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CONTRIBUTORS
Ingrid began her role with AGWA in May 2021 looking after the training needs of members. Her role soon progressed to include working on BuiltView, safety, the AGWA Design Awards, the website and other marketing-related activities.
Prior to AGWA, Ingrid worked for a legal publishing company as an editor, a publishing manager and then an editorial trainer. Her time at Butterworths saw her work on their building and local government and environment suite of products and with the CSIRO and ABCB on other BCA projects. She also previously worked for many years as a part time teacher at TAFE teaching law, business, communications and work health and safety across multiple faculties.
Tom joined HIA as an Economist in 2018. As Senior Economist, he assists in the research and analysis of housing market trends and manages the assumptions and statistical modelling behind HIA’s residential building forecasts. He has also authored many of HIA’s wide range of economics publications. This provides him with the insight and expertise to advocate to all levels of government and media on behalf of the housing industry, for the purpose of informing policy debate. He has provided advice to both the private and public sectors across a range of areas.
Sahil Xavier holds qualifications in Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering. With 2 years of experience as a graduate design engineer in the railway and rolling stock sector, Sahil transitioned into the glass and windows sector in 2022 when he joined AGWA.
Currently, Sahil is working as an Engineering Project Officer at AGWA, managing the WERS Platform and Thermal Performance space, while also being involved in industry committees and working groups.
James Whitehouse graduated in Structural Engineering in the UK before discovering building facades, working initially for systems’ companies before becoming a Facade Engineer at LendLease. Over the last decade working in Australia, he has worked for two of the largest WA commercial fabricators and then Capral Aluminium before joining AGWA in 2022.
He is a cricket fanatic and former state longbow champion.
Tim joined AGWA in July 2023. With a degree in Architecture from the University of New South Wales, as well as postgraduate qualifications in environmental management and economics, Tim has more than 25 years’ experience working in the built and natural environment, not for profit industry associations, private and government sectors.
Angela is a marketing and advertising Copywriter with Sydney’s Trade Advertising Agency, crafting words and ideas for all kinds of building-related brands. Growing up by her builder Father’s side and becoming a renovation aficionado — writing for AGWA is close to Angela’s heart and hands.
Copywriter, Trade Advertising Agency
Angela Farrell
Industry Development Coordinator, AGWA
Ingrid Pagura
Head of Policy and Advocacy, AGWA
Tim Johnston
Senior Economist, HIA
Tom Devitt
Technical Manager, WA, AGWA
James Whitehouse
Engineering Project Officer, AGWA
Sahil Xavier
EDITOR
Melissa Baker
Ingrid Pagura
DESIGN
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Sehar Maniar, AGWA
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COVER IMAGE & CONTENTS PAGE IMAGES
Dural Residence, Dural NSW
Finalist in 2024 Design Awards, Bespoke Shower Screen and Barrier Category
Glazed Co, Daniel Chamoun Director
Photographer: Studio Pisani, David Pisani
CONTRIBUTORS
Clinton Skeoch, James Whitehouse, Sahil Xavier, Ingrid Pagura, Russell Harris, Vivienne Munter, Angela Farrell, Tom Devitt, Tim Johnston, Kellie Moore, Peter Condon, Carver Broomhall, Rafaella Kavouras, Allan Thiel, Ben Webster, Martin Blackey, Mari Lehtinen, Elizabeth Dimabuyu, Lido Russo, Jelena Ninkovic, Tarek Mostafa, Roger Bishop, Helen Dawes, Melissa Baker, Kerrie Henderson, Sehar Maniar, Tyler Gonzales and Dominique Macartney.
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Dear Members
Clinton Skeoch
Executive Director and CEO
AGWA
As we navigate the evolving landscape of the glass and window industry, we face both challenges and opportunities.
The recent news of Oceania Glass entering administration underscores the importance of local manufacturing and the need for a level playing field in an increasingly globalised market. This situation reinforces the urgency of our ongoing efforts to secure stronger government engagement to ensure the long-term viability of Australian businesses. One area we have focussed on is advocating for increased scrutiny of compliance from certifiers across to state-based Regulators. Strengthening investigative measures will help uphold quality standards and protect the integrity of our industry.
At the same time, the complexities of these evolving modern supply chains demand a more structured approach to accountability. That’s why we are rolling out a new reseller and prime system compliance framework for all member companies in these sectors. This initiative will help ensure that businesses, at every level of the supply chain, meet the evolving regulatory and performance expectations that define our industry today.
Looking ahead, 2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal year, filled with a comprehensive advocacy agenda, policy initiatives, and memberfocused events. We encourage all members to engage, stay informed and be part of the conversations shaping our industry’s future. I personally look forward to seeing you at one of our statebased forums.
If you miss our state forums, there are lots of other ways to connect and stay engaged; if you haven’t submitted your Design Award entry, then hop to it! Remember also that AusFenEx25 is fast approaching, and we expect another outstanding turnout. If you haven’t secured your spot yet, now is the time to do so — don’t miss this essential opportunity to connect, learn, and help drive our industry forward.
I look forward to seeing you there.
Clinton Skeoch
Clinton Skeoch Executive Director & CEO
ISSUE 23 | Autumn 2025
CEO WORDS ECONOMY
NEWS
MEMBER NEWS PRODUCTS
TRAINING 5 9 8, 29 11 12-13, 27, 42-43 14-15, 18-19, 20-21, 24-25, 40-41 30-31, 33 34-35, 53, 55 38-39, 45, 55 46, 48 49, 50, 51, 52 54
A finalist in the AGWA 2024 Design Award’s Bespoke Shower Screen and Barriers Category, the Dural Residence project by Glazed Co showcased an exquisite minimalist glass pool fencing solution of 12 mm frameless toughened glass, spanning nearly 70 linear metres. The design seamlessly blended functionality and aesthetic appeal.
SAFETY SPOTLIGHT: FALLS FROM HEIGHTS
Ingrid Pagura Industry Development Coordinator, AGWA
The statistics from injuries resulting from falls from heights are quite sobering. In NSW alone, 16 people in the construction industry died because of a fall from a height between 2019 and 2023. Across Australia, falls from heights were the second highest cause of workplace fatalities in 2023, with 29 deaths across Australia, up from 17 the previous year.
South Australia, for example, reported that 2023 saw a 36% increase in the number of serious workplace injuries by falling from heights across all industries from the previous year. Of the 105 serious falls, more than half were in the construction industry, more than 5 times of any other industry. Carpentry had the highest injury rate and non-compliance associated with falls from heights, but construction, manufacturing and transport are in the top 10.
Another sobering statistic is that most of the people who were injured or died from a fall, fell only less than 4 m, however, as the fall is usually the head hitting the concrete it is no wonder that this is becoming a huge issue.
So why is this the case? Many workers are taking risks to get the job done faster or don’t think they need a hard hat and a harness as the window isn’t all that high. Ladders on staircases or not properly erecting a scaffolding, falling off a truck or falling in a void have all been examples of fall from height cases causing serious injuries. Only late last year, a 17-year-old fell backwards off a ladder into a void.
Common falls from heights hazards:
• Instability of the floor or ground surface such as slippery surfaces, broken concrete, or a sloping ground
• Stairs or steps
• Poor lighting
• Incorrect use of ladders
• Inadequate or improper footwear
• Distraction
• Unloading trucks
• Falling into a void or open hatch.
Let’s look at some tips to prevent these injuries. According to SafeWork, here is the best advice to eliminate the risk from falling from heights:
Work on the ground or on a solid construction. Working from the ground is the safest option as it eliminates the risk of falls. Failing this, work on a solid construction. This may
not always be reasonably practicable, so if you can’t eliminate the risk, then minimise it by providing adequate control measures such as:
• A fall prevention device (eg, a secure fence, edge protection, working platforms and covers, temporary work platforms, guardrails, and scaffolding);
• If this is not reasonably practicable, then provide a work positioning system . This will prevent a fall by a restraint system, or enable a person to work supported in tension in a way that prevents the person from falling eg, industrial rope access;
• If it is not reasonably practicable to comply with either of the above, provide a fall arrest system . A fall arrest system is only used when it is not possible to use either a fallprevention device or a work-positioning system. This may not prevent a fall, however, it stops a person who has fallen and reduces the impact of the fall and so reduce their injuries. Examples include industrial safety nets, catch platforms or harness-based fall-arrest. If you use a fall arrest system, you must have emergency and rescue procedures in place and test them to ensure they are effective.
Remember to use a combination of controls to minimise risks if a single control is not eliminating the risk completely. In all situations, always maintain a safe system of work and provide training on the safe use of ladders, appropriates signs and ensuring correct PPE is always worn.
If you work in the construction industry, you must prepare and implement a site-specific Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) for work at heights above 3 m. If you are unsure of how to fill one in SafeWork Australia has made it much easier with their Interactive Tool, which can be found at: www.safeworkaustralia. gov.au/doc/interactive-swms-tool
SafeWork NSW has developed a Safety Checklist for working at heights in construction. If you would like a copy, please email training@agwa.com.au.
Be safe and make sure that every worker gets to go home at the end of the workday!
Shortage of skilled trades must be addressed
Tom Devitt Senior Economist, HIA
Australia continues to endure acute shortages of skilled trades. While these shortages have eased in recent quarters, they remain more acute than before the pandemic.
The challenge is that even as residential construction pipelines shrink, competition for skilled trades from other construction sectors, especially public infrastructure, is soaking up any excess labour. As at September 2024, the pipeline of public sector construction work reached a new high of $155 billion, compared to less than $50 billion back in 2016, when Australia was commencing construction on over 230,000 homes per year. The result is that trades shortages persist despite only 165,000 new homes commencing construction in the latest year, a 12-year low.
Successive governments have been aware of the persistent and structural skill shortages across key construction trades for decades, and the current policy approaches are doing little to shift the dial.
Australia needs to dramatically expand the size of its construction workforce.
HIA’s recent All Hands On Deck Report estimates that Australia requires approximately 83,000 additional workers in key construction trades to meet the Australian Government’s Housing Accord target of 1.2 million new homes over 5 years. This would represent approximately a 30% boost on current employment levels. A two-pronged approach is necessary.
Domestic workforce development
Over the medium-to-long term, we must give priority to Australia’s domestic workforce. This means greater support for apprentices, the public and private organisations that train them, and the businesses that provide them with supervision and on-site work experience.
We also need to attract more people into the construction industry, with a dedicated workforce development campaign to promote trades as a legitimate and rewarding career. There must be a concentrated effort to educate people on the benefits of a trade qualification, including to secondary school students, recent school leavers, and others looking to take their career in a new direction.
Skilled migration
This competition for skilled trades will make it harder for Australia to even build the volumes of homes seen in previous decades, to say nothing of the targets set by various governments to address the current housing crises around the country.
Given how urgent the matter is, we also require a short-term solution. This is why skilled migration is critical. Recent data from the Australian Department of Home Affairs shows that there were just 3644 workers on Temporary Skill Shortage Visas currently working in the key trade occupations needed to build homes in Australia. This equates to only 0.8% of the workforce in these trade occupations and not all these migrant workers are likely to be working in residential building.
A visa system that is complex and not fit for purpose does not help these numbers. The residential building industry needs a Construction Trade Contractor Visa tailored to suit the way work is arranged on building sites.
Failure to address the acute and persistent shortage of skilled trades means that Australia won’t be able to sustain healthy ongoing pipelines of residential, non-residential, and public infrastructure construction work required by our existing and growing population. This will act as a major constraint, not just on housing affordability, but on broader productivity and economic growth.
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UNDERSTANDING MODERN SLAVERY AND MEETING OBLIGATIONS AS AGWA MEMBERS
Tim Johnston Head of Policy and Advocacy, AGWA
Slavery might sound like a concept from a distant century but sadly it still exists today, as modern slavery. Every business owner needs to be alert to their responsibilities and obligations, irrespective of where a business sits in the supply chain. For example, a business supplying to larger entities may be required to provide information to help those larger organisations meet their modern slavery reporting obligations.
Modern slavery is a pervasive global issue that involves practices such as forced labour, debt bondage, human trafficking, and other forms of exploitation. Despite being outlawed, modern slavery affects an estimated 50 million people globally, often hidden within supply chains. Modern slavery distorts global markets, undercuts responsible business and can pose significant legal and reputational risks to organisations. For Australian Glass & Window Association (AGWA) members, recognising and addressing modern slavery is not only a moral imperative but also a legal one under the Modern Slavery Act 2018 (Cth).
A common misconception is that modern slavery does not exist within Australian supply chains. However, many industries — including construction and manufacturing — source materials like glass, aluminum, and hardware from international suppliers where exploitation risks are high. These risks can arise at various stages, from raw material extraction to assembly and distribution. It is estimated that the construction industry accounts for 18% of labour exploitation cases globally. AGWA members need to be vigilant as ignorance is no longer an excuse. Businesses must take proactive steps to identify, address, and mitigate these risks.
Under Australian law, organisations with an annual revenue of $100 million or more are required to report on their efforts to combat modern slavery. These organisations must prepare an annual Modern Slavery Statement. The Statement explains how they are addressing modern slavery risks in their global operations
and supply chains. The statements are publicly available on the Modern Slavery Statements Register (https://modernslaveryregister. gov.au/ ). However, even small to medium-sized businesses (SMEs) must demonstrate a commitment to ethical practices, as clients, financiers and suppliers increasingly demand transparency.
Risk factors based on political, socio-economic and legal factors vary from one country to the next. To meet obligations, AGWA members should:
• Conduct thorough due diligence to map their supply chains.
• Engage suppliers with clear expectations regarding ethical labour practices.
• Implement robust policies, training, and risk assessment processes.
• Regularly review operations and seek third-party audits where necessary.
Being part of AGWA provides members with tools and resources to meet these requirements. By prioritising transparency and accountability, members can protect their businesses and contribute to the global effort to eradicate modern slavery. After all, safeguarding human rights is a responsibility we all share.
Warning signs can look different in different situations, depending on the type of modern slavery, the location and the person. Be alert to red flags such as control and manipulation, financial exploitation, living and working conditions, emotional and physical signs, isolation, lies and wrong information, and migration and migration documents.
The Australian Government has a number of online resources, including guides and case studies (https://www.modernslavery. gov.au/guidance-training-resources/business), to help strengthen business responses to modern slavery.
Sliding (Glass) Doors for Euroglass Founder Peter Condon
Backpacking around Europe and some serendipitous meetings led young electrician Peter Condon to a business and career in glass. We caught up with Peter to find out more.
‘You should go backpacking for a year, I recall my Mum telling me, after I completed my electrical trade apprenticeship in Queensland at age 21. I boarded the big bird Qantas plane with some excitement and a great deal of trepidation, arrived at Heathrow, and the next morning booked myself onto a 10 week bus tour around Europe’, begins Peter.
While the young electrician saw all the amazing places in Europe and widened this naive Aussie lad’s perspective on life, he met interesting people from all walks of life. While on his travels, he kept seeing a well-run, booked-out travel company called Contiki. Peter mustered up the courage to apply for a job with them so he could stay longer in Europe. In the meantime, he flatted in London with other Aussies and Kiwis and started working as an electrician at Watney’s Brewery in Mortlake. Peter recalls ‘I settled into 1980s London life very well; working and partying’.
Out of the blue, Peter received a call from Contiki telling him that he was one of 32 chosen applicants who would be going on the next 6 week intensive training trip around Europe. ‘To be out on the road every day somewhere in Europe, from Paris to Istanbul, in a 50-seater coach with no SatNav, no mobile phones, no internet, no laptops — only a manual, a driver and a wallet full of 10 different currencies — was a hell of a sensory overload at first.
But, like anything seemingly daunting at first, you soon get used to things, and I really loved it. I ran tours for Contiki in Continental Europe, Australia and Fiji’, reflects Peter.
In a sliding doors moment, Peter met an interesting Kiwi on one of his tours. His name was Robert Famularo, inventor of the frameless shower screen. He remained in contact with Robert. ‘My time in Europe came to an end when I met a Kiwi girl, Jane, at the Oktoberfest in Munich in Oct 1982’. Peter decided to stop touring and follow Jane home to New Zealand, and onto Australia and onto Fiji.
In 1985, Robert Famularo, the glass entrepreneur, proposed that Peter start a frameless shower screen business on the Gold Coast and Brisbane. Because of his interest in the product and hands-on skills in the electrical trade, Robert gave Peter a few days training on how to install a screen.
Sure enough, Peter came back to Australia in late January 1989 and made plans to start up a frameless shower screen business on the Gold Coast. ‘Because I had met both Jane AND Robert in Europe, we decided to name the new business Euroglass Australia’, he says, adding that ‘Robert even lent me $2000 to purchase a small Mitsubishi L300 van!’
The first few years were tough launching a never-before-seen frameless shower screen into the Australian market, and it took 3 years for Peter and Jane to turn a profit. ‘We had 2 young
daughters at this time, and I did everything in the business from quoting to measuring, ordering, and installing. I thought about giving up a few times in those early years and going back to electrical, but Jane provided amazing support through thick and thin’, says Peter.
Peter’s brother Chris joined Euroglass in 1991, and the team became well known as one of the first to install frameless
glass pool fencing in Queensland. In its 36 years, Euroglass has completed an astonishing 50,000+ jobs for clients all over Queensland and beyond.
Euroglass’ most notable projects include a 6-level internal frameless spider staircase at Energex in Brisbane in 2013 and 90 linear metres of spider fitted frameless glass restaurant awnings with 12 frameless stacking door systems in Brisbane Square in 2014. Euroglass has also been the frameless glass supplier to many top hotel bathroom refurbishments, famous superyachts, and luxury homesteads.
Peter and Euroglass Australia have received many accolades over the years, with the most recent being winning the 2024 AGWA National Design of the Year for his work on the Total Fusion Wellness Centre. He also won the Queensland Award for Commercial Project Over $750,000 for the same project. This project required all of Euroglass’s skill in installing various unique bespoke glass elements into the Centre including a 4-storey frameless glass lift shaft, a 140 sqm all glass curved high altitude training room, A New York warehouse style curved patterned glass reception/back of office centre, many bespoke sauna, shower and treatment rooms throughout and an external all glass travelator entry canopy to the carparks. This amazing project was unparalleled and a testament to Peter and his team at Euroglass.
‘They say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, and I believe that many of our product innovations and initiatives have inspired a whole new industry of frameless glass businesses all around Australia, from importers and suppliers to installers’, explains Peter.
With Australians embracing energy efficiency and highperformance glass, Peter sees a bright future for long-lasting, high-end glass products throughout the industry. ‘It has certainly been a rewarding journey, from Queensland to Europe and everything since!’, ends Peter.
TECHNOLOGY IN THE GLAZING INDUSTRY
WESTERN PLAINS WINDOWS AND GLASS SAVES TIME AND MONEY
Western Plains Windows & Glass recently purchased a Quattrolifts Vector 500 Off Road Dual Vacuum Glazing Robot and a purposebuilt fully enclosed and lockable Drive on/off Tandem Trailer as a package to assist them with the handling of large panels, for both in the factory and out on site.
A perfect opportunity to try the new machinery arose not too long after. A contract to replace 5 small panels on a shop front for 2 large 350 kg (770 lbs) units was a perfect opportunity to evaluate the economy of using a machine rather than extra tradespersons.
The job site was 140 km away from their factory. Traditionally, 6 tradespeople in 2 work vehicles would have been sent to site (driving 2 hours each way) to replace these units manually. That is a total of 24 hours travel time for 6 tradespeople!
Traditionally, 6 tradespeople would have taken 6 hours to remove the smaller panels and install the 2 larger units. That adds up to a total of 36 hours of on-site installation time.
The Vector 500 OR PR Glazing Robot with its Variable Speed Control - Wired Remote was used to complete this job with only 2 people — 8 hours travel time instead of 24 hours.
Let’s have a look at the on-site installation breakdown. The 2 tradespeople:
• arrived at site 9.33 am;
• did prestart checks;
• did a site inspection;
• adjusted site fence and cleared area of debris;
• removed existing double-glazed panels, including framing x 6 (3 x lights per window);
• attached the Vector to the new windows and lifted directly off truck and installed into openings;
• did one reset in front of the openings per panel to optimise position;
• used the Vector to lift original panels from site and loaded directly on to the truck;
• tied down the load and tools packed (all tools needed were packed and secured in the front of the trailer);
• inspected the Vector and loaded and secured into the trailer;
• left the site 1.01 pm.
Time on-site 3.5 hours = total 7 hours
Travel time for 2 operators = total 8 hours
Time Study
Traditional manual glazing with 6 operators = 60 hours
Glazing with the Vector and 2 operators = 15 hours
Total cost saving using the Vector 500 OR Glazing Robot = 45 hours at $60 per hour
(Excluded from the calculation is the reduced Work Health and Safety risk for 4 operators from driving and musculoskeletal/ manual handling injuries dealing with 350 kg glass panels.)
Western Plains Windows & Glass said, ‘we are extremely happy with the results we are gaining with the Vector, and we will continue to incorporate it into our work practices, whenever possible’.
Quattrolifts is an Australian company that proudly designs, manufactures, and distributes their vacuum lifting machines worldwide. If you wish to enquire about how, you too can benefit from one of our machines, please contact Martin Blackey on 0415 895 327 or email martin@quattrolifts.com
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Leongatha Residential, VIC
MAKING AN ENTRANCE IN DESIGN WITH THERMALLY ENHANCED ALUMINIUM DOORS
Alyssa Barr is an Architectural Designer who worked with Parkwood Doors to bring one of her recent residential projects to life.
Alyssa has a passion for designing spaces that are both practical and significant for those who use them. The ability to turn a concept from a sketch into a real, tangible, lasting part of the world is incredibly rewarding, with each project presenting fresh challenges and chances for growth. This is why she finds that working alongside clients and important partners is a wonderful aspect of the process.
Alyssa was tasked with creating a contemporary country family home that included ample space for entertaining extended family and friends. In a contemporary context, the layout of a country home will often feature spacious, function-based zones that have an indoor-outdoor flow. The home’s layout had been organised by function: the bedroom wing sitting on one side and the living quarters on the other.
Alyssa chose Parkwood Doors for the ‘… quality product and service they provide. Their innovative products, like the Thermtek Aluminium doors, are aesthetically pleasing, while creating thermally comfortable homes that exceed compliance requirements’.
Thermtek is Parkwood’s unique thermally enhanced technology in aluminium front doors. Through the enhanced thermal properties of the Thermtek aluminium door, heat stays outside maintaining cool temperatures inside and vice versa. Additionally, this innovative technology minimises condensation on the door and serves as an excellent sound barrier. The door’s thermally enhanced properties work with the new and increasing thermal requirements for 7-star.
Alyssa and her client chose one of Parkwood’s aluminium styles, the HV03, as the home’s external door. ‘The contemporary look of the Parkwood Doors HV03, and its horizontal lines, complemented the home’s other surfaces’, said Alyssa.
A low maintenance home was important for the busy family, while not reneging on design and quality finishes. Front doors are often the only exterior house material that requires maintenance! Parkwood Doors’ aluminium styles are ‘strong and hard-wearing, so they can withstand the huge variety of extreme weather that Australia is known for, particularly the hot sun on large dark surfaces’.
Being able to have the door in a dark colour was high on the priorities. Monument is all the rage, and a light-coloured door in this façade just would not cut it. A beautifully crafted aluminium front door in their durable powder coat finish was the perfect solution.
Custom powder coating allowed Alyssa to match the home’s external door, the HV03, with the home’s aluminium windows and
its roof. Parkwood offers a large range of powder coat colours, including Dulux, Interpon and Colourbond colours. All standard aluminium window colours are available. Good quality powder coating is often more cost efficient, more hard wearing and more durable than conventional paint systems.
The family was thrilled with the results of their newly constructed home. The project’s refined, modern, and minimalistic colours and textures matched perfectly with Parkwood Doors. In particular, the contemporary look of the HV03, and its horizontal lines, complemented the home’s other surfaces.
For more information on Thermtek and Parkwood Doors, please see www.parkwooddoors.com.au
MARAYA CONCERT HALL
The world’s largest mirrored building created with Guardian Glass
In the heart of the Arabian Desert stands the Maraya Concert Hall, the world’s largest mirrored building, a marvel of architectural innovation, and a drawcard for the region’s tourism. Guardian Glass, one of the world’s largest glass producers and innovators, accepted an impossible 3-month deadline and environmental challenges to turn this desert mirage into a reality.
Maraya, which means mirror in Arabic, was the vision of the Architects at Gioforma, who were determined that their 9740 m2 concert hall should not disturb or distort the ancient landscape around it, rather, it should reflect it. So, they specified a real mirrored glass exterior.
The harsh conditions of the desert environment (extreme wind, sand, heat, and sunlight) presented significant challenges to this mirrored design brief: corrosion, discolouration, and oxidisation occur in standard mirrored glass when outside.
Just 3 months before a fully-booked concert season was due to commence, there was still no viable solution for the Maraya’s facade. Instead, sections of buckled metal and other failed attempts from various engineering companies distorted the desert’s reflection. The pressure to find a solution was high. Certain that they could engineer an exterior mirrored glass that could withstand the extreme conditions of the Arabian Desert, Guardian Glass won the facade project.
Wasting no time, they developed a new copper mirror. It was based on their highly durable interior Guardian UltraMirror™, but with a unique protective coating that would ensure the longevity and visual integrity of the mirror. ‘It had to stand against some of the harshest elements on the planet, and the most outstanding features of copper are corrosion resistance and durability’, said Nabil El Ahmar, at the time the Mega Projects and Strategic Partnership Manager at Guardian Glass.
Once the copper mirror concept was approved, a new challenge emerged: the tempered glass panels would break if cut on site.
Guardian Glass devised a unique process where the raw annealed glass was sent to the processor, then cut to size and heat treated, before being returned to Guardian Glass for the application of the protective coating.
The result? Guardian’s durable and authentic mirror solution allowed the ancient, wind-carved, sandstone mountains to be perfectly reflected along the Maraya’s length, so that the structure almost disappears into the landscape.
The Maraya Concert Hall project was recognised by the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest mirrored building, standing as a testament to Guardian Glass’s commitment to research, a determination to deliver, and a firm belief in collaboration meaning it is constantly finding new ways to build, design, and inspire with glass. The Maraya was also a popular winner at the 2020 Architizer A+Awards in the Architecture and Glass category.
The project not only showcased Guardian Glass’s technical expertise but also highlighted their ability to create new value-added products, tailored to meet the most demanding environmental conditions and demonstrating their commitment to innovation and excellence in the glass industry. ‘Ingenuity and perseverance paid off as we had to develop solutions for Maraya Concert Hall’s unique needs. With this development, we have created a new value-added product that meets challenging conditions’ concluded Jasmin Hodzic, at the time AME Marketing Director at Guardian Glass.
For more information on the project or on Guardian Glass and their product range, please see www.guardianglass.com.
Featuring Series 726 ThermalHEART™ Fabricator: PAG Warnambool
Photographer: Tatjana Plitt
Architect: Design by AD
Song Bird: Culinary and glazing mastery
The harbour-side suburb of Double Bay in Sydney has long been synonymous with luxury and sophistication. Now, a new culinary gem is set to transform its dining scene. Song Bird, the latest venture by renowned chef Neil Perry, promises an elevated experience that blends Cantonese flavours with modern Australian influences. Housed in a heritage building reimagined by acclaimed architect Peter Hurley, the restaurant seamlessly marries historic charm with contemporary design, redefining fine dining in this prestigious waterfront locale.
The choice of Gaden House as the setting for Song Bird was no coincidence. This heritage-listed 1960s masterpiece, designed by architect Neville Gruzman, provides a stunning backdrop for Perry’s culinary creations. Capral Aluminium played a key role in the careful restoration, with their window and door systems essential to the vision that provided optimal thermal and acoustic performance.
One of the most striking features of the restaurant’s design is its extensive use of glazing, which not only floods the space with natural light but also offers diners breathtaking views of Double Bay and beyond. The project utilised the Capral AGS 629 and 429 Double Glazed Flushline systems to seamlessly connect the interior with the outside world, fostering a sense of openness and enhancing the dining experience with a strong connection to the surrounding environment.
Additionally, Capral’s AGS Commercial 900 High-Performance Sliding Door was also implemented in the project. Engineered to withstand the coastal environment, with features such as marinegrade stainless steel rollers and weatherproof seals ensuring smooth operation and longevity, the 900 Series provides an open, airy feel without compromise on practicality, offering robust security and weather protection.
To control sunlight and heat while achieving a sleek, modern look, the design of Song Bird incorporates Capral’s 45 mm Sunshade box louvre system. The adjustable louvres allow for precise control of natural light, creating a comfortable ambience that adapts to changing weather conditions throughout the day. By effectively managing heat and glare, the system ensures that diners can enjoy Neil Perry’s exquisite Cantonese-inspired cuisine in optimal comfort, whether seated indoors or in outdoor dining areas. The louvres also contribute to the restaurant’s energy efficiency, reducing the need for artificial cooling and lighting.
The seamless integration of these advanced systems was made possible through the skilled craftsmanship of Arch System Fabrication. Their close partnership with Capral Aluminium played
a crucial role in bringing Peter Hurley’s architectural vision to life with precision and excellence. This collaborative effort ensured that every detail of the design was executed flawlessly, resulting in a space that perfectly embodies the architect’s creative intent.
In conclusion, Song Bird seamlessly blends culinary mastery with architectural brilliance. The collaboration between Capral Aluminium and Arch System Fabrication has resulted in a dining space that showcases breathtaking views of Double Bay and provides an unparalleled sensory experience for guests. From the innovative use of glazing systems to the thoughtful integration of louvres, every element of Song Bird’s design contributes to its status as a new icon in Sydney’s fine dining scene. Song Bird perfectly balances form and function for a visually and gastronomically exceptional experience.
A Taste of Glazing Life
O’Brien Kewdale Partners with Parkerville Youth Care
For vulnerable youth, forging a path into meaningful work can seem almost impossible, and work experience opportunities are typically limited.
This is the inspiration behind a remarkable program founded and run by O’Brien Glazing in Kewdale, WA called ‘A Day in the Life of a Glazier’. Now in its third consecutive year, the half-day session invites interested young people from the Parkerville Children and Youth Care in WA to step inside a real glazing business and see what a glazier does, have a go, and gain knowledge from glazing professionals.
For more than a century, Parkerville Children and Youth Care has supported vulnerable children, young people and their families with specialist advocacy, therapeutic services, education, and employment training, and out of home care.
Allan Thiel, Perth Metropolitan Operations Manager at O’Brien Glass explains that ‘each year, we approach Parkerville Children and Youth Care and ask the kids: Does anyone know what a glazier does? Does anyone want to find out? And that’s basically the interview! Anyone with an interest attends, and we share as much as we can about the profession, get them rigged up in PPE (which they love) then they have a go. We let them break glass, light the laminated glass once cut, cut shapes, the real deal!’
Last year everyone enjoyed their half day at O’Brien Kewdale, but it was 15-year-old Josie Murray who really stood out as showing potential. According to Senior Glazier Andrew Beard who ran the workshop, Josie was ‘a natural, showing promise straight away’.
Having never worked with glass before, Josie showed aptitude in the way she held the tools, worked with glass, and demonstrated a natural finesse. Andrew had already flagged her potential, but it was Josie who approached the team afterwards with great enthusiasm, requesting one week’s work experience with O’Brien, to which they said yes.
Josie fitted in well with the Kewdale team straight away. Glazing Team Manager Jarrod Boyle reports that ‘we started giving her jobs and she chewed them up, she was amazing! We gave her a speed cutter, and she handled that beautifully. We tasked her with building doggie doors, and she was able to construct them’.
The team were so impressed with her work and attitude that Allan spoke with Josie and her representative at Parkerville and offered her a Glazing Apprenticeship for 2025. She is thrilled, as are her father and grandparents who have supported her and are very proud of her.
‘We’re excited for Josie to start her TAFE course in June and then join us for the apprenticeship’, says Allan. ‘Outcomes like this make the whole team feel really good, and it’s inspired us to create a ‘Day in the Life of an Auto-Glazier Opportunity’ with our auto business, which is coming up.
Michael Bates, MD of Interform Supplies was also uplifted by Josie’s story. He had seen the LinkedIn story and got in touch with Allan wanting to help. He was going to Germany and shared the story with German glass consultant Peter Pokern, who kindly offered to donate brass-handled Bohle Silberschnitt glass cutters with names laser engraved on the handle. ‘To show these kids that someone cares enough to spend half a day with them, can shift their perceptions of the adults in their life and give them a start to a meaningful career’, said Michael.
Allan Thiel sees the potential to roll this out nationally and said ‘Parkerville Children and Youth Care is an outstanding organisation providing opportunities for youth who have not had it easy. O’Brien Glass Industries Glazing Kewdale is proud to be a part of helping the youth they support’.
Your trusted glass partner
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2025 SAFETY CALENDAR
As part of our ongoing review of safety and safety-related topics, AGWA has released a new Safety Calendar for 2025. The Calendar is included in all member packs sent to you once you have renewed your membership. If you would like more hard copies, please contact training@agwa.com.au.
Each month of the Calendar is devoted to a specific topic. For example, January’s topic of the month was Return to Work. During that month AGWA sent out related information on that topic. This included tips to help you achieve the goals and sample topics for Toolbox Talks.
Throughout each month we’ll continue to provide you with useful information from around Australia with our Safety Round Up and of course, any important developments as they happen. Together with the Safety articles in BuiltView Magazine and all the Safety Documents on the AGWA website, keeping up to date with safety compliance will be easier than ever.
Together, we can make safety everyone’s business and make 2025 the AGWA Year of Safety
www.agwa.com.au/ausfenex25
Step 1: Identify Window Types
Understanding Window Substitution in NatHERS
First, check the ‘Window and Glazed Door schedule’. This will tell you the Operating Type of windows used in the assessment.
Step 2: Determine U-Value and SHGC requirements
In the realm of residential construction, energy efficiency is a key consideration affecting window and glass selection. One frequent query received by AGWA relates to quoting windows in accordance with NatHERS energy reports. These reports are crucial for ensuring that homes meet stringent energy performance standards.
Selecting Windows from WERS
Most NatHERS software includes all active residential window ratings from the Window Energy Rating Scheme (WERS) database under custom windows. These tools also offer default windows — placeholders used when actual windows are unknown — listed under WERS as WERSLink Default Windows.
Windows can be substituted with other products from manufacturers or suppliers, regardless of those specified in reports. When substituting listed windows, you must meet the following parameters:
• Operating Type
• U-value of the Window (within allowable tolerance, ie, less than or equal to the value in the report)
• Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) of the Window (within allowable tolerance range, which usually is ±5%).
Frame materials and glazing types, among other parameters, act as indicators of the type of products that would meet the primary criteria but are not as critical.
To ensure compliance and accuracy when quoting on windows from the product suites offered by your organisation as per the requirements of the report, follow this procedure:
Step 1:
Identify Window Types
Step 2: Determine U-Value and SHGC requirements
Next, from the ‘Window and Glazed Door type and performance’ section of the NatHERS certificate, find the maximum U-value and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) requirements for each window type. For example, you might need:
• Awning Window: Max U-value of 6.7, SHGC of 0.57 (with limits 0.54 – 0.60 inclusive)
• Fixed Window: Max U-value of 6.7, SHGC of 0.7 (with limits 0.67 – 0.74 inclusive)
Step 3: Search the WERS Database
Use the WERS database to find suitable windows:
• Awning Window: Filter by Max U-value (6.7) and SHGC (0.57 ± 5% tolerance).
• Fixed Window: Filter by Max U-value (6.7) and SHGC (0.7 ± 5% tolerance).
Step 3: Search the WERS Database
Step 4: Select and Quote
Sahil Xavier Engineering Project Officer, AGWA
The image below demonstrates the selection for the Awning Window.
Once all the necessary filters are applied, click on the ‘Search’ button to generate the list of records on WERS that are available within the search criteria.
Step 4: Select and Quote
Based on the search results, choose the frame and glazing combination that meets the NatHERS report requirements. Generate a WERS Certificate for compliance documentation. The WERS portal allows filtering by manufacturer, glazing type, and frame material to find suitable products.
Overcoming Challenges in Quoting Windows for NatHERS Compliance
Estimators often face challenges when quoting windows from reports, as Energy Efficiency Assessors (EEAs) may not consider supply constraints, aesthetics, acoustics, or bushfire requirements. For example, adjacent windows may need different tint levels for SHGC values, which may be undesirable, or meeting energy requirements may require a significant review to standardize glass make-ups. AGWA recommends contacting the EEA directly or through the builder for reassessment.
Including WERS codes in quotes helps EEAs recognise specifications, adjust as needed, and streamline future projects. Suggesting alternative windows with WERS codes can fast-track approvals. Further, substituting with products of lower U-value (Uw) can improve results, allowing more flexibility in SHGCw variations.
Matthew Graham, Sustainable Building Specialist from Graham Energy, notes, ‘Window performance is essential for a NatHERS assessment and varies by climate zone. Any changes to the U-value (Uw) can significantly impact the assessment, potentially allowing for adjustments to the solar heat gain coefficient (SHGCw). Developing a strong relationship with an Energy Efficiency Assessor (EEA) can help explore alternative options. After this evaluation, revising the NatHERS certificate can still lead to a compliant outcome that satisfies the star rating requirements and the desired window specifications.’
Remember, multiple window combinations can achieve the 7-star thermal performance rating, so the report’s specified windows are not the only compliant combination. As mentioned above, it may also help to liaise with stakeholders and send through product options with the ones that could potentially meet the requirements for reassessment.
For more information or support with quoting on windows and glazed doors for NatHERS requirements, or for assistance with the WERS database, feel free to contact our team at sustainability@agwa.com.au.
Our Commitment to You During Uncertain Times
In these times of uncertainty and market turbulence, we want to take a moment to reassure you of our commitment and dedication to your success. At Guardian Glass, we understand the challenges that many of you are facing. Our priority has always been, and will continue to be, providing you with the support and resources you need to navigate these difficult times.
We are here to offer:
1. Open Communication: We believe in transparency and our customer service team is always available to address your concerns and answer any questions you may have.
3.
Reliable Service: Our team is dedicated to maintaining the high standards of service you have come to expect from us. We are working tirelessly to ensure that our operations remain smooth and efficient
2. Innovative Solutions: We are continuously building, designing, and inspiring with glass. By constantly exploring new ways to adapt and innovate, we aim to provide optimal solutions to meet your evolving needs. Our recent launches of LeanPaq™ and Wider Vinyl Back Mirrors are examples of our dedication to identifying and addressing market gaps.
We are grateful for your continued trust and partnership. Together, we will navigate these challenges and emerge str onger. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us if there is anything we can do to assist you.
For any inquiries or assistance, please contact our sales representatives:
Daniel McCluskey daniel.mccluskey@guardian.com
Cristina Graciano cgraciano@guardian.com
DO YOUR WINDOWS AND GLAZING MEET MINIMUM AUSTRALIAN STANDARDS?
Russell Harris Head of Technical, AGWA
Australian Standards protect consumers by setting minimum product safety requirements. For example:
• Windows and doors must be tested to AS 2047 Windows and External Glazed Doors in Buildings to ensure their integrity during severe weather events.
• Grade A safety glass compliant with AS 2208 Safety Glazing Materials in Buildings is a minimum legal requirement for doors, sidelights, shower screens and windows in certain locations.
• Glazed balustrades must comply with the engineering requirements of AS/NZS 1170 and glazed in accordance with AS 1288 Glass in Buildings.
The use of non-compliant products, which do not meet these Standards, is illegal and a safety risk for consumers and the broader public.
Despite Australia having some of the most robust product safety standards in the world, we are increasingly seeing products that do not meet these minimum requirements installed into building sites. Not only can these products be potentially dangerous, but they are often not designed to withstand the harsh Australian environment or the high UV from the searing Australian sun.
In any given year, the AGWA undertakes between 100 and 150 investigations into non-compliance or disputes, associated with observed product failures or safety issues. Qualified industry experts, either on-staff or from our wide network of subjectmatter experts, undertake inspections. These investigations relate to windows, doors, facades, shower screens, or balustrades, and often range from issues such as improper installation, incorrect glass selection, water leaks, excess air infiltration or energy performance to large scale non-compliances and critical safety matters.
Overwhelmingly, our experience leads us to believe the key cause(s) for non-compliance (regardless of origin) is the general lack of awareness or understanding around the requirements of the NCC and relevant Australian Standards such as AS 2047 and AS 1288.
This is often compounded by additional challenges associated with a general lack of familiarity with federal and state building regulations. This situation is made worse by the fact that the construction industry, in general, is geared to place responsibility/ accountability on the supply chain to ensure products are fit for purpose. So, of course, when a builder is faced with 2 quotes, both purporting to be of equivalent compliance/performance, why would they not go with the cheaper option?
Consumers, when a non-conformity is detected, often find themselves with little to no support from the supplier. They are commonly left with little option but to pursue them through lengthy legal proceedings (often at significant cost and/or imposition) or pay a third-party to remediate the problem.
Unfortunately, a large proportion of non-conformities don’t become apparent until after construction is completed. This then
makes things much harder and often more costly to address, especially when the supplier or the transaction is based overseas or there are multiple parties involved in the transaction.
With ever-growing global supply chains and the growth of online business models, the number of ways to specify, supply and install window and glass projects can appear almost limitless. Visiting any of the emerging on-line trading websites, shows the sheer number of products available from around the globe. But how would you know if they meet all relevant regulatory requirements? And herein lies the issue: there is a certain amount of productspecific knowledge required to differentiate non-compliant products from those that are truly fit-for-purpose.
Without doubt, the rapidly evolving nature of business models in our sector appears to be making all this worse as fabricators begin to outsource elements of their projects. This, together with the evolution of offsite construction and the emergence of drop shipping, has culminated in a significant influx of an historically high level of new market entrants.
Unfortunately, with these new entrants and with rapidly evolving business models, many are ill-equipped and not educated sufficiently around what compliance looks like. AGWA continues to work with regulators to highlight non-compliance, to ensure transparency of members via our accreditation programs and to ensure the industry is educated to eliminate non compliance, ignorance and apathy. The development of out new Prime system and reseller accreditation programs is just one example of this.
AGWA is a non-regulatory body with a strong voice working with industry to achieve a level playing field and to effect meaningful change. To achieve this, we provide a range of services aimed at restoring/achieving a level playing field based on compliant and fitfor-purpose products. When purchasing windows, always look for an AGWA accredited supplier for assurance the products you are buying are compliant with relevant Australian Standards.
In late 2024, AGWA launched its NCC Compliance Guide targeting certifiers, specifiers, and regulators. The Guide’s mission is to demystify the essentials of compliance for our industry, and provide clear, unambiguous information around the requirements of the NCC across a range of products and applications.
To further make understanding regulatory compliance easier, AGWA has secured additional member benefits with 2025 membership renewal: Standards Australia mobile device subscriptions on the Window and Glazing pack of Standards. For more information, please see your Renewal Member Pack or contact members@agwa.com.au.
THE ACCREDITATION EVOLUTION:
THE CHANGING FACE OF AGWA ACCREDITATION
James Whitehouse
Technical and Accreditation Manager, AGWA
In recent years, innovations in products such as larger frame sizes, higher performing systems, and glass, increases in wind/ water performance and acoustics, to name a few, have seen our industry continue to evolve and modify business models to meet the demands of builders, projects, clients, and Regulations. AGWA has often heard members raise concerns about the use of noncompliant or non-conforming products and unfair competition from companies offering these. The evolution of the audit process has put our members at the forefront of compliance as traceability and certification requirements increase.
Traceability in construction is becoming increasingly important, with regulators and policy makers reviewing frameworks around traceability and transparency, like the ABCB’S Building
Product Registration Scheme. AGWA has been supportive of these developments as a way of reducing the potential for noncompliant products being used in construction in Australia.
AGWA has been enhancing its accreditation framework to support industry engagement in emerging programs, reflecting changes to Australian Standards and WHS requirements, including industrial manslaughter laws. All this, together with feedback from members and our own audits, has led us to update the Accreditation Company Program (ACP) to better align with the evolving industry landscape.
This diagram shows the full depth of our industry and the range that AGWA audits need to cover.
Updates for 2025
The Accreditation team thought it was worth providing an update for our members on the categories and the changes within each section. First, do you know where you fit in these categories?
Prime Systems
Before the end of 2024, we sent out the Product Conformity Declaration to members of this category to gather up-to-date information on the scope of data/test reports. Throughout 2025, the team will be in touch with you to review this. If you haven’t seen the PCD or have any questions, please contact the Accreditation team.
Fabricators
As various states emphasise compliance, licensing, and more, we’ve updated our audit paperwork to reflect these changes. With projects becoming more complex, training is crucial to meet performance, window size, and customer expectations, distinguishing our members from industry cowboys. Access to both the NCC 2022 and current Standards is essential due to recent updates.
We have also revised the WHS Safety Pillar to support a safe and compliant workplace. Although PCBU responsibilities remain unchanged, new industrial manslaughter laws in each state require updates to some of your documents. In 2025, during face-to-face sessions, we’ll review product trends and assist with IGU compliance topics, addressing member feedback and the increasing disputes in this area.
Installers/Glaziers
In late 2024, we replaced the face-to-face audit with the Glazier Accreditation Program (GAP), an AGWA initiative conducted via online video calls. Auditors cover topics such as AS 1288, types of glass, NCC requirements and AGWA resources.
Training and access to the NCC and current Standards are becoming increasingly important. We have also revised the WHS Safety Pillar to support a safe and compliant workplace. Although PCBU responsibilities remain unchanged, new industrial manslaughter laws in each state require updates to some of your documents.
Some participants have already achieved a perfect score; will you be the next? Reach out to the accreditation team to schedule your session.
Resellers
The evolving marketplace has led to an increase in members falling into this category. AGWA recognises this and has tailored the accreditation accordingly.
This is the first category where evidence of training in AS 1288, AS 4047 and the NCC is mandatory before the audit. The risk of sourcing products, without understanding compliance, can leave resellers exposed to potential legal issues. Strong knowledge and the ability to understand the nature of what a compliant and conforming product looks like will reduce the risk of disputes and potential prosecutions.
In conclusion, the AGWA Accreditation Program has been updated to align with evolving industry standards and regulations. By enhancing traceability, compliance, and training across all categories, the program ensures members are well-equipped to meet new challenges and maintain high standards of quality and safety.
If you want to chat with us about what type of audit you will be involved with or to schedule yours in to fit around work/holiday commitments or indeed any other question, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the Accreditation Team on accred@agwa.com.au
LOUVRE WINDOWS FOR AUSTRALIA
Ventus Louvre Galleries, proudly Australian owned and assembled in Sydney, provide a reliable and high-quality option for your window fabrication needs. Our louvre systems are manufactured from high-quality materials and rigorously tested to meet stringent Australian Standards, ensuring durability and performance in any environment.
Tested, passed and certified under the most stringent Australian tests.
Window restriction compliable with manual louvres. Made from environmentally friendly, UV stabilised, non-corrosive, non-toxic and resilient materials.
Designed for straightforward ease of installation.
Range of options and colours available.
2024 AGWA Victorian Golf Day
Our Victorian golfers had a fantastic day at Northern Golf Club in Melbourne on Friday 22 November. As always, there were plenty of tall tales and cold beverages both on and off the course. With thanks to our sponsors who made the day possible:
Hole sponsors: AWS Drinks Sponsor: Viridian
Pearl Beach View House
Central Coast NSW
A true conduit between land and sea
FABRICATOR: AVS Windows & Doors
ARCHITECT: Osmond McLeod Architects
BUILDER: Evolving Constructions
PRODUCT: Series 704 SlideMASTER™ Sliding Doors, Series 400 CentreGLAZE™ Windows, and FlowTHRU Pro™ Drain
Nestled among the serene landscape of Pearl Beach on the NSW Central Coast, Pearl Beach View House, designed by Osmond McLeod Architects, redefines the concept of coastal living. The home effortlessly treads the line between form and function; seamlessly integrated into the hillside while capitalising on the exquisite sea views that adorn the area.
The home’s material palette reinforces its connection to the landscape. Naturally weathered hardwood clads the exterior, with the rich tones echoing the hues of the surrounding bushland. Accents of charred Shou Sugi Ban, a traditional Japanese wood preservation technique, introduce a striking textural element, while providing a subtle nod to the cyclical nature of the coastal environment. A rooftop spa offers an exceptional vantage point from which to soak in the panoramic views. Here, residents can truly immerse themselves in the beauty of the coastline, enveloped by the sights and sounds of the ocean, even though the dwelling isn’t located directly on the water.
‘The original brief was to create a home that captured the waterfront views, but the property is not waterfront. It has another property between the ocean view and the home’, said Glen McLeod, Architect at Osmond McLeod. The architectural challenge of capturing extensive vistas, despite the proximity to the neighbouring dwelling, provided a creative foundation for a remarkable build that flawlessly balances the sense of seclusion and expanse.
‘We had to design a home that brought the ocean view into full focus but also obscured the neighbouring dwellings and less desirable features to give the property the feeling of being isolated
within its context’, Glen explains. ‘Pearl Beach is a sensitive coastal area, and we wanted to get as close as possible to the beach, but also the creek that wraps around the property. Addressing the structural requirements of touching the ground lightly was a significant factor, but also then designing the spaces, forms and glazing to bring these features into the home was a major challenge.’
The significant task of maximising the captivating sea vista, while simultaneously obfuscating neighbouring dwellings was a challenge the team at Osmond McLeod rose to with aplomb. It required a design that acted as a conduit, carefully framing the ocean view and screening out unwanted distractions. Crucially, expansive glazing would need to play a role in dissolving the boundaries between indoors and outdoors, creating the illusion of being directly on the beachfront.
To transform the Pearl Beach View House into a true conduit between the land and sea, the architects collaborated with the experts at AVS Windows and Doors to devise innovative glazing solutions. ‘The whole focus of the home was around the views and outlook and creating a coastal home that felt as if you were sitting on the beach or at the edge of the creek’, says Glen. ‘Having large expanses of glass in minimal frames, which disappeared into the backdrop, was critical in bringing the spaces to life.’
The home features oversized Series 704 SlideMASTER™ Sliding Doors that extend up to 9 m and disappear into wall cavities when fully opened, seamlessly integrating the natural environment and the living space. A particularly striking application of the Series 704 can be found in the upstairs living room, where wall-to-wall
doors offer breathtaking water views and, when opened, invite the refreshing sea breeze to flow through the entire house. This sense of indoor-outdoor connection is enhanced by the FlowTHRU Pro™ Drain, which provides a smooth transition between both environments, while its innovative design ensures a sleek, uninterrupted finish.
Additionally, Series 400 Single Glazed CentreGLAZE™ Framing is used throughout the home, accommodating diverse sizes of fixed windows. A stand-out element is the courtyard, where oversized fixed windows usher in abundant natural light that floods the interior spaces. Even when faced with a significant technical hurdle in creating a unique 90-degree angle corner stacking door — a challenge no other manufacturer was initially willing to undertake — AVS devised a bespoke solution that worked for the builder and stayed true to the architectural vision.
This remarkable dwelling embodies the unmatched potential of creativity, collaborative design, and innovation to craft dwellings that mindfully settle into their surroundings. Expansive Series 704 SlideMASTER™ doors and strategically placed Series 400 CentreGLAZE™ windows invite ocean views and sunlight to permeate the interiors, masterfully capturing the essence of coastal living. Tangibly anchored by the intricate beauty of its waterside locale, the Pearl Beach View House showcases AVS Windows and Doors’ ability to elevate architectural aspirations and transform ambitious blueprints into awe-inspiring structures that resonate with the tidal rhythms and the rugged beauty of the Australian coastline.
For more information, please contact marketing@awsaustralia.com.au
Stronger by Design Well Hung Windows’ Commitment to Quality and Performance
Well Hung Windows has been setting the benchmark for highquality window manufacturing in Townsville, North Queensland for over 2 decades. With a commitment to craftsmanship, customer satisfaction, and continuous improvement, this locally owned business, established by Colin Smith more than 20 years ago has built a reputation for excellence that keeps clients returning.
At the heart of Well Hung Windows is a simple philosophy: make quality products, deliver outstanding service, and never say no to a challenge. Rather than turning customers away, the team focuses on finding solutions, making adjustments, and ensuring every request is met with a practical approach.
‘It’s not about saying no’, explained Adam Hamilton, Director and one of the key figures behind the company’s success, ‘It’s about saying, “Yes, you can have it, but we need to do this”, or “We need to make that adjustment”. The right approach makes all the difference.’
One of the defining aspects of Well Hung Windows is its unwavering commitment to quality. A long-standing partnership with Capral Aluminium, manufacturing a full range of Capral window and door systems that are well-suited to the local market, means that unlike many of its competitors, Well Hung Windows rarely experiences product issues. Their products deliver the performance and integrity needed to meet the high expectations of builders and homeowners alike, a testament to the durability and precision of its offerings. Customers appreciate this reliability, often returning for repeat projects or recommending the company to others.
Customer feedback is the ultimate testament to this quality. Adam recalled a rare, but meaningful, message from a satisfied client: ‘I got an email the other day from a customer saying how impressed they were with the quality of our product and how the factory team should be commended. You don’t often hear feedback about quality because people expect it, but this one made a point of it. That tells you something.’
‘You don’t often hear feedback about quality because people expect it, but this one made a point of it. That tells you something.’
Ensuring top-tier manufacturing requires ongoing investment in precision tooling and production processes. When relocating to a larger facility, the company recognised the need for additional equipment to maintain its efficiency and high standards. This investment has not only enhanced production capabilities but also made it easier for new employees to learn the trade. Even those with no prior experience in glazing quickly adapt, thanks to the streamlined and user-friendly manufacturing processes.
Operating in North Queensland means designing windows that can withstand extreme weather conditions, particularly in cyclonic regions. Their relationship with Capral means an essential level of resilience for Well Hung Windows products, as they are engineered to endure severe wind loads, driving rain, and debris impact providing. Their customers know that their products will provide long-term security and reliability for homes and commercial buildings in cyclone-prone areas.
Beyond product quality, the Well Hung Windows’ proactive approach to customer service sets it apart: ‘Positivity, thinking outside the square, working as a team, communicating with clients, and following up — nobody does follow-ups! But we do!’, Adam emphasised. ‘That’s why we have so many repeat customers. They finish one project, sell the house, move to another, and use us again. If you’re not good, you don’t get used again.’
Beyond customer service, the company’s impact is visible throughout Townsville. ‘I drive around with the office team, and it’s like, “We did that one. We did that one. We did that one”. It’s good to see a local company competing with the bigger guys. It’s not all about the big players. If we can compete, we will. Let’s go. Let’s make it happen’.
For the Well Hung Windows’ team, work is more than just a job — it’s about being part of something bigger. The company fosters a strong culture of teamwork and accountability, where employees
take initiative and support one another to ensure smooth operations. This collective effort is evident in everyday tasks, from manufacturing to logistics, with team members stepping up without hesitation to get the job done.
As the business continues to grow, its core values remain unchanged: quality products, customer-focused service, and a commitment to excellence. Well Hung Windows is well-positioned to maintain its leadership in the industry for years to come.
WHERE ARE THEY NOW?
AN INTERVIEW WITH 2022 AGWA NATIONAL APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR
MATTHEW BENGTSON
We caught up with 2022 AGWA National Apprentice of the Year Matthew Bengtson to find out what he’s achieved and what’s changed since taking out the prestigious prize 3 years ago.
The 28-year-old Queenslander is still in glazing and still working with the same company, G.James Glass and Aluminium, although has changed his specialty within the organisation. ‘I have transferred to our commercial specialised glazing team, where we focus on larger architectural and unique scopes of glazing’, explains Matthew. ‘This has allowed me to be exposed to a great variety of glazing, learning and utilising different applications within really a very short period.’
Each year, AGWA recognises the very best Residential Glazing, Commercial Glazing and Glass Processing Apprentices in each state. The finalists then compete at a national level for Apprentice of the Year. The AGWA Apprentice Awards help recognise an apprentice’s excellence, encourage their endeavours, and help them to forge a long and rewarding career in the glass and window industry.
After winning the competition in 2022, Matthew received several enticing job offers. While some past winners used the prestige of the prize to seize other career opportunities straight away, Matthew chose to focus on succeeding where he was, at G.James. Matthew shares that he ‘felt a responsibility, in simple terms, to pay my dues at G.James, who put me through my apprenticeship. Having stuck it out, I have had the opportunity to take steps towards my future goals within the industry, from learning as much as I can from those older and more experienced within our team, the opportunity to be a leading hand on some projects and now working toward managing jobs on site’.
Matthew cites the connections he’s made with great people as the best part about winning the competition, including ‘other apprentices that I learned from alongside, my fellow competitors from all over the country, AGWA members that I connected with during the process, and all of the attendees I met and learned from at the Awards nights. I view some of these friendships and industry connections as invaluable as I move through my career’.
Matthew offers this humble advice to inspire future glazing apprentices and competition entrants:
• Be yourself.
• Aim for excellence in all you put your hands to, not just when people are looking.
• Integrity goes far beyond skill and talent.
• Take on everything people have to teach you and make your own way.
When we asked him what he would tell an apprentice who is thinking of entering the competition, he said ‘Just do it, because you have nothing to lose and everything to gain!’
Telling us what he enjoys most about being in the glass and glazing industry, he admitted he might be biased, but he genuinely believes that glazing is one of the best trades to be in.
In his own words, ‘beyond the days where the glass is heavy or difficult to install, the pride in seeing your work transform a building or space into something extraordinary — it is something I am grateful for every day.’ Matthew adds ‘each day is different with new challenges and new projects to work on, and personally, a great team of mates to work with every day!’
Now a fully qualified Glazier, Matthew Bengtson looks forward to what is to come in the future of the glass and glazing industry. AGWA wishes him all the best for a happy and successful career ahead and thanks him for being an inspirational ambassador for the industry.
The 2025 AGWA Apprentice Awards are now open. If are interested in entering, please go to www.agwa.awardsplatform.com
aluplast and Think Manufacturing Lead PVC Recycling
In an industry-leading initiative, aluplast and Think Manufacturing are revolutionising polyvinyl chloride (PVC) recycling in Australia. These leaders are setting new sustainability benchmarks by repurposing uPVC offcuts from window and door manufacturing.
PVC is a versatile and durable polymer used in various products, from flooring and cables to medical supplies. Despite being one of Australia’s most used polymers, PVC has historically had a poor environmental reputation due to limited recycling efforts. uPVC is the leading material for insulated windows and doors in Europe and North America.
With the introduction of the 7-star energy rating for new homes, uPVC insulated windows and doors are now poised for significant growth in Australia, offering superior thermal performance at an affordable cost.
aluplast, a global leader in thermally efficient uPVC window and door profiles, tackles the PVC recycling challenge head-on. The company collects uPVC offcuts from its fabricator network across Australia, shredding and granulating them at its state-of-the-art facility in Dandenong South, Melbourne, for reuse.
Its collaboration with Think Manufacturing epitomises a successful circular economy model. Led by founder Jack Fitzgerald, Think Manufacturing uses aluplast recycled uPVC to produce fencing and decking components.
Fitzgerald underscored the importance of this initiative: ‘PVC has traditionally been problematic due to increasing production and lack of recycling solutions. Our partnership with aluplast directly addresses this issue.’
In pursuit of further innovation, Think Manufacturing is partnering with CSIRO to develop an AI-powered PVC analyser. This pioneering technology will streamline the recycling process by accurately identifying the composition of individual PVC formulations. Fitzgerald believes this analyser could revolutionise the industry, enabling the production of high-quality recycled products. He states, ‘the potential is huge. We can take rigid PVC from any source and produce a repurposed finished product’.
The collaboration between aluplast and Think Manufacturing showcases the power of industry leaders working together to achieve a common goal. ‘Closing the loop on the ”plastic pipeline” has been our life’s work’, Fitzgerald said. ‘We aim to build a house predominantly from recycled PVC materials, making it an affordable, realistic product within the next 5 years.’
Ben Webster, Managing Director of aluplast Australia, noted that the company had incorporated recycled materials into its uPVC window and door profiles for over a decade. Some profiles used in Australia now contain more than 80% recycled content. ‘Ensuring we divert manufacturing offcuts from landfill is vitally important’, he says. ‘Our recycling program keeps all uPVC within the material cycle, not in landfill.’
Webster emphasised that uPVC’s excellent recyclability and low embodied carbon make it the most sustainable material for windows. He highlighted the investment by aluplast fabricators in the sustainability cycle, purchasing stackable uPVC recycling crates that fold flat to a third of their volume for efficient interstate transport. To further reduce offcut volumes for transport, mini shredders have been implemented with interstate customers.
As more Australian builders embrace the most direct route to meet the new 7-star energy rating requirements, aluplast is increasing production and consequently recycling volumes.
‘Quality uPVC windows and doors offer significant energy savings. More architects and builders are discovering that aluplast’s uPVC systems are up to 40% more energy efficient than standard double-glazed aluminium systems’, Webster said.
‘aluplast products provide the most sustainable and affordable solution for making Australian homes thermally efficient.’
Webster emphasises that aluplast’s innovation and investment in sustainability demonstrates their care for the markets they operate in: ‘Our products offer a way for Australians to reach the mandated 7-star rating and beyond in a sustainable and economic way.’
Get Affordable Access to Australian Standards
AGWA and Standards Australia Store have curated the Windows & Glazing Set, available with 2 user licenses* for only $201.95 per year incl. GST.
AGWA members save 10% on access to the Windows & Glazing Set, as well as over 20 other unique content sets covering a wide range of trades. (Eligibility criteria and T&Cs apply)
Use voucher code: AGWASAREF2025
Scan the QR code or visit store.standards.org.au/curated-subscription/windows-glazing
*For small businesses with less than 20 employees only
Build-in a superior lifetime performance with TECHNOFORM warm-edge
At Elegant IG, we're committed to bringing the world’s most advanced warm-edge technology to the Australian glass industry. That's why we've partnered with Technoform - the global leader in warm-edge solutions that offer exceptional thermal performance, great aesthetics and decades of proven durability.
If you're focused on optimising energy performance and delivering your customers long-term value, talk to us about our new range of Technoform warm-edge spacers.
Get in touch with Elegant IG: Call (02) 9473 6500 or visit www.elegantig.com.au
Designed for glaziers and building professionals involved in the installation of glass windows and doors in buildings. Included documents in the Windows and Glazing Set:
AS 1288 SUPP 1-2006, Glass in buildings — Selection and installation (Supplement to AS 1288-2006)
AS 3959:2018, Construction of buildings in bush-fire prone areas
AS 4666:2012, Insulating glass units
AS/NZS 4667:2000, Quality requirements for cut-to-size and processed glass
AS 2047-2014, Windows and external glazed doors in buildings
AS 1428.1:2021, Design for access and mobility, Part 1: General requirements for access — New building work
AS 4055:2021, Wind loads for housing
AS 1288:2021, Glass in buildings — Selection and installation
AS 4055:2021 Amd 1:2024, Wind loads for housing
In cooperation with
DESIGNING VALUE AWS CELEBRATES 30 YEARS
In late 1994, two dedicated fenestration professionals, Gavan Pead and David McCleary, took a pivotal tour of Architectural Profiles Ltd (APL) in Cambridge, New Zealand. Inspired by APL’s customerfocused business model, they envisioned bringing a similar approach to challenge the Australian market’s basic, outdated aluminium windows and doors that dominated at that time.
This vision led to the founding of Architectural Window Systems (AWS) in January 1995, with Pead as the first General Manager and McCleary as Head of Design. AWS launched with the release of the 502 sliding window and the 541 sliding door — affordable, singleglazed products that immediately stirred the market. ‘In those days, profiles were hand-drawn, and every detail required precise verification’, David McCleary recalls. Their commitment to quality was matched by strong supplier support, relationships that remain solid today.
To bring this customer-centric model to life, AWS built a robust network of independent fabricators across Australia, now exceeding 200, with unparalleled reach and service capabilities. Steve Butcher of Great Lakes Glass, an early adopter, recalls that ‘their passion was infectious, and if they were starting something new, I wanted to be part of it’.
AWS quickly became a trusted name in high-performance aluminium windows, with products designed to meet the needs of architects, designers, builders, and homeowners.
With the launch of ThermalHEART™ in 2007, followed by ThermalHEART™ commercial in 2012, AWS introduced its first thermally broken products, raising the bar for energy efficiency. In 2003, David’s son, Mark McCleary, joined AWS, continuing the
family’s involvement in the company. In 2021, Mark took over the leadership of research and design, guiding the development of innovative window and door solutions. That same year, AWS introduced ComfortEDGE™, a significant step forward in thermal efficiency. With additional ComfortEDGE™ products set for release in 2025, AWS continues to strengthen its commitment to energyefficient solutions for the Australian market.
Reflecting on the success of the last 30 years, AWS General Manager Greg Taylor notes ‘it’s our model that differentiates us. A supplier that is not only an extrusion supplier, but a reliable, supportive, engaged business partner that understands the need for continuous improvement’.
In 2025, AWS will continue to focus on improvement, introducing a class-leading digital environment for specifiers, fabricators, and staff, along with an automated workflow connectivity solution exclusively for AWS fabricators.
For more information, please contact marketing@awsaustralia.com.au
Gavan Pead (left), David McCleary (right)
VENTUS LOUVRE GALLERIES AND THE IMPORTANCE OF INDOOR AIR QUALITY
In Australia, while outdoor air pollution from bushfires and urban emissions gets much attention, indoor air quality (IAQ) is equally important. Australians spend about 90% of their time indoors, with half of that at home. Where indoor pollutant levels can be up to 5 times higher than outdoor levels, making healthy indoor air crucial for overall well-being.
The IAQ in homes is influenced by several factors such as VOCs, PM, CO2 , and biological particles like pollen and bacteria, while external air infiltration brings in and potentially stores pollutants from road transport, industrial emissions, and natural events like bushfires.
In Australia’s varied climate, balancing indoor air quality and thermal comfort is challenging. Natural ventilation works well in temperate weather but isn’t practical in extreme conditions. Mechanical ventilation offers more control but can bring in outdoor pollutants if not properly filtered. Australia’s reliance on natural ventilation reduces this risk but underscores the need for better design solutions to circulate fresh air without compromising indoor air quality.
Ventus Louvre Galleries is dedicated to improving airflow in Australian homes with louvre galleries designed for optimal natural ventilation. As an Australian-owned product, Ventus louvres meet the unique needs of homes and commercial spaces, enhancing indoor air quality without complex mechanical systems.
SMARTECH’S MOTORISED TILT WALL
Envision a home that adapts and connects with a simple touch. The Proclamation House, designed by State of Kin, is not just a dwelling — it’s a glimpse into the future of living.
Awarded the Marshall Clifton Award for Residential Architecture and Best of State (WA) Residential Design, this home showcases modern innovation.
At its heart is Smartech’s motorised Tilt Wall — an innovative feature that transforms how we experience living spaces:
• Seamless indoor-outdoor transition: With the touch of a button, the Tilt Wall dissolves barriers, merging your dining area with the outdoors for a versatile space perfect for entertaining or relaxation.
• Stylish design: The Tilt Wall complements the home’s earthy tones and sleek lines, serving as both a functional feature and a striking design element.
• Light and air redefined: When closed, it fills your home with warm light; when open, it invites fresh air and stunning views, seamlessly blending inside and outside.
• Luxury and technology combined: The Tilt Wall embodies the fusion of advanced technology and elegant design, offering a smooth, intuitive experience.
For instance, at Bloom Apartments in Arncliffe (NSW), Ventus louvres were integrated to complement the building’s aesthetic, while providing effective natural ventilation. This allowed homeowners to control airflow, ensuring fresh air without compromising energy efficiency or comfort.
As awareness of IAQ grows, Australian homeowners and builders must prioritise ventilation solutions that balance comfort, health, and sustainability. Given Australia’s diverse climate, adaptable and efficient ventilation systems are crucial.
Ventus is proud to offer solutions that harmonise with Australia’s climate and building practices. Our louvre galleries support natural ventilation, reducing reliance on energy-intensive mechanical systems and contributing to healthier, more comfortable living environments.
For more information on Ventus Louvre Galleries, please see www.doric.com.au.
The Proclamation House isn’t just a structure — it’s a redefinition of home, where intelligent design transforms our living experience.
Elevate your lifestyle today. For further information about any Smartech products or services, please visit www. smartechdoorsystems.com.au, contact our Sales Department at (03) 9747 9233, or send an email to sales@smartechdoorsystems.com.au.
VACUUM GLASS
A SMARTER CHOICE FOR MODERN GLAZING
Azuma was engaged to employ its testing methods for vacuum glass, adhering to AS/NZS2208 Safety Glazing Materials Buildings. While vacuum glass is still new to the Australian market and not yet fully covered by local Standards, discussions suggest its inclusion in AS 4666, AS 1288 and AS 2208 is only a matter of time.
So, what makes vacuum glass a game-changer compared to traditional glazing methods?
Vacuum Glass consists of 2 panes of glass separated by a vacuum gap as thin as 0.1 mm, eliminating heat transfer through conduction and convection. Micropillars provide structural strength, preventing the glass from collapsing inward, while a molten sealed edge maintains the vacuum.
Compared to standard double glazing, which relies on air or gasfilled gaps (often argon), vacuum glass offers up to 30% better energy efficiency. The result? Lower heating and cooling costs and more stable indoor temperatures year-round.
Traditional double glazing is typically 24 mm-28 mm thick, whereas vacuum glass can be as thin as 6 mm-8 mm — without compromising strength or insulation. This makes it ideal for:
• Noise Reduction: Vacuum glass offers superior noise reduction compared to traditional double glazing.
EXPRESS 200CW
LIFTING CAPACITY UP TO 200KG
• Load is fully supported by Rear Counterweight Chassis
• Disassemble for transport within a Ute or Van
• Reassemble On-site in minutes
• 2 x 300mm adjustable & flexible Manual pump Vacuum Cups
• *Optional ‘H’ Frame 4 x Vac. Cup system
• Longevity and Durability: It has a longer lifespan and greater durability than conventional double glazing.
• Moisture Resistance: Vacuum glass is less susceptible to moisture infiltration, which reduces the risk of condensation, mould growth, and insulation performance issues over time.
• No Gas Leakage: The absence of gas in the vacuum gap eliminates the risk of leakage, ensuring consistent performance throughout its lifespan.
• Ease of Installation: It is easier to install, handle, and transport, which can reduce labour and installation costs.
By improving energy efficiency, vacuum glass lowers carbon emissions, making buildings more environmentally friendly. Its longer lifespan reduces material waste over time, making it a smarter, greener investment.
Vacuum glass provides exceptional performance, durability, and energy savings, making it an ideal choice for homes, offices, and commercial spaces.
Please scan the QR code to continue reading about vacuum glass and it’s advantages.
• *Optional Automatic Battery Powered Vacuum Pump & Alarms
• Mast fits under doors & can extend by 250mm in height
• *Optional Mast Extension H1,000mm – lessens capacity by 50kg.
• Handles Panel dimensions up to 3,660mm
• Rotates panels 360°
• Pivots panel 90° to the side through doorways
• Side-shift panels 125mm for precision installs
• 1-2 person operation: Manual push
Martin 0415 895 327 martin@quattrolifts.com www.quattrolifts.com.au
Vacuum Lifting Equipment
ASSA ABLOY LOCKWOOD LW9 PATIO SLIDING DOOR LOCK
Who said you can’t have it all? The new Lockwood LW9 is the latest Patio Sliding Door Lock from ASSA ABLOY, with the features you want at the price you want. It’s clear that they picked the most popular specifications for volume builds to position this very nicely in the market.
Boasting DualSelect locking, deadlocking, and twin-beaks to prevent attempts to lift the sliding door off its track, security is paramount with the LW9. The use of corrosion-resistant materials ensures durability in harsh outdoor environments, making it a reliable choice for any home.
The LW9’s innovative snib operation is a real highlight for the user experience, being both ergonomic and intuitive. The snib is a smaller handle within the D-handle, allowing for unlocking and opening the door in one fluid motion when pulled, and locking and closing when pushed. The solid click feedback and the subtle visual indicator of the lock status from afar, add to its user-friendly design.
The LW9 features a minimalist style that blends seamlessly with any home decor. Its popular configuration of an internal D-handle and external pull makes it a versatile and stylish addition to any
REVOLUTIONISING FURNACE MAINTENANCE WITH ROBOCLEAN
patio door. Additionally, the LW9 is surface-mounted and suitable for both new and retrofit applications, making installation a breeze.
In conclusion, the Lockwood LW9 is a premium lock that offers real bang for buck, with top-notch security and an enjoyable user experience. Its sure to impress and is set to become a staple in the industry. Whether you’re a fabricator, installer, or builder, the LW9 is a lock worth considering for your next project.
For more information, please visit www.lockweb.com.au
Elegant IG proudly introduces the RoboClean Automatic Furnace Cleaner, a state-of-the-art Italian innovation transforming how glass tempering furnaces are maintained. Designed by Eurotech Way, RoboClean is the market’s only fully automated device for cleaning, polishing, and dust-removing fused silica rollers, completing a thorough cleaning cycle in just 2 hours.
What sets RoboClean apart is its no-risk, water-free cleaning process , ensuring zero roller wear and delivering superior-quality tempered glass. This eliminates the need for time-consuming manual cleaning, where staff must navigate confined furnace spaces, making maintenance safer and more efficient.
A quick response to unexpected issues is another standout feature. Following an unforeseen furnace breakage, RoboClean swiftly restores operations, significantly reducing downtime. Additionally, its ease of use makes it ideal for pre-job preparations, ensuring optimal conditions for high-quality output.
Adaptable to various furnaces, RoboClean includes optional adapters, catering to businesses with multiple systems. Since its launch in 2010, over 140 units have been sold globally to leading industry names like Saint-Gobain, Pilkington, and Glaston. In Australia, early adopters are already reaping its benefits, praising the cleaner for its efficiency and reliability.
Investing in RoboClean means more than just advanced cleaning — it’s a commitment to better safety, reduced maintenance time, and improved glass quality. With RoboClean, Elegant IG continues to lead in delivering cutting-edge solutions to the glass industry.
Discover the difference RoboClean can make for your operations by contacting Elegant IG today.
KÖMMERLING
PREMIDOOR
LIFT & SLIDE REDEFINING THE FUTURE OF LARGE OPENINGS
In the world of architectural innovation, the Kömmerling PremiDoor Lift & Slide system is setting new standards for functionality, aesthetics, and energy efficiency. Tailored for large openings, this cutting-edge solution combines durability, security, and luxury with the ability to transform spaces and enhance your view.
Energy efficiency is at the heart of the Kömmerling PremiDoor Lift & Slide. Designed with advanced insulation technology, the system ensures that your living spaces remain comfortable year-round. The door’s superior thermal insulation ensures compliance with the strictest energy efficiency standards, contributing to reduced energy costs and a smaller carbon footprint.
Featuring a robust frame and multi-point locking systems, these doors provide unmatched security for your home. The precisionengineered design offers a smooth operation without sacrificing strength.
When it comes to the Kömmerling PremiDoor Lift & Slide, durability is not just a feature — it’s a commitment. Built to withstand the harshest of elements, these doors are designed to
AGP TAKES ADVANTAGE OF GLASTON’S AUTOPILOT ON TWO FC SERIES TEMPERING LINES
In 2020, New Zealand’s Architectural Glass Products (AGP) selected two FC Series tempering lines for its greenfield plant in Cambridge to increase production of high-performance insulating glass units for the country’s burgeoning market for thermally efficient windows, doors, and facades. Currently, the company is in the process of installing a third FC Series furnace.
The company then decided to invest in Glaston’s Autopilot technology in the autumn of 2023.
Automating the glass tempering process significantly reduces the need for manual input. The machine becomes responsible for selecting the correct process parameters. The result is an efficient and repeatable production process that helps the glass processor increase production.
‘One of the biggest drivers for us to add this new technology to our furnaces was to keep up with our high glass volumes with differing thicknesses and sizes, as well as the move to more coated glasses. By implementing the Autopilot technology when we did, I feel we avoided bigger production issues’, David Bunting, Managing Director of AGP said.
be UV-resistant and engineered to resist fading, weathering, and physical wear, ensuring that they retain their beauty for years to come. Furthermore, these doors are corrosion-resistant, making them perfect for coastal regions.
Available in a wide range of colours, including dual finishes, contemporary gloss tones, and even textured surfaces, these doors can be tailored to match the unique design of any space. The system’s minimalist aesthetics allow for uninterrupted views, making them an ideal choice for homeowners who want to seamlessly connect their indoor and outdoor environments.
The Kömmerling PremiDoor Lift & Slide system offers incredible versatility with multiple opening configurations to suit different architectural styles and preferences. Choose from double or multiple panels, bi-parting doors, or even complex multi-panel setups for expansive openings. Whether you’re looking to maximise your panoramic view, create an indoor-outdoor flow, or ensure effortless operation, this system can be customised to meet your specific needs.
For more information on Kömmerling PremiDoor Lift & Slide, please see www.kommerling.com.au.
After discussing with a local Glaston representative and Autopilot customers in Europe, David felt they were ready to try the new technology. The company then chose to install Autopilot on both FC Series furnaces from 2020 at the same time. The third Glaston FC Series line with Autopilot was installed in Cambridge February 2025.
‘Today, we have more process stability, more production repeatability, and less variation. This is essential when running our production style’, he continued.
David goes on to say that it was quite a smooth transition for his operators. ‘It’s easier for our operators to maintain stability, and it helps us run tighter operations.’
In the end, it all comes down to customers. Glaston’s Autopilot is providing everything that AGP’s customers want — high volumes with consistently high quality.
For more information, please see https://www2.glaston.net/automating-the-tempering-process
GLAZIERS ASSESSMENT PROGRAM (GAP) 2024-2025
Vivienne Munter Systems Administration, AGWA
AGWA is often asked what we are doing about the cowboys in the industry. One part of the answer is our new Glazier Assessment Program (GAP) accreditation, which commenced in 2024. AGWA acknowledges and celebrates the success and achievements of those who undertook the new GAP program and encourages those members yet to participate to get on board in 2025.
The GAP is designed to elevate AGWA members above companies without accreditation, by providing formal recognition of competency in the services offered. This is done by instilling confidence and peace of mind among consumers, members, and the industry that the products supplied and installed comply with Australian Standards and conform to the NCC.
Last year saw the launch of the new GAP audit for glaziers replacing the onsite or face-to-face audit. The assessment is mandatory and completed online via Teams with one of our auditors at a mutually convenient time to both parties. It takes about an hour to complete and covers 20 questions on types of glass, AS 1288 and AGWA Resources. A copy of the current AS 1288 is required.
Like the manufacturing audit, the GAP covers off the 3 pillars of: 1 Compliance, 2. Skills and Training and 3. Safety. It is suitable for all sized business operations from the single glazier through to the larger glazier companies.
Following completion of the GAP members receive a certificate acknowledging their compliance and the ACP logo for use and addition to their footer in 2025.
After being contacted directly by an auditor last year, many members took up the opportunity to complete their GAP assessment with most demonstrating a very high degree of knowledge and application of the current Standard. Special mention goes to 2 members who achieved perfect scores: Greg Saward (Saward Glass Designs) and Tim O’Sullivan (Construction Glazing Pty Ltd)
Average Score from 37 GAP’s Conducted
Glaziers Assessment Program
The GAP was also used by some of our renewing Master and Certified Glaziers to fulfill their annual renewal obligations. Master Glaziers who have also completed their GAP are: Matt Burke, Mark Dodd, Martin Fisk, David Muxlow, Dylan Parker, Justin Quinn, James Quinn, and Arturo Tyrer.
Member Company representatives who completed their GAP in 2024 demonstrating a high degree of competency were: A-View Glass, Aztec Glass, APS Double Glazing, Berwick Glass, Cape To Cape Glass, Clas Shower Screens Pty Ltd, Clas Shower Screens, Crosier Glass, Dependable Glass, Economy Glass, Empire Glazing Company Pty Ltd, Festival Glass & Glazing Pty Ltd, Glass Express Pty Ltd, Glasscapes, Goulburn Valley Glass, Greater Glass, Harbour Glass (Vic) Pty Ltd, Imperial Glass, JH Glass Innovation Pty Ltd, Jones & Rumley, Kelferd Pty Ltd, Kilmore Glass & Glazing, Lakers Glass Pty Ltd, North East Glass Professional Glass & Maintenance Star Glass South Melbourne Glass Ultimate Glass & Glazing VIC Pty Ltd.
Over the course of 2025, our GAP assessors will be making direct contact with the remaining glazier members to arrange their assessment at a mutually convenient time.
Again, congratulations to the glaziers above and we look forward to celebrating the success of others in the months ahead.
If you are interested in booking an assessment before then, please get in touch by sending an email to: accred@agwa.com.au or if you would like more details about the program, please contact Accreditation Manager James Whitehouse accred@agwa.com.au
AGWA WELCOMES THE FOLLOWING
NEW MEMBERS:
A&C Aluminium Sydney, Greenacre, NSW
Advance Aluminium Windows and Doors, Campbellfield, VIC
Aluglass Australia, East Arm, NT
Brisbane Glazing, Stafford Heights, QLD Delta Glass Solutions, Milperra, NSW
Facadez Pty Ltd, Silverwater, NSW
Highlight Windows Pty Ltd, Rowville, VIC
JMC Glass and Glazing, Canning Vale, WA Long Glass Australia, Hume, ACT
Renma Windows and Doors, Tullamarine, VIC
SB Glass & Glazing, Warners Bay, NSW
Sierra Windows and Doors, Emu Plains, NSW
Sleek Home Improvements, Mascot, NSW
Unique Glass Solutions, Lonsdale, SA
Venture Projects, Pyrmont, NSW
Wangaratta Glass Aluminium, Wangaratta, VIC
Xi’an Gaoke Building Materials, Shaanxi, CHINA
THE FIRST AGWA FABRICATOR PROGRAM GRADUATES
Late 2024 saw a flurry of people complete the AGWA Fabricator Program. The AGWA Fabricator Program was launched in February 2024 and replaced the Fenestration Diploma Program.
AGWA Fabricator Program is an industry-based certificate that has been developed by us to provide recognition of individuals with a higher level of both knowledge and industry involvement. The program provides training in all aspects of the industry and covers a wide range of topics and includes 9 On Demand courses, Fenestration Essentials and an extensive exam. For more information on the AGWA Fabricator Program, including upgrading your Diploma, please contact training@agwa.com.au.
Congratulations on this major achievement, which took a lot of work and dedication to complete. The first graduates are: Misty Bond, Connor Bond and Reece Gabriel from Portland Glass in Warrnambool Victoria and Harrison Blair from Darley Aluminium in Sydney.
Farewell To Michael Spencer, AGWA Victorian Auditor
After joining AGWA as a Victorian auditor in 2020, Michael Spencer has resigned after nearly 5 years of service. AGWA thanks him and wishes him well in his new endeavours.
ACCREDITATION MEMBERS
Congratulations to the following AGWA members who have recently passed their accreditation audit:
AGI Windows & Doors
Aston Aluminium Pty Ltd
Austview — Airport West
Avanti Glass & Aluminium
Aview Windows & Doors
Bendigo Windows
BGG Group Holdings Pty Ltd
Blues Glass Shower Screens
City Glass Tasmania
Cityline Windows
Clark Windows Tasmania Pty Ltd
Clearview Aluminium Windows & Doors
CWD Custom Windows
Cygnet Glass & Glazing
Dargavel Windows Pty Ltd
Derwent Valley Glass
Dowell Windows — Moonah, TAS; Shepparton, VIC
Elite Double Glazing
Finadri Windows Pty Ltd
GGS Alice Glass & Aluminium
Glass Supplies Pty Ltd — Mowbray
GP Glass
Guthrie Glass & Aluminium
Hammer Aluminium
Hobart Glass & Aluminium
K & B Windows
Kingborough Glazing Pty Ltd
LBA Joinery
Logikhaus
Mahers Glassworks
Northern Trade Solutions (NT) Pty Ltd
Noyes Glass & Aluminium
Nuspec Windows
O’Sullivan Bricks & Windows
Outlook UPVC
Pane Placements
Performance Windows & Doors
Planet Glass Group Pty Ltd
Prestige Aluminium Windows
Regency Windows Pty Ltd
Richards Aluminium
Robbo’s Glass
Rylock Pty Ltd
SAL Commercial
SEM Windows P/L
Solace Creations
SourceCorp Australia (BuildHome)
Supertek Windows
Super-View Windows
Swan Hill Windows & Kitchens
Titane Windows & Doors (Tas) Pty Ltd
Tucks Windows Bendigo
Vos Construction & Joinery
West Coast Double Glazing
Winplex Australia Pty Ltd
Woodhouse Glass & Glazing
Automate your tempering process
Glaston Autopilot is designed to automate glass tempering machines.
Autopilot reduces the need for operator input by offering process control without parameters. It automatically sets all necessary parameters based on the placement of the glass sheet on the line, enabling the operator to simply monitor the process. Ask us more!
All about glass processing: www.glastory.net
32mm wheel size
8.20mm height adjustment range
Load capacity of up to 40kg per roller
-1mm, +1mm and 0mm offset to allow for variability
