.

Timed with the name change is the establishment of a chemistry department within the Australian company.

The new department will increase support capabilities locally for technical and other testing requirements, with the help of in-house qualified chemists.

David LaMotte, president of LaMotte Company, says LaMotte Pacific has grown to become their largest distributor outside of the USA. “Together, we expect to be able to provide better service and technical support for Australia and the Pacific, which hopefully will make a difference for our customers Down Under,” he says.

LaMotte Pacific markets electronic instruments and reagents to the swimming pool and spa industry, environmental groups, water authorities, industrial water treatment companies and the agriculture industry, to enable them to accurately and effortlessly test water quality.

Managing director Jason Leach says the name change highlights the close relationship between the two companies

Keep informed by subscribing to the free online newsletter.

Distribution

Pool Systems buys Newline Pool Products Pool Systems has announced the acquisition of Newline Pool Products, which took effect on July 3, 2017.

Pool Systems managing director Adrian Wischer says the acquisition continues their growth strategy, and the union will establish a significant player in the wholesale distribution of pool supplies in Australia.

In August 2014 Pool Systems bought Niagara Pool Products, and in October 2015 Niagara became fully integrated into Pool Systems. Also in August 2014, Pool Corporation bought a controlling interest in Pool Systems, later converting the interest to full ownership.

Newline Pool Products was established in 1992, and has a branch in south western Brisbane. The business has been owned and operated by Nathan de Candia throughout this period. The business has grown considerably in recent years, supplying the retail, service and construction segments of the pool market.

“This announcement is great news for our customers, employees and suppliers,” says Wischer. “We are undoubtedly stronger together than we are apart. The acquisition increases both the scale and scope of the combined entity, which will result in benefits for all stakeholders.”

Nathan De Candia, founder and managing director of Newline, will

continue to lead the Newline business.

He says there will be no foreseeable change for customers, who will continue to deal with either Pool Systems or Newline, just as they do now.

“Celebrating our 25th anniversary and joining Pool Systems provides us with new opportunities to expand products and services over time, bringing value to our customers, employees and suppliers,” says De Candia.

“I am very excited to join the Pool Systems team.”

Pool Systems commenced in 1983 and has grown to become the largest pool products distributor in Australia.

Pool Systems’ reach extends throughout Australia, with branches along the east coast in Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Sydney and Melbourne, offering a broad range of approximately 15,000 lines both domestically and to North America and Europe through export.

Pool Systems is wholly owned by Pool Corporation, the world’s largest wholesale distributor of swimming pool and related backyard products. As of March 31, 2017, Poolcorp operates 344 sales centres in North America, Europe, South America and Australia through which it distributes more than 160,000 national brand and private label products to roughly 100,000 wholesale customers.

Top five online news stories

The online stories that made the news over the past two months.

Five die in waterpark electrocution

Hayward bought by capital investment partnership

Pool Systems buys Newline Pool Products

Lynley Papineau appointed ALT managing director

Three children and two adults died in a pool at a Turkish waterpark in the town of Akyazi, 150 kilometres east of Istanbul.

A partnership including CCMP, MSD Partners and AIMCo entered into a definitive agreement to acquire the 92-yearold industry giant.

Adrian Wischer says the acquisition continues their growth strategy, establishing a significant player in the wholesale distribution of pool supplies in Australia.

Following the tragic death of Ben Beale, his sister Lynley Papineau took on the role of managing director as founder Lew Beale moved into the executive chairman role.

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August/September 2017

Victorian Government ignores swimming pool industry advice SPASA Victoria accused the government of entirely missing the point on pool and spa barrier safety improvement measures.

news

Upcoming events 2017 Aug 12-13

Melbourne Spa & Pool Show

Aug 21-23

ASSA 2017 Conference, Darwin

Aug 24

Leisure Communication and Marketing Awards, ANZ Stadium

Aug 31

SPASA Australia Leadership Convention, Jones Bay Wharf, Sydney

Aug 31

SPASA Australia National Awards of Excellence

Sept 5-7

Aquatech Mexico, Mexico City

Sept 10

SPASA WA Pool, Spa & Outdoor Living Expo

Oct 17-20

Piscina BCN, International Swimming Pool Exhibition, Barcelona

Oct 31-Nov3 Aquatech Amsterdam Nov 1-3

IPSPE, Orlando Florida

Nov 7-10

25th IAKS Congress, Cologne, Germany

Nov 7-10

FSB International Trade Fair for Amenity Areas, Sports, and Pool Facilities, Cologne, Germany

Nov 8

SPASA Victoria AGM

2018 Jan 30-Feb 1 Spatex, Coventry, UK Feb 9-11

Pool & Spa Consumer Show (Summer Show), MCEC, Melbourne

Mar 3-4

Sydney Pool Spa & Outdoor Living Expo, Rosehill Gardens

Apr 2-6

National Drowning Prevention Educational Conference, Tampa, Florida

May 7-9

AALARA Conference, Sunshine Coast

May 15-17

Asia Pool & Spa Expo, Guangzhou, China

June 5-8

Asian Attractions Expo, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre

Aug 1-2

SPLASH! Pool & Spa Trade Show, Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, Southport

Aug 11-12

Spa & Pool Consumer Show (Winter Show), MCEC, Melbourne

More details at splashmagazine.com.au. Dates are subject to change and should be checked with the relevant organisation.

Send calendar submissions to info@splashmagazine.com.au.

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Safety

Spa Tech Tips Choosing the right pipe Selection of the correct pipe size is critical to spa jet performance. Jets generally require 40 lpm to 50 lpm to operate at 8m to 10m head pressure.

To ensure adequate flow to achieve this, both pump and pipe selection is critical. For 10 jets you need a pump that can deliver 400 lpm to 500 lpm at the spa after head loss is taken into account.

Head loss is calculated using pipe length, diameter and number of fittings for a given flow rate. If the pipe is too long, too small, or too many bends and fittings are used, the system head loss can be crippling to the operation of the spa.

Underestimating the effect of using a small pipe size over a long run with concrete and landscaping added over the top can not only be detrimental to spa operation, but also expensive to rectify as there may be no solution but to dig it all up to lay the correct pipe size.

As an example, with a flow rate of 210 lpm, 40mm Class 9 pipe has a head loss of 1.14m for every metre of pipe. By comparison, 50mm Class 9 pipe has a head loss of only 0.39m for every metre of pipe. 50mm pipe can run almost three times further for the same loss in head as 40mm pipe in this scenario.

It’s important to note that a change in flow-rate will result in substantial change to head loss. If installing an in-ground spa we recommend seeking clarification on the effect of head loss prior to installation if unsure of the calculations.

For more information contact technical support at Australian Spa Parts 1300 736 025.

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Pressure mounts on Victorian government SPASA Victoria and a collaboration of key stakeholders delivered a letter to Victorian Planning Minister Richard Wynne demanding three-yearly mandatory barrier inspections.

SPASA CEO Brendan Watkins says that the time for talk is over.

“In partnership with like-minded stakeholders, SPASA has been lobbying state government of both persuasions for a decade now, but the sitting minister continues to dither on this critical safety measure.”

Watkins says that multiple reports from Victorian local government authorities show the average failure rate of pool barrier compliance is a whopping 80 per cent.

“The fundamental problem in Victoria is very clearly a lack of ongoing pool barrier maintenance,” he says.

He says this is the first time these key stakeholders have come together to pressure the government, highlighting the seriousness of the issue. As well as SPASA Victoria, the stakeholders include Lifesaving Victoria, Kidsafe Victoria, Real Estate Institute of Victoria, Victorian Municipal Building Surveyors Group, Landscaping Victoria and Royal Life Saving Australia.

“This first-ever collaborative approach by industry, safety and building stakeholders all agree that the solution to managing safety – and

preventing injury and death of Victorian toddlers around residential pools and spas – is to legislate mandatory barrier inspections at the sale or lease of a property, or every three years.”

He says that empirical evidence demonstrates that mandatory barrier inspections reduce toddler fatalities. Since 1992, Western Australia has achieved an 80 per cent reduction in the rate of fatalities since the implementation of their mandatory barrier inspection program.

“It’s an extraordinary achievement to bring together seven diverse organisations to lobby for the same single piece of legislation. All pool-related stakeholders have joined together to demand that the minister act now to keep our toddlers safe.

There’s no doubt that communities are enhanced by the enormous social capital provided by backyard pools, but we must ensure the barriers are maintained.,” he says.

To see a copy of the letter, go to splashmagazine.com.

Seven stakeholders au/links signed the letter

MySpace by Grimshaw Architecture, built by Warrick Home Builder. This cubby won the Most Interactive/Imaginative award and sold for $21,000

Competition

Call for creative cubbies Youth homelessness prevention charity Kids Under Cover is calling for the building and design industry to submit their expressions of interest to participate in the Cubby House Challenge for 2018.

Big-thinking building and design teams are invited to enter and create their dream playhouse, in the search for Australia’s best-designed cubby.

Building and architectural teams must enter their

expressions of interest before registrations close on Friday, September 1.

A shortlist of five applicants will be selected. The shortlisted cubbies are then built, displayed at the Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show in March 2018, judged by an expert panel and auctioned to support the work of Kids Under Cover.

Interested teams can register their details at: cubbyhousechallenge.org.au.

APVMA

L ATES T TECH NOLO GY

Simple to install and Retrofit a ny existin maintain g pool or Quality Se spa rvice & Su pport Stand out from the crowd!

Contact Us - We’re here to work with you!

swimming as nature intended

TM

news

Expos

In Brief Young Australians who receive welfare payments could undertake internships for retail businesses as part of a new deal announced by the Federal Government in partnership with the Australian Retailers Association. Under the scheme, the government will pay businesses $1000 to take on young, unemployed people as interns for up to 12 weeks. The young jobseekers working as interns would receive $200 on top of their fortnightly welfare payments.

The program will apply to Australians aged between 15 and 24 who are seeking employment, which the government says will help curb the increasingly high youth unemployment rate in Australia. A recent report found that almost one-third of Australian young people are unemployed or underemployed.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) says its work over the past six months has helped ensure small businesses have a level playing field, as revealed in the 14th edition of the ACCC’s Small Business in Focus report. Around 6400 small businesses, 300 franchisees, and 200 agricultural traders contacted the ACCC over the six months. The ACCC has made several larger companies amend contracts such as removing terms that allow a trader broad discretion to terminate a small business contract “without cause”, making automatic contract renewal terms more transparent and including a contractual obligation to remind customers about the pending automatic renewal of their contracts. Download the 14th edition of the Small Business in Focus report at splashmagazine.com.au/links.

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SPLASH!

August/September 2017

WAHC focuses on professional growth are very interested in advancement and The 14th Annual World Aquatic Health what’s next. They want to be trained, and Conference (WAHC) will be held at Denver, the WAHC educational offerings assist in Colorado, on October 18-20, 2017, at the providing that training.”

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New this year, there Swimming pool will also be an indoor air service technicians quality panel discussion will have an with leaders from opportunity to Anderson Poolworks, advance professionally Paddock, Desert Aire, in leadership and Counsilman-Hunsaker, service during a preand Water Technology, conference classroom Inc., focussing on session of NSPF’s how the industry can new Advanced help reduce chlorine Service Technician Aquatic therapy day returns to WAHC this October by-product in indoor Training Course. aquatic environments.

“We find that Aquatic therapy day will return for a second most people are looking for a career path and year. Recent research advocating aquatic education helps to provide that,” says Darrell therapy for individuals with low back, neck, Doust, PoolWerx USA chief operating shoulder, and chronic pain will be discussed, officer, NSPF ASTCM Certified Instructor, followed by a four hour warm water lab. The and returning WAHC attendee. “Education all-day session is hosted by Aquatic Therapy also assists in attracting new young people to University’s Andrea Salzman, MS, PT. our industry, because the younger generations

Expos

IPSPE registration opens Registration is open for the 2017 International Pool | Spa | Patio Expo (IPSPE), which returns to Orlando, Florida on November 1-3.

The 2014 event attracted 11,103 total attendees who came to see the 552 exhibitors

The pre-show conference begins October 29, 2017 with extensive educational offerings throughout the duration of the show days.

The largest expo of its kind in North America, the 2014 event attracted 11,103 total attendees and 552 exhibiting manufacturers spanning more than 13,700 square metres of exhibit space.

This year’s exhibit hall hours have changed to no longer overlap with conference programs. Education during the show days will now begin at 7:30 am with the exhibit hall hours starting at 10:30am. There are also pre-show educational offerings from APSP and Genesis.

Going to IPSPE? SPLASH! editor Chris Maher is going to IPSPE this year and would like to catch up with visiting Australians and Kiwis to get their observations. So if you’re going to be there, let him know by emailing chrismaher@intermedia.com.au.

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news

Industry moves Long-standing Queensland swimming pool industry member, Owen Austin from A-Betta-Liner, passed away on Wednesday July 26. He had been in and out of surgery and ICU at the PA Hospital since early April this year. Owen was a very skilful tradesman who had been in the swimming pool industry for over 25 years and was well known to pool builders and retailers in Queensland, having sub-contracted to the retail and service sector installing pool liners, covers, skimmer boxes and carrying out leak detection.

SPLASH! offers condelences to his family and friends.

Belgravia Leisure has appointed Kris Miller as its new Victorian and Tasmanian state manager, overseeing 35 aquatic and recreation centres, sports stadiums and golf courses.

He was previously centre manager at the Watermarc centre in Banyule.

The LNA Masters Landscapers Association board has appointed Julie Krieger as CEO. Her extensive experience leading and working with memberbased industry bodies, most recently with Property Council of Australia where she was their NSW and ACT commercial director. Her management experience in the not-forprofit sectors as well as in the corporate and government sectors will aid her as she rolls out the strategy plan for the coming three-year period.

Sanad Capital has named three top global executives who will serve as expert advisors to the company, to bolster the success of its $450m theme park on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast.

Joe Zenas, CEO of Thinkwell Group, Geoff Chutter, President and CEO of Whitewater, and Fredrik Jonsson, founder and managing partner of Mereha will sit on the Advisory Panel for Actventure.

Expos

National SPASA Awards to be held at Leadership Convention on August 31 The SPASA Australia National Awards Gala and Leadership Convention will be held on 31 August 2017 at the harbourside Doltone House, on Jones Bay Wharf at Pyrmont in Sydney.

The convention is a one day program designed for current leaders looking to grow their business and for those looking to make leadership their vocation. Keynote speakers are Michael McQueen, Dr Jason Fox and Alisa Camplin.

Michael McQueen is widely recognised for having his finger on the pulse of business and culture, having dedicated himself to tracking the dominant trends that shape society, business and change. His presentation is high impact, research-rich and entertaining.

Dr Jason Fox is a modern-day wizard-rogue, author and leadership adviser. With deep expertise in motivation design, he shows forward-thinking Alisa Camplin

Michael McQueen

Dr Jason Fox

leaders around the world how to unlock new progress and build for the future of work.

Alisa Camplin, OAM is a unique and contemporary leader, juggling a dynamic portfolio of sport, business and governance roles. As Australia’s first female winter gold medallist, she has overcome unparalleled expectations and pressure of repeat success to take bronze at the 2006 Winter Olympics.

The Australia National Awards Gala will be held on the evening of Wednesday 31 August at Doltone House. Guests can stay at the Oaks Goldsbrough for a discounted rate when attending the convention and awards. Use the discount code SPASA to receive a 15 per cent discount on the best available rate.

Industry moves

New Watertech GM

Carl Richards

Watertech Services International, manufacturer of the Enviroswim fresh water sanitiser, has appointed Carl Richards as general manager. to assist the growth of the business due to increased consumer demand. Watertech will be also moving to larger premises in August.

For the past five years, Richards had been the largest reseller of the ES3 freshwater sanitiser, distributing the product through Enviro Pool Solutions Pty Ltd. Watertech Services International says they are also seeking interest from global strategic partners.

Contact: carlr@enviroswim.com; 0487 916 246.

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news

Maintenance

Chemical Tips Start the season with a smile Get the season off to a flying start by offering your clients a pre-season pool audit.

Last season we assisted our shops in designing and promoting a filter clean program. All shops and servicemen who took it up reported great success with many achieving up to a 60 per cent hit rate, generating many thousands of dollars in extra revenue in just one month.

September is the ideal month to offer a pre-season safety check. Include fences, gates, signage, equipment and offer a filter clean or media change. Check the pool cleaner for wear and tear and replace any parts or hoses.

This can become part of your annual pool summer preparation which should of course include water balance and general pool clean and maintenance.

Look at new technology available from your suppliers and consider if any of your clients may benefit from upgrading.

It’s also the time to review your pool maintenance contracts with your customers and consider if your prices and services need updating.

These tips are supplied by pool industry pioneer and chemistry expert David Lloyd.

For more information on this or any other technical enquiries call International Quadratics on (02) 9774 5550.

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SPLASH!

August/September 2017

NSW Fair Trading commissioner Rod Stowe says that while Australians love enjoying the backyard with friends and family, they need to add deck and balcony maintenance onto their list of annual chores.

“Like all parts of the home, decks and balconies require routine and regular maintenance to keep them in good repair and identify any emerging issues,” he says. It is best to do this before summer hits, when they will be getting much more use than in the winter or even spring.

“Many Australian homes have decks and balconies but unfortunately, there

PHOTO CREDIT: Sikkens

Check your deck before summer hits

Not only should decks be checked for safety; keeping them maintained help prevents problems

have been a number of recent incidents resulting in serious injuries or death,” he says.

Balconies and decks should be checked regularly by applying light pressure and using a pushing and pulling action on handrails, balustrades, supporting beams and joists. Common maintenance issues can be caused by insects, water and rot, coastal and corrosive effects and heavy loads, like pots, air conditioning units and furniture.

For more information about deck and balcony safety or to download the safety guide, visit fairtrading.nsw.gov.au.

Construction

Regional housing market growing strongly The Housing industry Association’s (HIA) latest Population & Residential Building Hotspots survey shows regional housing markets are growing strongly.

that regional Australia is also peppered with housing Hotspots."

The report identifies Pimpama in Queensland as Australia’s number one housing hotspot based on its performance during 2015/16.

In second place was Sydney’s CobbittyLeppington area followed by Palmerston-South in the NT in third place.

Nine of the Top 20 hotspots are located in New South Wales; four in Victoria; three in Queensland; and two each in Western Australia and the Northern Territory. Additionally, South Australia and Tasmania each contain five general hotspots, while the ACT has nine.

HIA’s senior economist Shane Garrett says that with 2016 was a record year for new home building across Australia.

Nationally, an area qualifies as a Hotspot if its population grew by more than the 1.4 per cent national average during 2015/16 and at least $150 million worth of residential building was approved during the year.

“The good news on housing is not confined to the major capital cities,” he says. “The report shows

He says small business particularly benefit from regional housing activity.

Industry moves

Op de Coul returns to Rheem Greg Op de Coul has re-joined Rheem Thermal as key account manager in Victoria.

His role will be to further develop the sales and marketing of Raypak and Rheem pool heating products in that state.

Op de Coul returns to Rheem after three years

at Davey. He has sat on Australian Standards advisory committees as well as on the SPASA Victoria board.

He is well known to the industry and says he is looking forward to sharing his wealth of knowledge with new and existing customers.

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news

Retail

Eye on payment surcharges A ban on excessive payment surcharges will apply to all businesses across Australia from 1 September 2017.

The new law limits the amount that a business can charge customers for use of payment methods such as EFTPOS (debit and prepaid), MasterCard (credit, debit and prepaid), Visa (credit, debit and prepaid) and American Express cards issued by Australian banks. It came into effect for large businesses last year.

Businesses can only pass on to customers what it costs them to process a payment such as bank fees and terminal costs.

For example, if your cost of acceptance for Visa Credit is one per cent you can only surcharge one per cent on Visa credit card payments onto your customers.

Small businesses should receive information from their banks, which will help calculate appropriate surcharges when accepting debit and credit cards.

The ACCC has also published a fact sheet so business owners can better understand their obligations.

Banks are required to send businesses merchant statements which clearly set out the business’ costs of acceptance for each payment method. The ACCC urges businesses to follow up with their bank if they have not yet received these statements.

Passing on the cost of processing debit and credit card payments is not mandatory for businesses and the ban has no effect on those that do not impose a payment surcharge.

In the lead-up to last year’s excessive surcharging ban on large businesses, many reviewed and amended their surcharging practices to reflect the costs to the business and the ACCC hopes that small businesses will carry out similar reviews.

Go to splashmagazine.com.au/ links to find ACCC guidance material relating to this ban.

form is methylated spirits (ethanol and around 10 per cent methanol).

Retail

Burners come under new standard Following a series of accidents, the Commonwealth has put in place a decorative alcohol fuelled burners standard.

The new safety standard prevents the supply of table top devices that weigh less than 8 kilograms or have a footprint less than 900 square centimetres; and requires freestanding and fixed devices to meet a stability test, come with a fuel container with a flame arrester (or an automatic fuel pump system) and display warnings on the device about refuelling hazards.

The fuel used is typically ethanol in liquid or (less commonly) gel form. The most common

These devices are especially dangerous when they are being refuelled. When the fuel is low, the flame can appear blue or clear, making it difficult to see.

Refuelling when a flame is present or the device is still warm can lead to an explosion. There is also a risk of the device being knocked over by children or pets and causing serious burns to people nearby as well as damage to property.

Information for traders Suppliers can comply with the interim ban from 15 July to 14 October 2017.

From 15 October 2017, they must comply with the mandatory standard. If you have supplied devices that are unsafe for consumers, you are expected to take action to minimise the risk of serious injury or death, by undertaking a voluntary recall of unsafe devices previously supplied.

There are tough penalties for selling products which do not comply with a safety standard.

Individuals can face a maximum fine of $220,000 and corporations face a maximum fine of $1.1 million.

Go to splashmagazine.com.au/links for more information on the standard.

Safety

Toddler’s brain damage reversed A toddler who suffered brain damage from a non-fatal drowning incident in Arkansas, USA, has reportedly been cured following a series of oxygen therapies.

Two-year-old-girl Eden Carlson was found face-down in her family pool in February this year, and was only revived after nearly two hours of CPR and 17 EpiPen shots. She was expected to remain permanently in a vegetative state.

However, following 40 rounds of hyperbaric oxygen therapy, she appears to be a fully functioning child. The results have been published in medical journal, Medical Gas Research.

More oxygen is absorbed in a hyperbaric chamber, helping restore function to damaged cells and organs.

Daily Mail Online reported Eden’s New Orleans based physician, Dr Paul Harch who is connected to LSU School of Medicine, as saying this is the first case he’d seen make such a huge difference, and that while he had been confident it could help, the results exceeded his expectations.

As it was too far to travel to New Orleans, Eden’s family administered a low dose of two litres per a minute for 45 minutes, twice

Eden Carlson in the early stages of her recovery

a day. Once Dr Harch saw the phenomenal improvement he knew they had a chance and told them to come down to Louisiana.

They started the therapy 78 days after her accident and after 40 sessions, her mother says she is almost the same as before the incident.

An MRI scan showed her brain looked completely normal and Dr Harch says she has unequivocally regrown substantial brain tissue. He says the key was catching it early.

“Because she was young and it was early, I thought we had a chance.”

Go to splashmagazine.com.au/links to see a series of videos from Dr Harch, as well as a report from Royal Life Saving Australia on non-fatal drowning.

August/September 2017

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news

Spas

Spa-Craft trade day kicks up a gear

T

his is the fourth time Spa Craft have held a trade day for their customers, and it is far and away the best attended and most informative.

They are held every two years in the off-year to SPLASH! Managing director Jamie Galea says each year they’ve got better.

Managing director Jamie Galea “The first one was just local The packed room listens to an entertaining presentation from BioGuard’s Jim Vouden spa service technicians coming to the factory, having a chat with the boys and then going to the pub.

Then we decided to put a bit more information in the day. So the second one we had a bit of a chat about product – and then went to technician for a couple of years before Davey bought them out the pub. The third one we sat down, got some visitors in and spoke in 2005, and I stayed on with Davey for about five years as the about product and had a good spa technical manager. I travelled response from that. That one was the world with them, setting up spas actually three-quarters of a day; in China for example and helping we had a spa there and everyone manufacturers.

“We thought this time let’s do went through the different “Then I had a family and in it properly. So we got our products,” he says.

November 2009 I decided to start out suppliers in – even some from This time they upped the ante on my own. It was a big gamble but and held it at Lynwood Country it’s paid off.”

America have flown over, with Club. About 60 people attended.

They currently have 454 customers Balboa sending CJ, their head “We thought this time let’s in Australia and New Zealand and technical guy.” do it properly. So we got our handle more than 2000 line items. suppliers in – even some from They also import Darlly filters.

America have flown over, with “They’re a big filter manufacturer Balboa sending CJ, their head in China. They build about 10 technical guy.” million filters per year,” he says.

The venue was packed and the spa technicians and other customers He says with so many new products coming out such as were fully engaged. wi-fi, touch screen, iPads, new chemicals and the like, there is Speakers included CJ from Balboa Water Group, Jim Vouden from always something to talk about at the trade days. The next dealer BioGuard, Albert Chiovenda from Davey Water Products, Craig conference and trade day will be held in 2019.

Nimmo from CSN Global, Paul Forsyth from Pacific Industrial Access, Daniel Clarke from Spanet and Chris McWilliams from Spa-Craft.

New products from Spa-Net One company to bring new product to the trade day was SpaNet, the Sydney-based Australian owned and operated supplier.

Birth of Spa-Craft Director Daniel Clark says he came to the trade day to formally Spa-Craft came about after Galea decided to branch out on his own. release the SpaNet SV Mini controls, which are targeted at the “I worked for Spa Quip,” he says. “I was the head electronics entry level of the market.

“Typically our products have been higher range, but this provides a solution for entry level spas and also an ideal solution for the retro-fit market. On a cheap entry level control we’ve got flexible add-ons like the wi-fi unit for complete remote access, which you can add on later. It’s really flexible for configurations for either the spa tech or the spa builder.”

They also have value-add options like the integrated heat pump which can actually work as a heating or cooling source for the spa.

“Sometimes when the weather is say 42 degrees, it’s just too hot,” Clark says. “I like a spa at about 31 to 32 in summer, so you just turn it down and will automatically maintain that heat. Most controllers can’t regulate the cooler temperatures – on some spas you can cool, but you need to be manually operating it. The benefit of our system is if you Daniel Clark director of SpaNet turn the temperature up it will heat; if you turn it down, it will cool.” ■

August/September 2017

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25

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feature

No evidence of a breach of an 1800mm high pool barrier has ever been reported or confirmed, regardless of its location or characteristics

An external 1800mm barrier is a sufficient deterrent at the boundary

By Cal Stanley

W

There are many words that define “restrict”: limit, keep under hen the 2012 edition of AS1926.1 was put together, the control, regulate, moderate, hinder, impede, hamper, check, curb, committee determined that the height of the boundary restrain, are just some of them. barrier could only be measured on the inside (the pool I have checked the meanings of “restrict” in eight dictionaries and side). The reasons given for this change were that the I cannot find the word “prevent” in any of them. So why are so many pool owner could not control the outside of the barrier and the trying to prevent such an unlikely event? certifiers and regulators could not measure the height on the outside In the history of the Australian swimming pool industry from because they had no right to enter the neighbouring property. the 1950s to the present, there have been less than five confirmed The challenge now is to reverse that change or at least give pool drowning fatalities from the scaling of a boundary barrier and it is owners the option to use the height on either side of the barrier. highly likely that none of these In my 25 years as a member of the barriers were 1800mm high.

Standards Australia CS-034 Committee In this period, as many as some on Swimming Pool Safety – during “It is an inescapable conclusion 1,250,000 swimming pools have been which I have attended more than that the outside of a boundary installed. Thus a boundary barrier 15 meetings about AS1926.1 – not breach has led to a drowning in less once has anybody ever presented the barrier is, and always will be, than 0.0000004 per cent of those pools. committee with evidence of a young the principal deterrent for the I believe it is a reasonable child (0-4 years) climbing over a barrier access of young children across conclusion that a boundary barrier that is 1800mm high.

1800mm high, regardless of its I repeat, no evidence of a breach of an a property boundary.” characteristics on either side, does 1800mm high pool barrier has ever been and will continue to meet the reported or confirmed regardless of its objective of the standard. location or characteristics.

Statistical evidence indicates a 75 per cent decline in drownings of young children over the past 24 years. Today, at the end of this 24-year Risk period, approximately 94 per cent of existing pools in Australia have Changes to a compulsory document should only be made when it can boundary barriers that were installed when the minimum height have a positive outcome. Instead it is now being made because a few requirement was only 1200mm, with most being measured on the people think it is a good idea. They provide no credible reason. They outside of the barrier. In WA that would be 99 per cent. provide no evidence.

Known statistics show that, without any doubt, the access point in The best safety expert in this area was a Dr Robert Pitt who spent the pool barrier that results in more than 90 per cent of drownings more than 20 years of research and practical experimentation with pool is the pool gate. The remainder are due to faulty barriers and the barriers and young children. He was the architect of the NCZ on the occassional use of plastic chairs to scale the internal barrier. internal barrier. He concluded in 2007 that as there was no evidence of a child under five ever having scaled an 1800mm barrier of any type and characteristic, that it was reasonable to assume that such a barrier The objective of the standard required no added protection beyond its height.

Far too many participants in this debate ignore the aim, purpose When a majority of the committee decided to place an optional and objective of AS1926.1 that is clearly set out in the document’s NCZ (5) on the inside of the boundary barrier, Dr Pitt felt it was preface and again in Clause 1.1 Scope, which is the requirement unnecessary but decided not to vote against it. for “barriers that will restrict the access of young children to the Dr Pitt has moved on to other areas of paediatrics since 2007. pool area”.

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August/September 2017

feature

Despite the figures above and a total absence of evidence in support, a majority of CS-034 members in the 2012 revision of AS1926.1 saw fit to change the boundary barrier requirements and ignore the pool gate completely.

In making these changes and in considering further changes today, the committee has not followed normal practice in changes to compulsory standards by making them with no evidence of a problem and without a risk analysis of the barrier.

The inside of a boundary barrier

I have always maintained that the outside of a boundary barrier is the safest side and both history and statistics support this assertion.

The current standard mandates a minimum height of 1800mm on the pool side of the boundary barrier while permitting the outside of that barrier to be any height at all (and there is no move to change this in the current review). Thus it is possible that the boundary barrier height on the outside can measure anywhere from zero upwards and in many cases will certainly be less than 1800mm.

It is well known that children in the target range of 0-4 years of age have not yet developed a sense of the dangers of height or of falling from a height. So we now have a barrier designed to ensure that should a young child reach the top of a boundary barrier and attempt to climb over it, he/ she will almost certainly fall at least the 1800mm onto whatever is below.

Invariably, what is below will likely be the cause of a very serious injury or even a fatality well before any water is reached. What is below can range from solid hard paving to relatively sharp garden stakes or the like, which, even with a good outcome, will still result in severe injury.

Regardless of the recent changes in the standard or any currently being proposed, the continuing outstanding record of the outside of the boundary barrier and the fact that young children do not climb 1800mm high barriers, are the only reasons why such accidents have not yet been reported in the target age group.

However, it did apparently happen to a six-year-old who fell from the top of a boundary barrier (less than 1800mm high), hit his head on the paving below then apparently rolled into the nearby pool and drowned.

Conclusion

The complete absence of any evidence of an 1800mm high barrier being scaled by young children and the fall dangers of applying the height requirements on the inside only, are both excellent reasons why boundary barrier requirements should always be applied to the outside of that barrier, not the inside.

Both measuring the barrier height on the inside and prohibiting objects adjacent to the inside of a boundary barrier, enforces unnecessary and sometimes major costs to industry and consumers as well as a loss of amenity to the pool owner, all without any benefit to the safety of young children being gained.

It is an inescapable conclusion that the outside of a boundary barrier is, and always will be, the principal deterrent for the access of young children across a property boundary.

The changes in the 2007 and 2012 standards are potentially dangerous, impose serious cost on industry and consumers, gain nothing in support of the objective of the standard, and should never have been made.

The real challenge now is to get the current CS-034 Committee to reverse them. n For these opinion pieces, Cal Stanley draws on his 35 years’ experience and success in pool construction, having run award-winning Neptune Pools in Western Australia for three decades, and sitting on many standards committees and industry body boards. More recently he has worked as a pool consultant and trainer and delivers hydraulics courses for the swimming pool industry. If you have a question regarding his columns or a have a topic you think he should delve into, you can contact him directly: neptunepools@westnet.com.au August/September 2017

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feature

In Latin America and Asia, the growth is climate-related. People who really understand solar pool heating realise that as you climb in altitude, the solar performs better and the pools are much cooler due to evaporation. So you need to heat the pool even in desert climates if it’s more than 500 metres above sea level.

Canberra for example is an excellent region for us. Up to 90 per cent of the pools are solar heated, according to our data.

In Latin America – Chile, Peru, Ecuador, Columbia – you have to heat all the pools even though they’re in the desert. Also the desert line in America – Arizona, Nevada, the Rockies – all the pools are solar-heated.

Because radiation is better, evaporation is higher, pools are cooler, so that’s the perfect place for solar.

Michael Sessler, business development vice president of Magen Eco-Energy

The global

solar market

The environment

For most of the homeowners, I think the environment is one of the very last considerations these days.

Still, in places like California, where the gas is really cheap – people buy solar just to be environment-friendly, and they buy electric cars and other things, so in certain parts of the world it really relates to education.

In Australia we don’t see it too much – so you have to work on your educational programs for us [laughs].

Market share

We estimate globally we have about 40 per cent market share. We definitely know we are number one by just counting the number of panels we manufacture and comparing it to others. The data in the US shows we are very strong. Tremendous changes have been made in the solar pool heating market in the US over the past year – our competitors made some changes either in their focus or their ownership, and hopefully it will enable us to get more market share in America.

Also in Australia we work very hard. Competition is high, but it’s good competition, so manufacturers respect each other. And every manufacturer comes out with new panels or new designs or a new The make-up of the market marketing message every year or two. It keeps us sharp, keeps us e realised that the global solar market is split into three segworking hard and is challenging for us. ments which are totally different to each other: solar electric Heliocol Australia expanded its location and put some new offices in (photovoltaic), solar hot water and solar pool heating.

Perth and Melbourne, and is growing across Australia, and hopefully will Solar hot water was declining, especially in Australia over the keep growing and one day will be number one past couple of years, due to government policies, in Australia – but it will take a couple of years energy prices and so on. [laughs].

Solar pool heating was growing slowly Last year we launched a new product but steadily – it’s really related to the real called Sun Value. We launched it to trade not estate market. More pools are being built, to consumers – more to the pool shops and so more solar is being put on the roofs. And pool builders. photovoltaic also depends on government We also plan a new product showing incentives and support and schemes, so it grows extremely high thermal performance – that’s very fast for example in the United States. And the key, to have better performance in the same we’re competing for the same roof space – price range. which is challenging!

You can find videos from the It’s challenging, it will be constructed from Also in Australia we see more and more international leaders series online new materials and with new technologies we photovoltaic panels. at splashmagazine.com.au/video. are now testing. We’ve presented a prototype to What we can say about the solar pool As well as the Michael Sessler our some of our dealers. It’s in the line. If not heating market is it grows steadily, just interview they include interviews next year [2017], at SPLASH! 2018 it will be from the awareness from the homeowner with Gary Pogharian, maintenance on the stand. that they can save some energy, they can director of Yas Waterworld; Michael become greener, and it works.

Turner, international business And it works when you need it – when you SPLASH! Expo development manager for Neptune swim. So it’s a steady growth – growing about SPLASH! is interesting – all the time you see Benson; and Carlos Del Amo, global 15 per cent a year over the past couple of years. new things. You see the global brands growing marketing director of Pentair.

So it’s growing faster than the pool industry. and growing, and you see the Australian guys fighting their own fight, bringing their own innovations.

Emerging markets and altitude Many things that were innovated in Australia went into the global There are some very nice new markets where people are starting market. It’s nice to see it, nice to learn from it. And it’s so nice doing to have swimming pools where they didn’t have them before, like business with Aussie people – smiling every time, with a very good sense Latin America and certain countries that developed faster of humour. So we like to come here. n than others.

In the fourth in the series of interviews with international leaders recorded at SPLASH! 2016 on the Gold Coast, we spoke to Michael Sessler, business development vice president of Magen Eco-Energy, manufacturer of Heliocol solar heating systems.

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See the video interviews online

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A DIVISION OF

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Who will win

Australian Pool of the Year?

ABOVE: Splish Splash Pools won the SPASA NSW & ACT 2017 Pool of the Year TOP RIGHT: Urban Oasis won the SPASA South Australia 2017 Pool of the Year (pictured here are Lorenzo Peressin of Urban Oasis, Maurice Zoia of sponsor AstralPool Australia, and Sarah Martin of Urban Oasis) MIDDLE: Apex Pools & Spas won the SPASA Victoria Pool of the Year BOTTOM LEFT: Majestic Pools & Landscapes won the SPASA Queensland Pool of the Year BOTTOM RIGHT: Quality Dolphin Pools won the SPASA WA Pool of the Year

All five State SPASAs have now held their awards of excellence, with all gold winners going into the SPASA Australia National Awards Gala on the evening of 31 August 2017 at the harbourside Doltone House, on Jones Bay Wharf at Pyrmont in Sydney.

The gala will be held after the full day Leadership Convention at the same venue.

To book for the SPASA Australia National Awards Gala and/or Leadership Convention, contact members@ spasa.com.au or call 1300 021 482.

The winners of the state awards are: SPASA NSW & ACT 2017 Pool of the Year: Splish Splash Pools SPASA Queensland Pool of the Year: Majestic Pools & Landscapes SPASA South Australia 2017 Pool of the Year: Urban Oasis SPASA Victoria Pool of the Year: Apex Pools & Spas SPASA WA Pool of the Year: Quality Dolphin Pools

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Casual workers’ permanent rights

By Charles Watson

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he Fair Work Commission has recently determined that casual workers covered by 85 of the approximately 122 federal modern awards will be given the right to request permanent employment status if they have worked regular hours over a 12-month period.

Whether pundits who view this decision as part of a push to avoid the over-casualisation of the workforce by making it less attractive an option to employers are correct remains to be seen, but it will definitely be another level of consideration and process for employers.

As part of the never-ending four-year modern award system review currently being undertaken by the Commission, and the opportunity it afforded parties to attempt to significantly alter federal industrial Awards, various unions launched a claim for the mandatory conversion of all casual employees to permanent positions. Those unions sought such conversion to occur after six months of regular work with one employer.

Further, the unions also sought to make any erroneous decision made by an employer as to the applicability of such casual conversion a civil penalty breach. This last claim, if it had been successful, would have resulted in making a wrong decision about a casual employee indefensible, inexcusable and with a possible $10,000 fine attached!

Compromise position

The various parties involved in this matter have argued the issues at length since January last year and finally a decision recently hit the deck.

The outcome was somewhere in between the unions application and the employer groups responses. The commission has determined to give employees across a range of industries and occupations the right to request permanent employment status after 12 months of regular and systematic employment.

Further, the commission has also developed relevant criteria for employers so as to assess whether casual employees are eligible to convert to permanent status.

Those criteria centre on whether the work performed by the casual employee over the previous 12 months has been of such a pattern and regularity that, without “significant adjustment” to the terms of employment, the work could continue to be performed in accordance with any part-time or full-time provisions contained in a relevant Award.

Therefore, any casual employees engaged to perform work on an occasional, non-systematic and or irregular basis will continue to be exempted from a right to convert to permanent status.

In coming to its decision, the commission rejected the unions claim for a four-hour minimum engagement period for casuals. Rather, the commission decided that for those modern awards not already containing a minimum engagement period for casual employees, a two-hour minimum period will be interleaved.

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Numerous federal industrial awards already contain provisions requiring employers to offer casual employees conversion to permanent employment status after six months. Those awards will not have their pre-existing casual conversion clauses varied because of this decision.

What does this mean for employers?

At the time of writing, the commission has created a draft model provision clause for inclusion into those 85 awards. However, the draft clause has not yet been settled and has not yet been interleaved into those awards. In fact, it is not expected those awards will be varied until at least August this year.

When finalised, employers will be responsible for providing their casual employees with a copy of the conversion clause contained within the relevant award before the completion of the first 12 months of their engagement.

Employers will be able to refuse the request on “reasonable grounds”. Although the phrase has not been carved in stone, such grounds of refusal will include: • that permanency would require a “significant adjustment” (another phrase open to interpretation) to a casual employee’s hours of work: or • the employer can “foresee” the position would no longer exist in the next 12 months.

For a refusal to be deemed reasonable it must be based on facts which are known at the time, or reasonably foreseeable, and not based on speculation or some general lack of certainty about an employee’s future. That being said, if an employer refuses a casual conversion request the employee will be able to use the dispute resolution clauses within the relevant award to access the commission for a ruling on an employer’s decision.

While this issue may cause some employers anxiety, there are some issues that must be remembered and considered. Casual employees who wish to convert to a permanent status should be clearly advised that, because of converting, their casual loading (usually somewhere between 17 per cent to 25 per cent) will no longer be payable upon becoming a permanent employee.

If, after considering the economic take-home result of casual conversion, the employee chooses not to become permanent, it is recommended that employers capture both the required offer and the non-acceptance in writing for evidential purposes if this issue raises its head later.

If it is inevitable that an employee will be entitled to permanent employment status on either a full-time or part-time basis, employers need to be prepared for responding to any such requests.

For example, if an employee is ultimately going to become part-time, employers should consider utilising an individual flexibility agreement to keep relevant and necessary flexibilities in the workplace. We recommend employers consider whether this issue will be relevant in the workplace in the future, and if it is, consider how you will best respond. n Charles Watson is Senior HR Advisor at Workforce Guardian – Australia’s leading HR and employment relations service for employers. For more go to www.workforceguardian.com.au

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SPLASH!

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s LP Hartley once famously said, the past is a foreign country: they do things differently there.

It is generally less sophisticated, certainly less technologically adept, but often possessing a certain charm now viewed through the rosy prism of time.

To celebrate our 20th anniversary, we’ve travelled back with some of our friends to look at how things were in the “good old days”.

At the same time, a number of companies are celebrating their anniversaries – some that make our modest two decades pale in the shade – and one industry pioneer has decided to hang up his multimeter and finally retire.

We hope you enjoy this tramp back through the ages.

Of course, we would not be celebrating this milestone without the amazing support of the industry: our sponsors, advertisers, exhibitors and advocates – and of course the most important people of all, you, our dear readers.

So thank you, one and all!

Origin of SPLASH!

Back in the winter of 1997, Carol and Kevin Benger began putting together a small magazine with the intention of informing the Australian swimming pool and spa industry about important business issues.

As pool and spa retailers themselves, they had plenty of things to discuss. Their pool shop was in the Brisbane suburb of Clayfield, where Kevin serviced the local pools and Carol handled the retailing. As with the pool shop, the magazine production was a family affair, with help from sisters Lea Edwards and Dawn McCallum, and in due course, the Benger children Sam and Jane.

Carol had the idea of starting the magazine after being particularly frustrated by what she believed was price gauging by the National Registration Authority (NRA), which at the time administered chemical registration fees.

The magazine published in spring and immediately found an audience. Over time, its readership grew to the point where it was distributed to 36 countries around the

The very first edition of SPLASH! published in Spring 1997 August/September 2017

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In 2000 the Bengers took the show to the Gold Coast, holding it at the Gold Coast International (GCI) and increased the event to two days. The success of this show led Carol to contemplate a move to Sydney in 2002.

However, that show was not as successful as she hoped, and they returned to the GCI in 2004 for another rousing event.

New hands

The Spring 1998 issue with Marilyn Monroe on the cover caught everyone’s attention. It also featured the backflip in the NRA dispute BOTTOM LEFT TO RIGHT: In Spring 1999 SPLASH! launched the idea of a big national pool and spa trade show on the Gold Coast, rather than just a tabletop trade day in Brisbane

world – while always maintaining a strong local focus. And while the magazine went from strength to strength, the NRA went in the other direction – dissolved by Parliament and replaced by the establishment of the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) under new guidelines.

After the success of the magazine, the next step was to bring people in the industry together so they could meet face-to-face, network and get more business done.

Carol organised a “table top” style trade day at KedronWavell RSL in Chermside in August 1998. While the trade show was modest, it was a success and had her thinking of bigger things.

Thinking outside the square, Benger put a silverback gorilla on the cover in Summer 1999 Shortly after Intermedia took over the magazine, SPLASH! investigated the issue of pool and spa entrapment, with the ongoing coverage and advocacy eventually gaining recognition from Publishers Australia at their Bell Awards

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Following that successful event, the Bengers decided it was time to retire and allow the magazine and show to pass on to a professional publisher and event organiser, and allow both to grow further.

The Intermedia Group bought the magazine and show in 2005, under the businesses Intermedia and Interpoint Events, and began putting its own mark on the brand.

Sadly Kevin passed away in March 2008, but had said he was pleased with the way the publication and show were progressing under the new owners.

Simon Cooper became Intermedia’s publisher of the magazine and he brought in editor Chris Maher who, amongst other roles, had steered consumer pool and spa title Poolside from its earliest days, and after initial sales manager Dave McLeod moved onto other magazines, Cooper brought in highly experienced sales manager Karen Jaques.

One of the first things the new team did was to introduce an online component, including social media, a newsletter and a visually impactful website. This was part the three-pronged strategy to bring people together via print, face-to-face and online.

While supporting the industry and encouraging its growth, SPLASH! remained impartial and objective, and maintained a policy not including paid advertorial.

The magazine won a nod at Publishers Australia’s Bell Awards for efforts in lobbying for change on suction safety standards, and also encouraged a more positive consumer attitude to the industry’s power and water usage though the SPLASH! Environmental Awards.

SPLASH! also launched a new comprehensive trade directory which was initially in A5 format, but has since evolved to a fully online service.

Evolving show

As managing director of Interpoint, Cooper also organised the trade shows, assisted by Karen Jaques,

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Managing editor from 2005 to the present day, Chris Maher, seen here taking a dip in the Marina Bay Sands rooftop pool, cooling off during the SPLASH! Asia expo

TOP RIGHT: Sales manager for both the SPLASH! magazine and show since 2010, Karen Jaques, seen here in Lyon making friends with French rugby legend, Sebastien Chabal RIGHT: The original SPLASH! team, Kevin and Carol Benger BOTTOM: The SPLASH! welcome drinks is now the premium industry get-together

40 SPLASH!

Melanie Robertson, Laura Honey, Helen Mulhern and Madoka Morimoto.

The first change was to move the show to Jupiters on Broadbeach. There, the biannual event on the Gold Coast grew bigger and bigger, filling the corridors as well as space on the lawn in front of the venue, and necessitating the addition of more seminar rooms and even a giant marquee.

Meanwhile, the trade expo was exported across the Tasman as a number of stand-alone trade shows before co-locating with BuildNZ and Designex. Similarly, SPLASH!’s foray into South East Asia started with a standalone SPLASH! Asia show in Singapore, went through a period as a combined show with French organisation GL Events, and then co-located with the Architecture & Building Services (ABS) show.

But the flagship event was always the Gold Coast show, which morphed from the only national trade show into an international event, and in 2010 it won the highest honour in the Exhibition Association of Australia Awards for the Best Show in Australia or New Zealand – outpointing many larger exhibitions and consumer shows.

Last year, the trade show finally outgrew Jupiters and move across the road to the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, where it “came of age”, becoming the largest and most impressive pool and spa trade show this part of the world has seen.

The effort, expense and creativity from the exhibitors saw many visitors comparing the expo to European and American shows.

There were more exhibitors than ever before, more floorspace and more visitors. The 122 exhibitors covered 4795 square metres of the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre exhibition floor, and a record 2427 visitors came to the show and the associated Swim Disability Conference, a 16 per cent increase over the 2014 numbers.

August/September 2017

Additionally, the extensive education program included a series of SPASA Australia workshops and seminars, two full days of educational seminars and technical workshops, association meetings arranged by SPASA, ALFAQ and ASSA, as well as a number of industry annual conferences and events timed to coincide with SPLASH!.

Chief amongst these was co-hosting the SPASA Australia National Awards Gala on the final night of the expo, where for the second time SPASA members from around the country came to celebrate the best of the best, as national winners were selected from the state awards. It was a fun evening that is set to be repeated next year.

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In June 2007, SPLASH! published the first New Zealand expo edition, the beginning of a healthy transTasman relationship

After a redesign, SPLASH! went for a more modern look. This edition, published shortly after the redesign, featured coming to terms with the online market

Asia was beginning to show itself as a growing industry, and SPLASH! would soon take the trade show to Singapore to engage with the South East Asian market

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In June 2015 SPLASH! published the 100th issue

Edition 104 looked at building pools for the top end of town

Edition 106 looked CM at trends in MY waterpark features CY

Cooper says that he is proud of the successes of the brand.

“From its early birth in the kitchen of Carol and Kevin Benger’s home, SPLASH! has grown to become the leading pool and spa publication and the largest trade show in Australasia,” he says.

“The magazine has been a finalist in the Publishers Australia awards, while the trade show has taken out the highest honour in the Exhibition Association Awards,” he says.

“Under the editorial leadership of Chris Maher the magazine has built an authoritative reputation for delivering impartial and objective news. In addition, the SPLASH! Environmental Awards achieved international recognition and the online component takes our news to a wider audience.

SPLASH! is indisputably the leading integrated media platform in Australasia for the pool and spa industry in print, digital and face-to-face.

“Underpinning this success has been the support of the industry.

Karen Jaques has drawn together the leading product suppliers and whether it’s advertising or exhibiting she provides marketing support and an unprecedented level of customer service.”

Although much has been achieved over the past 20 years, the SPLASH! brand has not peaked yet. Both the show and magazine look forward to even more successful years ahead, with new and exciting announcements expected to be made in the very near future.

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Back in time

Twenty years ago, the world was a different place.

The top movie was The Castle, the first Harry Potter book had just come out and Steve Irwin’s Crocodile Hunter had just aired on TV. Hong Kong had just returned to Chinese rule after the 99-year British lease expired, Diana the Princess of Wales died in a car crash in Paris, and Mother Teresa died in Calcutta. John Howard was Prime Minister of Australia but Queen Elizabeth was still the head of state – despite discussions to the contrary by republicans, led by current PM Malcom Turnbull.

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“I’m privileged to have been a part of this wonderful industry for almost 40 years and the changes during the past 20 years have been incredible. Our industry as of today would have been unimaginable in 1997.”

Every day he is involved in almost all facets of the industry, with business interests encompassing concrete and fibreglass pool building, full retail and spa sales, servicing, manufacturing and wholesale sales to the industry – as well as being a director on the SPASA Victoria board.

He says the most striking improvement during the past two decades has been the amazing design and quality of Australian swimming pools.

“Look at features such as windows, negative edges, swim-out areas and the challenging engineering requirements of our modern pools. You can see why building an award-winning pool is more challenging than it was 20 years ago.”

Cooke says that sales of fibreglass pools have surged during this time, while build quality has improved and the expanded design and surface options have resonated with consumers.

“If you look at value for money, pools and spas are a great investment for the homeowner of 2017.

Production and installation efficiencies have reduced the price of spas relative to earnings in the past 20 years, but the quality and value of features has improved remarkably.”

The early days of Waterco Manufacturing Division

Crown Casino had just opened in Melbourne and Stuart Diver was the sole survivor of the Thredbo landslide. Facebook wasn’t much of a force – the domain name only went live that year – and Twitter was just a twinkle in Jack Dorsey’s eye.

AFL champions were the Adelaide Crows, but the Super League War was in full swing and rugby league had two champions: the Brisbane Broncos and the Newcastle Knights.

And in the swimming pool industry, advanced technology was just beginning to gain a foothold.

“Women had little influence, and I’ve had to work hard to earn my place at the table. Today, there are many young players and women in leadership roles who embrace collaboration and are involved in community projects that make the industry proud.”

Of course, many swimming pool companies go back much further than that, and some are celebrating their anniversaries this year, while others have offered to give us a little trip back into the history of the industry.

Improved quality

Cliff Cooke of Cooke Industries has been in the industry twice as long as SPLASH!, but still wants to congratulate us on our achievement.

“Congratulations to Chris and the team at SPLASH! for a wonderful 20 years educating and entertaining our industry,” he says.

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Smart phones, smart consumers and variable speed

Cooke says that modern builders need to be more professional to comply with licensing and insurance requirements, construction protocols, safety and the scrutiny of consumers.

“If a consumer was dissatisfied 20 years ago they told their friends,” he says. “In 2017, their frustration spreads through social media like wildfire, especially if they have outrageous photos or video.”

But he says the internet also helps improve communication with customers and social media provides exciting opportunities for the industry.

“Some of our trade clients have sold pools based on inspiring Facebook and Instagram posts alone.

“The internet has also improved trade access to information and knowledge. We can now collaborate with the USA or Europe from onsite in real time through pictures and video.

“When we installed our first in-floor cleaning system in the 1980s we phoned our supplier in the USA for directions each morning. We did what we could that day, and prepared questions to discuss the following stage of installation the next morning.

“The advent of video calls and FaceTime helps enormously and we also have 24 hour access to online training and instructions. I’ll stop short of suggesting the 2017 builder has got it easy because better-educated consumers are more demanding than ever.”

He says that consumers are propelling the industry towards automation and energy efficient technologies.

“Variable speed pumps have been a game changer and, regardless of your opinion, they’re here to stay. They’ll most likely become mandatory in the USA from 2021 and we’ll follow that lead.

“Variable speed pumps are a great technology, but the majority of our industry is using them incorrectly.

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The past does seem to be another country sometimes – certainly it was a more risqué one, as seen here by this promotion for a wet-t shirt contest in 1987 RIGHT: Promoting the first SPLASH! expo

We simply can’t plumb a pool with a variable speed pump the same way we’ve always plumbed pools. If that worked, we’ve been installing oversized pumps for 50 years and you know that’s not the case.”

He says that service techs and pool shops recognise the problem of reduced circulation and when consumers realise it they’ll drive the next phase of evolution within the industry.

“Energy efficiency needs to be understood in order to sell and deliver its advantages. The future of our industry will depend on our collective ability to embrace efficiency as a new way of thinking.

“We have developed a range of circulation and in-floor cleaning systems which are designed specifically for use alongside variable speed pumps. Many other products – sanitation systems, chlorinators, cleaners et cetera – have also evolved to suit the lower flow rates of these pumps.

“Unfortunately, most of our industry doesn’t yet understand how to integrate energy efficiency with these products. Builders, your challenge is to learn about energy efficiency so you can cater to your clients’ needs and remain relevant for another 20 years.”

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AIS: 25 years in marriage and business

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Not only has Kerry and Elena Gosse’s business relationship hit the 25 year mark this year, so has their marriage as they also celebrate their silver anniversary.

“When Kerry set his eyes on the business in 1992, God gave him a wife to help run it,” jokes Elena.

Over the years, Brisbane based Australian Innovative Systems (AIS) has evolved from a small three-person operation in a tiny shed to having four manufacturing plants, exporting to 55 countries and an impressive line-up of innovative products including residential and commercial chlorine generators for salt, mineral and fresh water pools.

Their business story follows the consumer and commercial adoption of inline chlorination; and their success has much to do with their determination, innovation and business planning.

Elena says that although AIS products are respected worldwide and found in some of the most prestigious aquatic facilities, resorts, hotels and water parks, it wasn’t easy for customers to adopt inline chlorination and move away from traditional chlorine dosing.

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Edition 107, August 2016

Edition 109, December 2016

Edition 111, April 2017

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The SPLASH! Environmental Awards highlighted to the industry and consumers just what advances were being made in water and energy saving, helping innovators stay one step ahead of regulation and encouraging a positive consumer attitude to the industry. This article featured in the News Limited Sunday papers around the country, while the awards also gained metropolitan radio coverage

“We had to change our approach, and focus on educating the public on different disinfection methods and technologies available to them,” Elena said.

With their eyes firmly locked on the future, in 1995 the pair saw a pivotal opportunity. While the business would naturally decline during the Australian winter they wanted to capitalise on the northern hemisphere’s summer.

“We soon realised that we couldn’t go global without a world class product,” says Elena.

AIS invested heavily in research and development which lead to the release of its first commercial chlorine generator AutoChlor.

With a strong portfolio of products in hand, in 1997 they successfully implemented their global expansion plan, taking the company’s export to the northern hemisphere.

In 2000 AIS developed its first residential chlorine generator powered by switch mode power supply, an

Paul Simons “I’ve had the pleasure of watching the team at SPLASH! magazine take this form of media to a new level and set the benchmark in advertising for the pool and spa industry over the last 20 years. It’s been a privilege to work with Simon and his wonderful team over the past two decades. The magazine is not only a great vessel to showcase new products and innovation but it’s informative and keeps us up to date with the who’s who of the pool and spa industry both at home and abroad. Congratulations to the SPLASH team on this wonderful achievement and thank you for providing us with an industry magazine that provides a wealth of information and entertainment.”

Paul Simons, Managing Director Lo-Chlor Chemicals TOP RIGHT: An article in SPLASH! where Carol Benger invites prosecution from the NRA, seeing it as the only way to resolve the impasse – eventually SPLASH! won the fight and the NRA was dissolved, replaced by the APVMA

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advanced technology previously only used in the computer industry. This made their product more energy efficient, lighter and as a result increased export sales.

In 2001 AIS took another leap forward developing and manufacturing its own genuine AIS anodes – the heart of each AIS chlorine generator.

Kerry says this as one of AIS’ greatest accomplishments.

“Developing this technology meant that we had full control over the quality of the anode, making us more independent,” he says.

In 2009 AIS developed the world’s first commercial inline fresh water chlorinator. EcoLine revolutionised

August/September 2017

the industry with chlorine produced inline, in “fresh” water (with TDS as low as 1200 ppm) using the salts and minerals present.

Modifying gender attitudes

One change to occur in the industry is attitude to gender.

After surviving the GFC and rebranding the company, AIS focused on an industry education program which included Elena speaking at several forums and symposia.

“This was a giant leap forward for the industry because when I first started with AIS, it was a heavily maledominated industry,” Elena says.

“Women had little influence, and I’ve had to work hard to earn my place at the table. Today, there are many young players and women in leadership roles who embrace collaboration and are involved in community projects that make the industry proud.”

In 2016 AIS purchased its new, 1900m2 production facility, allowing the company to expand production capacity by 150 per cent and released three new products with more in the pipeline.

At a time when many manufacturers are moving offshore, AIS is continuing to successfully innovate and manufacture in Australia.

Industry pioneer calls time

Don Bullock has been around the industry for a lot longer than 20 years. In fact, he started back in 1972.

Bullock was a rugby league player and an electrician, starting out in business as an electrical contractor in 1964.

In 1972 he formed BOS Electrics in partnership with Mick O’Shea, servicing mining towns throughout Queensland.

The business expanded to employing in excess of 50 electricians, and even had a company-owned twin engine aeroplane to service the remote areas, piloted by himself.

“About that time, I purchased a salt chlorinator called Watermaid, from Ted Roma, an industrial chemist from Sydney, for my own swimming pool,” say Bullock.

“The process was new and unproven for swimming pools. Being an electrician, I was attracted to the electrical side of this new product and developed an association with Ted. Soon BOS Electrics were distributing and servicing the Watermaid to the industry in Queensland. We manufactured the power supplies locally, and purchased the electrolytic cells under license from Ted.”

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Bullock says the first few years were quite hectic, as salt chlorinators were being falsely blamed by concrete pool builders as the cause of rust formations and blemishes on internal finishes. Legal actions were common, and BOS Electrics were caught in the fray in Queensland.

However, consumers liked salt chlorinators and fibreglass pool builders homed in on the increasing consumer demand, finding it successful in expanding their sales against concrete builders. The two sectors became very competitive, and the concrete builders were eventually forced to upgrade their product to be compatible with salt chlorinators.

The rise of salt

By 1980, while demand for services to the mining industry was slowing, salt chlorinator sales were booming.

“This was despite experiencing some mishaps due in part to ineffective installation instructions that could cause a build-up of explosive gas in the electrolytic cells,” says Bullock.

“To improve the safety and the installation procedure, we started manufacturing a venturi operated electrolytic cell called Salty. The Watermaid and Salty sales and service increased dramatically, and were becoming a significant part of the BOS Electrics business. This incited us to increase our participation

in the swimming pool industry, and we purchased a large pool shop on Chevron Island, called Gold Coast Swimming Pool Service, from Barry Vercoe, a popular and recognised industry figure at the time.”

Due diligence revealed there was no trade outlet or warranty service available for pool products on the Gold Coast, so they decided to set one up. They significantly widened and increased the stock, engaged service techs and opened the front door to the consumer and the back door to the trade.

Nowadays, even the Prime Minister is interested in the pool and spa industry. Malcolm Turnbull and Ross Vasta are shown around the Australian Innovative Systems’ production facility by Kerry and Elena Gosse

August/September 2017 SPLASH! 45

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Rooftop pools are gaining popularity around the world. This impressive Crystal Pools project is at a Top Ryde luxury apartment complex, featuring a 25m infinity swimming pool and spa TOP RIGHT: Peter Moore, Paul Bradshaw, Norm Harvey and Terry Ellis MIDDLE RIGHT: Don Bullock explaining suction regulations at the SPLASH! Pool & Spa Trade Show

“We used our retail service techs for immediate warrant service, and the turnover was doubled in the first two years,” he says.

“While Ted Roma with his technical background as an industrial chemist was invaluable to me with the early Watermaid, I needed a fast learning track in water treatment and all other pool products including chemicals.

“Guys like Ben Smith, Bob Stanley, Doug Fulham, Roy Halle, Barry Hayes, Des Berry and many more were extremely helpful in providing this ‘new industry recruit’ with product knowledge and introductions to manufacturers. Bob Stanley was instrumental in organising the distributorship of Purex pool filters from the USA, who were then producing the best DE filter available.”

When Mick O’Shea retired, Bullock closed BOS Electrics and traded as Pool Stop for a while,

Pool products went from fully imported stainless skimmer boxes and DE filters to Australian manufacture of injection moulded plastic skimmers, DE filters, main drains et cetera in a few short years, so that by the mid-70s, little was imported in comparison opening trade/retail outlets in Tweed Heads and Salisbury, Brisbane.

“Then I met David Lovelock who owned a large and established pool shop in Brisbane. By 1984 we had merged our companies and commenced operating as Swimworld Queensland.”

Growing up

Bullock says that back then, the industry was still in short pants.

“There was no training facility, and employers and employees had to cope with whatever was in front of them, mostly by trial and error, and by input from others 46 SPLASH!

August/September 2017

who had already made their mistakes. Our expansion as Swimworld was so fast, it was difficult to find staff, let alone experienced staff. Guys like Ben Smith, owner of the original Pool & Spa Review, and Bob Stanley, and others, offered what experiences they had, and gave their time to address Swimworld’s staff on many occasions.”

They had 14 trade/retail branches from Tweed Heads to Cairns, with annual turnover of around $11 million, when they sold Swimworld to a public company in 1988.

“In 1989, I moved to San Diego to provide some venture capital and guidance to a small company doing R&D on automatic micro filtration. While Merilyn and I enjoyed our time living in America, I remember taking the R&D prototype to the local dump on our return to the Gold Coast.

“In about 1993, back in Australia, I was approached to do some R&D on Questa, a New Zealand pool cleaner. I became a shareholder and executive officer in Questa Pool Products for a few years, before resigning as an executive officer. My association with the company ended after I had a serious vehicle accident in 2003.”

Bullock says that in early 2004, he and Gordon Clarke were wandering around looking for golfing and fishing partners.

“We had been friends since about 1986, playing golf after national CASPA (forerunner to SPASA) meetings.

Gordon had recently retired as joint managing director of Mutual Pools Sydney, responsible for the construction of approximately 15,000 concrete pools annually. With Gordon’s structural experience and my hydraulics and water treatment experience, we decided on forming a consultancy business, and registered the name Aadvance Swimming Pool Consultants in May 2004.

“That business has been very successful, keeping both of us off the streets and involved in the industry. Gordon is continuing to operate it (until who knows when), but I retired on May 17 this year, my 81st birthday!”

During his years in the industry Bullock has given a lot of his time helping on association boards and standards committees, and he says the swimming pool industry has provided him with friendships and employment in his own business for most of his adult life.

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“I’ve learned that your work becomes your hobby, and your hobby becomes your life. Most of my free time in the industry has centred on playing golf, fishing and having fun with industry personnel.

Many Barrier Reef journeys consolidated lasting friendships.

“My beautiful wife Merilyn has contributed greatly to my working career. She always accompanied me on my frequent drives between the branches from Tweed Heads to Cairns, and even to customers in every state of Australia, international conventions and the like. She has gracefully accepted the hardships of coping with my busy position, and has never complained about my golf, fishing and having fun. For that I am very grateful, and intend prioritising her in the good times we have left.”

He says that over the past couple of months he had been having heart trouble and stopped playing golf.

“After several hospital visits to a cardiac surgeon, I now have pacemaker and defibrillator implants. All has gone well and I’ll be back enjoying more time with Merilyn and golfing by August… but not working.”

SPLASH! wishes Don and Merilyn all the best in his retirement.

From punch-ups to professionalism

Chadson Engineering has been involved in the pool industry for more than 50 years.

Greg Jones says that in this time he has seen some massive changes to all aspects of the industry, from the odd punch-ups after boozy SPASA meetings in the 1970s to the regulated and professional industry as it now is.

“The development and transition of residential pool equipment in Australia was rapid and dynamic with companies such as Quipmaster and Filtrite entering the scene in the very late 1960s. Pool products went from fully imported stainless skimmer boxes and DE filters to Australian manufacture of injection moulded plastic skimmers, DE filters, main drains et cetera in a few short years, so that by the mid-70s, little was imported in comparison.

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SPLASH! timeline 1997 – First issue of SPLASH! magazine published 1998 – Trade day held in Brisbane 2000 – Two-day trade show held on the Gold Coast 2002 – Sydney show held 2004 – Show returns to Gold Coast 2005 – SPLASH! acquired by Intermedia/Interpoint 2006 – First Interpoint-run SPLASH! Pool & Spa Trade Show at Jupiters 2007 – First SPLASH! New Zealand 2008 – SPLASH! launches Environmental Awards 2008 – SPLASH! gains Bell Award recognition 2009 – First SPLASH! New Zealand 2010 – Genesis 3 headline SPLASH! expo 2011 – First SPLASH! Asia 2011 – New website launched 2011 –SPLASH! wins Best Australian Show at EEAA Awards 2012 – Redesigned magazine launched 2014 – SPASA National Awards first held at SPLASH! 2016 – SPLASH! comes of age with move to Gold Coast Convention Centre 2017 – Celebrates 20th anniversary

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August/September 2017 SPLASH! 47

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Industry people from all around the country and the world converge on the Gold Coast every two years

“DE ruled in those days but that was to soon change. Residential sand filters in that era were a pretty average product with serious hydraulic issues, but in the late-70s these improved. The swing to sand filtration was inevitable with the ease and simplicity of backwashing becoming apparent. By the end of the 80s it was all sand filtration with so many brands available, the market was flooded, and to some extent still is today. How many times have you heard the comment, ‘the industry needs this like another 24-inch sand filter!’

“The early model cartridge filters were also a pretty average product with a dubious

reputation as the cheap alternative, but in the last decade, these have also come into their own as a genuine competitor with improvements in cartridge quality, and the advent of the multicluster filters thus giving serious filtration area.”

Commercial filtration

Jones says that in commercial filtration it was the other way around.

“Early gravity and pressure concrete sand filters were the norm for the 60s, briefly changing to large mild steel vessels and then to fibreglass in the later 70s. These were smaller, cheaper vessels operating at a higher

velocity and they completely changed the sand filtration industry,” he says.

“The first commercial horizontal fibreglass filters were developed and launched in Australia during the mid-70s and by the 90s they were being manufactured worldwide as an alternative to the steel or fibreglass vertical filters that were once more common.

“In the mid-90s we saw a significant change to commercial filtration being the introduction of pre-coat, commonly referred to as UFF (ultrafine filtration). Although this did not prove to be a swing away from sand, it has proven to be highly successful, in particular with indoor heated pools subject to heavy bathing loads. UFF media options are either non-cacogenic DE or perlite and both give unsurpassed water clarity

Greg Jones from Chadson Engineering has seen a lot of changes in filtration over the years Swimming pool construction techniques and engineering has certainly improved – this picture is looking up at an apartment block pool, viewed through circular pool windows. Image: Crystal Pools

Andrew Simons, founder of Lo-Chlor, enjoying a laugh. The SPLASH! golf day on the Gold Coast is named in his honour

August/September 2017 SPLASH! 49

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and quality, and will also remove the nasty Guardia and cryptosporidium cysts,” he says.

“Sand continues as the most common form of commercial filtration as it is renowned as the tried and proven system, albeit the installations nowadays are somewhat different to what was previously done.

“One thing is for sure, both residential and commercial swimming pool filtration is a large and competitive industry that has grown at an amazing pace, and is now a far cry from those early days.”

Fibreglass in the west

Aquatic Leisure Technologies’ (ALT) doors first opened in 1976 as Aqua Technics (WA) Pty Ltd. Originally the company only manufactured fibreglass swimming pools, but over the years, the range grew to include concrete pools, boats, spa pools and spa baths. Now they have gone full circle and

Hugh Smith “Congratulations to SPLASH! magazine on 20 years of covering our swimming pool industry. It is always with pleasure that I receive my monthly copy to see what is happening in the industry, the technical advances, and who is making it happen across Australia and the region.”

Hugh Smith, Director Pentair Aquatic Systems, Asia- Pacific

heliocol splash half 082017.indd 1

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August/September 2017

consolidated back to manufacturing only fibreglass pools and spas.

Lew Beale joined the company in 1978 and became the managing director in 1984. Lew’s son Ben Beale joined the business in 1991 after completing a Bachelor of Business, and his daughter Lynley Papineau joined in 1994 after graduating from university.

“From day one we knew we wanted to be the leading swimming pool manufacturer in Australia so we focused on product development and technology,” says Lew. “In 1979 we were the first pool company to be awarded an Australian Design Award for our fibreglass range. This was followed by a further 19 Design Awards and the granting of two Australian DesignMarks.”

In 1986, Aqua Technics opened WA’s largest swimming pool display centre in O’Connor, following up in 1990 with the new largest display centre in Joondalup. They now have 10 display centres across Perth. In 1992, they moved from the 5000m2 Welshpool facility at to a 12,000m2 site at Kewdale. With the company growing every year, it wasn’t long before a third relocation in 2000 to a 25,000m2 premises in Stott Road Welshpool was needed.

While still operating under the Aqua Technics business name, the company purchased the assets of Sapphire Pools in 1998 and Buccaneer Swimming Pools in 2001. These acquisitions gave the group the largest range of swimming pool designs in Australia and the largest number of metropolitan display centres. With the three leading fibreglass brands – Aqua Technics,

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Buccaneer Swimming Pools and Sapphire Pools now in its portfolio, the company saw the need for a new umbrella to sit them under and so Aquatic Leisure Technologies was established in August 2001.

Lynley Papineau says the 2009 release of their patented Pool ColourGuard surface finish was a worldfirst innovation.

“This revolutionary product guarantees pool colour that will not fade, a problem that the swimming pool industry had not been able to overcome until now,” she says.

Again factory space reached capacity and in 2015 moved its manufacturing to a purpose-built, state-of-theart facility in Jandakot.

“Our journey is forever changed with the recent and sudden loss of our son, brother and executive director Ben,” says Lew. “Lynley and I have been able to look internally at our management team that holds collectively over 150 years’ experience in the swimming pool industry to ensure we continue to grow and evolve as an organisation. We draw on Ben’s legacy and the passion and skill of our people who are integral to our business to drive ALT forward.”

Development ahead of sales

Next year will see BioGuard’s 35th year in Australia and 25th year in New Zealand.

BioLab director George Loizou says that much has changed during this time but the company’s commitment

to education, training and relationship-building with retailers, staff and the consumer has continued.

“When BioGuard came to Australia in the early 1980s they first focussed on developing relationships with a handful of retailers who would become early adopters and pioneers of the BioGuard model,” he says.

“This strategy worked, with the early network of retailers quickly becoming ambassadors and advocates for BioGuard and helping spread the word that a company with a unique approach had entered the market. Today, you’d be hard pressed to find someone with the title

In 1986, Aqua Technics opened WA’s largest swimming pool display centre in O’Connor, Perth

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August/September 2017 SPLASH! 51

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70 per cent have been with BioLab for more than five years.

“Collectively, they have over 160 years’ experience in the industry. BioLab is an employer of choice within the Australian and New Zealand swimming pool and spa industry, as evidenced by the extraordinary longevity of its employees.”

Crystal Pools turns 60

Paul (Jake) Jacobson running a workshop at SPLASH! in 2016

“sales representative”. However, thirty years ago they were commonplace, particularly in the pool industry.”

He says it was all about sales and the volume of stock you could sell to the retailer. However, BioGuard opted for a different path long before other suppliers changed tack.

“The company invested in making their business development managers industry leaders and then giving them the tools to impart their knowledge to retailers.

They realised that by building trust with the retailer then supporting the retailer to build trust with their customers, sales would follow – and they did,” he says.

Peter Wallace Congratulations to the team at SPLASH! The success has always been because of the breadth of interesting and diverse articles you present in each issue. Who would have thought that a magazine founded by a pool shop owner in Brisbane would become the industry’s leading source of information and trade magazine.

It’s an institution in the industry, and often it takes a lot longer than 20 years to achieve that. Well done and keep up the good work.

Peter Wallace, Founder of Hurlcon and former CEO of AstralPool Australia

Loyalty key to success

Loizou says loyalty is key – it was one thing to attract a customer but another to retain them over a long period of time.

As evidence of this, Paul Jacobson ( Jake) celebrates 32 years, and Jim Vouden celebrates 25 years working with BioLab. During this time both business development managers established strong relationships with the pool industry across Australia. BioLab’s national sales manager, Julian Quinn also celebrates a 15 year milestone with the company.

He says that more than 40 per cent of BioLab’s Australian and New Zealand employees have been with the company in excess of a decade and almost 52 SPLASH!

August/September 2017

This year Crystal Pools is celebrating its diamond anniversary, cementing its place as Australia’s longest operating pool company.

Since 1957 they have managed to build over 20,000 residential and 1000 commercial pools, winning more than 220 major state, national and international awards.

Over the decades, they have created pools for many of Sydney’s landmark properties such as Admiralty House at Kirribilli, which boasts perhaps the best view in Sydney and is still in regular use. Others include Wally “Toyota” Truscott’s harbourside mansion, as well as pools for famous Aussies like Dame Joan Sutherland and Graham Kennedy.

Crystal Pools’ early commercial projects included Fairfield District Hospital, Deakin Olympic Centre and Macquarie Olympic Centre in the ACT, and the Manly Olympic Centre.

Sales and marketing manager Andrew Rothery says that as pioneers of the Australian swimming pool industry, Crystal Pools has witnessed many changes during the past 60 years.

“In the early days, spray and ready-mix concrete were yet to become a reality and plans were drawn long-hand in duplicate. Contemporary features such as invisible edging and glass blade edging were yet to appear.”

He says nowadays homeowners are looking at automation and environmental solutions.

“The interest in smart technologies that allow you to completely control pool management via smart phones has increased ten-fold in the past five years,” he says.

Crystal’s most recent landmark project is the 2018 Commonwealth Games swimming complex on the Gold Coast.

Rothery says they apply the same exacting engineering standards on their residential pools as they do for their FINA-standard Olympic pools, and to this day the company focuses on quality over quantity by restricting the volume of builds to just a few hundred per annum.

Improving efficiency of heat pumps

Travis McNeill and Tony Mills began the Australian owned and operated Evo Industries business back in 2006, and even over that time they have seen notable changes in the heat pump market. But looking back over the past 20 years, Travis McNeill says that heat pump technology has evolved even more significantly.

“Heat pumps today are extremely reliable, energy efficient and environmentally friendly. Back then, heat pumps were made using cupro-nickel which is a material susceptible to attack from the chemicals used in the pools and spas, while heat pumps are now made using titanium,” he says.

“Features like refrigerant control systems were extremely low tech, nothing like our electronic expansion valve (EEV) technology that results in higher COP and improved efficiency. Defrost capabilities did not exist whereas most heat pumps today will have an automatic

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defrost feature that stops the heat pump freezing up and ensures lower running costs.”

He says that other advancements in technology have seen some exciting enhancements such as smart phone controller apps that allow customers to completely control their heat pump remotely via their mobile phone.

Another change is greater reliability in sizing and selecting units.

“A lot of mistakes were made early on with sizing the correct heat pump. However with experience and new sophisticated software, you are now able to size up and guarantee the correct size heat pump for each customer’s requirements. Customers are also able to get detailed reports on their expected running costs and comparisons against other heating technology where this information was not available 20 years ago.”

Finally, the range available today leaves the past in the shade.

“20 years ago, both the domestic and commercial heat pump range and competition was very limited,” he says.

“This has significantly grown within the market giving customers much more choice. Over the years you will continue to see advancements as we continually develop and update our range using the latest technology to ensure the best possible results with guaranteed year round heating performance”.

Franchising

One industry change that can easily be seen is the rise of franchises in the Australian market.

This has been peculiarly successful in Australia and one of the pioneers of the pool retail franchising, PoolWerx, is now taking the model to the United States.

PoolWerx is celebrating their 25th year in business by setting up a new US head office in Dallas, Texas, and purchasing the largest independent pool retailer in north Texas, the 50-year-old Dolphin Pool Supply.

John O’Brien, CEO and founder of Poolwerx, says the state of the American retail market is similar to the way it was in Australia 25 years ago.

“When we first started in Australia, the market was extremely fragmented with lots of independents and small players trying to build critical mass,” he says.

O’Brie says they’ve brought the model they used in Australian to the US, introducing their three tiered business model covering retail, service and commercial.”

He says they plan to cover the Dallas market aggressively and has taken deposits from prospects interested in five new territories.

“The company now counts among its franchisees four builders in South Carolina and Georgia, all of which have remodelling businesses as well,” he said. “Remodel and renovation has been a slowly growing part of our business and one market we are keen to test further.”

Since entering the US market in 2015, Poolwerx has established 24 stores and 115 service vehicles in six US states and O’Brien said the company is on track to achieve their goal of opening 300 locations by 2021.

Waterco expanding globally

Waterco has been a part of the Australian pool and spa industry for more than 30 years, and despite industry and economic challenges along the way, the company has continued to innovate, expand and diversify.

From a small Australia PVC pipes and fitting importer established in 1981, Waterco has grown to become a major player in the international swimming pool and water treatment market. The company claims more than 25 per cent of the Australian residential swimming pool equipment market with manufacturing and assembly plants in the UK, US, Australia, Malaysia, China and Canada, supplying more than 40 countries. It has annual revenue of more than $70 million and employs more than 470 people worldwide.

Founder and chief executive officer Soon Sinn Goh says he is proud of the fact that the Australian company has gone international, riding on a volume from a relatively small market compared to the much larger US and European markets.

Waterco (Europe) Limited was established in 2001 and in 2003 Waterco purchased Lacron Ltd in the UK. “The acquisition of Lacron provided Waterco with the best possible logistical platform from which to launch in to Europe, not least thanks to the excellent reputation associated with the Lacron brand name for almost 40 years,” he says.

“While our European division is comparatively small, it’s an important area for us. We are seeing signs of positive growth this year and there’s great potential in expanding further into these markets.”

Zero-depth splash pads are growing in popularity for municipalities wanting to develop vibrant community play spaces that are inclusive of all ages and abilities.

Image: Waterplay

30 years of playing with water

Waterplay, worldwide pioneer of aquatic play solutions, is celebrating its milestone 30th anniversary this year.

Shanley Hutchinson, Waterplay’s creative manager says that demand for aquatic play is growing.

“Zero-depth splash pads continue to be a top choice amongst cities and municipalities wanting to develop vibrant community play spaces that are inclusive of all ages and abilities, safe and manageable without lifeguard staffing,” he says.

“Pools and aquatic centres are increasingly incorporating aquatic play elements to both enhance and revitalise their facilities., and hotels, resorts and attractions are also leveraging aquatic play to help attract and retain family demographics, boosting revenue on and off season.”

He says that last year saw some great product advancements with a flush-to-grade anchoring system that allows features to be easily removed, changed or added over time; and controllers that gives park operators the ability to remotely monitor multiple facilities through a single interface. n August/September 2017 SPLASH! 53

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SPASA NSW & ACT Awards of Excellence winners The 2017 NSW & ACT awards have been judged, with the gold winners going into the national awards to be held this year at Doltone House, Jones Bay Wharf in Sydney on August 31.

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1. NSW & ACT Pool of the Year, Splish Splash Pools 2. Residential renovation up to $25,000, Polar Pools 3. Residential Concrete Pools $50,000 to $100,000, Eco Design Pools 4. Residential Fibreglass Pool $40,000 to $60,000, Compass Pools Australia 5. Water Feature, Waterforms International

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The winners

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Pool of the Year: Splish Splash Pools Retailer of the Year: Pristine Pool and Spa Service Supplier of the Year: LoChlor Product of the Year: Zodiac; Silver: The Pool Enclosure Company Education & Training Excellence Award: Waterco Marketing Campaign of the Year: Hayward Pool Products; Silver: Wisdom Landscapes

Residential Fibreglass Pool - $40,000 - $60,000:

and Pools

Compass Pools Australia; Silver: Narellan Pools

Sustainable Product of the Year: Supreme Heating; Silver: Sunbather

Northern Rivers

Residential Concrete Pools - Up to $50,000: Dynamic Pool Designs; Silver: Aquastone Pools & Landscapes

Capital Fibreglass Pools; Silver: Local Pools & Spas

Residential Concrete Pools - $50,000 to $100,000: Eco Design Pools; Silver: Award Pools Group Residential Concrete Pools - Over $100,000: Splish Splash Pools; Silver: Polar Pools

Oceanscape Pools; Silver: Polar Pools

Residential Fibreglass Pool - Up to $40,000: Coastline Pools; Silver: Nepean Pools

Display Pool/Centre:

August/September 2017

Residential Fibreglass Pool - Over $60,000: Residential Pool & Spa Combination - Concrete: Residential Pool & Spa Combination – Fibreglass: Capital Fibreglass Pools

Wisdom Landscapes; Silver: Dynamic Pool Designs

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NSW/ACT AWARDSof EXCELLENCE 2017

Extraordinary achievement in creativity, innovation, design and service from NSW & ACT pool and spa companies were recognised at the recent SPASA Australia Awards of Excellence.

Representatives from all sectors of the pool and spa industry gathered to celebrate the industry’s ‘best of the best’, at Luna Park’s Crystal Ballroom in Milsons Point on July 8.

Residential Courtyard/ Plunge Pool: Award Pools Group; Silver: Coastline Pools

Pool Landscape Design of the Year: Award Pools Group

Lap Pool – Concrete: Award Pools Group; Silver: Leader Landscaping & Pools

Water Feature: Waterforms International; Silver: Leader Landscaping & Pools

Lap Pool – Fibreglass: Nautical Pools

Lighting Feature: Sunrise Pools; Silver: Leader Landscaping & Pools

Commercial Pool Up to $250,000: Compass Pools Australia; Silver: Capital Fibreglass Pools Commercial Pool Over $250,000: Waterforms International Residential Renovation Up to $25,000: Polar Pools; Silver: Aquastone Pools & Landscapes Residential Renovation Over $25,000: Urban Escape; Silver: Dynamic Pool Designs

Innovative Pool and/or Spa: Award Pools Group

Master of Ceremonies, Cricketer and Television personality Mike Whitney pulled all the elements of the evening together to create a seamless first-class event.

SPASA would like to congratulate all award winners and finalists as well as thank our sponsors for their loyal and continued support.

A full list of Award Winners can be found by visiting www.spasa.com.au Platinum Sponsor

Pool & Spa Service Business of the Year: Pristine Pool and Spa Service; Silver: Jim’s Pool Care Umina Pool & Spa Service Technician of the Year: Jason Pollack – Jim’s Pool Care Umina; Silver:Chris Newman – Jim’s Pool Care Caringbah Concrete Pool Builder of the Year: Award Pools Group

Silver Sponsor

Category Sponsors

Fibreglass Pool Builder of the Year: Capital Fibreglass Pools

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SPASA Queensland Awards of Excellence winners The 2017 Queensland awards have been judged, with the gold winners going into the national awards to be held this year at Doltone House, Jones Bay Wharf in Sydney on August 31.

The winners Pool of the Year: Majestic Pools & Landscapes Retailer of the Year: Jim’s Pool Care Caloundra Spa of the Year: Freedom Pools & Spas Product of the Year: AstralPool Australia; Silver: Blue Glass Pebble Company; Bronze: Sunbather

1. Sustainable Project of the Year, Majestic Pools & Landscapes

Education & Training Excellence Award: Waterco

2. Residential Pool & Spa Combination – Fibreglass, Esana Aquatic

Marketing Campaign of the Year: Hayward Pool Products Australia

3. Residential Concrete Pools - $50,000 to $100,000, Majestic Pools & Landscapes; 4. Lap Pool – Concrete, Surfside Pool 5. Spa of the Year, Freedom Pools & Spas

Sustainable Project of the Year: Majestic Pools & Landscapes; Silver: Majestic Pools & Landscapes; Bronze: Majestic Pools & Landscapes

Residential Vinyl Lined In-ground Pool: Aqualon Interiors; Silver: Aqualon Interiors; Bronze: Aqualon Interiors Residential Pre-Engineered Vinyl Lined Pool: Classic Pools; Silver: Classic Pools; Bronze: Classic Pools Display Pool/Centre: CL Pools Residential Courtyard/Plunge Pool: Esana Aquatic; Silver: Majestic Pools & Landscapes; Bronze: CL Pools Lap Pool – Concrete: Surfside Pools; Silver: Pool Fab Sunshine Coast; Bronze: Majestic Pools & Landscapes Lap Pool – Fibreglass: Esana Aquatic

Residential Concrete Pools - Up to $50,000: Majestic Pools & Landscapes Pty Ltd; Silver:

Commercial Pool - Over $250,000: Surfside Pools; Silver: Surfside Pools;

Environ; Bronze: Qld Family Pools

Bronze: Surfside Pools

Residential Concrete Pools - $50,000 to $100,000:

Renovation Residential Up to $25,000: Jagun Pools; Silver: Aqualon Interiors; Bronze: Aqualon Interiors

Residential Fibreglass Pool - Up to $40,000: Freedom Pools & Spas; Silver: Freedom Pools & Spas; Bronze: Freedom Pools & Spas Residential Fibreglass Pool - $40,000 - $60,000: Esana Aquatic Residential Fibreglass Pool - Over $60,000: Esana Aquatic; Silver: Esana Aquatic

August/September 2017

Residential Pool & Spa Combination – Fibreglass: Esana Aquatic

Commercial Pool Up to $250,000: Surfside Pools; Silver: Freedom Pools & Spas; Bronze: Dean Thomas Pools

Residential Concrete Pools - Over $100,000: Majestic Pools & Landscapes; Silver: Pool Fab Sunshine Coast; Bronze: Burleigh Pools

SPLASH!

Residential Pool & Spa Combination – Concrete: Majestic Pools & Landscapes; Silver: Majestic Pools & Landscapes Pty Ltd; Bronze: Noble Pools

Sustainable Product of the Year: Supreme Heating; Silver: Sunbather; Bronze: AstralPool Australia

Majestic Pools & Landscapes; Silver: Norfolk Pools; Bronze: Burleigh Pools

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Renovation Residential Over $25,000: Jagun Pools; Silver: Mad Pool Interiors; Bronze: Mad Pool Interiors Renovation – Commercial: Qld Family Pools Pool Landscape Design of the Year: Majestic Pools & Landscapes; Silver: Majestic Pools & Landscapes; Bronze: Norfolk Pools Residential In-Ground Spa: Freedom Pools & Spas Innovative Pool and/or Spa: Majestic Pools & Landscapes; Silver: Norfolk Pools; Bronze: Surfside Pools

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Water Feature: Esana Aquatic; Silver: Qld Family Pools; Bronze: CL Pools

Rojahn; Bronze: Stephen Cluff

Lighting Feature: Majestic Pools & Landscapes; Silver: Majestic Pools & Landscapes; Bronze: Majestic Pools & Landscapes

Industry Trade Representative of the Year: Michael Kettewell

Pool Store of the Year: Atlantis Pool Services; Silver: Warner Pool & Spa Care Pool & Spa Service Business of the Year: Jim’s Pool Care Caloundra; Silver: Atlantis Pool Services; Bronze: Pauls Pool Care Pool & Spa Service Technician of the Year: Andrew Patterson; Silver: Paul

Retail Salesperson of the Year: Kylie Rojahn

Rising Star Award: Jake DuganGorrie; Silver: Dot Harrison Construction Salesperson of the Year: Chris Nicholls Construction Supervisor of the Year: Terry Nicholls Pool Builder of the Year: Queensland Family Pools Pool Safety Inspector of the Year: Rodney Webb; Silver: Nick Robson

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Queensland AWARDSof EXCELLENCE 2017

Representatives from the pool and spa industry gathered to celebrate the industry’s best at Royal on the Park Brisbane on June 3rd.

The Awards of Excellence showcased the extraordinary achievements in creativity, innovation, design and service.

Adrian Hart, Executive Officer for SPASA in Queensland presented as Master of Ceremonies before premier ventriloquist Darren Carr performed for guests. Carr’s mix of stand up comedy and ventriloquism had the whole room laughing.

SPASA would like to congratulate all award winners and finalists as well as thank our sponsors for their loyal and continued support.

A full list of Award Winners can be found by visiting www.spasa.com.au Platinum Sponsor

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Silver Sponsor

Category Sponsors

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SPASA South Australia Awards of Excellence winners

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The 2017 South Australian awards have been judged, with the gold winners going into the national awards to be held this year at Doltone House, Jones Bay Wharf in Sydney on August 31.

3 2 4 1. Residential Concrete Pools - $50,000 to $100,000, Elite Pools 2. Residential Pool & Spa Combination – Concrete, Freedom Pools 3. Residential Enclosed/ Indoor Pool, Urban Oasis 4. Commercial Pool – Over $250,000, South Pacific Pools

The winners Pool of the Year: Urban Oasis Retailer of the Year: Prospect Pool and Spa Spa of the Year: The Pool & Spa Shop Product of the Year: The Pool Enclosure Company; Silver: AstralPool Education & Training Excellence Award: Waterco Marketing Campaign of the Year: Prospect Pool and Spa; Silver: AstralPool Sustainable Project of the Year: Heliocol Solar South Australia Sustainable Product of the Year: Supreme Heating Residential Concrete Pools - $50,000 to $100,000: Elite Pools; Silver: Elite Pools; Bronze: Elite Pools Residential Concrete Pools - Over $100,000: Urban Oasis; Silver: Freedom Pools; Bronze: Urban Oasis Residential Fibreglass Pool - Up to $40,000: Rainwise; Silver: Rainwise; Bronze: Australian Outdoor Living

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Residential Fibreglass Pool - $40,000 - $60,000: Rainwise; Silver: Riverscape Pools & Landscaping; Silver: Freedom Pools Residential Pool & Spa Combination – Concrete: Freedom Pools; Silver: Urban Oasis; Bronze: Freedom Pools Residential Pool & Spa Combination – Fibreglass: Freedom Pools; Silver: Freedom Pools Residential Pre-Engineered Vinyl Lined Pool: Classic Pools; Silver: Classic Pools; Bronze: Classic Pools Residential Enclosed/Indoor Pool: Urban Oasis Display Pool/Centre: Freedom Pools; Silver: Urban Oasis; Bronze: Daydream

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South Australia

AWARDSof EXCELLENCE 2017

Adelaide’s Entertainment Centre held the industry night of nights on June 24th, recognising the best of the pool and spa industry within South Australia.

Katrina Webb OAM, three-time Paralympic medallist and humanitarian, expertly presented as Master of Ceremonies for the evening, delivering a thoroughly engaging presentation.

Awards were presented across all sectors of the industry and once formalities were over guests were treated to Australia’s leading corporate act “Acoustic Juice”.

SPASA would like to congratulate all award winners and finalists as well as thank our sponsors for their loyal and continued support.

A full list of Award Winners can be found by visiting www.spasa.com.au Platinum Sponsor

Silver Sponsor

Residential Courtyard/ Plunge Pool: Rainwise; Silver: Freedom Pools; Bronze: Rainwise

The Pool and Spa Shop

Lap Pool – Concrete: Freedom Pools; Silver: Urban Oasis; Bronze: Elite Pools

Water Feature: Freedom Pools; Silver: Elite Pools

Lap Pool – Fibreglass: Freedom Pools Commercial Pool Up to $250,000: Urban Oasis Commercial Pool – Over $250,000: South Pacific Pools Renovation Residential Over $25,000: Adelaide Classic Pools; Silver: Elite Pools; Bronze: Adelaide Classic Pools Pool Landscape Design of the Year: Elite Pools; Silver: Elite Pools; Bronze: Elite Pools Residential Pre-Engineered Portable Spa:

Innovative Pool and/or Spa: Urban Oasis; Silver: Freedom Pools; Bronze: Daydream

Bronze Sponsor

Lighting Feature: Freedom Pools Pool Store of the Year: Prospect Pool and Spa; Silver: The Pool and Spa Shop Edwardstown; Bronze: The Pool and Spa Shop Lonsdale

Category Sponsors

Spa Retailer of the Year: The Pool and Spa Shop Lonsdale; Silver: The Pool and Spa Shop Edwardstown Pool & Spa Service Technician of the Year: James Lunnay - Jims Pool Care West Lakes; Silver: Ben Reynolds - The Pool and Spa Shop Retail Salesperson of the Year: Ross Starkey - Rainwise; Silver: Holly Baldwin - The Pool and Spa Shop August/September 2017

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SPASA WA Awards of Excellence 2017 Attracting 200+ entries and 400 people at the Hyatt Regency Perth on July 1, the Swimming Pool and Spa Association of Western Australia (SPASA WA) brought the Pool Industry together to celebrate the best of the best!

Award nominations were at increased levels from right across the industry including pool builders, suppliers, pool shops, mobile technicians and associated trades vying to be recognised.

The annual awards acknowledge the best, boldest and most creative in the state’s swimming pool and spa industry. “In Western Australia we have some of the best pool builders and service providers in the country,” SPASA WA Executive Officer Bryce Steele said.

“The pool and spa industry in WA continues to set the benchmark for not only the rest of Australia but right around the world as leaders in the construction of pools, spas and the servicing of the retail and after-market sectors. “The competition gets tougher every year as our members are always looking for that advantage over their competitor.

“Winning an award provides incredible recognition that will help build reputation– it’s a great way for the award winner to let everybody know that they’re an award winning professional and an industry leader.”

Wangara based Pool Builder, Quality Dolphin Pools took home the coveted Pool of the Year award for the Fifth time in just six years.

Other major awards at the prestigious event included The Pool Shop Kalamunda being awarded the “Pool Shop of the Year” and Austral Pool Solutions being awarded “Supplier of the Year”.

Using a SPASA WA member means you are dealing with an industry professional assuring peace of mind that services will be supported by a strict Code of Ethics and a commitment to deliver goods and services to an established industry standard.

Western Australia heads up the nation in terms of pool ownership, according to a 2015 Roy Morgan study, which found 18 per cent of Perth residents live in a household with a swimming pool. This is well above the national average of 12 per cent and Mr Steele said it is testament to how swimming is part of the West Australian way of life.

“Owning a pool is part of every Australian’s dream for their beautiful backyard and we know that nothing connects your family like a pool or spa, having your very own pool or spa is an exciting adventure, from the moment you begin looking, the time you start filling your pool with water, to that first swim, you can create a lifetime of memories by having a swimming pool in your own back yard,” Mr Steele said.

“With supervision there is also no safer or better place to learn to swim than your own backyard swimming pool as you are in a protected environment without any outside influences that could put you in danger.”

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SPASA Western Australia Awards of Excellence winners

Residential Fibreglass Pool - $40,000 - $60,000: Barrier Reef Pools;

Pool of the Year: Quality Dolphin Pools

Commercial Pool - Over $250,000: Commercial Aquatics Australia

The 2017 Western Australian awards have been judged, with the gold winners going into the national awards to be held this year at Doltone House, Jones Bay Wharf in Sydney on August 31.

The winners Pool of the Year: Quality Dolphin Pools Supplier of the Year: Austral Pool Solutions Product of the Year: Sunbather Downunder Cover System Sustainable Product of the Year: Supreme Heating Heatseeker Uni Panel Marketing Campaign of the Year: Aqua Technics Sustainable Project of the Year: Commercial Aquatics Australia, Cockburn Aquatic Recreation Centre Residential Concrete Pools - Up to $50,000: Perth Concrete Pools; Silver: Boardwalk Pools; Bronze: P & B Concrete Pools Residential Concrete Pools - $50,000 to $100,000: Quality Dolphin Pools; Silver: Pools by Design; Bronze: The Water’s Edge Residential Concrete Pools - Over $100,000: Quality Dolphin Pools; Silver: Pools by Design; Bronze: P & B Concrete Pools Secondhand Fibreglass Pools: Palm City Pools: Silver: Palm City Pools Residential Fibreglass Pool - Up To $40,000: Barrier Reef Pools; Silver: Freedom Pools; Bronze: Barrier Reef Pools Residential Fibreglass Pool - $40,000 $60,000: Barrier Reef Pools; Silver: Barrier Reef Pools; Bronze: Barrier Reef Pools Residential Fibreglass Pool - Over $60,000: Barrier Reef Pools; Silver: Barrier Reef Pools; Bronze: Barrier Reef Pools Residential Pool & Spa Combination: Quality Dolphin Pools; Silver: Imperial Pools; Bronze: Pools by Design

Residential Vinyl Lined In-ground Pool: Reflections Pool & Spa Care; Silver: Add A Splash Pools ; Bronze: Poolscape Pools Residential Pre-Engineered Vinyl Lined Pool: Classic Pools; Silver: Classic Pools; Bronze: Classic Pools Residential Enclosed/Indoor Pool: Quality Dolphin Pools; Silver: Add A Splash Pools Display Pool/Centre: Barrier Reef Pools; Silver: Freedom Pools; Bronze: Dunsborough Pool & Spa Residential Courtyard/Plunge Pool: Quality Dolphin Pools; Silver: Pools By Design; Bronze: Perth Concrete Pools Lap Pool – Vinyl: Add A Splash Pools; Silver: Poolscape Pools Lap Pool – Fibreglass: Dunsborough Pool & Spa; Silver: Barrier Reef Pools; Bronze: Barrier Reef Pools Lap Pool – Concrete: Boardwalk Pools; Silver: The Water’s Edge Commercial Pool Concrete - Up To $250,000: Commercial Aquatics Australia; Silver: Aquatic Developments Australia; Bronze: Imperial Pools Commercial Pool Vinyl - Up To $250,000: Reflections Pool & Spa Care Commercial Pool Fibreglass - Up To $250,000: Barrier Reef Pools Commercial Pool - Over $250,000: Commercial Aquatics Australia; Silver: Safeway Aquatic Services; Bronze: Commercial Aquatics Australia Renovation Residential - Up to $25,000: Panas Pool Services; Silver: The Concrete Pool Company; Bronze: The Concrete Pool Company Renovation Residential - Over $25,000: Panas Pool Services; Silver: Quality Dolphin Pools; Bronze: Pools By Design

Renovation – Commercial: Aquatic Developments Australia; Silver: Safeway Aquatic Services; Bronze: Commercial Aquatics Australia Pool Landscape Design of the Year: Mondo Landscapes; Silver: Ascher Smith Exterior Styling & Landscaping ; Bronze: Mondo Landscapes Residential Pre-Engineered Portable Spa: Just Spas; Silver: Gold Just Spas Residential Pre-Engineered In-ground Spa: Just Spas Concrete Spa: Commercial Aquatics Australia: Silver: Imperial Pools; Bronze: The Water’s Edge Innovative Pool and/or Spa: Commercial Aquatics Australia; Silver: Quality Dolphin Pools; Bronze: Add A Splash Pools Water Feature: Pools By Design; Silver: Boardwalk Pools; Bronze: Water Features By Design Pool Shop of the Year: The Pool Shop Kalamunda; Silver: The Pool Shop Floreat; Bronze: Poolside Mandurah Pool & Spa Service Business of the Year: SAFE2SWIM Spa Retailer of the Year: Just Spas Pool & Spa Service Technician of the Year: Brad Smith, Commercial Aquatics Australia Retail Salesperson of the Year: Ben Jarvis, The Pool Shop Kalamunda Industry Trade Representative of the Year: Glenn Welton, Austral Pool Solutions Fencing: Diamond Glass Fencing; Silver: Glass Boundaries August/September 2017

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1-2 AUGUST 2018

Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre Since 1998 SPLASH! has become the must attend event for manufacturers, retailers, pool builders, contractors, architects, landscapers, engineers and service technicians to stay ahead of market directions as the pool, spa & aquatics industry continues to expand and take on new dimensions and international trends. Australasia’s foremost pool & spa trade show provides the opportunity to showcase your company, launch new products, network, build existing relationships, meet the press and build brand awareness while meeting the key decision makers in the pool, spa & aquatics industry.

Full page ad EXPO FREE TO ATTEND EDUCATION SESSIONS NETWORKING DRINKS GOLF DAY

SAVE THE DATE Platinum Sponsor

Gold Sponsors

KEY FACTS More than 2400 visitors had the chance to see 122 exhibitors and attend educational sessions in 2016. SPLASH! Pool & Spa Trade Show is the largest trade event for the industry in Australasia, covering nearly 5,000 square metres. All states of Australia are represented and in 2016 visitors attended from China, England, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Italy, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Spain, Thailand, UAE and USA.

SPLASH! SOLD OUT LAST TIME Secure your space now SPLASH! has more than 5,000 square metres of exhibition space across the ground floor, large spacious foyers showcasing 180 degree views of the Broadbeach skyline. The Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre provides the flexibility to stage SPLASH! under the one roof.

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REGISTRATION

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We had a very successful show at what was by far the best SPLASH! we have attended in the past 5 events, 3 as an exhibitor.

So well done to the team, we look forward to an even bigger and better SPLASH! 2018 at GCCC. Tony Mills, Evo Group of Companies

www.splashexpo.com.au Silver Sponsor

Education Partner

V4

V6

COFFEE CART

V8

OUTDOOR EXHIBITION TERRACE

EDUCATION Various educational seminars will be held during of the show. These seminars have been designed to attract all participants in the pool, spa & aquatics industry. For those people residing in States that have the CPD system in place, these seminars will provide vital points towards accreditation requirements. Certificates of attendance will be issued to those requiring them at the closure of each seminar.

SPLASH! will again partner with the Australian Swim Schools Association to host the Swim Schools Conference and World Infant Aquatics Conference.

1300 789 845 Media Partner

Golf Sponsor

commercial feature

Safety

Five die in waterpark electrocution Commercial

news Historic site to get new waterpark. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 World’s Largest Swimming Lesson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 Global news . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 Designing and building great council splash parks. . . . . . 68

Three children and two adults have died in a pool at a Turkish waterpark in the town of Akyazi, 150 kilometres east of Istanbul.

Three children aged 12, 15 and 17 were seen to be in trouble in the pool after the water became electrified. Reports from Turkish media describe how the 58-year-old manager of the pool and his 30-year-old son saw the children in distress and dived into the water to save them. Unfortunately, they were also electrocuted. Staff cut the power to the pool but all five had suffered cardiac arrest.

The injured people were rushed to Akyazi State Hospital but could not be saved.

According to initial reports reproduced in the Daily Sabah, an electric cable fell into the pool, charging the water with an

electrical current. Police said there were many cables around the pool area as the facility was undergoing renovation, and that after inspecting the scene, they found no residual current device (RCD) at the water park. An RCD is a device that instantly breaks an electric circuit to prevent serious harm from an ongoing electric shock.

Two other people were hurt after touching metal railings near the pool.

Hasan Akcan, Akyazi’s mayor, said the park had received a license in 2012 as a swimming pool and amusement centre. He added that the incident was saddening. Police are continuing their investigations into the cause of the electrocutions.

LGA

Tenders These and other tenders are put online prior to the print magazine publishing. Be sure to Like the SPLASH! Facebook page or Follow SPLASH! on Twitter to keep alerted to new tenders, and for quick access to more information.

Alpine Shire Council

Shoalhaven City Council

Repainting, tile repair / replacement and concrete concourse repair and painting.

Design & construct recreational swimming pool at Lake Tabourie Tourist Park.

Closing: 10pm Wednesday 16 August 2017.

Closing: Tuesday, 22 August 2017, 10 AM

www.alpineshire.vic.gov.au/tenders

Further: www.shoalhaven.nsw.gov.au

Sutherland Shire Council

West Wimmera Shire Council

Pyrenees Shire Council

Expression of Interest: EOI724/17

Management and Operation of the Edenhope Swimming Pool.

Management of Council’s Aquatic Facilities till 2020.

Closing: 2.00pm, 18 August 2017.

Closing: Friday, 25 August 217, 12 PM

Further: https://www.tendersearch.com.au/ westwimmera/

Documentation and further information: www.pyrenees.vic.gov.au

Design and construction of a water fun play park at the Sutherland Leisure Centre.

Closing: 2.00pm on Tuesday 15 August 2017. www.tendersonline.com.au/ssc

Learn to swim

Learn2Swim Week coming in September Learn2Swim Week, a national community initiative aimed at getting more young children in the water learning to swim, is returning for its fourth consecutive year.

Supported by Laurie Lawrence and all the major swimming industry associations, Learn2Swim Week’s goal this year is to have 500 swim schools across Australia offering free swimming lessons to children aged under five from 23 September to 2 October.

Lawrence says cost is often a reason parents don’t enrol their children in swim classes.

“This is a tragedy; that something like cost prevents children getting lessons that could one day save their lives,” he says. “We know the ability to swim is one of the most important factors in reducing the risk of childhood drowning, so we need to introduce more kids to swimming lessons as early as possible.

“Ideally, offering a five-lesson intensive course is recommended but even if a swim school can provide one free lesson it might just help prove to a parent how vital learning about water safety is,” he says.

Contact: www.learn2swimweek.com

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Laurie Lawrence is a major supporter of the Learn2Swim Week

commercial feature

Teaching

Swim school foundation formed The Australian Swim Schools Association (ASSA) has helped facilitate the establishment of the Australian Swim Schools Foundation (ASSF) to meet a growing need to provide additional focus on vital community issues around the teaching of swimming and water safety.

The foundation’s core objectives are: 1. Promoting water safety skill development, including drowning prevention education; 2. Facilitating access to quality swimming and water safety lessons for people with disability and other population segments with special needs; and 3. Attacking community health concerns, such as obesity, by enhancing swimming as a lifelong activity.

The inaugural honorary directors are Julia Ham, Wayne

Pollock, Bev Christmass and Bruce Sullivan.

Meanwhile, the recipients of the inaugural ASSA-USSSA Coutts Family Scholarships have been announced.

The recipients from ASSA are Richard Burchfield, Nikki Grazulis and Julia Ham. The recipients from USSSA are John Kirk, Tiernan Murphy and Pat Sunderhaus.

From nearly 50 quality applications, each association provided the selection committee with a short-list.

John Coutts says they are incredibly excited about hosting the inaugural event in Finland.

“Planning is well underway and we can’t wait to see what exciting ideas and concepts emerge from this meeting of minds,” he says.

In Brief A toxic site containing banned firefighting chemical PFAS is being looked at by the NT government for the location of a new waterpark . The site is also sacred to the local Larrakia people . The waterpark is intended to boost Darwin’s sagging economy but is facing opposition on a number of fronts . The disused navy fuel storage depot is owned by the Department of Defence but the NT government hopes they will transfer the site to them .

The ABC reports that the territory government intends to conduct a $500,000 feasibility study of the site .

A spa pool at Auckland Councils’ Onehunga War Memorial Pool and Leisure Centre has been closed following the detection of legionella bacteria . Our Auckland reports that YMCA Auckland, which manages the centre on behalf of the council, shut the spa pool immediately on July 5 following notification from the Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS) that the bacteria had been detected in one of two water samples . The pool was treated according to procedures recommended by ARPHS, which includes a thorough deep clean and additional chlorination .

There are about 50 confirmed cases of legionellosis a year in the Auckland region and only rarely does contact with the bacteria lead to infection and illness .

August/September 2017

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commercial news

How the site will accommodate both waterpark and spire

Global news Myrtha Pools is designing the pools for the 2018 South American Games in Bolivia . Cochabamba will be the first Bolivian city to boast two new Myrtha pools, at a new aquatic centre currently under construction . They will be designed with the same technology as Beijing Olympic Games 2008, London 2012, Rio 2016 and the FINA World Championships .

The aquatic centre will feature three indoor heated pools, with the third handled by a local construction company .

Crystal Lagoons has won two sustainability awards recently, one in Britain and one in the United States: the British Green Apple Award and the US Green Award .

Speedo Australia has announced the sponsorship of the Australian swim team for the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games . Originally an Australian brand born at Bondi in 1928, Speedo’s support of the team dates back 75 years, and is next year celebrating its 90th anniversary . Brand manager Graham Eyres says Speedo is thrilled to be extending their relationship with the team . “It’s our mission to inspire all Australians to swim and grow the sport of swimming, and we believe our Commonwealth team sponsorship will do this .

We can’t wait to see what our swimmers and divers deliver on a home soil Commonwealth Games .”

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Waterpark

Historic site to get new waterpark The new Coventry City Centre Leisure Park in the English West Midlands will be situated adjacent to the Spire and Christchurch House – the remnants of an 800-year-old church.

FaulknerBrowns Architects fulfilled the requirements of the historic $AU61 million undertaking. The firm has designed many innovative and award-winning buildings, including Derby Arena, a velodrome for the Pan Am games in Toronto, the canoeing and sailing centres for London’s Olympics in 2012 and an Olympicstandard aquatics centre in Dubai.

Set to open in late 2018 or early 2019, the project has been called a game-changer by

Events

World’s Largest Swimming Lesson takes in 600 locations

In June, thousands of children at more than 600 locations in 27 countries from Australia to Zimbabwe (via Bahrain, Brazil, Panama and Poland), came together to help spread an important safety message in their communities: “swimming lessons save lives” .

The 8th Annual World’s Largest Swimming Lesson (WLSL) took place at waterparks, community pools and swim schools across the world, providing kids and parents with exposure to life-saving water safety skills, while building awareness about the vital importance of learning to swim and parental vigilance to help prevent drowning .

architect Bilge Pakis, design manager of Polin Waterparks.

Pakis says a distinctive design was required to fit the facility into a very tight footprint on a site where Franciscan monks originally constructed a cruciform-shaped church in the early 1200s.

“Over the years, the site’s space became smaller and smaller as history left its marks,” he says.

King Henry VIII’s dissolution of monasteries in 1538 doomed the original building, leaving only the tower spire, and the construction of nearby businesses slowly squeezed the borders of the only surviving edifice until the site’s former occupant – an office building – was erected in the 1970s.

“Seeing so many kids from so many different cultures, all focused on this same mission is really inspiring,” says Rowdy Gaines, three-time Olympic gold medallist and champion for the WLSL event .

“The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson is a perfect way to engage with the community and help people understand how crucially important it is to learn how to float, roll-over, recover your breath and swim to an exit to prevent drowning .”

Since its inception in 2010, almost 200,000 children and adults have participated in WLSL lessons . By 2019, organisers hope to make more than one billion people fully aware of the importance of enrolling children in swim lessons .

The next WLSL will take place on June 21, 2018 .

This was the eighth time the World’s Largest Swimming Lesson was held

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• Non corrosive grade 316 stainless steel construction • Simple single pass pre-coating using the unique dustless “wet vac” system • Large diameter rigid candles • Conventional backwash • From 4.7m2 to 64m2 filtration area per filter • Fully manufactured in Australia

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Pool photo courtesy of Crystal Pools

commercial news

Creating successful council splash parks This is what everyone wants to see: the community enjoying the new Dundas facilities on the opening day

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his is the second of our three-part series on splash parks. Last edition we looked at splash parks in general and also focussed on commercial installations such as in larger waterparks.

Next edition we will look at the all-important issue of water quality in splash parks.

This edition we look at how local government is creating splash parks for the benefits of their residents.

We ask what are the main criteria in establishing a splash park, what are the benefits for the community, what are the obstacles faced by the authority and contractors, and what are the solutions to creating a successful park.

We look at two local government areas and how they approached this issue.

Parramatta City Council is in the geographic heart of Australia’s largest metropolis. Founded in 1788, it is the oldest inland European settlement and the economic capital of Greater Western Sydney.

It now boasts an enthusiastic and culturally diverse population, with the CBD currently undergoing extensive development including local light rail, a metro train line, high rise residential, new museums and other cultural facilities, and new sporting facilities including a new aquatic centre.

Mildura is a world away from Parramatta. The Murray River city is part of the fruit bowl of the nation, originally connected to the markets by paddle steamers which are now tourist attractions. It is in North West Victoria, on the New South Wales border and not far from South Australia. It has a rich cultural history and is the birthplace of many sports stars, especially in Australian rules football. More recently it has become well known for its wine and local produce.

August/September 2017

The City of Parramatta strategy

Neville Davis is the service manager of open space and natural resources at the City of Parramatta, and he oversaw the establishment of three splash parks in the local government area.

He says the genesis of Parramatta’s splash park strategy was a visit to a 2012 Department of Local Government Conference in Dubbo.

“A delegation of our councillors saw the splash park at Dubbo and decided it was something our council should strongly consider as quite a new popular innovation for park playgrounds,” he says.

“I think it was the fact they hadn’t seen them before in local parks – maybe in caravan parks or larger private water-based theme parks but not in local parks. There was one at Sydney Olympic Park and one in Darling Harbour, but otherwise the idea was new.”

During several meetings with senior management in 2013, they developed a plan to assess and prioritise suitable parks sites, and see what other features would be necessary to accompany them, such as car parking, picnic shelters, shade structures and amenities blocks.

“The main advantage, especially for Parramatta, is that we’re so far from the beaches, and therefore get extreme heat particularly in late spring and summer,” he says.

“So the splash parks are a good way for children and families to cool off – and they’re cheaper, being free rather than having to pay entry to the local swimming pools. They also tend to provide an extension to family picnics with the ability to cool off, particularly during daylight saving evenings.”

commercial news

Budget and features

Initially the budget was $600,000.

“Based on discussions with other councils who had built them, and key installers, we realised we’d need additional features such as barbecues and picnic shelters, and so the budget was increased to $750,000,” says Davis.

They prioritised compliance with the water quality safety standards – in terms of water recycling through recirculation and filtration of water. Shade sails over the splash pad area were also important for sun safety, given the high use in the summer time was considered an essential component at all three parks.

“We learned that the things that are the most popular are the larger style tipping buckets and the swinging water cannons, and the water spouts in the pad area where the children can stand on one and block it so the water shoots out higher from the other

ABOVE: Sun protection is essential because the most common use will be in summer TOP RIGHT: Finalising the splash park prior to opening MIDDLE RIGHT: With zero depth facilities there is not the need for lifeguards

ones. These are quite popular with the toddler age group,” he says.

“By observing the children and patrons, you can determine their particular favourites which seem to be the bigger buckets and the large hoops with downward sprays they all walk underneath to cool off.”

Council also installed barbecues and picnic shelters.

“All three of the splash parks have been extensions to existing playground areas – so during the cooler months the splash pad can be used as part of the existing playground. Our design also includes features like extra seating, bins and landscaping,” he says.

“Generally, we install these splash parks in parks where they have existing parking and toilet facilities.

We had a bit of an issue about proximity to existing toilets at one site, where we’ve had to provide temporary portable toilets until a more permanent solution is funded.”

Lessons learned

The splash parks don’t hold any water as the splash pad area is fully drained into the underground recirculation tanks.

“Therefore, there is no requirement for the daily supervision of users by lifeguards as there is at swimming pools,” says Davis.

“However, slip hazard was an important initial problem issue with the coloured painted slab finish despite a sealer coat finish.

“The main lesson we learned was rather than have a painted concrete surface, with the Dundas Park project we impregnated the colour into the concrete – because of issues with slipping and because some of the paints we initially used peeled off when exposed to the water and sun for a long period of time.”

At both the Granville and Parramatta sites, the contractors worked during extreme weather conditions to finish the concrete splash pad and there were extensive temperature changes resulting in a longer term problem in achieving proper sound paint adhesion to the concrete in some sections.

“We had issues with the sealer to protect the paint,” he says. “The sealer was too slippery and that caused a slip hazard. We had a specialist come in and do slip testing of the paint for us. This meant we had to get the splash pads at both sites repainted under warranty in order to resolve the problem successfully.”

Davis says another lesson they learned was to do with landscaping, and not having it too close to the play features.

“The kids would take shortcuts through the landscaping and scour it out, and then heavy rain would wash the mulch in and block the filtration system in the splash pad area,” he says.

He also says that as there is no requirement for council to have regular supervision, they installed plenty of signs outlining the terms of use and also restrictions about littering, bikes and running.

There is however a high maintenance factor, and they engaged specialist water treatment contractors to check and service the units on a daily basis to see they comply with the filtration and chlorination aspects.

August/September 2017

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14th Annual World Aquatic Health™ Conference

October 18-20 · Denver, CO Shaping the Future Through Aquatic Research and Education

Educational Sessions

· Advanced Service Concepts · Career Progression for Service Technicians and Builders · New Industry Technology · Environmental Health and RWI Prevention · Advanced Water Chemistry · Aquatic Health Benefits · Facility Management · Facility Risk Management · Aquatic Law

Yearly Attendees · Pool Operators · Equipment Manufactures · Service Technicians · Aquatic Facility Managers · EH Officials · Academia · Pool Builders · Aquatic Retailers

The World Aquatic Health™ Conference is the World’s Foremost Aquatic Research Forum: · Meet the leaders of the aquatic industry · Learn about cutting edge aquatic research and technology · Impact the industry and help to shape the future of aquatics · Better yourself and your business through continuing education

Questions: call 719-540-9119 or email conference@nspf.org

Registration Periods April 3 - May 31 .................$445 June 1 - July 30 ..................$495 After August 1st ................$595

Register Early to Win Big and Save!

The first 100 early registrations (April 3rd – May 31st) will be placed in a drawing, held at the 2017 WAHC. Grand Prize: iPad 1st Prize: Sharp HD TV 50’ LED 2nd Prize: Free 2018 WAHC Registration

commercial news

“And we’ve got a back-to-base monitoring of the filtration system which alerts our staff if it fails; and there are also signs on-site for people to report it if it’s not working.”

Choosing locations and establishing a team

Parramatta City Council has five separate wards, so Davis and his team met with all the ward councillors and outlined which particular parks were considered the most suitable, relating to a range of factors.

“We also explained we had reviewed the 2011 census demographics for the local government area in order to determine the park sites closest to areas where children in the under-10 age group lived,” he says.

“The final selection really came down to the key factors of larger under-10 age districts close to public transport with parking and toilets.”

The next step was to establish a project control group comprising staff from recreation planning, landscape architects, parks management and capital projects management.

All three projects were predominantly designed and project-managed in-house.

They then consulted with a councillor working party and reported through the executive management to the formal council meetings for approval of the design and budget.

Quotes came via NSW Government Procurement Contracts. This is the mechanism by which the state government lists approved contractors to assist local councils, so they don’t have to seek public tenders for each project.

ABOVE: Colourful textured surfaces add a bright element to the Mildura splash park BELOW: Concept plan for the James Ruse water play park

“This saved substantial time and enabled us to meet deadlines to have the projects completed and ready for the spring or summer opening,” he says.

They engaged Vortex for the Granville and Parramatta projects; and Park Equip for the Dundas Park project.

“We provided these firms with the design and scope of works such as the size of the splash pad and a budget figure to design to, and asked them to prepare the detailed design based on our concept design for the water play features and plant.

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commercial news

RIGHT: Neville Davis, service manager of open space and natural resources at the City of Parramatta

“We then engaged the landscaping contractor separately for the landscaping elements.”

Feedback has been highly positive.

“Everyone’s been very supportive and we’ve had very positive feedback,” says Davis.

“The community has been thankful for these new style water-based playgrounds. They’re very popular, well-used and have attracted interest from residents of adjoining local councils.

“We’ve provided these key details to some other councils as well as working in with the Parks and Leisure Australia seminar in May this year.”

Mildura Rural City Council

Mildura council decided on a splash park to attract families and younger people to the Riverfront precinct, and to provide a focal point depicting the local heritage and culture.

Martin Hawson, community general manager at Mildura Rural City Council, says they formed part of a master plan for the precinct to complement other activation nodes.

“The community reference group was part of the design process together with our Aboriginal reference group, which guided the design process, led by Lateral Projects,” he says.

They integrated a previously unused artificial lake with a splash area and spray features, and a concourse that depicted their irrigation channels as part of the local settlement history.

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commercial news

Indigenous plantings were used throughout the project with bridges and soft landing splash areas, rock features, lawns, barbecues, bubble taps, grassed areas and shade structures.

Hawson says that some of the obstacles they overcame included to do with filtration and the concrete surface.

“One issue was the complexity of the filtration system to ensure it was working to its full capacity,” he says. “And another was the expansion joins for the concourse, which required additional absorption joints than originally designed.”

For the surface they used concrete topped with a Pebbletech screed coat: an anti-slip aggregate with a fine pebble surface ensuring no jagged edges. For the coloured play area they used Polysoft.

Among the spray features and play areas is a channellike concourse depicting the irrigation systems that are famous throughout the Mildura district and are a foundation of their local primary industry. There is also a traditional depiction of an Aboriginal scarred tree sculpture, and grassed areas and landscaping was installed to improve the aesthetic. Native trees were planted for shade, and three sail shade structures were also erected.

The head contractor was King Constructions Group, with Tract Consultants doing the design, Aloha Pools and Hydratech doing the water features and hydraulic design, with structural engineering by Aurecon, and water play

equipment coming from Playrope. Cookes Pools & Spas assisted with many of the installations and operations.

Contractors’ perspective

Working in conjunction with the City of Mildura, Aloha was involved with the design development and hydraulic design for the Mildura Water Park project.

Nathan Kinder from Aloha Pools says a vital component to the project was managing the client’s expectations as to how the water behaved.

ABOVE: Shade sails provide sun protection at the Mildura facility and so do native trees, requiring the addition of screens to stop leaves and debris entering the filtration system

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commercial news

The concourse represents irrigation channels that are part of Mildura’s local history

“Focusing on a narrative, we had to consider how the water park would look and feel, how children would interact and explore and how it would be a family inclusive activity,” he says.

“It was important that everyone involved in the project understood what could be achieved whilst keeping in line with the budget. In addition to this, another priority was managing safety issues and adhering to Australian standards while also finding cost effective solutions.

“One of the biggest challenges for this project was creating a mutual understanding between council members and architects, as well as the general public, as to what was going to be delivered,” says Kinder.

Multiple contractor integration

Trent Smith is operations manager at Cookes Pools & Spas.

He says several amendments had to be integrated into the hydraulic requirements of the system, and the hydraulic plan was redesigned in conjunction with consultants to improve energy efficiency.

“The original water depth of 300mm was reduced back to 100mm to improve safety, because it is an unguarded public facility,” he says. “We also added actuators and control systems to reduce the number of pumps in the system from 12 to just four. Significant energy efficiencies were achieved by reducing the number of pumps and incorporating variable speed drives where possible.

“Like all local councils, the Mildura Rural City Council is concerned about energy use and we wanted to ensure the project is recognised both now and into the future as a great long-term investment for our region,” he says.

As with all projects, there were challenges that had to be overcome.

“The most difficult aspect of building this project was integrating our construction responsibilities with those of other contractors,” says Smith.

“Many different trades and contractors were involved in this project and each party needed to consider the site demands of other contractors. There were trenches 74 SPLASH!

August/September 2017

and pits dug within the site area by different contractors for services such as power, drainage and the project’s hydraulic requirements. We also needed to consider the demands of the artificial lake and the fact the park is situated in a flood zone.

“Bringing it all together was challenging as we were required to install progressive stages of the project throughout the 12-month construction window.”

They also gained some knowledge while working on the project.

“We had to educate our team about the MechMate plant automation control platform which was supplied

by Roejen Services,” he says.

“We’ve found this to be a great control system as it can be accessed remotely and provides us with detailed feedback about what is happening in the park.”

When asked what they would do next time to improve the installation and projects like this, he identifies screening.

“Being a public facility, an onsite issue we discovered upon commissioning the project was the impact of grass, gum leaves, and debris from raised garden beds.

We’ve since added some further works and screens to prevent debris entering the filtration system and balance tanks. This has significantly reduced maintenance requirements and ensures the facility provides great enjoyment for local users and visitors to our region.”

Contact:

Aloha Pools: www.alohapools.com.au City of Mildura Rural Council: www.mildura.vic.gov.au City of Parramatta: www.cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au Cookes Pools & Spas: www.cookespoolsandspas.com.au King Constructions: www.kingconstructiongroup.com.au Parkequip: www.parkequip.com.au Playrope: www.playrope.com.au Roejen: www.roejen.com.au Tract Consultants: https://tract.com.au Vortex: http://vortexaquaticplaygrounds.com.au

new products

Light and sound for summer

The Lava Brightsounds 2 bluetooth speaker incorporates a power bank and an LED lantern .

This great summer accessory means you can laze by the pool while your favourite tracks play direct from your phone, and with the inbuilt light it means you can party way past sunset .

It features 36-hour battery life, an in-built power bank to charge a phone or tablet, an LED light with dimmer control, an easygrip leatherette carry strap and rugged case and speaker grille, and is available in five colours .

With an IPX4 water rating, the BrightSounds 2 is water resistant and safe from dirt, dust and a splash or two .

Contact: www .MyVQ .com .au .

Trade sales contact: lyoung@ newdawninnovations .co .uk

Textured style in limestone

Artedomus has a new range of stylish Licycon stone, ideal for poolside paving . It is seen here as part of a very modern architectural swimming pool landscape designed by Alice Kerrison .

Additionally, the flamed and brushed finish gives the stone a soft textured feel underfoot .

Contact: www .artedomus .com

PHOTO CREDIT: Willem Rethmeier

Licycon natural stone was selected for use externally around the entertaining area and the pool, with the spectacularly variegated

taupe tones making this unusually coloured limestone a striking choice, complementing the cool water, bold brickwork and the vibrant foliage surrounding the pool .

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new products

Dontek Solar Controllers

Smarter By Degrees

Connect Lite wins Queensland Product of the Year

AstralPool Australia won Product of the Year at the SPASA Queensland awards for its Viron Connect Lite product .

The Viron Connect Lite is part of AstralPool’s Viron Connect range, offering entry-level to full integrated pool automation system by providing pool owners peace of mind, comfort and full control of their backyard environment .

Introducin AquaSma g rt

Econom Reliable. S ical. marter.

Gold winners in the State awards are automatically entered for the National Awards to be held in Sydney on August 31 .

Contact: www .astralpool .com .au

WHY CHOOSE DONTEK? • No confusing codes • Large back lit LCD module • No tangle roof sensor • Simple mounting bracket • Sophisticated design • Quick and easy handover

Viron QL Cartridge Filter awarded

AstralPool Australia has picked up the award for outstanding achievements in innovation and design excellence at the 2017 SPASA Queensland Awards, winning the Sustainable Product of the Year .

AstralPool says it recognises the importance of sustainability best practices within the swimming pool and spa sector and is committed to thoughtfully designed products and solutions to allow users to save water and preserve the environment while enjoying their swimming pool .

dontek.com.au

Leaders in heating control innovation Ph: 03 9762 8800

Contact: www .astralpool .com .au August/September 2017

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new products

Newest thing in solar control

Dontek has launched its latest and most innovative solar controller . The AquaSmart range comprises state-of-the-art technology including app-driven timers .

The AquaSmart will allow immediate control of pool or spa heating remotely, offering convenience as well as saving money and energy . Dontek says its large back-lit LCD module can be easily seen in the bright of day or the dark of night,

Easy-install Enviraflo kit

The new QuikClean Anti-Vortex Single Channel (AVSC) Drain sits flush with the pool floor and virtually disappears beneath its own pebble, render or tile lid .

Secondary safety suctions are obsolete with the AVSC and it removes debris more effectively because it’s an approved singlesuction floor drain .

Cooke says the AVSC was the first drain to be recognised as “unblockable” by the NSF testing authority in the USA and was so advanced at the time of its introduction that VGB compliance tests are based on its performance .

The AVSC can connect to two pumps drawing a combined 860lpm . Dual suction ports also make the AVSC an obvious choice for spas .

The AVSC is available in five colours – Black, Blue, Gold, Grey and White – and colour inserts allow you to change the drain colour if clients change their mind .

Contact: 1300 652 076; www .cookeindustries .com .au

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and with its simple button layout, it is the most user-friendly product of its kind .

Features include the new multi-fit mounting bracket ensuring a simple set-up on any surface as well as robust industrial sensors offering the highest reliability and accuracy . Additionally, the spooled roof sensor offers tangle-free installation .

Contact: www .dontek .com .au

new products

New name, even better service!

Classic relaxation

The Babylon sun lounge from Satara is a stylish way to lounge in the sun. It features intricate handwoven synthetic weave on an all-weather powdercoated aluminium frame so it won’t rust.

This classic design is ideal for period homes and is part of the Babylon range that includes dining and arm chairs, lounge chairs and sofa.

Contact: www.satara.com.au

Vendart Pty Ltd is now LaMotte Pacific Pty Ltd. — servicing the Australian market for LaMotte products and services since 1988. This establishes a partnership with LaMotte Inc of the USA. LaMotte are already well known to the pool and spa industry for supplying test strips, individual kits and Water Link Spin. To compliment this partnership LaMotte Pacific now have their own in-house chemistry department to support the expanding product range. pool and spa water testing: Waterlink Spin Touch

Contact us now for more information.

Forging an artistic garden

This amazing cubist sculpture is hand-forged by Robert Everingham in plate steel. It has been hot dipped galvanized and finished in a Natural Hammersley texture. It is suitable for outdoor use and makes a stunning addition to a garden.

The sculpture is made in Australia, can be created in many sizes and finishes, and can be shipped globally.

Contact: www.countryculture.com.au

LaMotte PacificPtyLtd p 02 9624 2754 • f 02 9674 5115 www.vendart.com.au August/September 2017 SPLASH! 79

EXPERIENCED

POOL SERVICE TECHNICIAN

new products

Are you after a change of scenery, or looking to come back home?

Our family-run team is currently working at capacity, requiring an additional motivated and organised Service Technician to re-locate to Auckland, NZ. It is ESSENTIAL that the applicant have recent/ current experience in the pool industry with excellent knowledge of the service/ repair side of the trade (over and above valet work), a good work ethic, mechanical mind and the ability to hit the ground running.

This person must also: • Have a great attitude to work, a friendly nature and the ability to relate well with customers • Be personally motivated to work • Have a high attention to detail with genuine pride in doing a great job • Be able to work by themselves most of the time but still has no problem working as part of a team • Have flexibility to work overtime and on weekends, especially over the busy summer months • Have a willingness to follow company systems • Have a full, clean drivers licence • Be able to provide proof of all of the above at interview stage In addition to a competitive pay scale, the successful applicant will also receive a company vehicle, smart phone, ongoing training and support from an experienced team.

Please email your CV to: info@thepoolman.co.nz with a brief description of your work history.

For more information on The Pool Man Limited and a full scope of what we do, visit: www.thepoolman.co.nz

Lily pad inspired outdoor table

The Lily tray table is a sophisticated and innovative two-in-one design that combines the functions of a tray and table . Inspired by lily pads and conceived to enhance the outdoor dining experience, the novel design is the latest addition to Tait’s product range .

Marking Tait’s first collaboration with Melbourne designer Nancy Ji, the Lily tray table is the winning design of the 2016 Mercedes-Benz Design Award by Broadsheet, in partnership with Tait .

Removable from a separate table base so it can act as a tray, and made from lightweight aluminium, it can be lifted to transport food and drink outside utilising its grooved handles . The tray showcases two dipped notches at its lip, to drain off any excess rainwater, while also delivering a unique design detail referencing its namesake .

Contact: www .madebytait .com .au

Tight places, no worries

Australian company Semco distributes Terex backhoe loaders and Takeuchi excavators, and has recently added the Takeuchi TB210R mini excavator to its range .

The Takeuchi TB210R has been designed for tight access applications and is equipped with an ultra-low emission Tier 4 engine to enable it to work indoors . It has also been specially fitted with a catalytic converter which eliminates 90 percent of carbon monoxide emissions .

The TB210R can do the work of a 1 .7 tonne machine, with the added benefit of adjustable tracks which retract to 750mm, as well as excellent power, full-function joystick controls, great digging depth and the ability to run a range of attachments .

Contact: www .semcogroup .com .au; www .takeuchi .com .au 80

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new products

Account Manager/BDM Rainbow Pool Products

Naked Pools releases latest in freshwater sanitisation

Gold Coast based Naked Pools has launched the NKD1 system, the latest in freshwater digital sanitisers for swimming pools and spas. The NKD1 is a sanitisation system using a combination of copper and silver ionisation as well as oxidation to treat the pool or spa water. Naked Pools says this delivers up to 70 per cent less salt/mineral levels, resulting in record low levels of chlorine being produced. They says this means equipment and pool surrounds will last much longer due to the freshness of the water.

Additionally, the lower levels of chlorine present in the water are beneficial to people suffering from skin irritability or asthma. The unit will be on display at the August consumer pool and spa show in Melbourne.

Contact: www.nakedpools.com; 1800 625 331

• Salary + FMCV + Bonuses • Pool industry expert required for this busy Account Management/BDM role • Bring your skills and experience to some 500+ active accounts • Autonomous role with excellent rem & bens With a long established reputation as the ‘Go To’ distributor to the Queensland swimming pool market, we are seeking the Best of the Best to maintain the first class relationships we have with their client base, and to build on an already substantial list of industry leaders.

Supplying a broad range of quality pool equipment, parts and chemicals to pool shops, pool builders and technicians, this company has been an integral part of the Queensland swimming pool market since the 1970’s.

Joining a small but dedicated team of industry experts, it is likely that you come from a similar broad based distribution company, or perhaps from one of the many suppliers to the industry.

Your brief will be to establish and maintain contact with a large existing client base across Brisbane, introducing yourself and your industry knowledge to a myriad of already well entrenched customers. Over time, this will extend across South East Queensland, regional sectors, and ultimately to clients located in northern NSW, the Northern Territory and South Australia.

With the assistance of the Managing Director, you will work through a call cycle which will see you visit and/or call on your clients on a regular basis, advising them on new product offerings, assisting with general enquiries, helping to source parts, quoting on products, and ultimately, working with them to grow

their relationship with you and the company.

Of course, part of your remit will also include sourcing new business opportunities with clients who may not be already dealing with the business. There will also be the requirement to represent the organisation at industry events and trade shows, so the availability to travel every few months is significant.

To be successful in this role, you will • Have worked in the pool industry for at least 5 years, ideally selling products to pool shops, pool builders or technicians • Have a well-established network of contacts, and a technical knowledge of products ranging from chemicals and cleaning equipment through to pumps and spa fittings • Possess outstanding account management skills, with the capacity to communicate with a varied cross section of customers • Have strong business development skills and the capacity to source new leads - by cold calling, referrals or through industry news - and following through the full sales process • Be an excellent time manager with the capacity to keep yourself motivated. This will be a fairly autonomous role where you will probably only be in the office for a brief meeting each week.

• Have a real passion for the industry and ultimately become a true Subject Matter Expert for your clients.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join this highly regarded company and to build your career and your reputation. A highly impressive remuneration package is on offer for the ideal candidate, including Base + Super + FMCV + Tools of Trade and a competitive quarterly bonus scheme.

Interested? Please apply now by submitting your Cover Letter and CV (in Word format) to

info@rainbowpoolproducts.com.au

Soundproof equipment box

Acoustic Box is a new pool filter and pump enclosure specialist. The team has been busy designing a purpose-built enclosure to suit the Australian climate, guarding pool equipment against the elements.

The galvanised steel enclosures can be powder-coated in your favourite outdoor colour. They are engineered to ensure sufficient ventilation while achieving up to 80 per cent noise reduction with the acoustic foam lining. Full access to the equipment is available via a pull-out front door and a gas strut powered lid.

Acoustic Box says it takes only five minutes to assemble, with no nuts or bolts.

Contact: acousticbox.com.au August/September 2017 SPLASH! 81

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PARAMOUNT IN-FLOOR CLEANING SYSTEMS THE WORLD’S NUMBER 1 IN-FLOOR CLEANING SYSTEM BROUGHT TO YOU BY POOL-WATER PRODUCTS

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20,000

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CONTINENTS

100+

MANUFACTURING FACILITIES

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$6.5

BILLION

500+

PRODUCT LINES