Florence magazine - September 2022

FLORENCE CONSTRUCTING A NEW PERSPECTIVE

GINA ZANDI Overcoming obstacles

Introducing

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Our Cover: Gina Zandi of AJP Constructions.

Cover Image: Simon Whitbread.

INSIDE

14 Regulars

Features

Executive Director’s Welcome.................................... 07

Overcoming obstacles .................................................. 08

Women at Work..................................................................28

Gina Zandi takes a chance on herself Jemma Lawson .................................................................. 14 Award-winning carpentry apprentice Embracing change ........................................................... 18 Capitalising on the construction boom Bek Bishop .......................................................................... 20 Business Chicks Editor: Alyssa Welke Editorial Coordinator: Amanda Kelly Design Concept: Angela Carroll Designer: Jeff Brown, Mark Stansall, Meisha Reynolds Sub-editor: Jessica Kramer Cover image: Simon Whitbread Custom Publishing Manager: Erika Brayshaw Advertising inquiries: 07 4690 9303 Editorial Enquiries: 07 4690 9396 Email: alyssa.welke@news.com.au Subscriptions: 07 4690 9360

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Mindset................................................................................... 34 Law Matters ........................................................................ 42 Tradie Wives ....................................................................... 44 Tech and Apps .................................................................. 45 Products ............................................................................... 47 Events..................................................................................... 48 Insta Sistas............................................................................ 50

Printed by: Greenridge Group, 4 Freighter Avenue, Toowoomba QLD 4350 News Corp Australia is the exclusive Publishing Partner of Florence magazine, in conjunction with the Master Builders Association of New South Wales.

ABN: 63 009 820 035. Ph: (07) 4690 9309. Website: www.newscorpaustralia.com This publication is copyright. No part of it may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means including electronic, mechanical, microcopying, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the permission of Master Builders Association of NSW or News Corp Australia. Disclaimer: The information contained within Florence magazine is given in good faith and obtained from sources believed to be accurate. The views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher.

News Corp and the Master Builders Association of New South Wales will not be held liable for any opinion or advice contained herein.

FLORENCE FORGING AMAZING CAREERS It has been such a delight to put together this latest edition of Florence for all of you — this magazine really does create a new perspective.

A new perspective of what women can achieve and overcome when they are passionate about this amazing industry.

This editon we showcase some wonderful stories of women overcoming adversity to excel in building and construction.

On the cover we feature Gina Zandi — this absolute powerhouse woman has achieved so much professionally, from gaining entry to the number one university in Iran for Civil Engineering, to movign to Australia to pursue further study and become an integral team member for her employer, AJP Constructions (p 8).

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Carpentry apprentice Jemma Lawson (p 14) shares her path and experience to becoming one of the state’s best apprentices and talks about her passion for this industry.

We meet Bek Bishop, and talk to her about her passion for women supporting each other in business and how she found support through Business Chicks (p 20).

We also profile newly elected Federal Member for Fowler Dai Le (p 25), and talk to Hanson Australia about their program to put more women into trucking (p 32-33).

We hope to bring you all more stories of women in your industry and shine a light on the amazing work they are doing to achieve their goals in this diverse industry.

Alyssa Welke Editor

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GRAND DAME BUILDS LEGACY Florence Taylor paved the way for women in construction

F

lorence Taylor was a pioneer of women in the construction industry and her legacy is still being felt.

As an architect and publisher, Florence believed in the notion that “a woman to marry, get into the confines of the home and never be articulate in public affairs is a disgrace” and her achievements in the male-dominated architectural industry proves that.

She was known for her energy, determination and outspoken nature, a nature which distinguished her well throughout her colourful career, first as a draftsman and ultimately as a publisher of trade journals.

She was widely respected, even if her questions and criticism irritated some of her professional colleagues.

Her achievements within both of her fields had an indelible impact on the public acceptance of women in the professions.

She was a tall, striking woman, with blonde hair and blue eyes, and was known for dressing (even in the 1930s) in long sweeping skirts and a picture hat decorated with ostrich feathers.

She was born on December 29, 1879, at Bedminster, Somerset, England and was the eldest daughter of John and Eliza Parsons.

office she was promoted to chief draftsman.

Once she completed her training she became chief draftsman to J. B. Clamp, who nominated her in 1907 for associate membership of the Institute of Architects of New South Wales.

Despite his defence of her talent (she “could design a place while an ordinary draftsman would be sharpening his pencil”), the nomination was defeated.

But this did nothing to deter Florence from thriving practice designing homes.

It wasn’t until 1920 that Florence was eventually invited to join the Institute of Architects, which she accepted.

On April 3, 1907 Florence married George Augustine Taylor.

Florence and her husband were founding members of the Town Planning Association of New South Wales in 1913 and she was its secretary for many years.

Together they started the Building Publishing Co Ltd, which produced trade journals, three of which Florence edited: Harmony, Young Australia and the Australian (later Commonwealth) Home.

Through their journals they campaigned for urban planning, improved construction methods and better materials; they also promoted the interests of engineers, architects and builders.

The family immigrated to Australia in 1884, where her father worked in the sewerage construction branch of the Department of Public Works, which gave Florence her first taste of working in the construction industry, as she assisted her father with his engineering calculations.

When George Taylor died suddenly in 1928, Florence was determined to carry on their business and although eight of the 11 journals the business was publishing was forced to cease, she maintained Building (later Building, Lighting and Engineering) (1907-72), Construction (1908-74) and the Australasian Engineer (1915-73), and edited them herself.

It was her father’s death in 1899 that pushed Florence into the architectural industry when she decided to become a draftsman to support her family.

She learned her trade under architect Edmund Skelton Garton, and simultaneously attended night-classes at Sydney Technical College until 1904.

During her time with Garton’s

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Architect and publisher Florence Taylor; One of the periodical’s Florence published during her career.

PHOTOS: COLLECTIONS OF THE STATE LIBRARY OF NEWSOUTHWALES.

She continued to produce town planning schemes but relied on others to draw them as she was unable to spare time from publishing.

BRIAN SEIDLER, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, MBA NSW

TIME IS RIGHT TO BUILD A STRONG FEMALE WORKFORCE An ambition to triple the number of women working in the construction industry was backed by $20 million commitment in the New South Wales Government’s 22-23 budget.

The NSW Government looks to lead the way with a goal of 15% women in construction by 2030, and reach a more gender balanced industry.

The latest estimates show that skill shortages in the Australian construction industry could top 105,000 by 2023.

Coupled with the largest infrastructure pipeline NSW has ever seen means there is no better time to support more women to pursue a career in the construction industry.

The NSW Government funding will go towards breaking down the culture barriers that stop women from considering a career in construction.

The NSW government will work towards its 15% goal by shifting the culture in construction and leading by example on its own work sites.

The industry needs to ensure women on construction sites have access to adequate and clean amenities, necessary personal protective equipment, that sites are free of offensive materials, as well as promoting more opportunities through flexible working hours.

Let’s hope that this approach is adopted by all construction sites to help us all build a brighter future for our industry.

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A BUILDING PASSION OVERCOMES ALL OBSTACLES Gina Zandi, an assistant project manager with AJP Constructions, is no stranger to taking a chance on herself and building a successful career because of it.

ALYSSA WELKE

G

rowing up in Iran, Gina Zandi spent her childhood visiting construction sites and learning about engineering drawings and plans from her father, who partnered in a construction company.

Civil engineering and construction is in Gina’s blood with her father, uncles, older sister and brother-in-law all involved in the industry in her home city of Tehran (the capital of Iran).

Her entire family was involved in the construction industry in her home country, and it influenced Gina to follow her dreams and pursue a career in civil engineering.

Before Gina was born her father started the family’s construction business, which enabled her to be exposed to many experiences unavailable to most children.

“When I was a very young kid, I didn’t have much understanding of my surroundings. I had all the drawings and plans, which are out-of-date around me all the time; trying to imitate what’s on them, trying to understand them, but I obviously couldn’t at that point”, Gina remembers.

“But when I was a little bit older and I could actually understand things a little bit better, I always had my father bringing me small bags of different materials, explaining the uses of them to

me in a game way, so it wasn’t boring for me; every time different materials and exciting things for me to learn.

“By the time that I was a teenager, I was allowed to join him and go on field trips, go on sites, see the machinery working, all the big excavation machinery, how everything flows together, the processes and procedures, which was always very exciting, very helpful to learn.

“Especially having someone walking you through that field and explaining every point and how it works.”

When Gina was finishing high school, she had to sit comprehensive exams, as do all young people in Iran, to compete for university places.

Gina blitzed her exams and earned a spot in the best university in the country for a civil engineering major, Sharif University of Technology.

“It is what I was hoping for; during my study I kept going to the office, and projects part-time when I had time.

“During the summers I had time off (university) so I could be working full time — that was an exciting part because I actually got to see what I was learning.

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“They explain to you ‘this is how the force travels from this point to that point’, and then I could go to the site and actually see how that force is affecting the structure.

“This experience was pretty helpful to understand what you are studying and makes the studying more exciting and interesting than it might be usually.”

When Gina graduated with a Bachelor of Civil Engineering, she worked in Iran in the industry, but it was during a trip to Australia to visit her older sister, who had immigrated to Sydney, that she started thinking about challenging herself further in her career.

That challenge came in the form of applying to study her Masters of Civil Engineering in Australia.

Gina began her Masters degree and initially found it extremely difficult, but she persevered.

“It’s not a piece of cake to study a Masters degree in a second language that you have just learned in a short period of time; it took me a bit longer to understand.”

Once Gina had found her feet studying, she found part-time work in the industry while she completed her studies.

Once she finished working she began working in Australia full-time.

Gina enjoyed the work, but during the pandemic her employer was relocating the business to another city and Gina wasn’t in a place where she felt she could move with the company.

So that is what she did — she applied to study her Masters and received a conditional offer to undertake the course at the UNSW.

Her father had passed away a few months earlier, and she had been unable to travel back to Iran to be with her mother, and her mother couldn’t come to Australia, due to border closures.

Her acceptance to the course required Gina to learn English and pass an exam — which was made more challenging because Gina had just a few months to do so.

She was in a place in her life where she was questioning whether she should return to Iran permanently.

But the now 28-year-old is nothing if not determined, so she applied herself diligently to learning English, first in Iran and then in Australia, to be able to pass her university-level comprehension exam.

Gina sat her exams at the beginning of 2018 and when she received her results she was shocked and dismayed to discover she hadn’t passed. She later discovered there had been a computer error when her test was marked.

“If I couldn’t pass, all my plans would be delayed by a year and it wasn’t a great situation,” she said.

“All I could think of was to do another test, to prove that my English ability would meet the requirements.

“I had to book a spot in a test and the only available spot was in Canberra for the next day. I had to drive overnight to Canberra to do the test at 7am — so that’s what I did.

“I got my results back two hours before the deadline for submitting to meet the conditions for uni and the visa — I passed it, just on time.

“It was a very stressful time, but I was so happy when I got the result.

“After the fact, when I had got this all done, the university contacted me and said, ‘there was an error in the system with your English exam and everything is fine and it was fine from the beginning.”

If it’s your passion just go for it — be confident.

It was at this time that she found AJP Constructions.

“I was in a point where I was thinking let’s just move on — I’ve accomplished enough here, let’s go back and just stay with Mum for a while and give up the future I could have here.

“Having all that in mind, I was also looking around for a new job in Sydney and I saw this advertisement that was so different, and sort of interesting.

“I searched the company — it was AJP, the company I am with — I found an Instagram they had and I saw a video from Andrew talking about how they are using different software that I am very familiar with, I used it all the time when I was studying.

“It made me very interested in the company so I sent Andrew an email, expressing my interest, sending him my resume and explaining a little

PICTURED: AJP Constructions director Andrew Payton, with Gina.

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AJP Constructions director Andrew Payton said since Gina joined the company she has shown her passion for the role through her committed, hard-working and professional can-do attitude, making her an invaluable member of the team.

Gina works with Andrew across all jobs and is learning and evolving every day to accept the challenge at hand and how important it is to be 100% flexible.

AJP Constructions office manager Gabby Payton said Gina is an absolute asset to the team.

“In an industry that could be intimidating for a young woman, and with English as a second language, Gina is absolutely flourishing and we are thrilled to have her on our team and look forward to seeing her grow with us.

“We know she has an incredible career in front of her with her drive and determination we know she is going to go very far.

“Employing another woman, after I (Gabby) came on board part-time five years ago was really important to us.

“We believe females bring a certain level of empathy to a workplace that may not necessarily be present in an all-male team, and empathy and understanding are extremely important in these unpredictable times, this applies to both our team and our clients.

about myself.

“I sent the email at 10-11pm and he got back to me about 7am the next morning, asking if we can have a chat that afternoon.

I went to the office, I met Andrew and Gabby and we had a chat. I left going back home after the interview; I was still in the car, I hadn’t even got to home and I see Andrew is calling me.

“I was thinking, ‘Oh did I miss something, did I leave my bag or something’, and then he was calling me to say ‘we think you are a good fit for our team, we’d like to make you an offer’.”

Gina started work for AJP Constructions in January 2021 as an assistant project manager.

The Chatswood-based company specializes in high-end residential projects — houses and duplexes with great architectural designs in the northern beaches and eastern suburbs of Sydney.

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“We did have a great female apprentice on board, however, the travel became too much, our goal next year is to ensure we have another female apprentice on the team and a female Cadet Project manager for Gina to train up.”

Gina is always looking for ways to challenge herself because she believes the only way to grow and succeed is to get out of your comfort zone.

“If you want to grow you need to try things that you haven’t tried before.

“When I moved to Australia I was 23-24; I am proud of myself. I had a very comfortable life — could have just easily not have done that — but I chose to step out, to learn new things, do new thing, challenge myself.”

And being a young woman in construction, Gina finds this attitude goes a long way.

She knows that not everyone will accept her as a project manager and on construction sites guiding and leading people.

“At AJP, Andrew doesn’t care if you are male or female he just trust you to do what should be done and gives you the power to do what you need to do.

“Sometimes (you get the attitude of) you are a female you don’t get it.

“Working with Andrew and the team here, it’s very smooth to go around (to site). Sometimes it can be a challenge with new sub-contractors but with time and them getting to know you and you being able to make the impression you need to (you can overcome it).

“Once you start talking to them and you explain things and show what you know, they go ‘oh she knows what she’s talking about’.”

Her advice for other women in construction is to not be shy and show their abilities and be confident in their abilities.

“Don’t be afraid — if this is something you like and enjoy it, just do it,” she said.

“I had friends that didn’t do it because they were afraid of what if and how they can continue in this profession.

‘If it’s your passion just go for it — be confident.”

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JEMMA LAWSON BLAZING A TRAIL IN CARPENTRY ALYSSA WELKE

W

hile many teens are still trying to figure out what their career path will be after finishing school, apprentice carpenter Jemma Lawson realised as soon as she started Grade 7 exactly what she wanted to do.

The Lake Macquarie-native started learning woodwork in high school and soon realised her passion for the craft, and it was that realisation that sent her on her current trajectory.

And it is the 21-year-old’s passion for her work that has enabled her to achieve success — just last year Jemma was named the Master Builders Association of New South Wales 3rd Year Apprentice of the Year.

Employed by Grindley Construction, based in Sydney and the Central Coast, Jemma has a thirst for knowledge and a can-do attitude that helps her navigate the male-dominated field she works in.

Jemma doesn’t let her gender hold her back and always helps to give other women a leg up. “(The most valuable lesson I have learnt is) to not let anyone assume I can’t do something and to keep proving them wrong,” she said. “(The challenges) I’ve faced would be the stereotype of (being) a women in such a male dominated industry as well as being young in the industry. “(It) has made it harder to gain respect from fellow colleagues and clients as the majority of the time they see my gender and age rather than my experience and quality of work.”

But Jemma doesn’t allow this to stop her — it only makes her dig deeper within herself, a skill she

wants all young people, but especially women, in the building and construction industry to embrace.

“Don’t let what other people say put you down or turn you away from what could be a great career path,” she said. “(It) has taught me countless life skills as well as good knowledge of all aspects of the industry.

“I am constantly learning and gaining more knowledge everyday while doing what I love.”

The construction industry wasn’t a foreign concept to Jemma; she’d grown up around it, with her step-father working in construction since he was 16, and eventually starting his own excavation and concreting company. And Jemma’s mum works as a disabilities care worker.

As the oldest of five (she has two brothers and two sisters), Jemma’s enthusiasm and drive has inspired her siblings to also pursue careers in construction.

“My oldest brother, who is 18, is now in his second year of being an electrician,” she said.

“One of my sisters, who is 16, is following in my footsteps and has completed her white card at school and is currently doing work experience doing electrical.

“My youngest brother, who is 15, is also looking at doing a carpentry apprenticeship; my other sister who is also 16 is very successful in her sport and is studying sports and recreation.”

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Jemma loves to see the fruits of her labour come to fruition with “seeing a project through from start to finish” as one of the most fulfilling aspects of her career.

“And acknowledging and learning along the way to see the final result,” she said.

Her positive attitude is valued by all she works with as well.

Her boss at Grindley Construction, Evan Graves, who is the Construction Manager, is glowing in his praise for her.

“I have had the privilege of working with Jemma for the past few years and have been amazed at the way Jemma has changed the sites she has worked on and the positive effects she has had on both co-workers and subcontractors,” he said.

“Jemma has done an exceptional job to date and has helped to pave the way for those females and males following in her footsteps as they start their careers in the construction industry.”

And Jemma has her sights set firmly in the future; she wants to successfully finish her trade and work her way up the ranks. “(I want to) become a junior foreman (and) to then take on foreman,” she said. “(I also have an interest in) starting my own business into more high-end detailed furniture, which has been a dream of mine.”

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EMBRACING CHANGE Emerging skills put Breanna in a cool career

B

reanna Kill is part of the next generation of refrigeration technicians gaining the skills to work with new technologies aimed at reducing global warming.

The Airconditioning and Heating Services industry is forecast to strengthen over the next five years as demand for nonresidential installations gains momentum postpandemic.

The Australian Industry Report on Air Conditioning and Heating Services in Australia forecasts industry revenue to grow at 2.2% to reach $10.2 billion by 2027.

Other pressures increasing the demand for qualified technicians include stronger demand for energy audits on existing properties, installation of equipment to ensure compliance with stricter building codes, and ongoing repairs and maintenance on non-residential buildings.

Refrigeration is an industry that provides a service described by Australian Refrigeration Council, Technical and Training Manager Noel Munkman, as essential but often hidden.

“It’s behind-the-scenes work but the skills and knowledge of a qualified refrigeration and air conditioning technician are integral to modern society,” Mr Munkman said.

“Refrigeration is vital to preserve, store and transport

food and is the reason we have air conditioning.

A career as a Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technician, or Fridgie as they’re known, offers loads of variety and exciting opportunities to solve different challenges every day.”

Breanna took up the challenge three years ago and has completed her Certificate III in Airconditioning and Refrigeration, she has enrolled in Certificate III in Electrotechnology to broaden her role working with Camray Air, through TAFE NSW Wollongong.

“I found the course to be extremely valuable, the teachers had real industry experience to pass on as they had all worked in the sector themselves. The teachers gave me a big picture understanding of the future of the industry and it’s that kind of foundational knowledge you need to build a really successful career.”

TAFE NSW Electrotechnology Head Teacher George Whitehouse said graduates had a reputation for being job-ready.

“We offer the only qualification that enables people to work on any refrigeration and air conditioning system without supervision. Also, graduates of the Certificate III in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration are eligible to apply for a Restricted Electrical License, opening the door to even more career opportunities.

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REANA BIDOIS A construction site is far cry from the beauty salon, but for apprentice carpenter Reana Bidois it is exactly the right place for her.

R

eana is studying a Certificate III in Carpentry and is an apprentice with BPL Contracting in Nowra and on the South Coast.

Reana is among a growing number of women who are capitalising on the construction boom to gain new skills, qualifications, and a new career in an industry with variety and opportunity for growth.

The Australian Government reports women in carpentry and joinery at one per cent, plumbers at one per cent and electricians at two per cent.

TAFE NSW provides women with pathways into a range of traditional trades and already boasts a comparatively higher number of female enrolments in these courses, at six per cent.

Since Reana was a teenager, the 29-year-old wanted to follow in her father’s footsteps and learn a trade, but it wasn’t the first career path she pursued.

“After school I started out in hairdressing and was a nail technician for a while. I then had a trucking business in Sydney for a while, but I always wanted to be a tradie,” Reana said.

“When I moved back to Nowra a few years ago I decided to become a carpenter. I started out as a laborer and was offered an apprenticeship.”

In her final year of her apprenticeship, studying through TAFE NSW Nowra, she is thriving in her chosen career. “(I enjoy) being able to work alongside my dad

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and the feeling of independence.

“I enjoy learning new skills and being able to contribute all while showing my two daughters that they can do anything regardless of whether it is a traditional or non-traditional trade (for women),” she said.

“I would encourage young women coming out of school to consider a trade as their thinking about their future. Girls often talk about nursing, hairdressing, and beauty but I wouldn’t overlook a trade.

“I think as a society we’re really coming around to seeing more equality between men and women, but I think the more we see women taking the step to follow their passion and jumping into a trade, the move we will move this thinking forward.

“Being a woman in this trade isn’t something I give a lot of thought to. The tradesmen I work with don’t treat me any different. I’d say don’t be scared to try a trade, get in touch go for it.”

Reana see women in trades supporting each other as a vital part of more women joining the industry, and she sees herself as part of that.

And she hope to further support women when she finishes her apprenticeship.

“I’d like to become a builder, I would love to be a part of some sort of organization helping women escape domestic violence by helping them repairs any damages, whether that be a part of my career or in my spare time.”

FORGING A PATH FOR FEMALE TRADIES

A

ustralian WorldSkills representative Bella Turrise can add career influencer to her list of achievements, encouraging young women to consider joining the growing smash repair industry.

The Western Sydney local is one of the nation’s top up-and-coming vehicle refinishers, with a slew of awards and accolades to her name including a place on the Australian Skillaroos Team where she will represent her trade internationally in the next WorldSkills competition, and being named the TAFE NSW Supply Chain and eCommerce Student of the Year, Apprentice of the Year, and Student of the Year.

Bella completed her apprenticeship through TAFE NSW Campbelltown last year and remembers when she first started, seeing the skilled tradesmen working on a car and thinking “I want to be doing that.”

“There’s a lot more to it than first appears,” she said. “But those are the skills I’ve learned during my apprenticeship.

“This job is an artform, it’s soothing and I love working on cars, but I now know those skilled tradesmen were making it look easy,” she said.

The award-winning 23-year-old is now working in the $7 billion national industry at Mount Druitt Auto Body Repairs, a member of one of the state’s largest vehicle panel repair and paint companies, the industry leading AMA Group.

“I’ve always been passionate about my work, bringing damaged vehicles back to new and my passion continues to grow. I’ve focused on my work and on developing my skills and now I’d like to put some time into encouraging other young women to consider this as a trade.

“I’d like to head back to my old high school in Queanbeyan to speak with girls about careers in the refinishing trade and hopefully inspire some of them to consider a field they might not have thought about.”

Teacher Carl Tinsley was proud of Bella’s achievements and said she was a fitting role model for the automotive spray painting and refinishing sector.

“It’s a very technology-heavy industry now.

We have ultraviolet primers and use gas-fired infrared which can dry a car’s paint in under 10 minutes. Also, modern cars are using advanced materials so it’s an exciting and high-tech industry to be in.

“For example, modern cars have loads of sensors for safety and parking. There’s a lot of skill required to be able to paint over them without interfering with their operation. These are the types of skills we teach our apprentices, it’s leading-edge stuff and it continues to evolve.

“Now is a good time to consider becoming an apprentice with the NSW Government subsidising the cost of training under the feefree apprenticeship initiative.”

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BUSINESS CHICKS MAKING A BETTER PLACE FOR WOMEN 20 || FLORENCE

ALYSSA WELKE

A

t Business Chicks, they believe that every woman is capable of achieving amazing things. But they also know you can’t do it

alone.

So that’s where Business Chicks comes in.

Despite their name, they’re not only for women in ‘business’ or women who own their own businesses.

Business Chicks is about helping all women play a bigger game. Whether you’re running your own show, surrounded by others in an office, or just missing a sense of connection and support, Business Chicks is all about giving you the tools you need to propel yourself and your businesses forward.

When you’re a member of Business Chicks, there’s not just one woman who has your back, there are thousands.

Every day, Business Chicks works tirelessly to represent and support its members, and to give them the connections and experiences they need to lead a bold life and show women and girls they

can be what they can see.

We don’t want to live in a world where a Google Image search for ‘CEO’ yields pictures of only men; where women need to work an additional 70 days a year to earn the same amount as men; and where too many women are scared to ask for the pay rise they deserve.

We want to live in a world where workplaces adapt their structures around mothers instead of mothers adapting their work lives around having children, where the “gender pay gap” no longer makes headlines – because it doesn’t exist – and where collaborative, inclusive and compassionate leadership is celebrated.

We want to reimagine the future for women, and at Business Chicks, we can all play a part in making that happen.

To find out more about how Business Chicks can help you achieve your career goal, head to https://businesschicks.com, check out their socials at businesschicks on Instagram, Business Chicks on Facebook or Business Chicks AU on Twitter.

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So, tell us a bit about yourself, Bek! Hello, I’m Bek Bishop and I live in South-East Victoria in Gippsland on five acres with my husband Nick, eldest son James (24), younger son Harrison (11), our Cavoodle Hudson, our cow Dalli, our sheep, Greta, Mia and Amy, and our goats, Fred & Ginger, with Harry adding new lizards to our family regularly — say that in one mouthful!

I used to be a competitive ballroom dancer, I love learning Spanish, eating amazing food, walking, travelling, doing silent disco, helping others whenever I can and spending time with my family and friends.

You seem to have your hands full there! Can you tell us about your professional career?

After completing year 12, I began working in the legal sector and fell in love with all things law. I decided I was going to be a lawyer and scored a job at one of the most prestigious law firms in Melbourne at the time — yeah, I did!

When I met my husband and his son James, I moved to a smaller suburban firm closer to home and they were happy for me to undertake my law degree while working with them.

I worked in law as a senior paralegal for 11 years until 2010 when I had a car accident that left me seriously injured and unable to work. I was left with multiple injuries including a permanent brain injury, nerve damage, PTSD, anxiety, depression, chronic pain and

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more, and I had to re-learn to walk, feed and bathe myself.

Four years later, and whilst working through rehabilitation and outpatient services treatment, I began to help my husband in his building company Elite Building Services. We are a husband-and-wife team who builds custom residential homes and undertakes substantial renovations and knock-down/ rebuilds in South-East Victoria and Gippsland.

I wear many hats in the business (as you do!) and a few of them include: Office Manager, Contracts Manager, Administrator, Marketing Manager, and Accounts Manager — I refer to myself light-heartedly as a self-appointed Office Goddess!

As far as work-life balance goes, I’m not very good at that and I’ve been quite unapologetic about that in the past. However, I experienced burnout four times in 2020, resulting in three collapses and one hospital admission. In 2021, whilst working full-time, studying 35 hours per week, and undertaking remote learning at home with my youngest, I was burnt out for much of the year (number of collapses unknown).

In 2022, my burnout went to new heights by joining forces with my chronic pain and I would get flareups that would render me unable to use my arms or sometimes even walk.

In February, I spent three out of four weeks in bed unable to function properly and was subsequently diagnosed with fibromyalgia and relapse of depression, so am now forced to slow down, and

reprioritise, but it’s a work-in-progress.

and what drew you to do so?

What achievements in business are you most proud of?

I became a Business Chicks Member in 2019.

Some of my biggest achievements in this role have been: Winning the HIA Victorian Business Partner of the Year for 2019, 2020 & 2021 and of course winning the HIA Australian Business Partner of the Year for 2020 & 2022 and the High Commendation in 2021.

The business being a finalist in the MyBusiness Awards for Trade Business of the Year and myself as the Business Leader of the Year was another highlight, as well as winning the President’s Encouragement Award in the 2020 Master Builders National Leadership Awards. Our most incredible milestone achievement for the business was winning the Best Kitchen Over $50k, Best Bathroom Over $30k and Best Laundry in the 2020 Housing Awards (making us finalists for the Bathroom and Kitchen of the Year) as it was so wonderful to see our hard work, blood, sweat, and tears acknowledged in that way.

But wait, there’s more!

I’m also the Vice-Chair of the Master Builders Gippsland Committee and I’m also on the Master Builders Housing Sector Committee. I’m a Mentor in the Women Building Australia Mentoring Program, I’ve been involved in several working groups, and I love giving back to this beloved industry, which has provided me with so many wonderful opportunities.

So, I’m a builder’s wife, a law graduate (currently awaiting admission), an advocate for women in construction, and an R U OK? Community Ambassador, a Beyond Blue – Blue Voices Member, a speaker, and a mental health advocate.

It may seem like a lot, but you know what they say, do what you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life!

How did you find out about Business Chicks?

I attended the Casey Cardinia Women’s Business Lunch and Emma Isaacs was the special guest speaker after just releasing her book, Winging It. When I heard the name ‘Business Chicks’, I didn’t take it very seriously; I considered myself very professional and it didn’t sound like my jam. But then I heard Em speak about Business Chicks. How she built it and the community she created, and I signed up on the spot.

How long have you been a member of Business Chicks

After hearing Emma speak, it was very simple for me. Em created a connection, and I loved it and wanted more of that. I wanted to be part of the community of powerhouse women that Em spoke about. Women who support each other and who don’t compete against each other, but instead lift each other up. Everything Em spoke about has been a true experience for me and then some.

The weekly webinars, workshops, sessions, and meetups were a huge lifesaver for me during the pandemic and they helped me to feel less alone. We were all going through so much, and we were able to really be there for each other, listen to each other, validate one another, and offer support and friendship. It was truly beautiful and something I’ll never forget.

Being a Business Chicks member has helped me build my confidence significantly, both within the business and personally. This community helped me realise that I’m stronger than I knew. It creates opportunities for me to help others whom I love and feel support and connection in return.

I haven’t driven since my car accident in 2010. I have been isolated and alone. I struggled with anxiety and PTSD to the point where I wouldn’t leave the house for months. I am very proud to say that in 2020, I caught the train (for the first time in 10 years) to the city and attended the Business Chicks International Women’s Day Event — All. By. Myself! It was my first time being independent since the accident 10 years prior. This was the beginning of my personal growth journey and I have since attended many events (including one interstate) by myself and I am so grateful to the Business Chicks team for the opportunity.

What advice do you have to other women in business (and the construction industry in particular)?

My advice would be to have an empowering and supportive network around you. To have people in your circle who will listen to you without judgment and help you with the support you need.

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THE ICONIC PRADO CONQUERS YOUR WORKDAY

LandCruiser Prado GXL shown.

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TOYOTA FOR BUSINESS Claim a $40001 Gold Fleet discount across the Prado range with your Masters Builders membership.

The LandCruiser Prado needs no introduction. Its powerful performance and comfort makes it ready for all the workday challenges, whether in traffic, on the highway, or conquering the outback’s toughest terrains.

Its performance is powered by a 150kW/500Nm 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine, while its smart technology and Toyota Safety Sense2 features assist with a safe ride. The sophisticated and spacious cabin offering 7 seats on GXL model and above is ideal for those long days on the job. This is 4x4 driving at its finest.

Scan to sign up for the latest insights from Toyota for Business

Delivery times are currently longer than usual. More information is available at https://www.toyota.com.au/support/delivery-wait-timesavailability. Please contact your preferred Toyota Dealer for more details.

To find out more, visit your Toyota Dealer or call 1800 679 247. toyota.com.au/fleet

Discount available across the Toyota Prado range. T&C’s apply. 2 Driver assist feature. Only operates under certain conditions. Check your Owner’s Manual for explanation of limitations. Please drive safely. Delivery times are currently longer than usual. More information is available at https://www.toyota.com.au/ support/delivery-wait-times-availability. Please contact your preferred Toyota Dealer for more details.

1

DAI LE Raquel Manning talks to the newly elected Member for Fowler about her vision for building a better future for Western Sydney.

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T

here are so many childhood memories as I’m driving through the backstreets of Cabramatta to meet with Dai Le MP, independent Federal Member for Fowler and Deputy Mayor of Fairfield.

As I try to find parking in the new Dutton Lane carpark I can see why Dai was so passionate and advocated to have this built, it’s a week day and Cabramatta is so busy. I’m greeted at the office with a warm smile and a lovely welcome by Dai’s staff. We decided to do the interview at one of the local eateries and enjoy the tastes of some delicious Vietnamese food.

It’s here we also get to know more about Dai Le, a mother, daughter, sister, wife, business owner and why a former successful local journalist decided that politics was where she felt she could make a real difference for her local community.

Dai has a warm genuine approachable presence about her; she arrived here at a young age with her Mum and sisters as a refugee escaping war-torn Vietnam with the family then settling in Bossley Park.

Dai has been involved in the local community since finishing her HSC and starting her career as a cadet journalist with the Liverpool Champion then progressing to helping set up the Fairfield City Champion. Following this was reporting and broadcasting role with the ABC. With the understanding and knowledge of being on the ground listening to the real stories she wanted to make a difference especially where she grew up.

While raising her family she was also studying and graduated with a BA in Political Science so the next step in 2008 was politics.

Dai was elected in 2012 as a Councillor with Fairfield City Council and then elected as Deputy Mayor. Both Mayor Frank Carbone and Dai work tirelessly for the community to be a better place. If you are in the area you will definitely see them around. They are always happy to listen and talk with everyone.

Dai is also a survivor of breast cancer and is now in remission after being diagnosed in 2014 and undertaking months of chemotherapy and radiation treatment. You can understand how this lady has so much admiration with her determined resilience and strength and then becoming an Ambassador for the Greater Western Sydney Cancer Council.

Dai was not parachuted into the community at the last election when the residents of Fowler rallied to support her to be their voice as she has been involved for many years listening and understanding the needs of the young adults, families and the elderly in a diverse community of cultures that exist within the many suburbs that she represents.

The residents of Fowler now stand behind Dai Le to be a strong Independent voice and advocate for them in Canberra.

We ask Dai a few questions about the future of Fowler Is there a plan to shape innovative solutions for Affordable Housing for the Fowler community?

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Affordable housing is out of reach for many Australians, and particularly for families in Fowler and Western Sydney.

Government will need to look at ways to release land, and make upfront investment in infrastructure such as roads, public transport, and public amenities to enable houses to be built and made affordable to the public.

One of the biggest challenges the community has faced is that investment in infrastructure has not met the demands for additional housing. This is paramount to the success of both creating affordable and new supply of housing. Especially if more people are moving further west due to the lack of housing, and they would need to commute to and from work.

But this can only happen if investment in transport happens alongside development.

What role will the community and local businesses have when the Western Sydney International Nancy Bird Walton airport is completed?

With the expansion of the Western Parkland City, which surrounds the aerotropolis, I have no doubt new opportunities will be developed in the service industry relating to aviation, tourism, food, manufacturing, transport, retail, accommodation and STEM. As an avid foodie and someone who’s proud of this area, I see our community will have a distinct role to play in tourism, food, retail and manufacturing once

Dai Le at the swearing-in-ceremony at Parliament House in Canberra. She’s pictured here, in her traditional ‘ao-dai’ Vietnamese dress, accompanied by her husband Markus Lambert, her mother and three sisters.

the airport is completed. Small businesses will be able to increase employment opportunities for those living within the region, which means people here in Fowler, will not have to commute far to work, and work close to where they live.

What type of training and consideration has been put in place for jobs at the future Western Sydney airport and will this be held locally to help local businesses?

The Government has to invest in upskilling existing workers, not just bringing in skilled migrants from overseas.

They must have a greater focus and investment in traineeship, apprenticeship and encouraging our local people to take up STEM to meet the demand of the future of work.

There is an abundant of talent here, in South West Sydney and Fowler in particular, that I believe will contribute immensely to the future of the Western Sydney Airport. I will advocate strongly with the Government that our people be included in the job opportunities that will arise from the airport development.

Can you tell us about the changes to Infrastructure and transport and how this will make a difference

to the community.

There’s a new tollway that’s being proposed to the Western Sydney Airport – the M12. The Federal and State governments have both contributed to this infrastructure, connecting east and west, linking to the M7.

And through the construction of the new North South Rail line, this will connect the new airport to St Marys, through the T1 Western line into Parramatta and Sydney.

However, western Sydney needs the east-west rail corridor to be built that would connect the airport directly to Parramatta. If we want residents to commute faster to work, and live close to where they work, then providing this East-West corridor is important. And it will also connect the three major cities: Parramatta, Sydney and Western Sydney.

This rail corridor is essential to reducing the travel time between the East of the city, and the fastgrowing western suburbs, to Parramatta and Sydney.

What advice would you have for the upcoming future women of your community?

In three words: persevere, be resilient, and have grit.

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Combining love of architecture with head for figures NAME: Kelly Pietraszkiewicz COMPANY: Masterton Homes PHONE: 1300 44 66 37 WEBSITE: www.masterton.com.au JOB DESCRIPTION: Group Financial Controller

Why did you choose a career in the building and construction Industry?

I’ve always loved architecture but had chosen to study accountancy. When an opportunity presented in the construction industry it seemed an ideal cross section and an easy decision.

What do you like most about your job?

I like the collaboration with management team to affect strategic outcomes.

As an accountant today the role is much more diverse with a greater involvement in driving and influencing business decisions, it’s very rewarding using your skill set to provide valued contribution to the process.

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What have been the challenges in your career?

How do you think that has shaped you, both personally and professionally?

The constant evolution that’s required to stay on top of your game and remain relevant.

I think it’s shaped my view professionally in terms of development. A path of constant improvement and learning will keep you in good stead, on a personal level it keeps things interesting.

What do you look forward to for the next 12 months?

These certainly are challenging times. With my recent promotion to Group Financial Controller, and appointment to the Masterton Group Board, it provides an opportunity to demonstrate resilience and further develop the ability to adapt to overcome new challenges in a changing industry.

FLORENCE LUNCHEON

JANA PITTMAN Jana Pittman’s story is a roller coaster of triumph, defeat, failure, and success.

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he will take you on a journey through the peaks and troughs that helped shape her career and build her into who she is today.

Recognition: two times World Champion, four times Commonwealth Champion; in the sport of athletics, Jana Pittman personifies resilience and determination.

When continued injuries hampered her athletic career could have signalled retirement, she swapped the track for the ice.

Jana joined the Australian Women’s bobsleigh team, to become the first women to represent Australia in both a Summer and Winter Olympic games.

Outside of sport Jana has completed a Bachelor of Medicine & Surgery and a Masters of Reproductive Medicine; she is now a practising doctor in the field of Women’s Health.

In 2021 Jana joined the cast of Channel 7’s SAS Australia making it to the last day and the only woman remaining in the final four recruits.

With Jana’s passion for women’s health, Jana is an ambassador for the Australian Cervical Cancer Foundation and writes a regular column in New Idea.

Jana is a mother to six children, having recently given birth to twins!

Attendees at the second annual Florence luncheon will get to hear Jana’s story first-hand.

FLORENCE LUNCHEON This luncheon celebrates women and their achievements, acknowledging gender diversity issues and offering a platform for women to contribute and connect with inspiring and motivational guest speakers.

The luncheon will be held on Friday, September 16, at The Linseed House, The Grounds of Alexandria, from noon.

The Grounds at Alexandria is located at Huntley Street, Alexandria.

TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE AT: www.mbansw.asn.au/events/florence-luncheon Tickets cost $155.

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Q&A

Matt Press, Executive Director, Compliance and Dispute Resolution, Better Regulation Division, Department of Customer Service and Vanessa Carmody-Smith.

Building Commissioner’s Office

VANESSA CARMODY-SMITH What’s your educational background?

I studied at the University of New England in regional NSW Armidale. I completed a BArts (Sociology major) and BLaws and I am admitted as Legal Practitioner with the NSW Supreme Court. I’ve always had a sense to assist people who are disadvantaged. I often say I completed five years at university, and I find the law complex — imagine being disadvantaged, it is even more complex! I really enjoyed studying in a country university and enjoyed the sea change moving from the coast to inland NSW. How has that helped you build your career?

My desire to demystify challenges for our community has been the focus of my career. From litigation and advocacy for the underprivileged to ensuring regulation processes are simple and transparent, I always put myself in other people’s circumstances.

I am privileged to work from the Department of

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Customer Service where these are aims of my cluster to have NSW communities and our customers at the centre of everything we do, which includes our people. I am a huge advocate for workplace culture to be positive and no workplace should have an adverse effect on their people. I love working with a truly collaborative team who are high achievers who are working every day to restore confidence in the NSW building and construction industry. I am an authentic leader who drives a balance of hard work, and life. I bring my whole self to my work and my leadership style. I love catching up with my team and this is often for a cup of tea in the kitchen.

What is your role?

I am the Director of the Office of the Building Commissioner (OBC), NSW and have been working with the OBC for over two years since the early days the Commissioner was appointed. OBC are leading legislative reforms to ensure consumers feel confident in their purchase and NSW communities can confidently engage in the construction industry

to maintain their property. I lead a small team who are working closely with the regulators in our cluster including NSW Fair Trading and SafeWork NSW. I’ve worked in the NSW Government for 15 years for various regulators and advocacy services.

What is involved in it?

My days vary from on site in steel caps, hard hat and high vis working with our inspectors from NSW Fair Trading and SafeWork NSW, to leading industry consultation groups, to developing new microcredential courses with TAFE NSW for the Construct NSW digital learning platform. I work in a hybrid method across Gosford, Parramatta and Sydney. I like to work in various offices as this ensures I am in close contact with as many areas who are working with industry. I really enjoy connecting with people and love being in the different offices to do this.

What do you hope to achieve in this role?

After growing up with family in the construction industry, especially my grandfather, I’ve always been interested in the construction industry and see it as another way to assist consumers with an often emotional purchase to provide a home for themselves or their family which involves many complex layers from the purchase to maintenance. From my first meeting with the Commissioner, I knew this work would be changing people’s lives for the better, not just one building at a time, but industry changes that would benefit many not just the consumers but also those industry members who are genuinely doing right by the industry and consumers.

Why is your work important to the growth of the building and construction industry?

Where people put their head at night is an important place to ensure is safe. I love the impact we are having about people being accountable for their performance in designing, building and maintaining people’s homes. It is important the NSW community

sees the industry as a trusted industry, with a regulator there to support all consumers and the people working with us to ensure a fair and trusted construction industry.

Do you get any push back being a woman working in this sector?

I work in a very supportive NSW Government agency where gender equality is a key and important factor daily. I am surrounded by empowered women and just as supportive and empowering men. I have always been respected in the workplace inside an office as well as on constriction sites across NSW. How have you overcome challenges in your career?

It is important to have a village of supporters around you, men and women from all walks of life. I often call these supporters your cheer squad. Mentors you can call upon and positive people to mirror. I am conscious every interaction you have, can either leave that person with a positive impact or negative.

This is a choice you have. Even when working in compliance and regulation, where the conversations can be hard around people’s performance or nonperformance, this can be managed in a respectful manner to achieve a positive outcome. Obviously, this is not everyone’s behaviour, but I am always prepared to walk away and allow people to try again. From my Year 11 Legal Studies teacher suggesting I don’t study Legal Studies for year 12 (which I did and he had to teach me for another year), I have always listened to the detractors and often walked right past them as I have achieved the unthinkable.

What advice to you have for others trying to overcome challenges in their careers?

Be kind to yourself, ensure you have the right cheer squad around you, don’t be deterred by detractors in any way. Moving sideways or around challenges to achieve your ultimate goal is perfectly fine. Find the balance to ensure you are authentic and working towards your goals.

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DRIVING CHANGE Hanson Australia stirs up trucking industry

ALYSSA WELKE

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auren Whitehall always wanted to become a truck driver, but life circumstances took her in a different direction for many years.

It was only when she saw an ad from Hanson Australia, promoting a program to encourage women to join the company as drivers, that she was able to make her dream a reality.

Lauren had grown up in a trucking family in Cleveland, Queensland, with her dad being an owner operator, and she’d always wanted to follow in his footsteps just as her two brothers had.

But she hadn’t had the opportunity to do so – she was working in aged care and disability services as an assistant in nursing when she saw the Hanson ad, and knew now was her time.

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She applied for a spot in the program and was shortlisted and given a spot on the female-only training course.

For Lauren, the moment she started her training she was sure she’d made the right decision.

“I was a single mother so the time wasn’t right for me to do it (sooner),” she said.

“I work long hours, six days a week, I just couldn’t do it (when my children were younger).

“This is the best job I’ve ever had.”

Lauren began her training to become a concrete agitator driver in March; the training consisted of her white and blue card inductions, obtaining her Heavy Rigid truck license (which Hanson paid,

and provided an agitator truck for) through Ultimate Driving School and then undertaking Hanson’s mandatory training to learn how to drive an agitator, how to load, how to slump concrete, all before she could get out on the road delivering concrete to construction projects throughout the Sydney metro area.

Lauren was thrilled to be teamed up with one of Hanson’s drivers at the Prestons depot (which is now her home depot).

“He made me feel so at ease and was very reassuring,” Lauren said.

“I was one of the first girls assessed (through the program), and once I passed I was given my own truck.

“I work six days a week, on average 11-12 hour days Monday-Friday, and up to eight hours on Saturday.

“It’s the perfect job for me. It’s lots of driving – I like it.”

Lauren receives immense satisfaction from her work, knowing that she’s helping to build a lasting legacy; she thrives on the challenge of making sure each slump is exactly how the customer wants it for that project.

“I’m always meeting new people and I love seeing the work that goes into making a building.

“I was a bit worried that they’d (the men on sites) see a female driving and be funny about it, but nope.

“They’ve commented ‘you back a truck better than most blokes’.

“I’m kicking myself that I didn’t do it sooner.”

Hanson Australia Sydney metro transport manager Lauren Gallagher said it was an 18 month process to launch the female-only training course, which was developed to ensure women felt comfortable to join the industry.

About 500 women expressed interest in joining the course, with two groups of 20 shortlisted for a prestart interview process.

Lauren said the shortlisted candidates had a real passion for driving, and in a lot of cases this was born from their grandfathers and fathers being truck drivers – it was an industry they had grown up around and it was in their blood.

She said some candidates withdrew as the sixday-a-week work lifestyle wasn’t compatible with

their circumstances, with young children to consider, but 10 women were on the course.

Of those who did complete the training, they were up and driving their own trucks within about a month of starting their training.

An all-genders group of trainees, three of which are female, are currently completing their training.

“At the end of the day we want more females within our business,” Lauren said.

“We want the right people with the right energy and if they happen to be female so be it.

“We want women to be comfortable in the role and give them the opportunities to show us what they’ve got.

“We want to see more women succeed in the construction industry.”

Lauren Gallagher is just one example of a woman doing just that – as transport manager for Sydney metro, she has 164 trucks and about 210 drivers, some of which provide leave cover for the other operators.

“Some industries appear to be more male dominated and we don’t want that at Hanson,” she said.

“The diversity here at Hanson is exceptional.

“I’ve been here three years and I couldn’t imagine working anywhere else now. Everyone here wants everyone else to succeed.

“We’ve got a good thing here and have good people working for us.”

Currently there are 15 women driving with more coming on board; Lauren’s immediate goal is to double that and when that goal is reached she’s setting her sights higher.

Lauren Whitehall’s advice to other women wanting to break into the industry is straightforward.

“Take the step. I regret that I left it so long – it’s really rewarding.

“Reach out to companies like Hanson that have a great training program.

“Don’t be worried – I am treated the same as any bloke doing this job.

“Don’t hold back and think ‘I can’t do this’.

“We can do these things!”

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MINDSET BECKY PAROZ ENGINEER, PROJECT MANAGER AND AUTHOR

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RECIPE FOR SUCCESS

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he idea that we need adversity in order to grow is not a new one, but this concept has certainly been tested in the last few years by individuals and businesses alike. Tested to the point where people are getting sick of words like “resilience” and rebelling against the idea that we need adversity in order to grow.

“Adversity builds muscle. Adversity creates strength. Adversity, as it turns out, is preparation for success.” Andy Andrews If we look at the traits of those who have made it through the greatest global upheaval our modern society has experienced, we might find a recipe for success that could work in any circumstance, not just the current set of adverse conditions we find ourselves in now.

Resilience is the first one that comes to mind.

The ability to deal with issues as they arise and maintain equilibrium or a state that continues to perform, regardless of the external stimulus. The ability to recover from a distortion that occurs in your work or personal life. You might not feel resilient, but you are still here, still working, striving, making ends meet, turning up, showing up, and making things happen.

Strength might seem the same as resilience but is more related to the power and vigour with which you respond, the force used to propel yourself out of the less than desirable circumstance into better, more conducive circumstances. For example, many people have used these last few years to change careers, start a business or consultancy, turn a hobby into a money-making activity, and managed to make that work for them. This requires strength to push through the changes to your mindset and your external inputs who may question your sanity in stepping away from security into uncertainty.

Embracing uncertainty would then follow as another attribute. Perhaps a better way of saying it is a tolerance for risk. Being willing to sit without unknown outcomes, less than secure boundaries like a weekly wage, and being willing to back yourself during a time of social and economic upheaval, and having a level of

equilibrium about it, come what may, allows you to focus on the things you can change, influence, and control.

Letting go of the things you cannot control, change, or influence would then be the next significant part of the recipe for success. Being able to keep your focus free of worry, anxiety, and ignoring the discomfort of the unknown adds a good balance to your recipe.

Taking action is required. You can’t just wait for life to happen around you, you need to go out and happen to life. Network, pitch, perform, sell, smile, slog, slay! Whatever needs doing to reach those goals, do it. Dealing with things as they arise, including the filing, helps keeps you focused on the big stuff, let go of the small stuff, and keep your eyes on the destination.

By mixing equal parts adversity, resilience and strength, with an equal portion of embracing uncertainty and letting go, all firmly placed over a foundation of taking action, you will achieve success. It may not look like the brochure, or even the original goal, but it will be a journey and a destination you have created… and can recreate at any time to achieve a different outcome.

Give up focusing on what you can’t do during adversity, and start focusing on what adversity can do for you.

With thirty years in the construction industry, Becky Paroz has demonstrated her unique leadership abilities on some of the most demanding projects in Australia.

As a successful engineer and industryleading project manager, and now general manager for Stroud Homes — South Brisbane, Becky has been and continues to be a much-requested speaker at state and national industry conferences. She shares her knowledge through a variety of writing projects. She writes for three different business magazines, contributes to anthologies, and creates a significant amount of technical writing as part of her day job.

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PUT OUR INNOVATION TO WORK Iconic Australian footwear brand, Blundstone, has continued to lead the way in safety footwear, with the launch of RotoFlex. This world-leading biomechanical design is a result of years of research and development into the needs of workers in the trades, building and construction industries. This range includes two styles designed specifically to provide a genuine women’s fit, the wheat (#8860) and stone (#8863) both with waterresistant nubuck uppers.

Launching in September 2022, RotoFlex delivers a strong foundation from the ground up, providing unbeatable fit and unrivalled comfort— perfect from day one. They are a great addition to the Blundstone Women’s Safety offering. www.blundstone.com.au

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FLORENCE || 37

This is…

Scandi Hygge isn’t just a feeling: it’s a lifestyle. Hygge is about texture, textiles and everything working in harmony.

Image: Unsplash

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JENNA MARTIN

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t’s official: Scandi is here to stay. What may have a few years ago felt like a passing fad has now firmly cemented itself as the style of choice for those looking to make their house feel chic, functional and homey all at the same time.

It’s not exactly surprising that Scandi design is so popular… after all this is the land that created IKEA and made it a global phenomenon. But what is exactly is it about Scandi that makes it so timeless, and how do you go about creating that Hygge Vibe at your place?

White-on-white-on-white Well, mostly. Scandi isn’t only about white walls and white furniture… but white is absolutely a key part of the aesthetic. Traditionally, Scandi should have four shades maximum, leaning heavily on white or similarly light colours — greys, tans and creams — which reflect natural light and brighten up a room.

Scandi aesthetic is about clean lines, muted colours and functional chic.

keep patterns and bold colours to your accents, like cushions, throws and artwork.

Double Duty Scandi is as much about being practical as it is about being pretty. Minimalist at its’ core, “less is more” should be your decorating aesthetic, in that you should use less furniture but do more with it. Think clean and simple dining benches with builtin storage or a headboard with integrated sconces and bedside tables. You want to choose your furniture carefully and you want it to work hard for you.

Say it with me: Hygge In a nutshell, this on-trend word is all about the Scandi vibe of being comfortable and cosy at all times. We’re talking soft-as-silk throws, chunky, textured pillows, rugs that feel like a foot massage with every step you take and hot chocolate in imperfect ceramic mugs seemingly fresh out of the kiln: it’s all about creating an atmosphere that is warm and cosy, textural and tactile.

Efficiency is king

Your accents should make your aesthetic pop, not drown it out.

Considered accents Because minimalism is the order of the day, you want to choose your accents carefully. Black and white goes great with Scandi as does timber, which adds warmth to what can otherwise seem a stark aesthetic. Consider timber shelves or a timber bench seat, with contrasting monochromatic or brightly coloured artwork on your walls. Scandinavians aren’t afraid of patterns — think of Marimekko — but

Scandi homes are famously eco-friendly and efficient. If you’re building a Scandi home from scratch, consider renewable materials and a design that will keep your home temperate and energy efficient. The same goes for interiors, where clever, efficient lighting schemes save energy and plants thrive. In fact, feel free to ignore the “less is more” rule when it comes to indoor greenery: Scandi’s love their plants, so don’t forget your green thumb: display that thriving Monstera proudly in your light, bright kitchen and squeeze an extra snake plant on the windowsill. The other upside of indoor plants? They fulfill that key Scandi rule of being both attractive and functional, purifying the air while sitting pretty.

Win-win.

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In 2022 Using outdoor space is more important than ever.

The hottest trends in outdoor living JENNA MARTIN

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here’s nothing Aussies love more than the great outdoors, and having some sort of outside space is front of mind for pretty much everyone when they’re buying, renting or renovating a house.

During lockdowns they became places to relax, to entertain and to escape when we (literally) couldn’t go anywhere else. Post-COVID, our outdoor spaces have become even more important, becoming an extension of our interiors: a place to use every day, not just for the odd weekend or when guests come to visit.

It doesn’t matter if you have a large backyard made for BBQs, a cute courtyard or a simple balcony: if

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you’re keen to tackle your outdoor area and make it truly shine, here are the hottest trends to consider.

Outdoor kitchens These days, a simple BBQ on a patch of grass isn’t going to cut it. Outdoor dining is a big deal and outdoor kitchens are big business. Pizza ovens and roasting spits are being added to stand-alone and built-in BBQs along with grills, outdoor fridges and prep spaces like sinks and countertops. When people are entertaining outdoors, they want to be able to hold everything from a pizza party to a fivecourse fancy dinner party, and prep, cook and enjoy the whole thing outside.

A place to escape and a place to play Outdoor space became a luxury and a haven during lockdowns and this is a trend that has only gathered strength.

An outdoor kitchen should be able to prep and cook a whole meal.

People are turning their backyards into mini sanctuaries, places that can feel like a retreat when you can’t leave town. For child-free adults or those with older kids, things like fire pits, hot tubs and even backyard saunas are rising in popularity.

Younger families are embracing all the “fun” things that backyards have to offer with many installing plunge pools, outdoor cabanas that double as rumpus rooms and even outdoor movie projectors and screens.

While we’ll likely never again be forced to stay at home in the same way, we want to know that if we do, home can feel like a holiday!

Entertainment zones The other big trend is making your outdoor space work on a number of different levels. Rather than just having one big backyard (or one courtyard or balcony) people are zoning their outdoor space into places to relax, dine and play.

Your outdoor space should feel like a holiday.

Even outdoor workspaces are becoming a thing, with outdoor workspaces named “the 2022 outdoor trend of the year” by Cabot’s Timber Finishes.

While most of us probably still use a home office, an outdoor office really takes things to the next level, and as such, things like adding smart technology to your outdoor space has become a big deal — people want to be outside and still have strong wifi and the ability to play music, decorate with lighting and have a space that’s conducive to work, with shelter from the elements.

People want clearly defined spaces for living, dining and play.

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LAW MATTERS HANNAH SHEPPHARD SENIOR SOLICITOR MB NSW

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DUTY OF CARE PROVISIONS GET TESTED IN COURT The Supreme Court of New South Wales has given us what we’ve all been waiting for — a decision on section 37 of the Design and Building Practitioners Act 2020 (NSW) (DBPA) which imposes a duty on a person who carries out construction work to exercise reasonable care to avoid economic loss caused by defects — (a) in or related to a building for which the work is done, and (b) arising from the construction work.

In Goodwin Street Developments Pty Ltd atf Jesmond Unit Trust v DSD Builders Pty Ltd (in liq) [2022] NSWSC 624: • Goodwin (the plaintiff who brought the Court claim) was a developer constructing three boarding houses near the University of Newcastle; • DSD Builders Pty Ltd (the first defendant) (Builder) was the head contractor engaged by the developer under a contract dated 10 July 2017; and • Mr Daniel Roberts (the second defendant) was a representative of the Builder and Mr Roberts’ fiancée was the sole director of the Builder.

A licensed supervisor was originally engaged by the Builder to oversee the project, however Mr Roberts oversaw the Builder’s works from late August 2017.

Various disputes arose between Goodwin and the Builder, including in relation to defects in the works and the progress of the works.

Things soured and the building contract was terminated. The developer alleged in the Court proceedings that Mr Roberts poured concrete into the sewer pipes on the site, and caused other damage.

Aside from the claims of damage, there was no dispute in the proceedings that there were defects in the works to the value of $300,000. The issue for determination by the Court was whether Mr Roberts was personally liable for breach of the duty of

care obligations in the DBPA and therefore responsible for the rectification costs.

The Court found that he was.

Key takeaways in the Court’s decision: 1.

Mr Roberts was supervising and project managing the works under the contract and was therefore engaging in “construction work” within the meaning of the DBPA.

2. The duty of care relates to a boarding house, and is not limited to residential building work only — “building work” as defined in section 36 of the DBPA has a broad reach and applies to commercial and residential work, as well as manufacture, supply and design work.

3. The Court commented that in relation to the determining whether the duty of care applies to boarding houses: “Resolution of the question involves consideration of the labyrinthine provision of s 36 of the DBP Act. The section appears to have been drafted so as to make comprehension of it as difficult as possible.”

4. As it was Mr Roberts that was project managing the construction on the site, and as the construction works were undertaken under Mr Roberts’s supervision, the fact that the defects were not corrected despite Mr Roberts’s assurances to the developer that “I’ll fix it” bespeaks his want of care in project managing and supervising the construction work. [Decision at 145].

The Court’s decision confirms that the reach of the law in relation to holding individuals accountable for defective building work has been significantly extended by the introduction of the DBPA.

Hannah Shephard is a solicitor at MBA Lawyers, (02) 8586 3517.

Specific legal advice should be sought for individual circumstances.

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BUSINESS MATTERS VERITY HARE WWW.TRADIEWIVES.COM.AU

Turn a challenge into an advantage

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he trades industry is becoming increasingly challenging. There are increases in material prices, staff shortages, material delays, industry uncertainty, reduced consumer confidence and I could go on! It is certainly not ideal considering we have just battled through two years of a pandemic.

However, as with anything in life there are always going to be challenges. The beauty lies in how we respond. I recently read a quote that said, “Your problems are designed to give you the skills necessary to get to the next level.” So let’s look at how we can make the most out of these uncertain times.

Perhaps you could introduce another product or service? Another idea is to think outside the box when it comes to employing the right people — could you offer a higher pay rate to secure the right person or target retirees who are looking for part-time work to keep them active? Can you spend time getting creative with your job ads and attract a higher volume of applicants?

Consider outsourcing tasks to reduce your stress levels. When you are so involved in your business, asking for help can be difficult. Sometimes it feels too hard to hand things over and finding a way forward can seem impossible.

In my experience, outsourcing to a professional in the areas of business where you need support can save you so much time and money. Often an external perspective can also help make things clearer and open your eyes to options you might not have even considered.

Understand that change is inevitable and use adversity as fuel to launch you into the next level of your business.

Nothing ever stays the same — so stay positive and keep evolving. Being flexible and having the ability to not only adapt, but to stay one step ahead, will be key in preparing you for whatever lies ahead.

Look at ways that you can diversify your business.

Most importantly, always keep looking forward!

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TECH & APPS Technology seems to go from strength to strength. Here’s a taste of the latest

ABC iview ABC iview is the 24/7, free video on demand streaming service from the ABC. Available across Android devices and Android TV, it’s easy to use, commercial-free and distinctively Australian.

With ABC iview you can binge the best Australian and international drama and comedy all in the one place.

Sweat: Fitness App For Women

LinkedIn: Jobs & Business News

Train at home or in the gym with one of the world’s largest women’s fitness communities! Get the fitness motivation you need with Sweat, a personal training app featuring cofounder and elite head trainer, Kayla Itsines.

Join LinkedIn, one of the largest professional social apps. Search for jobs and start networking all from one app. Find the right community, workplace and connections to lead you to your ideal career. Start your next job search, browse through salary insights and job listings and connect with business professionals – your next step to your career is here.

Sweat offers a broad suite of challenging, yet achievable programs with workouts you can do anywhere, any time to progressively build your fitness. New programs give you more ways to push yourself and get you closer to reaching your goals. Stay accountable with virtual community challenges and feel supported by likeminded women everywhere.

Highlight your work experience, successes, skills and your network with your LinkedIn profile. Filter through millions of job vacancies and work recommendations to find the right positions and career for you with salary insights to narrow the search, or get referrals.

taste.com.au recipes

Headspace: Mindful Meditation

Airbnb

With access to more than 50,000 tried and tested recipes, the taste. com.au app is your best friend in the kitchen.

Headspace for Meditation, Mindfulness and Sleep

Discover millions of possibilities

Packed with special features to make planning and cooking your next meal easier than ever.

Learn meditation and mindfulness in a few minutes a day with Headspace.

The smart timer smart functionality helps you cook the perfect meal every time.

Stress less. Sleep soundly. Get happy.

Choose from hundreds of guided meditations on everything from stress and everyday anxiety management to sleep, personal growth, and mindbody health. Meditate anywhere, any time — and start living a more calm, healthier, happier life.

Choose from unique homes — near or far — in many countries around the world. Find everything from getaways near national parks to apartments in the heart of big cities and book right in the app.

Easily explore the world of Airbnb — and discover homes that you wouldn’t have known to look for — with a new way to search.

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PROMOTION

ROTOFLEX BY BLUNDSTONE

— STYLES DESIGNED AND MADE FOR WOMEN —

I

conic Australian footwear brand, Blundstone, has continued to lead the way in safety footwear, with the launch of RotoFlex®. This worldleading biomechanical design is a result of years of research and development into the needs of workers in the trades, building and construction industries. The RotoFlex range includes two styles designed specifically to provide a genuine women’s fit—the wheat (#8860) and stone (#8863).

biomechanical foot-cradling design. This increases stability, balance, and manoeuvrability—providing all-encompassing comfort from day one.

An Australian first in providing composite safety in heavy industrial women’s safety footwear, the RotoFlex range has a Fortalite® toe cap. This provides lightweight, compression-resistant protection, suitable for a variety of industries.

“Blundstone is proud to be offering two more styles to increase our women’s offering in the safety market. The #8860 and #8863 are specially designed to conform to a woman’s foot, providing all the latest protection and comfort features found across our extensive unisex work and safety range. We believe women are entitled to all the same benefits afforded to men in industry, and we’re ready to release these new styles to an ever-growing female workforce,” says Kylie White, Australian sales manager.

The RotoFlex range features a biomechanically conforming sole design, GripTek®. Providing stability with every step, the unique TPU tread pattern and super cushioned midsole offer all-day stability, maximum comfort, and optimum grip. The innovative design of the GripTek sole also reduces slip hazard risk, fatigue, and ankle injury.

The #8860 and #8863 feature a water-resistant upper and an all-new zoned airflow footbed, AirCell®. The AirCell footbed has been uniquely constructed with specialised zoning designed to activate ventilation. This allows air to be pumped through channels to the heel, arch of the foot and between the toes, offering moisture control and cushioning comfort as the wearer walks and moves. The footbed has been shaped and constructed with a softer PU to provide optimal support for a woman’s build.

The overarching comfort system, SoftCell® utilises a combination of specialist materials and a unique

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The RotoFlex Range also incorporates Infinergy®.

This E-TPU material is a super elastic energy foam from BASF which is soft but resilient—providing enhanced cushioning and reducing the impact of every step taken.

Every component built into the RotoFlex boots has been researched, tested, and trialled to guarantee a truly innovative, better-performing, safety boot.

The dedicated design team spent thousands of hours researching a range of options for each component of the boots and selected the best performing product—and if they couldn’t find the perfect piece, they created it.

Launching in September 2022, RotoFlex delivers stability with the freedom to move, providing hard working women with the very best in innovation and technology. www.blundstone.com.au/rotoflex

SELF-CARE ESSENTIALS Taking care of yourself doesn’t need to be confined to the worksite — a little bit of self-care can go a long way. Take some time to relax and rejuvenate after a long hard week at work.

The Body Shop Mango Body Scrub Buff that beautiful body to silky softness with our Mango Body Scrub (250mL). Now made with 90% ingredients of natural origin, including Community Fair Trade mango seed oil from India, our rich and creamy sugar exfoliator buffs away dead skin cells to leave dry skin feeling softer, smoother and nourished with moisture.

Cost: $30 (RRP) Invisible Zinc SPF 50+ Sheer Defence Tinted Moisturiser Light 50g Unlike chemical sunscreens that absorb the sun’s UV rays, INVISIBLE ZINC® uses naturally sourced Zinc Oxide to create a protective shield on the surface of your skin, reflecting both UVA & UVB rays. INVISIBLE ZINC® contains no chemical sun filters, is suitable for sensitive skin, and gives you amazing broad-spectrum protection from the sun’s rays. Invisible Zinc® isn’t the zinc you grew up with. It’s light and rubs in clear, so you won’t even know you’ve got it on.

LUSH Relax Gift Set A soothing, pampering quartet, which includes a Twilight Bath Bomb, Sleepy Bubble Bar Mini, Sleepy Shower Gel and Dream Cream Body Lotion. How to Store: Keep somewhere cool, dry and on hand for when you need to step down your mind and body.

Cost: From $40.50 (RRP)

Grace and James BOTANICAL TRIO Perfectly curated to burn separately or together, layer your favourite Grace and James Botanical scents with three adorable 15 hour burn time candles — Bourbon Vanilla, Jungle and Oasis.

Cost: $39.95 9RP)

Cost: $34 (RRP) Swisse Matcha Tea Anti Pollution Clay Mask 70g Matcha Tea AntiPollution Clay Mask promotes a deep cleanse while drawing out impurities, toxins, and pollutants, and absorbing excess oil.

Matcha Tea AntiPollution Clay Mask is formulated with seaweed extract, kaolin clay, matcha green tea extract, and tea tree oil to purify and soothe the skin. This cooling facial treatment draws out impurities, toxins, and pollutants, and absorbs excess oil. This product contains essential oils. Test prior to use.

JBL Charge 5 Portable Bluetooth Speaker Take the party with you no matter what the weather with the JBL Charge 5 Portable Bluetooth Speaker. It delivers bold JBL Original Pro Sound, with its optimised long excursion driver, separate tweeter and dual pumping JBL bass radiators.

Cost $199 (RRP)

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EVENTS OCT-MAY

MOVERS & BREAKERS

When: October 26 to 29 October 2022 Where: InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort, Gold Coast, Queensland Put away the beanies and store your scarves, this Movers + Breakers it’s time we defrosted and headed somewhere warm.

Did someone say Gold Coast?

Movers and Breakers is not your average conference. Each year we bring together 140 of our members for three days of extraordinary connection, learning, fun (a lot of fun!) and to hold space for you to be yourself. This October we’re off to the always-a-good-idea Gold Coast for our eighth Movers + Breakers!

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Movers and Breakers is an exclusive Business Chicks member-only experience and one of the most anticipated events on the Business Chicks calendar (the conference has sold out in just a few weeks year on year). Join us for a few days of magic with the best kind of people in one of Australia’s most beautiful places.

NOV 10 WIDAC DARE TO BE VULNERABLE (KEY) NETWORKING EVENT When: Thursday, November 10, 2022

OCT 26-29 It’s time for the sun, sand and synonyms for learning that start with S. We’re pulling out all the stops to make this Movers + Breakers an extraordinary three days for you all, with lots of really special moments and surprises built in too.

Go to www.businesschicks.com/movers-andbreakers-2022/

DESIGN BUILD EXPO When: May 9-11, 2023 Where: ICC Sydney

Welcome to the new DesignBUILD – bringing together Australia’s architecture, building, construction and design communities in one essential event. Always evolving and looking to the future – DesignBUILD is more relevant than ever before.

The annual event has been reimagined with a renewed focus on showcasing the best of quality Australian brands, products and sustainable solutions, as well as giving you the chance to discover new markets, create new opportunities and build connections across the entire building life cycle.

More information will be released closer to the event For more information: www.widac.com.au/events/ new-south-wales Women in Design and Construction (WIDAC) has expanded from Brisbane, to Sydney, Melbourne and now are ready to launch their first roadshow events across Australia.

They are an event and networking organisation with more than 35 national and state based team members, thousands of members and a list of incredible sponsors — all of whom have helped it grow WIDAC (Women in Design and Construction) to what it is today.

All of their content is carefully curated to ensure they explore diverse topics, address issues faced by women, develop technical skills relevant to the industry, provide insights and advice for professional development, and explore the human situations we all encounter.

Their speakers come from all experience levels, with professions ranging from design, construction, engineering, to property development (just to name a few… they are such a varied group!).

They believe the real magic of WIDAC lies in its community of women working across disciplines, coming together to support each other, and grow as a collective.

Over five-and-a-half years, WIDAC has grown to be a force to be reckoned with — made up of a large community of more than 15,000 women and men who are willing to address systemic issues, bring ideas to the table, and most of all, take a positive, problem-solving and proactive approach.

For more information go to www.designbuildexpo. com.au/

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INSTA SISTAS

@chippy_sierra

@gee_welds

Sierra

Georgia Hartley | 25

2nd year apprentice carpenter @lukeekertbuilding Wanting to show my journey to people

Sydney, Australia 4th year sheetie apprentice | Welder

@camilathecaulker

@kick_asswomen

Camila The Caulker | construction company

Jo Sainsbury | Author

Sit still and let her do the MAGIC Ambassador @greenhipworkwear Supporting women in trade | Melbourne, Australia

Career Resource for Women in the Rail, Mining, Resources, STEM, Construction, Trades and Transport Industries.

Bowen Basin, Queensland Australia

@ewitrades Empowered Women in Trades EWIT To empower women to enter and succeed in skilled trades Supporting women to see a viable career path within skilled trades Founder @haciaatherton 50 || FLORENCE

@paintingwith_tara Tara Boullon Painting/decorating 2nd year apprentice @bcito Palmerston North, New Zealand FLORENCE || 3

FLORENCE constructing a new perspective

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FAMILY TIES

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RAQUEL MANNING DIAMO

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Building the future

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IT’S THE UNMISTAKEABLE

VOICE OF WOMEN BUILDING THE INDUSTRY When you want to BE SEEN AND HEARD by them... and reach key decision-makers who have a unique perspective in the ever-changing and rapidly developing construction industry — this is the magazine for you.

Contact the Master Builders NSW FLORENCE magazine today for tailored advertising and editorial opportunities.

Julie Marshall 07 4690 9349 | 0437 465 892 julie.marshall@news.com.au Mary-Ann Zammit 07 4690 9370 | 0436 028 319 mary-ann.zammit@news.com.au

Natalie Pavlovic of Rotric Constructions

BUSINESS RESILIENCE TRAINING Women Building Australia is offering free Business Resilience Training for women running or operating businesses in the building and construction industry.

Developed in conjunction with MYOB, on completion of the 7 training modules, participants will be provided with a micro-credential from MYOB and gain a 2 month free MYOB subscription.

The topics covered are: 1. Introduction to bookkeeping 2. Managing cashflow 3. Managing clients 4. Managing suppliers 5. Managing payroll 6. Generating revenue 7. Managing compliance Each topic is delivered via webinars lasting 45-60 minutes with a new topic each fortnight.

Scan the QR code for more information.

womenbuildingaustralia.com.au