Think Tank 2023

NEWS FOR THINK WATER MEMBERS & PARTNERS | NOVEMBER 2023 EDITION

THINK TANK

Tackling The Staff Recruitment Tackling The Staff Recruitment Challenge Challenge

Expanding our Network

Implementing A.I in our Business

Singapore Conference 2023

A message from our Chairman, Colin Thomas As you are most likely aware, Tony France, our General Manager for the past 7 years, has resigned from his position.

Tony has been an outstanding leader for our group, and we are grateful for his contributions. He has transformed Think Water into the successful business it is today. However, the Board believes that it is time for a change, new ideas, new strategy, and new direction. Change in leadership can be beneficial for our group in a number of ways.

It can: Bring in new ideas and perspectives.

Challenge the status quo and encourage innovation.

Boost morale and motivation.

Provide an opportunity for the organization to reset and refocus on its goals.

Help the organization to adapt to changing market conditions.

In the case of Think Water, the Board believes that a change in leadership is necessary to bring in fresh ideas and new perspectives. This will help the organisation achieve its goals and continue to be successful in the future.

I want to assure you that Tony's resignation is not due to any unethical or untoward behaviour. He has simply decided to pursue other opportunities. We wish him all the best in his future endeavours.

Chris Rehm, a well-respected member of our team, will be acting as the interim General Manager until we replace Tony permanently. I am confident that Chris will lead us effectively during this transition period.

Change in leadership is a natural part of any organisation. It can bring fresh ideas, new perspectives, and a renewed sense of purpose. I am excited about the future of Think Water, and I believe that this change in leadership will help us to achieve our goals.

Thank you for your continued support.

Sincerely, Colin Thomas, Chairman of the Think Water Board

Thank You Tony! from the entire family

Contents 2.

Welcome to Think Tank 2023

37. Smart Loyalty

3.

Solving The Employment Puzzle

38. Sustainability at Philmac

5.

Employee Placement Program

39. Toro Tempus Ag

7.

Davey DynaDrive Daisy Chain

41. Think Water Mentors Program

10. Conference 2023 Review

42. Our New Financial Funding Partner

13. Franchise of the Year Awards

43. Netafim Recoil Recycling Program

14. Preferred Supplier of the Year Awards

44. New Faces at the NSO

15. The Future of A.I. at Think Water

45. H2Go Update

17. Training Update

47. Solutions Workshop

21. Project of the Year Award

49. Iplex’s Commitment to Innovation

22. Rising Star 2023 Award

51. Grundfos Solar Connect

23. Young Irrigation Professional Award

52. Understanding Flexibore

24. Renovation of the Year Award

53. Unlocking Sustainable Agriculture

25. New Member Award

54. Philmac EASYLOK

26. Preferred Supplier Salesperson Awards

55. Transition to Sustainable Water Management

28. Smart Management with B-Hyve

57. Exploring the Wildflower Industry

29. Welcoming New Members

58. The iWaterSwitch by Pentair

33. Think Water Adelaide’s ISO Achievement

59. Mico Trade App

35. Our Partnership with Puretec

60. Helical Rotor PD Pumps

Welcome to Think Tank 2023 Think Water Australia & New Zealand: A Journey of Evolution and Innovation As the Interim General Manager of Think Water Australia & New Zealand, I'm incredibly excited to be leading this company into the future.

Think Water has always been about evolving, staying ahead of the curve and finding new ways to increase our value to our Members, and I'm proud to say that we're continuing to do just that.

One of the most important things to me is having a strong team in place .

That's why I'm so pleased to welcome Andrew Rathjen to our operations team, and to announce that Geoff Harvey will be joining us soon as Operations Manager. Both Andrew and Geoff have a wealth of experience in our industry, and I'm confident that they will be valuable assets to our team.

We've also expanded our team in the Philippines, where we now have three staff members providing support to our Members.

And, we've launched a new Immigration Employee Placement Program that has set the wheels in motion with an end goal of placing 12 new team members into our Australian and New Zealand stores from the Philippines and South Africa.

for Think Water, and I'm confident that we can continue to grow and evolve as a company in the years to come.

Chris Rehm Interim General Manager

In addition to growing our team, we're also investing in new technologies to help our Members streamline and improve their businesses.

We're currently investigating ways to use Artificial Intelligence to help our Members better manage their inventory, marketing, and customer service.

Of course, no discussion of Think Water would be complete without mentioning our Members.

We're so grateful for their continued support, and we're committed to providing them with the best possible service and support. I'm excited to see what the future holds

Think Tank 2023 | 02

Solving the Employment Puzzle Think Water Employee Placement Program Finding staff, particularly skilled staff, is one of the most common challenges across the industry. To combat this, Think Water have launched the Employee Placement Program to assist our stores with sourcing, hiring and sponsoring qualified people from overseas.

Prior to the 2019 Think Water Conference Members were surveyed for topics they wished to workshop. One of the biggest concerns was the lack of skilled employees.

International recruitment was presented at the Conference to gauge Members interest, which was followed by drafting a scheduled plan to research international recruitment for our Think Water Members.

Covid (2020 – 2021) enhanced the problem of finding skilled candidates in both Australia and New Zealand, in our industry and others.

Researching International Recruitment Think Water NSO commenced research in 2022 with the assistance of our external lawyers, Australian and New Zealand Immigration Services, Filipino Embassy, Philippines Labour Department and TESDA (technical school). Our external lawyers were 03 | Think Tank 2023

engaged to discuss the legislation and eligibility process.

We then offered to pilot two Think Water stores (Darwin and Hawkes Bay) to test the international recruitment process.

Adam and Kelly Stockwell of Think Water Darwin had already commenced the process of recruitment. The documentation process (Visa, tax, relocation, insurance clearances, etc) was handed over to the NSO in June 2022. In September 2022, Think Water Darwin welcomed Nixon, a mechanic to their team.

Think Water Hawkes Bay required a Service / Irrigation Technician, someone with motor mechanic experience. Interviews were conducted in South Africa in October 2022.

The process of accreditation, advertising, interviews and lodgement took place over the Christmas and New Year period which extended the time of approval by 3 weeks. This application included the candidate’s family which meant we additional partnership and dependent student visa. The family visas were approved and issued in February 2023 and the employee commenced work second week of March 2023.

The NSO service offers a full recruitment services which includes: Assistance with accreditation

your

company

Advertising vacancies on various platforms Interviewing and shortlisting skilled candidates Second interviews with Members Lodgement for accreditation and candidate visas Depending on the outcome of the company accreditation application, timeframes for full approval and commencement of employees could take up to 6 months.

This is a user paid service. Scan the QR code below to register your interest in the Employee Placement Program:

In July 2023 Chris Rehm and Liesle took a trip to the Cebu, Philippines as suggested by the Philippines Embassy.

During their travels , they quickly discovered why the Embassy encouraged Think Water to visit the Philippines prior to commencing the recruitment phase.

The Cebu team helped arrange the various appointments with recruitment agencies, Department of Labour and Immigration and the training institutes.

We learned: The new legislation and timelines of recruiting from the Philippines and how the new department of labour and immigration will be operating as of September 2023

The various qualifications and how they are achieved. The length of these courses to qualify as an electrician, a plumber and a technician is shorter The skills gaps (required for Australia or New Zealand) can be addressed by these training institutes and candidates upskilled.

Eight of our stores have been approved for Accreditation and we are in the process of completing the Visa and Nomination Forms for the candidates.

It should be noted that companies who are not approved for accreditation can still sponsor overseas candidates as a Standard

Sponsor.

This process takes approximately a month longer, depending on the time of application (i.e. capacity of the Immigration Department).

Over the past month we have received 11 more requests from stores for international candidates (from both South Africa and the Philippines).

8 Members Accredited so far 11 new requests for the Employee Placement Program in the last month

Employee Placement Program Adam and Nixon give us their feedback on the International Recruitment process.

Adam Stockwell, Director of Think Water Darwin: Nixon's been a really great addition to the Think Water Darwin Business. We required someone who was diligent, consistent, able to learn and adapt, and able to complete tasks in an efficient and reliable way.

From our experience, we believed that this really suited itself to the Filipino work ethic, and that motivated us to look at recruiting an experienced Filipino into the business.

After several attempts to recruit an experienced person locally, and not being able to obtain key people in Darwin with those sorts of attributes, we decided to go for a particular type of person from another country.

Nixon has made a massive difference

in the business. We have that consistency now, and we've had Nixon undergo training. He gets the work done efficiently, knows how to use our system, and follows it very well.

This allows us to grow without having to repeatedly micromanage the work being undertaken by a technician.

By employing Nixon, we have avoided adding a team member with the issues we have found in the past with some trades people of not listening, not being consistent, and not being reliable.

The recruitment process was very good and easy to follow, and Liesle was very helpful with the steps required for a successful immigration.

When Nixon came to Australia, he was very warmly welcomed, and he was very appreciative of how welcome he was made to feel.

We are also very grateful for being part of that opportunity for him, and I feel very proud about being responsible for the opportunity for him and his family.

Moving forward, Nixon is really keen on staying, and he has now expressed some interest in bringing his family over to Australia. So, he's definitely committed to staying longer term, which is exactly what we're after. We will do everything we can to help him achieve his goals while he helps us achieve ours.

Nixon Hardin, Service Technician at Think Water Darwin: Being an immigrant worker at Think Water Darwin has offered me numerous benefits and opportunities that has made this experience positive and rewarding.

Think Water, being at the forefront of water sustainability solutions, also provides workers with a platform to contribute significantly to the local community.

Firstly, the vibrant multicultural atmosphere of Darwin enables migrant workers to feel accepted and valued.

Think Water Darwin’s commitment to employee growth and well-being ensures that migrant workers receive not only competitive remuneration but also continual opportunities for professional development.

This diverse environment fosters mutual respect, understanding, and the sharing of various cultures and ideas.

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Additionally, Darwin’s balmy weather, rich history, and proximity to Asia make it an enticing location for those seeking a balanced work-life experience.

All these factors, combined with the potential for making lasting friendships and connections, make being a migrant worker at Think Water Darwin an enriching and fulfilling journey. I would highly recommend it.

Recruitment Support at Recruiting staff tends to be one of the biggest challenges of our industry and has this trend has persisted over recent years. With the need to attract skilled workers at an all-time high, what can we do to supercharge your recruitment drive?

While the occasional ad on Seek or post on Facebook may work from time to time, it is much more effective to 'widen the net' by having consistent

recruitment advertising over multiple platforms. This will give your job ad a larger reach, access to a wider pool of talent and will enhance the overall efficiency of your recruitment process.

The Think Water NSO Team can provide recruitment support. Aside from assisting with job interviews and employment contracts, we can also help out with the advertising. This

includes writing job descriptions, building recruitment landing pages, leveraging from our partnerships with Irrigation Australia, Irrigation New Zealand, Returned Services League of Australia (RSL) and Royal New Zealand Returned and Services' Association (RSA), running ads on various digital platforms, arranging DISC profiling and even assisting with sourcing, hiring and sponsoring skilled workers from overseas.

Running ad campaigns

Writing Job Descriptions

Onboarding Plans

Interview Assistance

DISC Profiling

Leveraging Partnerships

Think Water Employee Placement Program

DynaDrive Daisy Chain Enjoy consistent water pressure with DynaDrive now supplied as Daisy Chain DynaDrive is Davey Water Product’s latest all in one home pressure system, with a variable speed drive that maintains water pressure at a fixed point regardless of an increase or decrease in water demand in the household. It is now also available as pre-assembled daisy chain constant pressure pumps.

Customers can also set the water pressure where they want with an easy to set up and use controller that comes with an intelligent interface and compact design. The controller also gives customers warnings for any system faults and lets them daisy chain two pumps in parallel.

Customers can expect DynaDrive to keep the pressure steady no matter how many taps they have running, and best of all it is energy and cost efficient.

The stainless-steel impellers in the DynaDrive also offer reduced power consumption and low noise output, which makes for quiet pump operation, and increased wear resistance.

The number of taps being used in a home doesn’t impact water pressure because the DynaDrive keeps pressure constant and steady. As taps are turned off, the drive adjusts automatically, keeping pressure constant but reducing the energy consumed.

T&Cs apply. Offer ends 31st December 2023.

For more information on DynaDrive, head to the Davey website or contact your local Think Water Davey dealer.

The system comes with a Davey built, totally enclosed fan cooled (TEFC) electric motor, that ensures longer life for the pressure system and easy service, while also being economical.

Exclusive Cash Back Offer Up to $500 OFF!

Davey have conducted field trials with a small group of customers, and the feedback provided was that the DynaDrive is noticeably more quiet than other models and customers could feel the constant water pressure, especially in showers. The customers also found that DynaDrive was more responsive compared to other traditional pressure controllers.

Only at Contact our stores to find out more.

Success in Singapore!

A review of our 2023 Conference

The 2023 Think Water Annual Conference was a resounding success, and I'm so grateful to everyone who made it possible. The venue, Sentosa Island, was perfect for fostering collaboration, innovation, and inspiration.

I was particularly impressed with the quality of the workshops and sessions. I always learn so much from Members, industry leaders, thought pioneers, and seasoned professionals who shared their insights and expertise.

Two of my favourite events were the Think Water Awards Night and the Mandai Night Safari tour. The awards night was a celebration of excellence across the group from Members; Preferred Suppliers and their employees, and the safari was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

I also want to thank our sponsors for their support: Davey Water Products, Iplex Pipelines, Motion/AIP, Grundfos, Toro, AAP, Amiad, Austworld, Bermad, HR Products, Kliptank, Netafim, Norma

Group, Plasson, Pipemakers, WSP, and Water Works. Without them, this event would not have been possible.

And finally, thank you to all of our Members and all of the preferred suppliers who attended the conference. Your enthusiasm and participation made the event a massive success yet again and we promise to nurture our relationships over the coming twelve months and beyond.

Looking ahead - I can't wait to see you all in Melbourne in August 2024 for the next Think Water Annual Conference!

The upcoming Think Water Annual Conference in Melbourne is going to be even bigger and better than the Singapore event. We're already planning some exciting new features and workshops, and we can't wait to share them with you soon.

In the meantime, mark your calendars for August 2024 and start

planning your trip to Melbourne. This is going to be an event that you won't want to miss!

Here are a few things to look forward to at the Melbourne conference: A keynote address from a worldrenowned expert on the water industry.

A panel discussion with industry leaders on the latest trends and challenges.

Preferred Supplier speed meetings featuring the latest products and services from our Preferred Suppliers.

Networking opportunities with other Members and industry professionals.

A fun and social program that includes a variety of events and activities.

I hope to see you all in Melbourne in August 2024!

Best Regards, Chris Rehm

Think Tank 2023 | 10

Franchisee of the Year 2023 Think Water Adelaide & Think Water Taranaki The Franchise of the Year Award is the most prestigious award within the Think Water network and is keenly contested each year.

The award is measured across a wide range of criteria including: · Growth · Business Process · Health & Safety · Marketing ·Training · Network Participation · Staff & Culture We are proud to announce that the winners for the Think Water Franchise of the Year 2023 award were Think Water Adelaide and Think Water Taranaki.

Think Water Adelaide Kylie Sims and Luke Behm became Directors of Think Water Adelaide in 2021 and have worked hard to bring Think Water Adelaide to the fore front of not only irrigation installation but compliance too.

Their recent accomplishment is the attainment of the ISO 45001:2018 'Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems' standard.

Think Water Adelaide is the first store within the Think Water Group to reach this significant milestone.

13 | Think Tank 2023

Kylie and Luke’s focus is to continue to grow the business for retail, trade, schools and government customers ensuring the same quality and standards are maintained and applied for all customers.

Think Water Adelaide recently launched their own B2B ecommerce website which allows their trade customers to place orders online.

There are many benefits to the new website, including expanding their reach, providing convenience, improving efficiency and supplying insights for enhanced customer service.

The Adelaide team recently secured the Morphetville Racecourse project, where they will design, supply and install a new irrigation system for South Australia’s largest racing club.

Think Water Taranaki Having hired a new Operations Manager approx. 12 months ago, there has been a joint focus at Think Water Taranaki to grow and improve all areas of the business. This has also allowed owners Steve & Ange Bevan to take a longer-term view on the business.

They moved to a new, bigger

premises in January 2023 which has fantastic brand profile, a larger overall footprint and an increased retail store.

Think Water Taranaki recently became the authorised dealer for Husqvarna in New Plymouth, supplying and servicing a wide range of Husqvarna mowers, chainsaws, blowers and more.

The addition of Husqvarna gives their business an alternative profit centre to attract new customers to the store.

Steve & Ange are long term Think Water members and have previously won the NZ Franchise of the Year in 2017 & 2018. A great example of motivated Members who are constantly looking to improve their business.

Congratulations to Think Water Adelaide and Think Water Taranaki for scooping up the Think Water Franchisee of the Year 2023 award.

A special mention also goes out to our FOTY 2023 Finalists - Think Water Canterbury, Think Water Darwin, Think Water Hawkes Bay, Think Water Mareeba and Think Water Smithton.

Preferred Supplier of the Year Think Water Canterbury - Fiordland Lobster Company Project Congratulations to Puretec and Water Supply Products (WSP) who won the Australia and New Zealand Preferred Supplier of the Year Awards for 2023.

At Think Water, strong supplier relationships are foundational to our value proposition. We view our preferred suppliers as integral members of the Think Water family.

Our commitment is to provide quality products to the market, supported by excellent post-sales support from our Preferred Suppliers.

To ensure mutual benefits for our Members and Suppliers within the

Think Water ecosystem, we deliberately limit the number of preferred suppliers we engage with.

consistently provided outstanding products and support and were well deserved winners in 2023.

The Preferred Supplier of the Year Award is determined through the input of our Think Water Members.

They evaluate Preferred Suppliers using criteria such as product quality, support, and overall supplier performance. This award not only recognises excellence but also underscores the collaborative spirit that defines our partnerships, highlighting their unwavering commitment to our collective success.

“The Puretec family is extremely honoured to be awarded the Think Water Supplier of the Year for 2023.

This recognition is a testament to the collective efforts of our passionate customer care, sales and marketing teams, who are dedicated to growing the partnership with Think Water. We are motivated to continue to expand our relationship with Think Water in 2024, with exciting innovation and world class support.”

William Archer, Puretec Group

Both Puretec and WSP have

The future of A.I at “Artificial Intelligence is as revolutionary as mobile phones and the Internet.” Bill Gates, Founder of Microsoft The recent A.I. boom represents an era of unprecedented technological advancement, where artificial intelligence is increasingly integrated into various aspects of business operations. AI-powered tools and systems offer efficiency, accuracy, and scalability that were previously unimaginable.

From automation and data analysis to personalised customer experiences, A.I. is redefining the way businesses across the globe function.

The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Think Water In today's fast-paced business world, staying competitive and achieving operational efficiency are paramount goals for any company.

Artificial Intelligence (A.I.) is emerging as a powerful ally in this quest, offering the potential to dramatically increase productivity across the Think Water network.

67% of Australian employees already use some level of A.I. at work.

15 | Think Tank 2023

A.I. applications such as ChatGPT, Google Bard, DALL-E, ChatPDF, Grammarly, MidJourney and OtterAI have the potential to enhance the efficiency of various routine tasks encountered in daily operations. This includes activities like creating training protocols, conducting SWOT analyses, developing business plans, and recording and summarizing team meetings, ultimately leading to improved productivity.

New Role: AI Manager In light of the A.I. surge and recognising the potential benefits it brings, our business is embracing this transformative technology.

We are proud to introduce a new role, the A.I. Manager, to our team.

Heading this endeavour is John McDougall, an A.I. enthusiast with a deep passion for harnessing the potential of artificial intelligence.

$1.5 Trillion

The AI market is projected to grow from USD 515.31 billion in 2023 to USD 1.5 trillion by 2030.

John's responsibilities as A.I. Manager include researching and evaluating A.I. tools, platforms, and solutions that align with our business objectives. He will oversee the integration of AI-driven strategies into our Think Water network, ensuring that these technologies are seamlessly incorporated into our daily operations.

John's digital expertise will guide us in adopting AI-driven strategies and integrating them seamlessly into our Think Water network.

By staying at the forefront of A.I. trends and innovations, we aim to enhance operational efficiency, drive growth, and deliver exceptional customer experiences. Watch this space for exciting developments as we embark on this journey towards a more AI-driven future.

48% of New Zealand businesses currently use A.I in their organisation.

App

Chat GPT is the fastest application to reach 100 million users. here’s how it stacks up against the other big apps.

Facebook Instagram Google ChatGPT

Ref: BusinessInsider.com

Time taken to reach 100m Users

Four Years Two Years One Year Two Months

Here are some examples of how A.I. applications be used to benefit our businesses: Build Health & Safety Research

Assistance with Excel Formulas

Create Coding

Explain/Simplify Difficult Concepts

Write Emails

Summarising Reports

Summarise or Reword Documents

Create Position Descriptions

Develop Training Programs

Change the Tone of an Article/Email

Develop Perf. Management Plans

Travel Planning Assistance

Create Product Descriptions

Supply Interview Questions

Build Onboarding Plans

Product Troubleshooting

Provide Guidance on Procedures

Legal Research Assistance

Create Business Plans

Create Images & Presentations

Customer Support

Assist with Sales Forecasting

Provide Demographics Insights

Surveying

Create & Job Checklists

Create Audio & Voiceovers

Fraud Detection

Personalise Marketing Campaigns

Forecast Trends

Analyse Large Amounts of

Provide Customer Support

Categorise Emails

Data

Conduct SWOT Analysis

Keyword Research

Translate Documents

Schedule Meetings

Over 60% of business owners say AI will increase productivity.

Over 60% of business owners believe AI will increase productivity. Specifically, 64% stated that AI would improve business productivity, and 42% believe it will streamline job processes., Ref: Forbes Advisor

Utilising A.I. as part of the fabric of Training at Think Water A snapshot of the future!

We're excited to share our vision for the future of training within the Think Water franchise family. At Think Water, we're committed to your success, and we believe that Artificial Intelligence (AI) will play a pivotal role in taking your learning experiences to new heights.

training programs, enabling 24/7 access to learning materials. It's learning on your schedule, giving you the flexibility, you need without compromising on quality.

Personalised Learning, Tailored to You

Imagine having a virtual assistant at your fingertips, ready to answer your questions and provide instant feedback. AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants will be your partners in learning, making the experience more interactive and accessible than ever before.

Imagine a training program that understands you, your unique learning style, and your current knowledge level.

With AI, we aim to create personalised learning paths, ensuring that the material you receive is just right for you.

This means you'll make the most of your precious time, focusing on what matters most.

Adaptive Learning for Mastery AI-driven adaptive learning is a gamechanger. Picture a training system that dynamically adjusts the difficulty and content of your lessons based on your performance.

No more feeling overwhelmed or bored. With AI, you'll get exactly what you need, precisely when you need it, ensuring that you're always challenged and engaged.

Efficiency Without Compromise We understand that time away from your business can be costly. That's why AI will be at the heart of our future

Instant Answers, Real-Time Feedback

Mastering Skills, Not Just Learning Our vision for AI in training goes beyond traditional learning. We're talking about mastering skills through practical simulations and real-world scenarios. AI can create lifelike simulations and virtual reality environments, allowing you to gain ands-on experience safely.

AI doesn't stop when the training ends , it helps you stay updated on industry trends and job requirements. It can even match you with exciting job opportunities based on your skills and training history.

The Think Water Advantage Our commitment to success is unwavering. The future of Think Water training programs is bright, with AI paving the way for a more personalised, efficient, and impactful learning journey.

Stay tuned as we embark on this exciting path together, shaping the future of training and upskilling in the Think Water franchise family.

Your success is our mission, and with AI, we're taking it to the next level.

Thank you for joining us on this journey toward a brighter, smarter future.

The Think Water Foundations Training Program: Your Journey to Mastery Begins

Join us on this extraordinary journey and become a water management expert with the Think Water Foundations Training program.

Are you ready to embark on a transformative journey that will set you on the path to becoming a water management expert?

Look no further, as we proudly introduce the Think Water Foundations Training program – a groundbreaking initiative designed exclusively for newcomers to the industry.

In this article, we unveil the key highlights of this exciting program and how it can propel your career to new heights within the Think Water franchise family.

Unlock the Essentials Imagine a comprehensive training program that equips you with the fundamental knowledge needed to thrive in the world of water management.

The Think Water Foundations Training program spans a dynamic six days, thoughtfully split into three engaging two-day blocks. You have the flexibility to choose your preferred learning environment: immerse yourself in the expertise of a Member's business premises or engage with fellow learners at a central hub.

Dive Deep into the Core Get ready to delve deep into the heart of the industry. Our meticulously designed curriculum covers a wide range of essential topics, including irrigation, from design principles to advanced troubleshooting techniques.

You'll also master the intricacies of pumps – from understanding different types and controls to grasping hydraulics, friction loss, and complex systems.

Plus, explore the fascinating world of water filtration and treatment. But this isn't just theory; it's a hands-on adventure. Expect engaging theorybased learning, interactive workbooks, and skill assessments that will challenge and refine your newfound expertise.

Upon successfully completing all facets of our comprehensive coursework, you'll be rewarded with competency certificates – your passport to endless opportunities. With these certificates in hand, you'll be poised to apply for the prestigious Certificate III in Irrigation Technology,

your gateway to securing an irrigation apprenticeship.

Unleash Your Potential This isn't just a training program; it's a possible four-year cadetship that will supercharge your irrigation and pumping career. You'll have the platform you need to soar to new heights, mastering the art of water management.

Your future begins here. Think Water Foundations Training is not just an education; it's a revolution.

Are you ready to make a splash in the industry? Bid farewell to the ordinary and welcome a world of limitless possibilities.

Ready to Dive In? Scan below to register your interest or contact chris.rehm@thinkwater.com.au

Scan Here to Elevate Your Career in Water Management Think Tank 2023 | 18

From Dripline to Vineyard & Orchard Posts Giving New Life to Old Driplines Water Supply Products has been distributing thousands of kilometres of polyethylene tube and dripline into horticultural areas for two decades.

As this tube reaches end of life and needs to be replaced, the waste product has in the past been dumped or shipped overseas to an uncertain future.

In the past few years, we have been searching for a better way of dealing with waste dripline from replacement programs. In other countries where dripline manufacturing is close to the market, some suppliers have been running recycling programs. This was not the case in New Zealand.

Last year we heard about FuturePost, a company that recycles waste plastics into a range of post products for agriculture, horticulture, lifestyle and marine applications. From their website, it

19 | Think Tank 2023

appeared that they were mainly using soft plastics and dairy products containers for their feedstock, so we approached them to find out whether dripline was suitable.

After a trip to the factory with a roll of dripline in the back of the car and further discussions, we agreed to sign up to their Recycling Advocate (RAd) Partnership Program.

A key part of the partnership was development of an incentive scheme to encourage growers to send their old dripline to FuturePost for recycling.

We have enabled this by including a “Dripline Recycling Voucher” with every order for Rivulis replacement dripline supplied through our dealer network. We have also invested in three high speed Andros dripline rewinding machines, two tractor mounted, one trailer mounted and self-powered. They are available

free of charge to Think Water branches that purchase Rivulis dripline from us as part of the program.

This program offers Think Water branches the opportunity to “Close the Loop” by recycling plastics from their customers, turning that waste into posts that get used back on the customers’ farms or vineyards.

Scan the QR code below for further information on FuturePost and what they do:

Project of the Year Think Water Canterbury - Fiordland Lobster Company Project Congratulations to Think Water Gisborne, our Project of the Year 2022 Winners.

The award is presented to the Think Water Business who delivers an Outstanding project, based on the quality of the work, size, difficulty and complexity of the project.

The Fiordland Lobster Company (FLC) contracted Think Water Canterbury (TWC) to install a saltwater reticulation pump system for their new factory extension in Rolleston.

The factory’s function is the hold crayfish that are brought in from various suppliers around the South Island to be processed for live export to overseas markets.

Crayfish are brought in and dropped into large saltwater swim tank. The water biology is closely monitored, and a complex filtration system (biofilter) was installed. A large underground tank held recirculated salt water and passed through a biofilter media to FLC’s specifications.

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Think Water Canterbury laid a PVC gallery pipe work which captured the post biofilter salt water. A collection manifold was installed. For the collection manifold a 7.5kw Grundfos NBG end suction pump was installed to circulate in the main swim tanks where the crayfish are held.

Another part of the filtration system was a large protein skimmer, a separate Grundfos NBG pump was installed to circulate the salt water from the biofilter tank through the protein skimmer.

The main challenge in this Project was the fact it was a custom design install, which required working closely with FLC to get the required outcomes. There were no drawing or plans, pump specs were designed with FLC using their knowledge of what the crayfish needed in terms of recycled salt water. Salt water was also another challenge. Requiring pipe work, bolts, bracketing etc all needing to be in either stainless or PVC.

The Think Water Canterbury Team working on the project were: Senior Tech: Patrick (Paddy) Chapman Plumber: Jeremy Spring Design/PM: Sam Broomhall + Matt Dalley

2023 Rising Star Award Think Water Tasman Bay The Rising Star Award is a new award that was awarded for the first time in 2022. The Rising Star criteria is primarily based on seeing an improvement in the business by showing network participation, leadership, openness to change, a willingness to grow the business but above all, embracing and driving & living The Think Water brand.

Every year, the Rising Star award is a difficult award to agree on as many of our Members across Australia and New Zealand are implementing new initiatives in their business and actively looking to grow and promote the Think Water brand.

This year's winner of the Rising Star award goes to a Member who have been in the network both for a long time and for a relatively short time!

Congratulations goes to Phil Collins and Tracy Spark from Think Water Tasman Bay in New Zealand who are our Rising Star for 2023.

Tracy has worked at Think Water Tasman Bay for several years and a few years ago when the opportunity to purchase the business came up, ago along with partner Phil, they purchased the business together off the existing owner. Phil has a refrigeration engineer background, so it was a logical decision for Phil to join the business and run it with Tracy.

Since that time, they have showed exceptional enthusiasm to be part of the Think Water group. They attend all meetings, conferences and training sessions and value the mentorship that some of the more experienced Think Water members provide them on a day-to-day basis.

They have concentrated on getting the right team in place, training their people and creating a strong workplace culture.

Phil & Tracy have a growth mindset and with that have just opened a 2nd store at Think Water Nelson in

September 2023. They did this as they saw a gap in the market and a 2nd store was part of their longterm growth strategy.

All the work including configuration, painting, stocking & setting up the store was completed

by Phil & Tracy and their team, and the result is a fantastic looking store that is a credit to the Think Water network.

A big congratulations to Phil & Tracy and the team at Think Water Tasman Bay & Think Water Nelson.

Young Irrigation Professional 2023 Ethan Alderlieste - Think Water Marlborough The Young Irrigation Professional of the Year is awarded to an outstanding water professional who aligns with the Think Water purpose of learning, personal & professional development, contributing to a great team culture, supplier engagement, positive team engagement and community engagement.

The winner has demonstrated a willingness to increase industry knowledge, career and personal development and be able to demonstrate their leadership influence and passion for the water industry.

The award is open to all Members employees across all roles who are 30 years of age or younger at time of submission.

Think Water as an organisation is focused on developing young and new talent hence this award to ensure our employees understand there is a career pathway. This award recognises these up-andcoming people in our industry and overtime will be recognised within this group but also other groups and businesses in the industry.

As per previous years, a number of high calibre finalists were identified. The finalists for 2023 were:

Jordan Bowes - TW Adelaide Max Hargreaves – TW Taupo Martin Kersche – TW Cairns Ethan Alderlieste – TW Marlborough The runner up this year was Jordan Bowes from Think Water Adelaide and the winner for 2023 was Ethan Alderlieste – Think Water Marlborough!

Ethan joined Think Water Marlborough in 2020, demonstrating a strong commitment to ongoing learning. Ethan has attended

various training courses to improve his knowledge, especially in the water industry. While he primarily works as a field technician, he aspires to shift into irrigation design and has received training in design software, AutoCAD, Irricad, and vineyard irrigation.

Ethan is dedicated to customer service and teamwork, promoting a positive work atmosphere. Outside of work, he coaches the local college rowing team, participates in regattas, supports school projects, and builds animal shelters to contribute positively to the community.

Renovation of the Year 2023 Think Water Capes Region & Think Water Taranaki Yes, the workforce plays a significant role in the success of any business.

However, it's essential to acknowledge that a business's appearance and atmosphere can also impact where and how customers choose to spend their money. One of the advantages of being part of a national group is branding, so it's important that the brand reflects your identity, team, and the quality of advice, products, and services you offer to customers.

These changes often encompass areas such as:

When assessing the Finalists, we consider how Members have utilised NSO expertise during this process, including collaborations with partners like Visual Edge for design and the scope of substantial changes made.

This evaluation process helps us recognise and acknowledge Members who have excelled in their business operations while making effective use of NSO resources to enhance their brand and customer experience.

Flooring Construction Store planning guidelines External and internal signage Fixtures and gondola systems, both new and existing Warehousing strategies Layout and workflow improvements in the servicing department, and more.

A huge congratulations to Think Water Capes Region and Think Water Taranaki for being joint Winners of the 2023 Renovation of the Year award.

Both businesses moved into new buildings at the start of 2023 and have done a remarkable job of their renovations. Their stores have been carefully planned out, support the brand and provide a great experience for their customers.

Congratulations also to our Finalists - Think Water Wanneroo, Think Water Whitianga, Think Water Swan Hill, Think Water Orange, Think Water Toowoomba, and Think Water Plainland.

Think Tank 2023 | 24

Celebrating Excellence: Justin Wallace, New Member of the Year Think Water The Irrigation Shop At Think Water, we take immense pride in recognising and celebrating the achievements of our exceptional members. It is with great pleasure that we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Justin Wallace, who has not only made a significant impact within our network but has also achieved the remarkable title of "New Member of the Year."

with staff changes and weather events in SEQ which interrupted a busy list of projects.

Justin Wallace joined the Think Water family approximately 12 months ago, bringing with him a background in industrial water treatment and a passion for the industry. His store, Think Water The Irrigation Shop in South Brisbane, further developed new standards for sales, service, and customer satisfaction.

Justin was awarded "New Member of the Year" at our Singapore conference in August 2023. The award recognised his outstanding journey.

The journey to being named "New Member of the Year" was not an easy one in the beginning as he dealt

25 | Think Tank 2023

However Justin's dedication and commitment stood out and his thirst for knowledge and innovation, combined with a genuine love for serving his customers, made him a natural fit within our network.

Since joining the Think Water network, his store has consistently achieved targets, showcasing the tremendous potential he brings to the table. Justin's dedication to helping customers find the best solutions for their irrigation, pump, and water treatment needs has

earned him a loyal customer base and great reviews.

We are delighted to have Justin Wallace as a valued member of our Think Water family. His journey is a testament to the endless possibilities that lie ahead for those who are dedicated, innovative, and passionate about our industry. We look forward to witnessing Justin's continued success and celebrating many more milestones together.

Congratulations, Justin, on this well-deserved honor and achievement as "New Member of the Year." We eagerly anticipate the continued growth and success of Think Water The Irrigation Shop under your capable leadership.

Preferred Supplier Salesperson of the Year 2023 The Think Water partnership with our Preferred Suppliers and their teams is a critical part of our Think Water stores success.

The face of the Preferred Suppliers at our stores continues to be the Preferred Suppliers sales team.

Often referred to as Territory or Account Managers, these sales teams who are regularly in the stores, assisting with product training, quoting and overcoming logistics challenges are crucial to

our Think Water stores running smoothly.

Think Water recognizes how crucial these specialists are to our stores running smoothly and recognize the best in the industry each year.

All stores vote on their best Preferred Supplier Salesperson and give some detail on what makes their service the best, what their expertise is and what they are passionate about.

Judging this conference award is always a challenge with great service from Central Otago to Kununurra and we can never get down to one name however being nominated is an outstanding achievement.

Here is a list of the Think Water Preferred Supplier Salesperson 2023 Winners:

Congratulations to our Winners: Anje Duell - Water Supply Products Doug Goddard- Dolphin Pacific Darren Mason - Grundfos Jason Edwards - Grundfos Geoff Chaillion - HR Products

A Special Mention To Our Nominees: Doug Waugh - 43 South

Paul Morrison - Hydroflow

Peter Joens - Pipemakers

Maurice Bretherton - 43 South

Leonard Waldron - Iplex

Doug Flintoff - Puretec

Stephen Marley - AIP/Motion

Bill Cross - Karcher

Mark Langton - Puretec

Scott Tye - Davey

David Luff - Karcher

Frank Manikas - Vinidex

Brenton Burnett - Davey

Greg Stewart - Nelson

Ben Lee - WSP

Shaun Nicholls - Davey

Sean Hughes - Nelson

Iain Holdaway - WSP

Tim May - HR Products

John Poggiali - Netafim

Adrian Saville - HR Products

Scott Collie - Netafim

Darryl Wylie - HR Products

Justin Wise - Netafim

John Watmough - HR Products

Simon Mallouk - Norma

Peter French - HR Products

Pat Blayney - Orange Pumps

Dean Saville - Hydroflow

James Davey - Orange Pumps

That you to all Preferred Supplier Salesperson of The Year Winners and Nominees for your outstanding work in supporting our Think Water Members and customers.

Think Tank 2023 | 26

A Growing Network Welcoming our New Members 8 New Stores Blossom in the Think Water Network: Welcoming Our Growing Family of Store Owners!

Think Water Brown’s Pump Shop Charters Towers (QLD) Think Water welcomes new members Adam and Bonnie Black!

Adam Black has owned Browns Pump Shop Charters Towers since November 2021, prior to this he had his own contracting business, ByJingo Diesel Maintenance Services since June 2017.

Adam contracted his services to various mines in the Moranbah coal basin. Prior to this he managed a family Cattle Station.

Think Water Wanneroo (WA) Mal Brown, who previously spent three years with Think Water Perth, and John Watson opened a new store in Wanneroo, located just North of Perth WA. Before Think Water, Mal was General Manager with Lift Equipt, Managing Director with QA Group, General Manager of Total Eden/McCracken Group and General Manager with Philmac Pty Ltd. John Watson was a General Manager of Environmental Industries and previously was Coordinator, Parks 29 | Think Tank 2023

Adam’s partner, Bonnie and family (mother Jenny, father Dave and sister Louise) are active participants in the business which has a long standing and loyal customer base in the township of Charters Towers.

The area is prosperous and is in close proximity to many rural properties and substantial Agricultural and Mining Industry opportunities.

Whitsunday and Cairns stores.

Adam, Bonnie and Team joined Think Water in September 2022.

The establishment of a Charters Towers store in the central eastern area of Queensland is a significant benefit for Think Water and adds the regional link between the

Contracts and Maintenance with City of Wanneroo for 10 years. Prior to this Self-employed as a Consultant in Arboriculture, Horticulture and Land Management.

John and Mal see numerous development opportunities in northern Perth.

The City of Wanneroo has 70,200 residential dwellings, the City of Swan has 54,000, and the City of Joondalup has 49,500 with gardens and lawns.

Ongoing subdivisions and urban planning will likely drive substantial growth in the next two to five years.

The area also hosts over 13,500

commercial businesses. The City of Wanneroo expects an annual residential growth of about 2,475 homes over the next decade.

Mal Brown and John Watson joined Think Water in January 2023

Think Water Orange (NSW) Rex and Lucy Wilson together are shareholders and directors of TWS Evolution. Rex has been at the helm of TWS (formerly Ted Wilson and Sons) for over 30 years and is a Certified Irrigation designer, Civil works Project Manager, and has a wealth of knowledge and experience in the water industry from many years of hands-on work.

While TWS is based 37 kms down the road in Blayney, Lucy & Rex recognised the opportunity of opening a Think water Store in Orange servicing a key agricultural and population hub.

Orange is located in the Central West region of NSW, known for its fertile soils and cool climate, particularly suitable for agriculture and viticulture.

Lucy has a BA in Business and Marketing, BA in Nursing and is a Registered Nurse and has a Certificate IV in WHS.

The population comprises a mix of local residents, farmers, viticulturists, horticulturists, and individuals involved in various

Think Water Plainland (QLD)

design and concept through to completion and handover. His experience includes retail management which led him to the objective to start his own business.

Like our recent store launches in Orange and Toowoomba, Plainland is a new Greenfield site which will service the Lockyer Valley region and its growing market.

New Members Matt and Kathleen Thompson have outstanding experience within the Pump and Irrigation Industry and business administration.

Matthew is a greenkeeper by trade and recently held roles within the Industry overseeing major turf management and Irrigation projects and liaising with customers from

Think Water Toowoomba (QLD) Like our recent Think Water Orange launch, Toowoomba is a new Greenfield site which will service Darling Downs region and its growing market.

New Members Kane Adamson and Libby Skewes already have successful business experience in the local market.

In 2010, Kane started ST8 Wide Electrical in Toowoomba and from humble beginnings, grew the business into a cutting-edge electrical solutions provider with a team of 7 electricians. Installing and

Matt's knowledge in the field and in retail of irrigation, pumps and pool servicing is significant and he will look to draw on this knowledge with the startup of Think Water Plainland.

agricultural endeavours.

Key industries in the region include wine production, apple orchards, sheep farming, and tourism.

Rex and Lucy Wilson joined Think Water in February 2023

administration side of Think Water Plainland using Microsoft Office products and accounting software.

Matt and Kathleen Thompson joined Think Water in April 2023.

Kathleen has worked in early childhood for the past 22 years in various roles from centre support and compliance to her current position as Centre Manager for the past 2 years. Kathleen has gained the skills required to operate the

servicing pumps has been part of Kane’s business offer at ST8 Wide for over 10 years and he has a strong passion and interest in the agricultural industry servicing the Darling Downs and beyond.

During that time Kane’s partner Libby Skewes has managed all administration matters including accounts and payroll. In 2017 they joined a “CFO Now Program” with their accountant which provided them with significant knowledge in the operation of a successful business.

Kane Adamson and Libby Skewes joined Think Water in April 2023.

Think Tank 2023 | 30

Think Water NQ Water Mackay (QLD) Anthony Kliese has been in the Pump Irrigation Industry for over 28 years in Mackay. He previously had sales and management roles with Agnew Pumping, Lama Irrigation and T&I Pumping and Irrigation. In 2006 Anthony and his business partner Chris Manera opened NQ Water Services and purchased T&I Pump & Irrigation and incorporated this business into NQ Water Services. Anthony has successfully operated NQ Water as a Director for 16 years.

General Manager, Laeith Skinner

Think Water Canterbury/Tai Tapu Andy and Sam Broomhill have been operating as Directors for Think Water Canterbury (Leeston) for over 10 years and are highly experienced in operational sales distribution, installation and maintenance of water products.

Andy manages the retail, operations and procurement side of our business of the current Think Water Canterbury (Leeston) business. Sam looks after the sales and the design team for large projects along with business development.

has been in the role for the NQ Water Group for just over 12 months. Laeith’s responsibilities include growth and improvement strategies for the NQ Water and their PoolSmartz business which supports the industrial, mining, agricultural and domestic sectors.

Prior to this Laeith held senior management roles at Komatsu Mining Corp and ESCO Corporation.

retail turnover levels in the short term with measurable growth in the projects division over the next 2–3 years. Growth in the project division provides downstream growth opportunities for the service divisions of Think Water. There are 232 farms is proximity to Tai Tapu and within the Lincoln region there is 2309 residents with a new subdivision of 650 section staged over the next 5 years.

Their clear objective is to increase

Think Water Nelson

Conference in Singapore.

All Think Water Members are encouraged to expand their own footprint through Multi Store (Stores located outside their Territory) or Satellite Stores (Stores located within their Territory).

Their grand opening ran over two days, commencing on Friday with a Tradie's Breakfast and Saturday targeting the general public. Both days were very well supported by our Preferred Suppliers and the new store looks fantastic!

This is a double celebration, as they recently won our Rising Star Award at our Think Water Annual 31 | Think Tank 2023

Anthony Kliese and the NQ Mackay Team joined Think Water in April 2023.

The Mackay Regional Local Government Area is one of the fastest - growing in Queensland, with a population of over 120,000.

The region’s growth is fuelled by strong activity in the resources

Other opportunities are to grow and cross sell to existing clients, increase project leads at a value of over $1,500.00, build overall brand awareness of Think Water & Husqvarna inside zone, grow their

Phil and Tracy have a proven and sound business track record at Think Water Tasman Bay and have seized the opportunity to organically grow their business via Satellite Store expansion.

sector, resurgence in agribusiness, and growth in construction, logistics and tourism. The Mackay region is the gateway to the rich coal deposits in the Bowen and Galilee Basins.

Think Water enthusiastically welcomes the launch of Think Water Nelson into our Member Network, and we look forward to supporting and assisting Phil and Tracy with the establishment of their outstanding store.

Phil Collins and Tracy Spark opened

service and maintenance and capture the client base travelling to Hornby for their retail needs.

Andy and Sam Broomhill opened their Satellite store in Tai Tapu on the 12th of August 2023

their Satellite store in Nelson on the 1st September 2023.

62 Stores Across Australia & New Zealand

Think Safety - Think Water Adelaide achieve ISO Standard Think Water Adelaide has recently achieved their ISO 45001:2018 ‘Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems’ standard, the first in the Think Water Group across Australia and NZ to do so.

Therefore, we thought it would be a suitable time to discuss with Kylie the benefits of achieving this level of recognition in the H & S Realm.

How does a comprehensive H&S system contribute to the overall productivity and efficiency of the Think Water Adelaide team?

Providing a safe working environment creates an atmosphere where staff feel they work in an organisation that is caring, fair and safe.

Providing clear, safe procedures and policies reduces the risk of injury to workers and ultimately protects the company against potential lawsuits.

Spending the time and resources upfront can prevent costly accidents and illnesses from occurring. A culture of continuous improvement fostered by regular monitoring and evaluation drives overall efficiency and innovation.

Can you highlight any financial benefits, such as reduced insurance premiums or fewer legal disputes associated with a well-established H&S system?

Unfortunately, ISO Certification is not recognised by our state Return to Work Scheme and therefore there are not financial benefits regarding insurance premiums.

However, having a robust WHS system reduces the risk of making claims that result in increased premiums in future years.

How does a good H&S system foster a positive organisational culture and enhance employee morale and satisfaction?

This is probably one of the biggest hurdles in any organisation, but if you have leadership’s 100% commitment behind safety, it makes implementation of the safety plan much easier. Monkey see, Monkey do!! We talk about safety all the time, so it has become part of our “language” and it’s not looked upon as “annoying”.

As serious as safety is, we try and incorporate humour and fun into the program for example we have created an animated induction video with all staff represented as characters to make the induction feel more relevant and inclusive.

We have introduced fun safety activities such as placing safety wordfinders/crosswords on the table for staff to complete as they walk past.

People tend to remember things if they are explained in a fun manner.

We foster a ‘no blame/no name” culture when discussing incidents/accidents at our regular production meetings. We also encourage employees, regardless of position in the company, to call “STOP WORK” at any time they feel their or their colleague’s safety is at risk.

In what ways can a reliable H&S system aid in identifying potential hazards proactively and mitigate risks before they lead to incidents or accidents?

A reliable health and safety system proactively identifies and mitigates

hazards through risk assessments, safety audits and employee training. Regular risk assessments evaluate processes and environments while audits and inspections catch issues early.

Employee training empowers workers to recognise and address risks. Incident reporting systems encourage employees to report potential hazards and near misses fostering a proactive safety culture.

By implementing elements into health and safety we can detect potential hazards early, assess risks and take preventative actions reducing the likelihood of incidents and accidents in the workplace.

How does investing in a robust H&S system result in long-term savings and benefits for the company, even when considering the initial setup and maintenance costs?

Investing in a comprehensive workplace health and safety (WHS) system entails more than just financial and time investments; it also requires dedication and a positive outlook. When everyone is fully committed to promoting a secure work environment, it will lead to a decrease in work-related injuries and illnesses among the team. This in turn enhances employee morale and leads to cost savings due to reduced instances of lost workdays and lower medical expenses associated with workplace accidents.

A comprehensive H&S System is an invaluable investment in Think Water Adelaide’s well-being, motivating our team, reducing costs, and promoting efficient operations, resulting in increased productivity and efficiency.

Think Smarter with

Thanks to

Our new National Marketing Campaign focusing on Smart Irrigation.

We are running a new Smart Irrigation campaign across Australia and New Zealand. The ads focus on the lifestyle benefits of Smart Irrigation and are not product or brand specific.

The campaign is running on Facebook, Instagram, Google and through local and national email campaigns. We have already seen a good number of leads come through the funnel since its activation on 10th August 2023.

The ad features a series of images of fictional characters Jim and Jan enjoying their weekends doing things they love, such as playing golf or tanning by the pool, now that they do not have to manually water their gardens.

Campaign Objective

The objective of the campaign is to collect residential irrigation leads for our stores across AU & NZ and position the Think Water brand as a leader in water-efficient and sustainable solutions.

+7,000 Views per day on Google searches

171%

3 Million+

Increase in Facebook page reach vs June 2022

Est. viewers on The Block 2022, where we ran 480 ads

119% Increase in Linkedin Followers since Aug 22

Our Boost in Brand Awareness 2022-2023

264.92%

Increase in traffic from Paid Search (YonY)

6.98 Million Impressions on Facebook & Instagram in last 6 months Think Tank 2023 | 34

Building Success Together: Think Water's Partnership with Puretec Customer Service and Technical Support is a key focus for our 2023 Australian Preferred Supplier of the Year Winners.

At Puretec, having exceptional quality products for Think Water stores to sell is one of our biggest focuses, but not our only one.

Customer Service & technical support is part of our DNA and with a team of 30+ people, we are wellpositioned to support you when you need us.

“The relationship we have established with Puretec in this time is more than just buy and sell.

They want us to succeed and grow our business.”

Puretec provides guidance for stock volumes, putting in place the right water filters that are ready-to-sell, eliminating losing sales due to lack of stock and ensuring key items are plentiful.

“The dealings with Puretec as a whole, have been a privilege from the get-go, with Dustin our sales rep going above and beyond to ensure our new shop is given every opportunity to make the most of all that Puretec has to offer.”

Don’t just take our word for it, here are some testimonials from just a few recent experiences with the Puretec team…

“Think Water Orange opened in February 2023 and the support that we have received from the Puretec Group has been excellent. From the display set up in-store by our Rep Brandon, to over-the-phone advice from the customer care team and the technical information from the Water Treatment Team – we have had them supporting us 100%.”

35 | Think Tank 2023

Lucy Wilson - Business Manager, Think Water Orange

“The overwhelming support from Puretec as a whole has been a major contributing factor to the success of my store opening and I am sure will be a major factor in the continued growth of both Think Water Plainland and Puretec as a whole.”

Matthew Thompson - General Manager, Think Water Plainland “The new Think Water Wanneroo store opened its doors in late

February 2023. Our strategy to have quality, smart and user-friendly products and layouts drove us to only stock, what we believed were market-leading brands. So, when it came to home filtration, we had no hesitation in choosing Puretec.”

Mal Brown – Director/Owner, Think Water Wanneroo The long-term goal here is to perfect Puretec products and offerings, evolving to suit your business needs as you grow and offer a helping hand in developing your store to its full potential.

Ultimately ensuring everyone has access to safe & clean water, sustainably!

Introducing Smart Loyalty

A new customer loyalty program for our Members At our recent annual conference in Singapore, Think Water launched a new partnership for our members with Smart Loyalty to be the preferred partner in their SmartTrade loyalty program in the water segment in both Australia and New Zealand.

Research underscores the value of loyalty programs for B2B clients, focusing on building and sustaining strong client relationships to ensure ongoing support. These programs boost customer retention, a more cost-effective approach than continually acquiring new clients.

Formed in 1997, Smart Loyalty is a premier loyalty and rewards company, specialising in businessto-business and employee incentive programmes.

Smart Loyalty specialise in delivering loyalty programs including programme consultation & development, implementation, marketing and account management services, successfully delivering customised and coalition loyalty programmes on behalf of 600 partner businesses and to over 25,000 members (small to medium sized businesses) throughout New Zealand and Australia.

By implementing initiatives that encourage higher spending and frequent purchases, businesses can enhance revenue from loyal B2B customers who are incentivised by discounts and exclusive perks.

These satisfied clients can also serve as brand advocates, particularly valuable in competitive industries.

Loyalty programs differentiate businesses and can sway clients in choosing preferred suppliers or partners. They provide valuable insights into customer preferences and behaviours, supporting

Enhanced Customer Retention Competitive Differentiation Data Insights Marketing Opportunities H2Go Implementation 37 | Think Tank 2023

personalised marketing and product development.

Long-term relationships fostered through loyalty programs can lead to extended contracts and collaborations. Lower marketing costs for loyal customers enable businesses to allocate resources for more impactful efforts. Think Water Members can offer the program to select customers and integrate it with their software platform H2Go, streamlining data management.

Loyalty programs for business clients are a cost-effective strategy that drives revenue, builds relationships, and strengthens market positioning.

Exciting developments await Think Water and SmartTrade!

Sustainability at Philmac Philmac is a member of the Aliaxis Group of Companies that share a commitment to sustainability and a vision of having a positive impact on the planet by bringing solutions to the world’s water and energy challenges and accelerating the transition to clean energy.

Sustainability is at the forefront of Philmac's business operations, extending from fundamental aspects like health and safety to wider social and environmental impacts.

Philmac has taken a leading role in reducing carbon emissions, conserving water, and reducing waste in its plant, with a 2025 commitment that includes generating and using 100% renewable energy, reducing water consumption in its operations by 50%, and diverting 100% of all waste produced from landfill.

In 2022, Philmac installed a 504kilowatt solar system (1,155 solar panels), producing around 2,000 kWh/day, which is enough to power approximately 100 large Australian houses.

A further, 493 KW is scheduled to be installed in 2024 on the remaining buildings and the new northern extension, and another 120 KW will be added in 2025 to the new warehouse that is being constructed as part of the Factory of the Future project.

These installations will provide Philmac with a 1,113 KW solar system, generating approximately 4,400 kWh/day.

Philmac has also made significant strides in reducing water consumption, upgrading its infrastructure and processes, and in

investing in water-saving technology. These efforts have reduced water consumption by approximately 55% since 2021, well ahead of its 2025 target, with the implementation of projects like a new closed-loop cooling system.

This system not only saves water but also contributes to improved moulding processes.

Since 2021, Philmac has reduced the amount of waste that leaves its site by 70%.

Through strategic partnerships with waste management suppliers, 99.47% of the remaining waste is diverted from landfills.

Stay tuned for more exciting sustainability initiatives at Philmac as we continue our journey to net zero.

Does your water taste funny?

Scan here to learn how our stores can help treat your tap water

Introducing Toro Tempus® Ag – a new wireless central control solution.

No Wires. No Waste. No Effort.

Toro recently launched the Tempus® Ag irrigation control system, offering central control for battery controllers.

Traditional wired irrigation is expensive, complex and offers very basic controls. Toro Tempus Ag is a totally wireless, affordable and battery-operated centralised solution to manage your customers irrigation needs.

Tempus Ag has near unlimited potential and can be used across various sectors, including municipalities, agriculture, sports grounds and golf courses. Gain complete remote control over irrigation, pumps, sensors, fertigation and tank fill, amongst many other applications.

“Using an intuitive app and desktop platform, users can manage their system remotely. The platform allows you to have instant access to every controller, valve and sensor,

39 | Think Tank 2023

so scheduling, monitoring and control is easier than ever. Users are alerted immediately if any issues occur anywhere in the system through push notifications on their device”, says Hamish Lloyd, Irrigation Product Manager at Toro Australia.

In the field, direct access to the gateway/modules can be done via Bluetooth® for quick manual operations.

Gone are the days where your customer would have had to drive to remote sites to turn off battery controllers, with Tempus Ag this can all be done from the office with the press of a button.

Hamish explains how Tempus Ag works: “This system uses LoRa (Long Range) radio technology to allow 'gateways' and modules in the field to communicate with each other. The gateways are a crucial part of every Tempus Ag system.

They work by creating a LoRa 'bubble', where Tempus Ag modules

such as controllers, master valves and multi sensors can be linked to the gateway, up to 800m away. More modules can be added to cover an almost limitless area.”

As all modules are battery powered there is no need for wiring and the system is easy to install – saving valuable time and money.

Hamish says that systems have recently been installed in council areas, vineyards and golf courses.

Unleash the Power of Partnership!

Introducing the Think Water Mentors Program Exciting times are ahead as we embark on a journey to strengthen our network and expand our horizons.

We are thrilled to introduce the Think Water Mentors Program, a groundbreaking initiative that will revolutionise the way we grow our business and create opportunities like never before.

As the Head of Network Development, I have had the privilege of witnessing the incredible potential within our Think Water community. Our 60+ stores across Australia and New Zealand have shown unwavering dedication to serving the livestock, agricultural, and horticultural industries.

However, we believe it's time to take our growth to new heights, and we need YOUR help to make it happen.

The Think Water Mentors Program is designed to bring together the dynamic forces of experience, time, energy, and capital. Here's how it works: Mentors with Capital: Some of our existing Think Water

Members have the financial resources to invest in new stores but are constrained by time and energy.

They can now become mentors, offering their invaluable capital to budding entrepreneurs.

Young Mobile Operators: We frequently receive inquiries from young, experienced mobile operators who are eager to establish their own retail outlets but lack the necessary capital. These aspiring entrepreneurs can join the program to access the resources they need.

Benefits of the Mentors Program:

Think

Water

Accelerated Growth: Expand our network faster and further than ever before.

Risk Mitigation: Spread the financial risk while leveraging the skills and experience of both parties.

Knowledge Transfer: Seasoned members can share their industry wisdom with new talents, fostering innovation and excellence.

Partner up with an aspiring entrepreneur to open your next Think Water store!

Scan the QR code to register your interest.

Profitability: Increase the profitability of existing stores by diversifying your investments.

Community Building: Strengthen the Think Water family and create lasting partnerships.

We are thrilled to announce that the Think Water Mentors Program is now officially live and ready for action! If you would like to find out more please scan the QR code below to register your interest, or contact me directly.

Together, we can achieve remarkable success and take Think Water to new heights. Let's embrace this opportunity and build a future that's even brighter for all of us.

Thank you for being part of the Think Water journey. Exciting times are ahead!

Warm regards, Pat Mulcahy Head of Network Development Think Water Australia and New Zealand

Financial Funding for your business A Guide For Think Water Members from our new Funding Partner Whether you are just starting with your first franchise or planning for growth, Think Water has teamed up with finance experts Swoop to make your life easier.

Six Typical Types of Finance There are many different finance options available for Think Water Members and Prospective members in Australia and New Zealand.

Swoop’s expert team will be able to guide and assist you through all of them!

Here are six of the most common options: Asset Finance - Loans for buying items such as equipment and vehicles.

Working Capital Finance - shortterm loan to help with cashflow.

Green Field Site Funding Funding for the establishment of a new business premises e.g.

Satellite or Multi store expansion.

Start- Up Finance - Loans to cover the start-up costs for a new business e.g. Start-up Stock.

Existing Business Loan - This loan is used to cover the cost of buying an existing business.

Commercial Refinance Refinance all loans into one with the objective of lower rates or longer terms.

Getting started with Swoop couldn’t be simpler.

How much does it cost? - Paid by the lenders and therefore does not charge customers fees.

What is the range of lenders? All the major banks, challenger banks and fintech lenders.

How long are offers valid for? The length of an offer will vary depending on the Lender.

What documents will I need to provide for finance? Bank

details, proof of identity and other relevant documentation.

How long does it take to process funding? - Varies, but it can be as fast as 48hours for some lenders.

Do I need to provide personal guarantees or be a homeowner – Members can discuss this with their Funding Manager to ensure that they are only taking on risks with which they are comfortable.

What do I need prepared? - Bank statements, I.D, financial documents, Franchise Agreement and a breakdown of your funding requirements.

What support does Swoop offer?

- Swoop will have a funding manager assigned to each customer.

Scan Here to learn more:

Recycling program a ‘no-brainer’ for old orchard poly dripperline.

Netafim Recoil Recycling Program Piles of old poly and dripperline for years have been an all-too-familiar sight in the horticulture industry, however it’s good to see the growing focus on sustainability is also targeting this area and we are pleased various operators are taking up our recycling option to assist this.

again last year, on the way to expanding to a 450ha capacity. The pistachio trees produce a solid harvest from around six to seven years-of-age and mature yields from the age of 12.

The Netafim Recoil recycling program incorporates hire of a Netafim Recoil machine for a fee of $100 per day, which recoils poly or dripperline into dense, donutshaped bundles, and transport to our recycling partners. The high quality recycled resin, if suitable, is used in the production of our ‘Regen’ irrigation products as part of a closed-loop manufacturing system, or by other manufacturers of plastic products, providing a circular economy model to tackle unwanted plastic accumulating in the landscape.

Kyalite Pistachios earlier last year was converting a final area of undertree sprinkler irrigation to dripperline and when it was considering a sustainable solution for its disposal, Netafim’s recovery and recycling program largely became a “no-brainer’’.

The conversion amounted to 230 kilometres of old 19-millimetre poly to be disposed of – in 12 days – and this was added to another 50km of poly and 20km of dripperline stored on the property from earlier conversions. It all added up to 27 tonnes.

Kyalite Pistachios, Southern NSW

The orchard converted to a complete Netafim dripperline and fertigation system, including filtration and irrigation control, matching the dripperline used across the remainder of the property. It delivers 12 to 14 megalitres/ha over a season to the pistachios, incorporating daily irrigation and fertigation over summer.

Sunraysia,

Kyalite Pistachios has a 400-hectare orchard near Kyalite, which is situated on the southern New South Wales border near Tooleybuc and south of Balranald.

Plantings at the ‘Rivernook’ orchard commenced from the mid-80s, with later significant developments occurring over 2006-07, in 2016 and

43 | Think Tank 2023

Irrigation Conversion

Recycled Resin The recycled resin from Kyalite

Pistachios’ old poly and dripperline was earmarked for plastics manufacturers. The orchard team always wanted to do something linked with recycling for the old poly and dripperline, but previously it saw no easy option to get it off-farm.

They now feel very positive to be “doing the right thing’’ and planning a sustainability pathway.

They recognised the Netafim Recoil program was the leading solution.

Without it, they were going to be faced with hiring or building a machine to help dispose of the poly and dripperline that they know would have sat in the shed, as well as finding a recycler in the market and paying for freighting it off-farm.

Netafim Recoil Machines Kyalite Pistachios liked the fact the machines are purpose-built and come complete with guards and procedures to follow, easing its concerns with operators.

The machines are based in areas where there is high demand for the service across Australia and they are available to hire through approved Netafim resellers. We also track all consignments and recycling outcomes, culminating in a credible Certificate of Recycling for service users.

New Faces at the NSO Jeff Miaga | Finance Manager Jeff joined as the first member of our Cebu based team and has over 10 years' experience in accounting, auditing and financial planning. He also has a Bachelors of Science in Management Accounting at University of San Carlos.

Jeff is based in our Cebu (Philippines) office along with Maribeth and Jai. Before joining the team in September 2022, he worked in Banking.

Andrew Rathjen | AU Operations Manager Andrew Rathjen brings a wealth of knowledge to our group and previously worked for Davey and Grundfos. He managed the 'Acqua by Davey' business before joining the Think Water family in April 2023.

Based in Melbourne, Andrew looks after our Think Water stores in Victoria, New South Wales, Tasmania and South Australia.

Maribeth Dapiton | H2Go IT Support Maribeth joins our NSO team as a dedicated H2Go I.T. Support person for the Think Water group. Her focus is to assist Members with implementing the H2Go ERP software into their businesses and to work on enhancements that will benefit the users.

Maribeth, who joined the team in August 2023, has a Bachelor of Science degree in Information and Computer Science at Cebu institute of Technology and has 15 years' experience of I.T. Technical Support.

Jai Impas | Marketing Support Marketing support professionals are the behind-the-scenes heroes who play a critical role in ensuring the success of marketing initiatives, and Jai Impas exemplifies this role with dedication and expertise.

With an eye for aesthetics and a knack for turning ideas into stunning visuals, Jai has found Canva to be her go-to tool for all things design. Jai graduated Bachelor of Science in Business Administration majoring in Marketing Management from the University of San Carlos and has been in the industry since 2018. She was a Senior Ecommerce Specialist before joining Think Water in August 2023.

Geoff Harvey | AU Operations Manager Geoff, who starts in November 2023, joins the team as our newest Operations Manager.

He brings over 30 years of experience in the irrigation industry to Think Water, having held senior positions at Tyco, Davey, and Irrigation Australia.

We are thrilled to welcome Geoff to the Think Water team. His extensive experience and deep knowledge of the irrigation industry will be a valuable asset to our Members and our customers alike.

Think Tank 2023 | 44

H2Go Update Software Evolution: Think Water’s new H2Go Support Evolution has been a cornerstone of Think Water and our continued search to deliver more value to our Think Water Members each year.

however the H2Go process has been particularly successful compared to other Franchisors considering our limited budget and resources.

Several years ago, we identified there was minimal choice for ERP business systems, capable of handling the diversity challenges of our varied Think Water businesses.

H2Go is offered to any Think Water Member with the only cost being the base software’s subscription and the hourly rate of our software partner to install and train each user.

This compelled us to search for our own ERP system and only five years later we developed and released Think Water’s H2Go which will be used in over half the Think Water businesses by the end of the year.

Continuing our evolution, a little over a year ago Think Water took our own resource challenge head on by starting our first Philippines based support role in the city of Cebu. 12 months later we have grown our Cebu team to four staff with our latest employee Beth Dapiton taking on a new role of H2Go software

Developing a customised software is pretty standard for a franchisor,

development and support.

Beth’s focus is on the development and evolution of H2Go, to meet the developing needs of our stores into the future and assisting Members with implementation.

While the investment of the software has been funded by Think Water, our stores can utilise Beth’s assistance in implementing H2Go into their business at a heavily discounted hourly rate, continuing to add value to our Think Water Members.

Solutions Workshop How can I compete with online businesses and oneman bands?

Competing with online businesses and one-man bands can be challenging, but with a strategic approach and a focus on your unique strengths, you can carve out a successful position in the market.

How can I retain good staff members?

How do I create a good team culture?

Retaining good staff is crucial for the long-term success and stability of any organisation.

Define Values and Mission: Clearly state your business values and mission. Make sure everyone knows how their roles support these goals.

Identify Your Niche: Target a niche aligned with your expertise and passion for specialised offerings.

Offer Competitive Compensation and Benefits: Ensure fair pay and benefits.

Regularly review salaries and consider offering packages like health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and performance bonuses.

Quality and Personalisation: Prioritise quality and personalisation for a unique edge.

Provide Career Growth: Invest in employee growth through training, workshops, and mentorship.

Build a Strong Brand: Invest in a compelling brand identity that resonates with your audience.

Recognise Achievements: Appreciate accomplishments with praise, recognition, awards, or incentives.

Customer Service: Deliver exceptional service by being responsive, efficient, and customercentric.

Embrace Technology: Utilise tech for efficient operations, a strong online presence, and improved customer reach.

Promote Work-Life Balance: Support work-life balance with flexible hours and remote options for better employee well-being.

Lead by Example: As a leader, embody the values and behaviours you expect from your team. Demonstrate professionalism, integrity, and hard work.

Encourage Communication: Promote open and transparent communication. Urge team members to share ideas, concerns, and feedback.

Hold regular team meetings for discussions.

Foster Collaboration: Support teamwork and collaboration.

Create opportunities for crossfunctional projects to boost communication and problem-solving.

Reward Achievements: Recognise individual and team achievements. Celebrate successes publicly and consider rewards to motivate outstanding performance.

Working out what enquiry to chase, and what to let go.

Deciding which enquiries to chase and which ones to let go of is a crucial aspect of time management and resource allocation for any business.

Determining the right market diversification for my business.

To choose the right market diversification, assess your current market and its dynamics.

Here are some steps to help you determine which enquiries are worth pursuing and which ones you should prioritise or let go:

Conduct research on potential new markets that align with your strengths, capabilities, and resources, considering factors like size, growth, and competition.

Clearly Define Your Ideal Customer Profile

Evaluate Your Current Market

Assess Potential Value Qualify Leads Consider Fit with Your Business

Conduct Market Research Assess Market Fit Analyse Competitors

Assess Urgency and Timeline

Recruiting the right people for my business.

Recruiting effectively involves several key steps.

Begin by defining the job requirements clearly to attract candidates with the necessary skills.

Craft an enticing job description highlighting opportunities and benefits.

Use diverse recruitment channels, including online platforms, referrals, and internal candidates. Implement pre-screening methods like resume reviews and phone interviews.

Conduct structured interviews with standardised questions to assess candidates consistently and evaluate cultural fit for long-term success.

What does Health & Safety ‘Best Practice’ look like?

H&S (Health and Safety) 'Best Practice' refers to the highest standard of health and safety management that organisations strive to achieve to protect the well-being of their employees, customers, and the public. It involves implementing effective policies, procedures, and practices to prevent accidents, injuries, and illnesses in the workplace.

Here are some key components of H&S Best Practice: Leadership and Commitment: The organisation's leadership plays a crucial role in promoting a strong safety culture. Senior management should demonstrate a genuine commitment to health and safety by providing adequate resources, setting clear safety objectives, and leading by example.

Risk Assessment and Hazard Identification: Conduct thorough risk assessments to identify workplace hazards and assess potential risks. Implement measures to control and mitigate identified risks, ensuring a safe working environment.

Employee Involvement and Training: Involve employees in health and safety decision-making. Provide comprehensive training to employees to ensure they understand the risks associated with their roles and know how to perform tasks safely.

Written Policies and Procedures: Establish clear and well-documented health and safety policies and procedures. These should cover various aspects such as emergency response, accident reporting, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and safe work practices.

Regular Safety Inspections and Audits: Conduct regular safety inspections and audits to identify potential issues and ensure compliance with safety protocols.

Promptly address any deficiencies found during these assessments.

Think Tank 2023 | 48

Iplex, your partner in water solutions.

With more than 85 years’ experience, Iplex has established itself as a leading provider of water solutions in Australia.

Iplex’s commitment to collaboration, expertise and innovation have made them a trusted partner with water authorities and within civil, irrigation and plumbing markets.

The innovative design of BlackMAX features a smooth inner bore and corrugated outer wall, optimising hydraulic performance whilst maintaining structural integrity, making BlackMAX a preferred draining solution for applications such as stormwater drainage, low head irrigation, gravity sewer mains and stormwater retention systems.

Iplex has positioned itself at the forefront of pipeline innovation.

Their product portfolio is a testament to their dedication of advanced solutions that enhance performance, durability, and efficiency.

Acknowledging that effective water management requires advanced digital and design technology, Iplex are continuously investing in advanced digital tools to enhance the value they deliver to their customers.

One such innovation is BlackMAX®.

Offering exceptional hydraulic and structural performance, BlackMAX is recognised for its reliability and durability compared with other conventional drainage pipes.

Iplex Connect® is a dedicated customer portal which grants customers 24/7 access to their important information including quotes, accounts, and real-time stock availability.

Manufactured from polypropylene, these lightweight pipes can be easily manoeuvred in confined areas by hand or with light lifting equipment.

Their resistance to corrosive and aggressive ground conditions ensures years of corrosion-free service.

Placing great emphasis on engineering design and support tools, Iplex’s Pocket ENGINEER® is a web-based portal where registered users can access free of charge reference data and engineering tools relevant to the design of plastic pipelines.

49 | Think Tank 2023

The recent introduction of the hydraulic design tool allows users to accurately determine flow rates and velocities, explore multiple installation options and model various scenarios based on their pipeline design requirements. The result is a streamlined design process, which enables efficient decision-making and, implementation.

Iplex offers a comprehensive suite of solutions that address the diverse water needs of the nation. With its digital and design tools, culture of innovation and service and support excellence, Iplex is focused on delivering efficient water management solutions to solve Australia’s water challenges.

For further information contact the Iplex team. 1300 047 539 or iplex.com.au

Empowering Australian Farms with Grundfos Solar Connect Grundfos Solar Connect is revolutionising water management for Australian farmers.

In countries where water is a lifeline for the vital livestock farming industry, Grundfos has partnered with Myriota to launch this innovative range of solar-powered water pumps, marking a new era in remote water monitoring.

Grundfos Pumps has been a leader in Australia's water solutions industry, consistently delivering quality pumps to meet diverse water needs.

Their commitment to addressing global water and climate challenges has positioned them as leaders in water utility, treatment, and more.

Livestock farmers in Australia face a significant challenge in managing water resources. Grundfos Solar Connect offers a simple and effective solution with satelliteconnected sensors and solarpowered pumps.

It enables remote monitoring of 51 | Think Tank 2023

water pumps and tanks, allowing farmers to track water levels in real-time through a mobile app. This data provides crucial information on pump status and issues alerts for maintenance or low water supply.

addressing agricultural challenges.

What sets Grundfos Solar Connect apart is its low maintenance and easy installation. The sensors on the solar-powered pumps have an impressive battery life of up to two years, offering daily updates on just two AA batteries.

It's a shining example of how technology can improve lives and protect our most precious resourcewater.

With daily updates, these sensors can last over seven years on one set of batteries, reducing concerns about upkeep.

Sam Ryder, Area Managing Director of Water Utility at Grundfos Australia, highlights that solar water pumps are already cost-effective off-grid solutions. This partnership takes it a step further by providing essential data for efficient daily operations, harnessing renewable energy for water management.

Grundfos Solar Connect isn't just a product; it's an innovation

It reduces the time fuel, and labour needed for water pump monitoring, promoting sustainable farming practices.

For more information about the Grundfos Solar Connect, scan the QR code below:

The key to selling Flexibore – understand it!

As shop owners, you all know the key to successful selling involves many important factors.

Understanding the customer and building rapport are essential, as are product knowledge, effective communication, handling objections, and persistence in closing the deal.

Neither one is more important than the other; however, you may realise extra support with one of the selling elements can be helpful.

Flexibore®, the flexible rising main, has converted many poly pipe users over the years with its ease of installation. However, many more drilling companies and end-users have yet to experience the timesaving and money-saving features of installing Flexibore® for groundwater pumping. In our years of speaking to Think Water members as a preferred supplier, we believe improved product knowledge will ultimately lead to sales success.

Customer education is vital.

Educating customers about Flexibore’s benefits and how it can

solve their problems is part of the sales process. Product knowledge allows you to do this effectively.

Improved product knowledge will help with matching solutions to needs. With a deep understanding of Flexibore, you can better match it to your customer's specific needs and pain points, increasing the chances of a successful sale.

Handling objections will become easier.

When you understand Flexibore’s strengths, e.g., time efficiency, and weaknesses, e.g., price point, you can effectively anticipate and address customer objections. This can help overcome resistance and hesitations.

Product knowledge allows you to tailor your sales pitch to individual customers, highlighting aspects of Flexibore that are most relevant to their situation.

In addition, when you know our Flexibore product range well, you can identify opportunities to cross-

sell or upsell additional products or services to existing customers.

A solid understanding of Flexibore gives you confidence in your role as a salesperson and portrays professionalism, which customers appreciate.

In a competitive market, product knowledge can set you apart from competitors who may not be as wellinformed, helping you win more deals.

Crusader Hose has created new and updated existing Flexibore® 100 resources to support Think Water members. These include a new Flexibore 100 System & Training User Guide access via QR code, and a new Flexibore 100 Product video and Flexibore 100 & Accessories Product Overview accessible via our website www.crusaderhose.com.au.

We trust you'll find the new material helpful and bring more sales across the line.

Unlocking Sustainable Agriculture Insights from the National Renewable Energy in Agriculture Conference The National Renewable Energy in Agriculture Conference held in Dubbo was a dynamic forum that explored the intersection of renewable energy and agriculture.

Over the course of several intensive sessions, participants gained valuable insights into how environmental, social, and governance (ESG) plans are reshaping the agricultural landscape, the role of energyefficient systems, and the potential of energy storage solutions. This report presents a distilled overview of the key takeaways from the conference.

One of the central themes of the conference was the growing significance of ESG plans for agricultural businesses.

These plans, encompassing Environmental, Social, and Governance considerations, are now seen as more than just corporate checkboxes; they are catalysts for innovation and growth. Banks and downstream customers increasingly view ESG-compliant businesses as partners in creating sustainable opportunities.

ESG plans encourage the adoption of energy-saving practices, utilization of renewable energy sources, and the implementation of energy storage systems. These components align with broader sustainability goals and are becoming vital for attracting financial support and partnerships.

The practical implications are clear: agricultural

enterprises are incentivized to embrace more sustainable practices and technology solutions.

Conference attendees received a critical reminder: to claim rebates, including those related to offsetting carbon emissions, projects must be registered. This seemingly mundane step is often overlooked but can be a game-changer for businesses seeking financial incentives and recognition for their sustainability efforts. Proper documentation and compliance are key.

Financial Incentives: The Push for Sustainability Banks and organisations like the Sustainable Australia Fund are actively incentivizing sustainability.

The Commonwealth Bank Agribusiness unit, for instance, offers up to a 1.5% discount on loans for green projects. These financial institutions recognize the value of sustainable practices in agriculture and are willing to put their financial weight behind projects that align with ESG goals.

An emerging trend showcased at the conference was the adoption of Energy Following Irrigation systems.

These systems dynamically adjust irrigation and energy consumption based on power availability. While this concept is in its early stages, several companies are already offering innovative solutions in this area. It's an exciting development that holds the promise of significant

energy savings for the agricultural sector.

Energy storage solutions, like gravity-based, heat-based, and coldbased systems, were showcased.

Wineries use solar-powered chillers for cooling during peak energy demand. Large-scale storage heats water over extended periods, ensuring a consistent energy source during peaks, reducing costs and enhancing efficiency.

Future of Farming: Electric Tractors and Off-Grid Ventures John Deere's announcement of automated electric tractors for 2026 gained attention. These tractors, with bi-directional batteries, represent a significant move toward sustainable farming. An off-grid winery journey showcased self-sufficiency and sustainability benefits.

The National Renewable Energy in Agriculture Conference emphasized renewable energy and sustainability's pivotal roles. ESG plans, energy-efficient systems, and innovative storage are reshaping the industry.

Businesses recognise financial benefits and support from financial institutions, making the path to a more sustainable, energyefficient agricultural future clearer.

The conference provided insight into an industry transitioning toward sustainability as a necessity, not just an option, for long-term success.

PHILMAC EASYLOK™. Easy reliable connections. Every time.

The larger bore Philmac fittings have always been well regarded in the marketplace. However, rather than accept the status quo, Philmac spoke extensively to the market to see whether customers have any niggles, and if so whether improvements could be made. With fittings often being re-used, the sheer size of the pipe or the pipe condition not being optimal, customers indicated that from timeto-time issues were encountered.

Enter the EasyLOK™ fitting range.

So, what is special about these EasyLOK™ fittings? Well, in a word they are easy to fit. The market has always loved the reliability and ease of the Philmac Rural fitting, so a similar concept was applied. Rather than try and push the pipe past all the components, these are now fitted to the pipe.

Firstly the nut, followed by the collet/spacer and then the O-ring.

Because these are fitted individually it makes the job easier and ensures a reliable connection every time. The pipe can then be inserted into the body of the fitting so it sits against the tapered wedges and by then tightening the nut to the body it positions all the components in place.

Another benefit is that the nut can mostly be tightened by hand due to the reduced torque design. Once the hand tightening is complete the collet holds the pipe in place which means no trying to hold the pipe in place and use a tool at the same time. How do you know the fitting is properly installed? The installation process is completed when the nut is tightened to the flange of the body with multi-grips or a Philmac

spanner. Importantly the tightening of the nut to the flange provides a visual indicator that the job is complete. It ensures that the O-ring compression is optimised to provide a high level of tolerance to scuffed, scratched and oval pipe.

So, is EasyLOK™ as easy to disconnect as it was to connect? Put simply, yes! By undoing the nut, the pipe can be removed from the body of the fitting and the components simply slide off the pipe. What could be simpler?

The EasyLOK™ range is available in a range of configurations from 16 mm through to 110 mm.

Ease of Assembly & Disassembly

Designed to Minimise Pipe Twist

Air Line Safety

Chemical Resistance Visual Stop Impact Resistance Think Tank 2023 | 54

A smart transition to sustainable water management In the heart of Aongatete, nestled along the Tauranga Harbour’s edge, Murray and Ruth Miers have cultivated their dream - a thriving agricultural and horticultural family business. With over 30 years of experience in the horticulture industry, they understand the importance of water storage for safeguarding their orchard against frost and ensuring vital irrigation during dry summers.

Aging Infrastructure Concerns

and

Safety

By 2021, Murray and Ruth’s irrigation pond, a vital water source for their orchard, was showing signs of age, and the couple knew it was time for a change. The open pond was a significant safety risk to people on and around their property.

Murray was adamant that replacing the pond with a safer, more sustainable option was the way forward.

Discovering KlipTank On Murray’s search to find the ideal water storage solution, it was an encounter at a local packhouse that first piqued his interest in KlipTank.

The real turning point, however, was a visit to an Agricultural Show in Hastings. Here, Murray laid eyes on KlipTank’s unique water storage tanks, featuring a fully enclosed durable structure and a commitment to sustainability. “When I went down to that show and found that tank, I couldn’t believe it. I thought to myself, ‘I’m not going to look at anything else now; this is so much easier, so much better in the long run” Murray recalls.

The Process With confidence in their choice, Murray and Ruth approached

KlipTank. The team at KlipTank understood the need for a swift solution before the looming spring frost threatened the orchard’s wellbeing.

Murray’s specific needs. It serves at dual purpose by providing a blackout cover to prevent algae growth and keep out dust, leaf debris, birds, rats, and insects.

The challenge, however, lay in the location of the existing pond - the sole suitable spot for the new tank.

Decommissioning the pond, removing it, and restoring the area required complex civil engineering due to the pond’s location below sea level.

Simultaneously, it efficiently harvests rainwater through a specialised filtration system, effectively removing any leaf debris.

This unique feature aligned with Murray’s commitment to sustainability and resource efficiency in his orchard.

Once the foundation was prepared, the installation of the custom 800m³ Roofed Water Tank proceeded at an impressive pace. “I was shocked at how quickly they built it once they got going” Murray said. The entire project including purchase, fabrication, site preparation and installation was completed in three months between June and September 2021, the installation itself only taking one week, a testament to the collaborative efforts of Murray, the KlipTank team, and their shared commitmento a safer and more sustainable water management solution.

A Lasting Partnership

Choosing Sustainability The tank’s innovative “rainwater harvesting roof” design was customdeveloped by KlipTank to meet

Two years have passed since the tank’s installation, and Murray couldn’t be happier with his choice.

He also values the enduring relationship formed between himself and the KlipTank team, saying, “They would send someone up that very day if I needed anything.”

Murray and Ruth Miers have not only secured the future of their kiwifruit orchard but have also made a safer, more sustainable approach to water management.

Exploring the Wildflower Industry Insights from Echuca's Conference Against the serene backdrop of Echuca's countryside, the Wildflower Conference recently shed light on the unique world of wildflowers—an industry often overlooked but with profound importance.

The wildflower industry, a blend of Australian natives and South African protea flowers, was the focal point of the conference. Despite its relatively small scale, this sector is significant due to its commitment to sustainability. It's primarily made up of small-scale farmers managing plots ranging from 5 to 15 acres, many of which operate off the grid.

Sustainability Matters Sustainability took centre stage during the conference. Discussions

ranged from the impact of floods on ecosystems to the vital role of soil microbes. The industry's core values revolve around responsible water management and eco-conscious practices, which are not only feasible but crucial for its future.

Knowledge Exchange One notable aspect of the conference was the sharing of knowledge. Think Water, a key player in water management and irrigation, provided insights tailored to the industry's unique needs. This comprehensive presentation sparked interest and holds the potential to reshape wildflower cultivation practices.

As the conference concluded,

attendees departed with a sense of optimism. The next Wildflower Conference, expected in two years, offers an opportunity to further explore the industry's growth and environmental harmony.

The Wildflower Conference in Echuca provided a platform to appreciate the beauty of wildflowers and the industry's dedication to preserving it.

It underscored the profound connection between nature, agriculture, and sustainability—an essential link that deserves our continued attention and support.

Andrew Carrier (Think Water Central Coast), Jon Power (think Water Echuca) and Andrew Rathjen (Think Water NSO) attended the conference in September this year.

Revolutionising Rainwater Harvesting: The iWaterSwitch by Pentair In a world increasingly conscious of water conservation and sustainability, Pentair has taken a giant leap forward with the iWaterSwitch – an intelligent rain controller that is likely to set new industry standards. With its easily identifiable Onga colour, design and cutting-edge features, the iWaterSwitch is poised to redefine rainwater harvesting for all mains water-fed homes.

At the heart of its technology, the iWaterSwitch has a patented “demand sensing by flowrate” technology that prevents annoying system cycling. It’s this technology that also allows the iWaterSwitch to readily switch between stored households rainwater and the mains water supply to ensure a continuous

source of water for toilets, laundry, gardening and other non-potable water applications.

Running the iWaterSwitch is simple thanks to an intuitive, fully functional LCD display that offers real-time flow rate, pressure and current readings. Included in the design is an adjustable cut-in, cutout flow and a maximum run-time feature to make sure you get the best control of your water.

Apart from being easy to use, the iWaterSwitch displays real time flow rate, pressure and current readings as well as recording total water usage since installation and monthly usage so that you stay in control of your water consumption as well as track your savings.

iWaterSwitch is a Pentair ecoselect solution with Watermark approval and AS/NZS 4020 certification that is ideally paired with the Pentair Onga MULTI EVO 3, JS, TANKBUDDY and DOMINATOR pumps.

Pentair Onga also offers a wide range of pumps, controllers and accessories that provide the best in household water supply.

Scan the QR code below for more information:

Mico Trade App & Portal Now Available!

At Mico we’re all about making your life easier. Our Trade Portal and Trade App are the result of listening to our customers and making digital tools that ensure we are faster, more accurate and more efficient.

They also provide you with more control and flexibility over your orders. Saving you time and money, and getting the job done faster.

For over 75 years we have been doing that with our branches and great staff right across New Zealand. It is very exciting to have implemented a modern and integrated TRADE PORTAL and TRADE APP that makes it very easy for our customers digitally too.

Putting access to a Mico branch into the pocket of every Mico customer and letting people interact on their terms – whenever and from wherever they want!

HIGH PERFORMANCE PREFERRED SUPPLIER SALES

LEADERBOARD Congratulations to our fastest growing stores in Preferred Supplier products.*

doing that with our branches and great staff right across New Zealand. It is very exciting to have implemented a modern and integrated TRADE PORTAL and TRADE APP that makes it very easy for our customers digitally too.

Putting access to a Mico branch into the pocket of every Mico customer and letting people interact on their terms – whenever and from wherever they want!

registration to access both Trade Portal and Trade App.

our

Check out mico.co.nz/plumbing for more information

Packed with features that keep your team on the tools!

The Mico Trade Portal and Mico Trade App are designed to be an easy way to access everything Mico – whether you’re in the office, at home, on site or at a branch. From buying online, to team access and permissions; everything is aimed at saving you time and money, getting the job done faster. All this with one

1. Adelaide 2. Perth 3. Whangamata 4. Dubbo 5. Central Coast

6. Dural 7. Marlborough 8. West Coast 9. Albury 10. Capes Region

*Rankings measured by each stores percentage growth of Preferred Suppliers purchases from January to August 2023 v the same period 2022. Stores must have a purchases history for the full period to qualify.

A FRANCHISE GROUP OWNED BY IT'S MEMBERS.

GREG SOMMERVILLE

THINK WATER MARLBOROUGH “One of the unique benefits of being in the Think Water group is having close relationships with the other Think Water store owners. They are a really down to earth, good group of people.

We can call each other up to get some advice on how to do things, share ideas and troubleshoot problems.

The initiative is to help grow the brand and everyone is really on board with that.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION SEARCH FOR THINK WATER ON Google | Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTube www.thinkwater.com.au

www.thinkwater.co.nz