BuiltView Issue 24 Winter 2025

OF AN

Oceania Float Line closes, bringing an end to Australian-made Float Glass

Everyone Has The Right To An Effective Remedy By The Competent National Everyone Has The Right To An

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ISSUE 24 | Winter 2025

CONTRIBUTORS

Siddharth is an engineer with over 6 years of experience in the Structural and Civil Engineering field. Before joining AGWA, he worked for 5 years as a structural engineer, specialising in the design of commercial, residential, and industrial buildings, civil structures and wind and seismic resistant façade systems.

Since joining AGWA, Siddharth has been leveraging his knowledge in Standards and first-principle design to provide technical guidance and support to members. Lately, he has been deeply engaged in developing technical resources for members, participating in the revision of pertinent Standards via the AGWA technical committee, and aiding in the development of upcoming industry tools aimed at helping members verify compliance in their projects. He is currently completing a Master’s Degree in Structural Engineering.

Adam holds a degree in Materials Engineering and started his glass career as a part-time employee at the Viridian Ingleburn float line in his final year of study. After graduation, he moved into a full-time role as a Process Engineer and later to Technical Manager at Viridian.

Adam has seen most aspects of the industry. Adam’s role supports and participates in extensive technical enquires, technical documentation development, dispute resolution, non-conformance investigation and independent technical inspections and reporting.

Ingrid Pagura

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.

Leanne Xerri began her career in windows in a temporary purchasing role at Bradnam’s Windows and Doors in 2000 after a long backpacking trip following the completion of her university degree. She made her way up through several roles at Bradnam’s over 19 years including scheduling, customer service manager, and supply chain manager but eventually found that project management was her calling. Since leaving Bradnams, Leanne has worked with Dowell, Trend, Alspec, Capral, AWS and timber window systems before joining AGWA in 2024.

Industry Development Coordinator, AGWA

Civil Project Engineer (Facade), AGWA

Siddharth Kumaran

Technical Auditor, AGWA

Leanne Xerri

Senior Economist, HIA

Tom Devitt

Glass Technical Manager, AGWA

Adam Davies

BuiltView Magazine is a quarterly publication of the Australian Glass & Window Association.

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Oceania Glass Dandenong Factory

CONTRIBUTORS

Clinton Skeoch, Tom Devitt, Ingrid Pagura, Siddharth Kumaran, Leanne Xerri, Vivienne Munter, Rafaella Kavouras, Matteo Patalocchi, Mari Lehtinen, Elizabeth Dimabuyu, Lido Russo, Jelena Ninkovic, Roger Bishop, Daniel Johns, Dion Workman, Adrian Grocott, Vince Bianchini, Amin Elahi, Adam Davies, Simone Bergholcs, 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

Welcome to this edition of BuiltView.

As we get set for the full force of Winter, it’s important to acknowledge the significant political shift that has just occurred federally.

At the time of writing, the Labor Party secured an unexpectedly large majority in the Federal Parliament. For the many who attended our state forums, you will have heard how housing policy was going to be the number one, two and three issue in the federal election, and it’s fair to say it was. With the Labor Party now buoyed by the scale of this somewhat unexpected majority, we will likely see a strong policy review and impetus for further, more broad-reaching change. This will potentially see, not only housing and building policy fast-tracked, but also the review of sustainability initiatives such as increasing building resilience, product circularity and embodied carbon, more recently seen as out of reach of ongoing regulation, back on the national policy agenda and roadmap with renewed momentum.

Amid these developments, it is heartening to hear that industry continues to thrive — and so to do our celebrations of it. As all of you are no doubt aware, our upcoming gala dinners are already shaping up to be record-breaking events, with an unprecedented number of entries across the country for both design and muchloved industry apprentice awards. I look forward to seeing the entries and the state winners and taking a moment with you to celebrate all that is special about our industry. To that end, I also encourage you to book your tickets to AusFenEx25 and the National Gala Awards as they are set to be a standout occasion. For those who have not yet secured their tickets for the Gala Dinner or indeed the AusFenEx25 conference, do not delay … be warned; they are selling fast!

With a bumper line-up of world-class speakers and leading industry suppliers showcasing the very best our sector has to offer, this is one event you won’t want to miss, to develop you, your team, and your business to be ready for the year ahead.

We look forward to seeing you there, and to navigating the exciting policy and industry shifts ahead, together.

Thank you for your ongoing support in building our industry’s future.

Executive Director and CEO

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programme

• Managing Millennials - A New Kind of Leadership

DAY 1

Industry Presentations

Including members talking on topics:

• Vacuum Glass Technology

• Benefits of Glass Protective Coatings

• Natural Options for Air Ventilation

• Understanding 7-Star Energy Opportunities

• Common Failure Mechanisms Related to the Manufacture and Installation of IGUs Workshop

• Preparing your Business for Sale

• What NCC 2025 Means to the Glazing Industry

Manufacturing, Automation and Processing

Including suppliers talking on topics:

• Sealants

• Robotics

• Lamination

• Toughening Glass

• Glass Cutting

5pm – 7pm Welcome Party

DAY 2

Session Topics Include:

• Change Without Fear

• How Digital Transformation Will Change Work and Business Forever

• Mental Health - Looking After your Mates

• The Gooder the Badder and the Uglier

• Cyber Security and Keeping Safe

• The Evolution and Future of Commercial Facade Designs

• Understanding Window Energy Retrofit Opportunities - 7-Star Multi Res Window Replacement Study

• Economic Update

• Compliance and Advocacy Update (QBCC)

• Lessons from the UK - How to Transform Retrofit Industry - The FENZA Model

• CRC 4.0 - Circularity, MMC Adoption, Productivity

• Safety Requirements for your BusinessAccreditation and Legal Requirements

• Offsite Modular Construction Trends

• Strategic Sustainability

6:30pm - 10pm Casual Dinner - Hawaii theme

DAY 3

Session Topics Include:

• Technical Issues on the Horizon

• How AI Will Change the Window and Door Industry

• Building Product Assurance

• Sealant Compatibility from an Interlayer Perspective

• Managing Hazardous Manual Handling Tasks

• Women in Glass and Windows Q & A

• Understanding Business Risk and Debtors Management

• AGWA /AFWI Timber Window System Project

• Small Business Sales Strategies in a Declining Market Workshop

• Common Failure Mechanisms Related to the Manufacture and Installation of IGUs workshop

• Supply Chain Maturity Assessment Workshop

• Self Safety - Personal Burnout - Looking After Yourself

6:30pm - 11pm National Gala Awards Dinner

Please Note: AUSFENEX25 Programme is subject to change

ADAM SPENCER Key Note Speaker

MARTY WILSON Opening Key Note

FELICITY FUREY Key Note & Women in Business Speaker

ORANGE SKY Closing Key Note

Outlook For Renovation’s Activity Remains Positive

Tom Devitt Senior Economist, HIA

Australians continue to undertake more home improvements and repairs than they did last decade and the fundamentals continue to support this activity going forward.

Renovation’s activity across Australia has moderated in recent years. Activity peaked at $59.8 billion in 2021/22 and subsequently declined under the weight of rising interest rates, construction costs and broader cost of living pressures.

Remarkably, the trough of this cycle that we are forecast to reach in 2024/25, at $53.5 billion, would still be stronger than any time prior to 2020/21. Activity is forecast to pick up modestly in the next couple of years, before accelerating towards $57.3 billion by 2028/29.

There are many factors supporting renovation’s activity going forward:

• The persistence of the desire for added space and amenity in one’s living environment will support demand for home improvements, especially if working from home arrangements are preserved and people continue to spend more time at home than pre-2020.

• There are also more than 11 million dwellings across Australia, most of which will not yet have been upgraded and improved in a manner consistent with recent trends — and this housing stock continues to age, potentially requiring repair if not upgrade or improvement.

• Extreme weather events, like recent flooding up and down the Queensland and New South Wales coasts, will exacerbate the need for repairs.

• Rising prices and rents will produce a wealth effect that encourages home improvements by owner occupiers, as well as the financial impetus for investors to improve the rental potential of their properties. High and/or rising prices can also position renovations as a more affordable alternative to a new home build.

• Building cost pressures have also been stabilising, albeit at high prices.

There are already signs that Australians are coming back to the market, taking up some of those projects that may have been put on the backburner during the cost surges of the last few years.

Lending for alterations and additions — indicative of larger projects requiring external finance — has already started picking up. There were almost 40,000 renovation loans issued in the 2024 calendar year, 5.6% greater than in 2023, and about 40% higher than prepandemic.

These loans are likely dominated by wealthier households with the borrowing power to take on larger projects. While only a small share of overall activity, their return to the market is indicative of the broader pick up in renovations activity forecast from this year.

One of the challenges to the outlook will likely be ongoing labour shortages. Beyond the renovation’s sector, and even with a shrinking pipeline of new home building over the last few years, there is stiff competition for skilled workers from an ongoing significant pipeline of public infrastructure work. Shortages of skilled trades remain acute, and now with an improving outlook for new home building, these shortages could get worse.

HIA estimated in its All Hands on Deck Report that Australia needs an additional 83,000 workers in key construction trades, a 30% increase on current levels. This would better allow all construction sectors — new home building, renovations, commercial, industrial, public infrastructure — to undertake healthy pipelines of work without running into acute labour shortages. This will require reforms to skilled migration and a longer-term domestic workforce development strategy from policymakers.

ESSENTIAL WORKPLACE POLICIES

Ingrid Pagura Industry Development Coordinator, AGWA

In an ever-increasingly complex business world, we are always being told of the need for policies in the workplace. Information available reminds us of how a policy can protect us from liability, give guidance on resolving issues that arise and give clarity and consistency in our approaches to workplace compliance with laws. Policies are an effective way to set out your expectations for workers’ behaviour and an opportunity for the business owner to show fairness, consistency, and transparency. Many businesses, however, are unsure of which policy they should have in place, which are mandatory, which are nice to have and how to navigate implementing and enforcing them.

First, what is a workplace policy? It is a formal statement outlining your practices and procedures regarding specific aspects of the business, from day-to-day matters to compliance with employment and other legislation.

Second, what makes a good workplace policy? A good policy is in clear, plain, accessible language that is understood by all, and that obviously sets out rights, responsibilities, compliance requirements and consequences.

Third, how do you make sure everyone knows about it? Give all workers a copy of your workplace policies when they start with the business. Get them to sign an acknowledgement stating that they have read and understood each. This is a crucial point, protecting you, should you need to take disciplinary or other action later.

Finally, review your policies regularly to align with legislation changes. It is your responsibility to comply with the law. Don’t just ‘set and forget’. A policy shouldn’t be sitting on a bookshelf getting dusty, it is a living and changing document.

Essential Workplace Policies

1. Code of Conduct

Necessary to lay down the ground rules in your workplace, it should include topics on professionalism (dress, punctuality), ethical behaviour, conflicts of interest and confidentiality. Clearly outline inappropriate workplace behaviour, as well as legal responsibilities. This policy must be a ‘catch all’ of worker obligations.

2. Work Health and Safety

This is a mandatory policy under WHS legislation across Australia. It must clearly define both PCBU and worker rights and responsibilities in safety. Subcategories of the WHS Policy include Risk Management, Hazard Identification, Emergency Procedures, Incident Reporting and Workplace Inspections. For templates and information on all WHS-related policies please see the AGWA website/Members/Business Support/Safety.

3. Leave

Clarifies worker’s rights and responsibilities for all types of leave: annual, personal, carers, long service, parental,

community service, domestic violence, and disaster etc. Clearly state entitlements, accruals, how to apply for it and the grounds for refusal. Most of this leave is linked to the Legislation, Fair Work National Employment Standards or Awards, so keep it up to date.

4. Discipline and Termination

Include all procedures for warnings, termination and discipline in the workplace including the steps, timing, reasoning and if there is scope for an appeal. It must be clear, particularly for dismissals, what a worker can expect. Again, this topic is linked to Legislation and Awards, so keep it up to date.

5. Anti-Discrimination and EEO

This policy should reflect federal and state discrimination laws and covers workplace conduct in relation to equality, nondiscrimination, and vilification. You must clearly state that all discrimination is illegal (listing the different categories) and the consequences of such behaviour. Subcategories of this policy would also include Recruitment, Promotion, and Inclusivity. Make sure it is up to date with Legislation.

6. Workplace Bullying

Once a part of the previous policy, it is now a stand-alone one. You must clearly define what is and isn’t workplace bullying, with examples of each, preventative behaviours, and reporting procedures. This is also governed by Legislation and also links back to your WHS Policy.

7. Sexual Harassment

Since December 2023 you must have a stand-alone policy that covers sexual harassment, sex-based harassment, sex discrimination and creating a hostile work environment and how this behaviour will be dealt with. You must also include what preventative measures are in place as well as reporting. This also links back to your WHS Policy and is governed by Legislation so must be kept current.

8. Complaints and Grievance

Outline the procedures for making a complaint, dispute resolution, and penalties. It should include a section on whistle-blower protection. This policy links back to all other specific policies.

9. Social media

Be clear on who can comment on behalf of the business, but also on private usage during work time. Make it clear that making negative comments about the business is not allowed. Defamation laws apply to social media too.

10. Workplace Drugs and Alcohol

Clearly outline your expectation about a worker’s fitness to work if they affected by drugs and/or alcohol. Explain if they must report anything, including prescription or OTC drugs, which may impact their ability to work. State clearly if you will be running any drug testing in the workplace and consequences of this behaviour, including calling the police.

11. Workplace Surveillance

Most workplaces have the capacity to monitor emails, social media, or record on cc tv. This must be clearly stated under Privacy legislation.

These are the essential policies you need, though there are many more. Of course, any policy is only useful when actually used, so remember that any policy collecting dust on the shelf isn’t worth much to you.

COMMON WORKPLACE INJURIES IN AUSTRALIA

Ingrid Pagura Industry Development Coordinator, AGWA

There are several changes coming to workers compensation in Australia. Western Australia’s Workers Compensation and Injury Management Act 2023 will be fully implemented by 1 July 2025, seeing significant changes to the regime. New South Wales recently announced it intends to make major reforms to workers compensation addressing the rising incidence and cost of workplace psychosocial injury claims. (Legislation had not yet been introduced into Parliament at the time of writing this article.) Queensland’s and Victoria’s workers compensation schemes also underwent changes in 2024.

With all this change and workers compensation insurance premiums rising, the onus falls back on the workplace to prevent injuries occurring. The aim of the WHS Legislation is the prevention of injuries in the workplace and this is done by regular and proactive risk management. For more information on Risk Management please see resources for AGWA 2025 Safety Calendar February Topic of the Month.

I recently found an insightful list by Aus Rehab (www.Ausrehab. com.au) outlining the 7 most common workplace injuries across Australia. Take a moment and locate your workplace’s Injury Register and see how you compare.

1. Musculoskeletal and repetitive strain injuries

As we have seen these injuries are very common in the glass and window industry and unfortunately across all types of jobs, from office to the factory floor to installing and unloading. SafeWork Australia states that this category of injuries accounts for around 33% of all workplace injuries.

Be aware that any task involving lifting, pushing, pulling, moving, unloading has an elevated risk for this sort of injury. In our industry, unfortunately this is a very common one. Always make smart lifting choices, use the right tools, and don’t think that just because something doesn’t look too heavy that it will be okay to lift. For more information and resources, including a Toolbox talk, please see AGWA 2025 Safety Calendar March Topic of the Month.

2. Trips, Slips and Falls

It is quite easy to slip and fall when rushing around or if someone hasn’t cleaned up a spill, but this can become very serious when you add ‘height’. This category makes up 21.8% of serious workplace claims. Falls from heights, even as low as a couple of metres, can cause serious injury or even death. Falls in our industry are potentially very serious as they are usually off a ladder or even into a void. Tripping over may not be a big deal but doing so when carrying a pane of glass completely changes the situation. For more information on preventing slips, trips, and falls please see AGWA 2025 Safety Calendar April Topic of the Month and the Safety Spotlight is the Autumn issue (23) of BuiltView.

3. Being Hit by Moving Objects

Working on a factory floor or on a construction site means that there are people and machines, such as cranes, moving around, but things like stacked boxes and over stacked shelves can also cause injuries. This category accounted for 15.8% of claims. Always ensure that forklift loads are balanced, that tools are not left on scaffolding and that exclusions zones are created under the path of cranes to stop people being under them. For more information, please see AGWA 2025 Safety Calendar April Topic of the Month.

4.

Psychosocial Injuries or Mental Stress

This is a growing area, reaching around 10% of serious workplace claims, and made more difficult as these are injuries a PCBU often can’t see. Being aware of behaviour that may come across as exclusionary or bullying and providing support are ways to help prevent this category of injury. To find out more please see the article on Psychosocial Hazards and Your Workplace in the Autumn 2023 Issue (16) of BuiltView.

5. Work-related Vehicle Accidents

Vehicle accidents make up a small proportion of compensation claims but potentially very serious. Fatigue, inattention, dealing with traffic and inadequate training can all lead to vehicle accidents both on the road but even at the workplace. Always ensure that vehicles are properly maintained and regularly checked, take regular breaks and err on the side of caution in bad weather to minimise risks. Always ensure that pedestrians are not able to walk in areas where vehicles enter and exit.

6. Occupational Hearing Loss (Industrial Deafness)

This injury sneaks up over time, without most people realising. Having difficulty hearing individuals speaking in a group or ringing in the ears after a shift are all signs that there may be a problem. We can’t avoid noise from machinery and equipment in the workplace, but we can protect our hearing by wearing the appropriate PPE, taking regular breaks, and looking at engineering controls to decrease the noise of equipment.

7.

Workplace Hernias

This injury category may not seem as serious as others but can cause significant discomfort and changes to the way you move, walk and what you are able to do. Hernias can be caused by lifting something too heavy or even just a workplace set up causing you to twist and reach constantly. Make sure you encourage workers to use correct lifting techniques and to ask for help when needed.

How many of these injuries did you count in your own Register of Injuries? By reviewing this list, a PCBU can highlight these common injuries in their own Risk Management Plans and take steps to prevent them before they make it to the Register of Injuries.

For more information on AGWA Safety Resources or anything mentioned in the article, please go to the AGWA website (www. agwa.com.au) and log in to the Member Section/ Business Support /Safety. Be safe and make sure that every worker gets to go home at the end of the workday!

Adam Davies Glass Technical Manager, AGWA

Monday, 3 March 2025, will be remembered as a sad and defining day for our industry. Oceania Glass, the only float glass production facility in Australia, ceased operation of its Dandenong line after 51 years of production. With the only other float line, at Ingleburn NSW, ceasing operation in 2013, the Dandenong line had been the sole supplier of Australian-made architectural glass.

There was no one defining reason, but several factors leading to the closure including extremely high energy costs, competition from cheap imported product and apathy from all levels of government in supporting strong domestic manufacturing capacity. It is very disappointing that despite the supply issues during the COVID Pandemic, and the warnings of cost pressures from imported product continued to fall on deaf ears within government.

The business had a rich history with its origins being traced back to 1856, when glass was imported into Victoria. This progressed to domestic production, commencing in 1931 in NSW with a drawn glass line. A second drawn glass line opened at the Dandenong site in 1962 and then, in 1974, the float line opened becoming, not only the first in Australia, but also the first in the Southern Hemisphere.

At the time of its closure, the Dandenong line produced approximately 165,000 tonnes per annum. That is over 3,000 tonnes per week! This was a mix of clear and tinted float glass that also included hard coat Low-E products. Additionally, the site had a jumbo laminating line. With the loss of this capacity, we will now be forced to import this shortfall in glass. This represents an additional 8,250 plus containers of glass per annum.

The float glass process is truly fascinating with the overall production line approximately 300 m in length. The furnace at Dandenong, after the line underwent a significant cold repair in 2009, operated at 1,600°C 24 hours a day, 7 days a week until its closure and held over 1,200 tonnes of molten glass. The sand, soda ash, dolomite, limestone, and other minor ingredients, after being melted and turned into glass, passed onto a bed of over 100 tonnes of molten tin. This was the masterpiece of the process as the liquid tin, which was perfectly flat, allowed the glass to float on top and spread out resulting in a an almost perfectly flat product. Equipment called top rollers would manipulate the glass to control its width and thickness. This thickness could be varied anywhere from 3 mm through to 12 mm. This glass was then lifted off the tin onto rollers and into an annealing lehr, where it was cooled in a controlled manner and then cut and stacked for sale and distribution.

As someone who commenced their career at the Ingleburn float line in 2008 and was there when it was shut down in 2013, I can only imagine the stress and disappointment that the staff at this site are now facing. The industry is also losing all this knowledge and experience.

It would be very optimistic to say that we may one day see the return of domestic float glass production, but I am afraid the reality is that this closure represents the last time float glass will be made domestically. VALE Australian Glass

2025 AGWA MEMBER FORUMS

In March and April, the AGWA team travelled around the country to update members on AGWA activities and changes to Regulations affecting our industry. It is always very rewarding to catch up with members face-to-face and hear about the new opportunities and the unique challenges each state and territory face in an everchanging landscape.

VIC Forum

ACT Forum

SA Forum

NSW Forum

TAS Forum

WA Forum

Discover the Future of Windows & Doors:

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2025 AGWA NSW Golf Day

The rain vanished and the sun came out just in time for tee off for the 2025 AGWA NSW Golf Day, held on Friday 21 March at Bankstown Golf Club. It was yet another great day on the greens for AGWA’s NSW members and their guests, with first place being awarded to the team from Railsafe.

Many thanks to our major sponsors for their support.

Thanks also to our Hole Sponsor, AWS.

When Capalaba State College in Queensland unveiled its new dual-court multipurpose hall, it wasn’t merely its size that impressed visitors — it was the remarkable integration of Smartech’s motorised Folding Doors that truly captured attention.

Innovative Design Meets Practicality

Smartech Folding Doors are designed to provide a visually appealing yet highly practical solution. At the heart of this modern facility stand 2 innovative motorised Folding Doors from Smartech. Measuring an impressive 2.6 m in height and 7 m in width, each door serves as both an eye-catching feature and a highly functional entryway, providing easy and efficient access.

Durability

and Elegance with Toughened Glass

Safety and aesthetics go hand in hand. Each Folding Door is crafted from 6 mm toughened glass, perfectly balancing strength with transparency. This robust glazing allowed natural light to effortlessly illuminate the hall, creating a welcoming and bright atmosphere. Its strength also ensured safety and resilience, crucial for the active, bustling school environment.

Powered by German Precision Effortless operation is assured. Equipped with high-performance German Marantec motors, these doors deliver smooth, quiet, and reliable functionality. Renowned

globally for precise engineering and dependability, Marantec motors ensure flawless performance every time, significantly enhancing the usability of the multipurpose space.

Creating Flexible Spaces for Enhanced Learning

Adaptability is key to modern learning environments. Smartech’s motorised Folding Doors significantly enhance the versatility of the multipurpose hall, allowing quick accommodation of diverse activities — from sporting events and assemblies to performances and community gatherings. This flexibility maximises the hall’s potential, catering effectively to the evolving needs of students, teachers, and the wider school community.

Smartech is proud to collaborate with Capalaba State College, contributing innovation and quality that support the school’s vision for a dynamic and forwardthinking educational environment. 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.

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DESIGNER: Free One Building Design. FABRICATOR: Young Glass.

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Sutton Hill House

BACKGROUND

When Canberra school teachers, Sam and Selena Hardwick, along with their 3 sons, decided to build their forever home in Sutton, in the NSW Southern Highlands, they didn’t just aspire to create a dwelling that would last a lifetime. Instead, they set out to construct an off-grid home that would truly settle into Sutton’s rugged landscape. The couple’s focus on the future was lovingly anchored by the family’s storied history. For Sam, the seventhgeneration son of a farmer who moved away to the city, building a modern house with Selena, on the land he’d grown up on, was a real homecoming.

Sam and Selena’s unwavering commitment to biophilic design and sustainable living, coupled with the desire to embrace the sentimental facet of the build, provided a robust architectural foundation for this remarkable project. With the support of the Free One Building Design Architectural Studio, the determined owners proved that combining heritage, environmental objectives and thoughtful design can yield exceptional results that transcend the notion of time.

CHALLENGE

The couple’s ambitious vision was to create an off-grid structure that would be enduring, adaptable, and respectfully bound to the land, while providing functional living quarters for their adventurous family. At an impressive 40 m in length and 300 sqm of internal space, the design would require careful consideration to ensure warmth, intimacy, and energy efficiency — an undertaking that presented a unique set of challenges.

Designed as a sustainable haven, the home would be powered by renewable energy and use recycled and reclaimed materials wherever possible. A food forest and self-managed sewer system were engineered to further enhance the structure’s self-sufficiency. The couple also envisioned expansive glazing throughout the house to immerse the dwelling in Sam’s childhood landscape and reap the benefits of proximity to nature.

The decision to incorporate expansive glass use would require the owners to prioritise thermal efficiency, and the environmental aspirations would demand meticulous and patient material selection — all while ensuring the vast interiors feel welcoming, comfortable, and homely.

SOLUTION

Through the couple’s sheer resilience, unwavering commitment, and optimism, their multi-generational forever home has become a reality. The exterior, harmoniously emerging from Yass Valley’s exposed landscape, draws the eye with a kaleidoscope of recycled bricks defining the facade. Over 14,000 reclaimed Canberra red bricks — some sourced from the chimney of Sam’s old childhood home — set a striking tone for this dwelling, further enhanced by timber design elements and aluminium cladding.

Another defining feature of the home is its extensive use of glass. They chose the Architectural Window System (AWS) ThermalHEART™ range of doors and windows for its exceptional thermal efficiency, and clean, timeless aesthetic. The selection — expertly fabricated and installed in just one day by Young Glass in collaboration with the builder, AMC Homes — enabled the family to bring their biophilic dreams to life. The Series 731 Thermally Broken Sliding Doors, featured in the living and dining areas, and Series 726 Fixed Windows, thoughtfully installed throughout, gently frame the expanse of rolling hills, bringing the beauty of the rugged outdoors in.

In addition, beyond their exceptional ability to foster a powerful connection with the surrounding landscape, the oversized windows and doors are essential to creating a comfortable and energy-efficient environment. The thermally broken design of the Series 731 doors minimises heat transfer, keeping the interior cool in summer and warm in winter, while the strategically placed Series 726 windows maximise natural light penetration without compromising thermal performance. These high-performance systems amplify the spectacular vistas enveloping the property and ensure inviting and intimate living quarters for the whole family.

From the reclaimed bricks that echo familial stories of the past to the expansive glazing that connects this home to the beauty of the present moment, every element of the project speaks to a profound respect for history and the natural world. Decidedly settled into its geographical context, this off-grid dwelling stands out as a symbol of the owners’ vision, resilience, and commitment — to the land, their heritage, and their needs. As a result, the Sutton Hill Home is so much more than just a house — it’s a true homecoming that seamlessly merges past, present, and future, fostering an enduring connection to the land for generations to come.

2025 AGWA Tasmanian Golf Day

The AGWA Tasmania Chapter celebrated their first AGWA golf day on Friday 28 March at Royal Hobart Golf Club.

A small but dedicated group of members and their guests enjoyed lunch and a chance to relax and network with their colleagues before teeing off.

Many thanks to our major sponsors for their support.

Thanks also to our Hole Sponsor, Jewel Sashless Windows.

When clock faces on Melbourne’s iconic Dimmeys Clock Tower needed replacing, the glazing experts at Express Glass stepped in to restore a beloved landmark to its former glory.

Mention the words ‘clock tower’ to people, and they’re likely to think of the one that gets struck by lightning in classic ’80s flick Back to the Future. However, mention ‘clock tower’ to a Melburnian, and the (second) thing they’ll likely think of is Dimmeys Clock Tower on Swan Street in Richmond, a beloved local landmark that was built in 1910 as an extension to popular drapery store Dimmeys.

With a shattered clock face on the eastern side, and a second clock face on the southern side with a hairline crack, Express Glass was engaged to create a meticulous clock face replacement plan.

The first order of business was to source the right glass for the clock faces — a tricky task when the originals weren’t exactly perfect circles.

‘The sandstone holes that housed the original clock faces were not exactly round’, said Joe Cunningham, Express Glass Project Manager who oversaw the job. ‘We had to build a template of both faces to ensure the glass was cut correctly to size.’

Due to the size (diameter: 2.23 m) and weight (146 kg each) of the clock faces, and the fact that they needed to have a hole drilled in the centre of the toughened laminated glass by a CNC machine, the job was handled by Australian Glass Group in Hobart, the only place in Australia that could work to the precise specs in-house.

‘The job itself wasn’t difficult, it just had a lot of steps to consider’, said Express Glass Managing Director Adrian Grocott. ‘The clock tower was in the middle of the Dimmeys building — so back from a busy road, on which you had trams running along on live wires. Closing off the road wasn’t an option, so we had to position a large crane in a side street to lift the glass up to the tower.’

The next issue to figure out? Installing the clock faces from inside the tower, since they were too big to slide through the sandstone openings from the outside.

‘We had to remove the windows on Level 2 and crane in the clock faces’, said Grocott. ‘We then had to cut a slot into the timber roof and winch the clock faces up to Level 3.’

Architect and Heritage Consultant Gosia Gabrys, acting as liaison between Express Glass and the state government organisation Heritage Victoria, came on board to ensure that they adhered to stringent guidelines.

‘A lot of my job was obtaining permits and approvals from Heritage Victoria, because there were multiple conditions that we had to fulfil’, said Gabrys. ‘The glass had to be of a particular type, fragments of the original glass had to be retained, a precise methodology had to be provided — the list goes on.’

Horologist Nigel Tonkin from Ingrams Time Systems, a Melbourne company that has been restoring, servicing, and maintaining tower clocks since 1890, had the important task of disassembling, removing, and reassembling the clock hands and mechanism.

‘I’ve worked on the Dimmeys Clock Tower a lot over the years, but the unique challenge of this job was that you had to remove the clock hands from outside the building’, said Tonkin. ‘So that means you’re working at height in a cherry-picker crane.’

Other contractors included an electrician to keep an eye on wiring and a joiner to look after the glazing beads around the clock faces, which involved matching the original timber and bending it into a circle.

After 10 days and 45 hours of work from half a dozen Express Glass glaziers and numerous others, the finishing touch came from a sign writer employed to paint letters onto the clock faces (previously Roman numerals were used, but they were replaced by ‘DIMMEYSSTORE’ in the 1960s).

‘The Owner’s Committee was very impressed with the sign writing, which looked better than what was previously there’, said Tal Sahar, Managing Director of Owner’s Corporation Management company, Tideways, who look after the Dimmeys building. ‘It looks brighter and it’s more impressive than it was, while still retaining its heritage charm.’

‘When we engaged Express Glass, we had to think about who could tackle a job this complex and big. The fact that we went to them first is obviously a testament to their great work.’

HMAS Perth Memorial: A Fitting Tribute To Honour A Legacy

7.5m high, angled laminated glass fins support the memorial's structurally glazed glass façade.

Cooling Brothers Glass Company proudly announced its involvement in the newly completed HMAS Perth (I) Memorial, a powerful tribute to the 357 lives lost when the Royal Australian Navy warship was sunk in 1942, after an intense battle in the Java Sea. The Memorial, which stands in East Fremantle WA, features a striking glass-walled ‘ship’s prow’ structure, designed to honour the legacy of the ship and its crew, while providing a place of reflection and remembrance for generations to come.

The Memorial was designed by Smith Sculptors, the renowned artistic team behind the HMAS Sydney II Memorial in Geraldton, WA. Cooling Brothers manufactured and installed the printed glass panels that form the core of the ship’s prow feature, standing as a visual and symbolic representation of HMAS Perth (I) emerging from the sea.

Cooling Brothers Director, Vince Bianchini, expressed immense gratitude for the company’s role in the project. ‘This Memorial is a deeply meaningful tribute to those who served on HMAS Perth (I), and we are honoured to have played a role in bringing it to life. The intricacy of the printed glass and the complexity of the installation made this a challenging, but incredibly rewarding, project. It is humbling to see how glass can be used, not only as a building material, but as a storytelling medium that preserves history.’

The angled glass ‘ship’s prow’ is a striking architectural feature of the HMAS Perth (I) Memorial, featuring ceramic glass walls that converge at a sharp angle, resembling the bow of a ship cutting through the sea. A key feature is the way the artwork changes when viewed from different perspectives. The combined decorative processes of ImagInk and Digiglass allows the artwork to shift in appearance depending on the angle of view and the lighting conditions — externally, the bold white ink defines the facade, while internally, the interlayer influences the perceived colour and depth.

The glass panels feature high-resolution imagery, created using Cooling Brothers’ ImagInk ceramic printing technology, which permanently fuses designs into the glass surface.

This ensures the Memorial remains vibrant and durable for decades to come, resistant to weathering and environmental exposure. The printed images showcase both battle scenes and portraits of the young sailors who served aboard HMAS Perth (I), adding a deeply personal and human element to the design. The

Memorial is backlit at night, creating a stunning lightbox feature via the digitally printed glass.

Rhys Aizlewood, Cooling Brothers’ Commercial Glazing Manager, emphasised the technical challenges involved in the project. ‘Structurally glazing glass at complex angles, particularly in a symbolic and high-profile memorial like this, requires absolute precision. From engineering the glass panels to installing them seamlessly into the ship’s prow formation, every step had to be executed flawlessly. The difference of just a few millimetres could impact alignment, making this one of the most intricate installations we have completed.’

When installed at varying angles, especially in non-vertical orientations, different sections of the glass experience varying loads due to gravity, wind, and thermal expansion. Uneven load distribution can lead to stress concentrations that may cause failure if not properly accounted for in the structural design. Other challenges included managing reflections and optical distortions to maintain visual clarity for the printed imagery and incorporating appropriate weatherproofing and drainage to protect the integrity of the installation over time.

The Memorial took 7 years to bring to fruition, and its completion marks an important milestone in honouring the sacrifices made during World War II. Cooling Brothers worked closely with Smith Sculptors and the HMAS Perth (I) Memorial Foundation to ensure the vision of the project was fully realised. ‘The final result is breathtaking’, added Bianchini. ‘To be part of a project with such historical and emotional significance is a privilege, and we hope that the HMAS Perth (I) Memorial will stand as a lasting reminder of the bravery and sacrifice of those who served.’

The Memorial is now open to the public in East Fremantle, welcoming visitors to reflect on the legacy of HMAS Perth (I) and those who served aboard her. Cooling Brothers extends its gratitude to all project stakeholders for their dedication and collaboration in bringing this vision to life.

For more information, please see www.coolingbros.com.au.

EX-TROPICAL CYCLONE ALFRED the importance of properly specified windows in storm events

Ex-Tropical Cyclone (TC) Alfred provided a valuable lesson on the importance of correctly specified windows during severe storm events. Tropical Cyclone Alfred developed in the Coral Sea on Monday, 23 February, tracking southward and developing to a Category 4 cyclone before turning west toward the Southeast Queensland and Northern New South Wales border as a Category 1 system. Before crossing the coast on 8 March, it had weakened into a tropical low. Despite this, Alfred’s impact was felt extensively on the Gold Coast, Brisbane, Hervey Bay, and the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales.

To ensure buildings can withstand such extreme weather events, an essential aspect of their design is their Importance Level, which determines the appropriate level of engineering required in the building design. The Importance Level of a building is designated based on the level of consequence and hazard to life, should the building fail. For example, domestic housing and residential structures fall under Importance Level 2, and are designed for a return period of 500 years, meaning a ‘1–in–500-year’ earthquake or wind event would have a 0.2% chance of occurring in a year.

According to the Bureau of Meteorology, gusts of up to 120 km/h were recorded at Byron Bay, with sustained speeds more than 70 km/h recorded across the region. Australian/New Zealand Standard (AS/NZS) 1170.2 Structural Design Actions – Part 2: Wind Actions , specifies the minimum wind loading requirements for various building structures and is referenced in the NCC. According to the Standard a house must be designed to withstand regional wind speeds of up to 205 km/h far more than gusts that were recorded during TC Alfred.

Windows require the specification of 2 wind loads: Serviceability Limit State (SLS) and Ultimate Limit State (ULS). SLS is a wind speed which may occur on average once in 25 years. The deflection of structural members is measured at the SLS wind pressure, and the structural strength of the window is measured at the ULS wind pressure.

This means that a correctly specified window should be able to withstand the storm’s winds without any structural damage.

However, homes built before the 2000s may be more vulnerable to such events as they were constructed to requirements now superseded.

Similarly, another area of concern is water penetration in windows during storms due to wind-driven rain. According to the Bureau of Meteorology, up to 200 mm of rain fell in a 6-hour period in certain areas following Alfred’s crossing, more than twice the average monthly rainfall for this area.

Modern windows, compliant with Australian Standard (AS) 2047 Windows and External Glazed Doors in Buildings, undergo a water penetration resistance test. During this test, a large volume of water is sprayed onto the test window under an applied wind pressure for 15 minutes. The window must remain free of any leakages to pass. Water penetration levels in AS 2047 are set at pressures up to 30% of the positive serviceability limit state (SLS), with the minimum requirement being 150 Pa.

The test conditions, however, do not reflect real life conditions and the test does not try to replicate a rainstorm. The test pressure is held constant for the entire 15 minutes, whereas real wind fluctuates greatly. The 120 km/h measured was the gust (ie, maximum) wind speed, not the average wind speed. Wind gusts are typically of short duration.

Setting water penetration resistance levels for windows is a difficult task. The water penetration levels set in AS 2047 have been in place for many years and are adequate under most circumstances and comparable with overseas Standards. Australian Standards 1170.2 and 4055 give guidance on wind loads only, and do not predict the likely occurrence of wind driven rain.

Window design is a balance between performance and affordability, and it is not feasible to produce windows that can withstand the most extreme weather events. While it is possible to design windows that are completely watertight at SLS wind pressures, it is unlikely that these windows, given the high cost to develop and sell versus the occasional strong wind events, would be accepted by the market at large.

Siddharth Kumaran Civil Project Engineer (Facade), AGWA

IG Blinds At One Sydney Harbour

One Sydney Harbour, the latest luxury residential development in the heart of Sydney’s Barangaroo South precinct, showcases a synthesis of architectural brilliance and innovative design solutions. Among its many distinguished features are unique window solutions provided by IG Blinds, designed to maximise the stunning harbour and city views.

Barangaroo South, part of a broader urban regeneration project worth over $11 billion, is Sydney’s largest and most significant redevelopment. This vibrant new harbourside district, developed and constructed by Lendlease, transformed a former industrial site into a bustling hub of residential, commercial, and cultural activity.

One Sydney Harbour, conceived by Pritzker Prize Laureate Renzo Piano, encompasses 3 towers and epitomises the pinnacle of luxury and groundbreaking architectural design. This development is at the forefront of sustainable building, achieving a 6-Star Green Star Design Certification and contributing to Barangaroo’s carbonneutral goals.

The Challenge

The design team at One Sydney Harbour, led by Renzo Piano, faced the challenge of maximising breathtaking vistas, while ensuring privacy for residents. One specific design challenge was to integrate a viewing window between the main bedroom and its adjoining ensuite, so that occupants could further optimise their Sydney Harbour views but also providing an option for privacy.

IG Blinds’ Solution

IG Blinds addressed this challenge by installing their bespoke double-glazed units with integrated Venetian blinds supplied by Elegant IG. These units, spanning 4 sqm each, featured Low Iron glass to ensure ultra-clarity and high light transmission without compromising colour fidelity. This glass type is known for its exceptional clarity, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the space.

The blinds within these glazed units were specially designed and manufactured to function effectively at high altitudes, a necessity given their placement in the top 20 floors of the towers. The inclusion of new technology ‘Air’ system allows the blinds to equalise pressure and operate smoothly, irrespective of the

external atmospheric conditions. The blinds can be easily adjusted for privacy or opened completely to capture the expansive views.

The internal blinds were designed and manufactured in Italy, reflecting the highest standards of quality and design. The double-glazed units housing the blinds were then assembled and manufactured locally in Queensland, ensuring that the final product met Australia’s rigorous Standards for building materials. IG Blinds oversaw the installation of these units, ensuring the seamless integration with the overall design and functionality of the apartments.

The IG Blinds system offers numerous advantages, including thermal insulation, UV protection, and noise reduction, enhancing the comfort and usability of the space. The blinds’ internal mechanics are sealed within the glass units, protecting them from dust, dirt, and weather conditions, thereby minimising maintenance needs.

Aesthetically, the blinds are designed to complement the luxurious interiors of One Sydney Harbour, with options for clear, partial, or complete privacy settings. This flexibility allows residents to tailor their environment to their immediate needs, enjoying natural light and unobstructed views when desired, and complete privacy at other times.

IG Blinds’ contribution to One Sydney Harbour is a prime example of how tailored solutions can enhance the livability and luxury of high-end residential developments. By addressing both aesthetic and practical requirements, IG Blinds played a crucial role in ensuring that the residents of One Sydney Harbour can enjoy their homes in comfort and privacy. This project underscores IG Blinds’ commitment to innovation and excellence in the design of integrated blind systems, setting a new standard in the industry for luxury and functionality.

For more information, please see www.elegantig.com.au/ig-blinds.

Architect: Renzo Piano Builder: Lendlease

SIEGWARE AUSTRALIA

15 Years of Architectural Innovation

As the calendar turns to 2025, Siegware Australia proudly marks its 15th anniversary — a milestone celebrating a decade and a half of advancing energy efficiency in windows and doors, and the broader construction industry, across Australia and New Zealand. This anniversary is not a celebration of Siegware alone, but our industry’s growing commitment to improving the standards and quality of window and door products, and thereby buildings overall.

Conception

Founded in 2009, with the very first batch of hardware landing in Australia in August 2010, Siegware came about to ensure the secure supply for local European-style timber window manufacturer Paarhammer Windows and Doors. It also supported a young and small uPVC window and door industry in Australia. In the early days, Siegware focused on introducing premium quality German-made window and door hardware systems by Siegenia, a household name and global leader in the industry. Siegware then proceeded to form partnerships with key manufacturers and suppliers in Europe and across the world.

Mature Technical Expertise, at the Core of Siegware

At the heart of Siegware Architectural Innovations is years of invaluable experience in window manufacturing and hardware technology, setting the company apart in the realm of window and door hardware systems.

Siegware has cultivated a team whose profound knowledge and expertise of window and door systems, and the broader architectural hardware industry, drives exceptional service and support. This isn’t just about knowing products — it’s about understanding the intricate needs of fabricators across Australia and New Zealand and delivering tailored solutions enhancing their craft.

The staff aren’t merely suppliers; they are partners to fabricators, offering insights honed through years of working with Europeanstandard systems and cutting-edge innovations. Whether it’s advising on the nuances of tilt-and-turn mechanisms or troubleshooting complex installation challenges, Siegware’s technical prowess ensures that fabricators receive not just products, but the confidence to execute their projects with precision. This commitment to excellence has made Siegware a trusted name, bridging the gap between high-quality hardware and the skilled hands that bring it to life across the country.

Expanding the scale and scope of energy efficiency across the industry

The company has taken an active role across Australia and New Zealand as it recognises that sustainable practices must become the norm rather than the exception. Aligning itself with the Australian Passive House Association, uPVC Window Alliance, Window & Glass Association New Zealand, and of course, the

Australian Glass & Window Association, Siegware is helping to amplify awareness and educate both fabricators and end-users about the benefits of energy-efficient building solutions.

Fostering dialogue, sharing technical know-how, and promoting Standards that elevate the industry, Siegware equips fabricators with the tools and knowledge to create high-performance products that reduce energy consumption and enhance comfort.

Passive House Standard

Since its early days, Siegware has been a key innovator in this space, partnering with the Australian Passive House Association to host over 10 practical training sessions — and counting. These workshops, designed for builders, architects, and tradespeople, are hands-on opportunities to master the techniques that define Passive House construction. With certified Passive House tradespeople on staff, the company brings a rare depth of knowledge to its mission.

The path ahead

The challenge for fabricators in the future, is in the automation of fully integrated production centres. Siegware assists with preparing and processing hardware information so it can be seamlessly uploaded to the relevant machining centre.

Apart from window and door hardware, Siegware is introducing innovative systems for the general construction of energy-efficient buildings. Examples include, highly advanced building wraps and airtightness systems, sealants, and fastening systems into the Australian market.

Siegware also provides ongoing technical support and training to keep up with our constantly changing and improving industry.

Siegware Online Shop — Empowering Users

The recently launched online shop makes architectural innovations accessible even beyond the window trade. Offering a curated range of hardware, airtightness products, and construction consumables, the new Siegware Marketplace delivers quality and convenience at your fingertips, and with a robust stock held in Australia, orders are dispatched swiftly.

This online venture is a testament to Siegware’s evolution — from a niche supplier to a dynamic force empowering manufacturers, builders, and fabricators.

For more information, please see www.siegware.com.au; Siegware online store: shop.siegware.com.au.

Passivhaus Tradesperson Training Day at Siegware

Siegware at 2023 AUSFENEX

2025 AGWA Member

About the participants

The AGWA Member Pulse Survey was conducted in February 2025 with just under 100 respondents (N=96), representing a response rate of about 10% of the membership.

The key member group responses were roughly proportional to the AGWA’s segment membership (eg, Suppliers/Glaziers/Window Fabricators, etc) and geographic location (eg, NSW, VIC, etc). There were strong response rates from family-owned businesses across the membership.

Market Segment

Ownership type by category

Operation type of respondent. State of respondents:

Sales and Market 2024

Overwhelmingly, respondents had a strong exposure to the residential market, with 84.4% receiving at least 25% of their income from new residential sales. This dynamic changed in the renovation market, with only 46.3% of respondents deriving 25% or more of their income from renovations.

How much of your business is tied to the residential market?

As with any survey, the size of the responses helps inform not just the learnings, but also the extent to which the responses reliably represent the views of the wider membership. Many of the responses looked at the market category from the perspective of Suppliers, Glaziers, Window Fabricators, and total respondents. While respondents were categorised as Window Joiners, Resellers, or simply ‘Other’, the sample size was small and thus likely led to statistically insignificant findings. Similarly, the smaller proportion of responses from members outside of NSW and Victoria, also, likely impacts on the reliability of the data in fully representing a nationwide view of the membership.

The data was then aggregated from the perspective of NSW, Victoria, and other locations. Those respondents who nominated as multi-market in this second geographical data set were removed to ascertain clear geographic/market trends.

How much of your turnover is generated from renovation market?

In 2024, it appears that members had a varied performance, with Supplier members registering the highest below-budget performance of any category. While Glaziers and Window Fabricators reported a greater prevalence of budget or above-budget income performance in 2024, on face value, this may appear positive, but the respondent data relating to costs is telling. Over 59% of Window Fabricators highlighted cost increases of more than 10%. While the last couple

of years of strong demand, energy and wage cost escalation, and scarcity pricing may be weighing on these results, the absence of previous data sets and the role of timing can't be excluded, particularly when compared with only 35% of Supplier respondents recording cost increases of a similar magnitude.

Did your 2024 turnover meet your expectation?

How much did your costs increase in 2024?

Market changes in 2024 saw the ongoing move to higher performing windows also driving increased revenues. Increased sales of energy-efficiency products were indicated by 91% of Window Fabricator members. Even more respondents flagged increased enquiries for energy efficiency-related products in most market sectors.

In 2024, have your sales from high-performing, energy-efficient products increased?

Interestingly, but not unexpectedly, regulation appears to be the biggest driver of these sales and enquiries, with NSW leading the net increase in demand, followed by Victoria, and then the remaining markets. This finding represents the state-based rollout sequencing and emergent demand following the 7-star energy efficiency adoption by the various jurisdictions. In terms of market dynamics, the role of emerging and complex supply chains was felt across the membership, with over half of Supplier and Window Fabricator members reporting increased competition from imported products, most notably from China.

In 2024 have your enquiries of high-performing, energy-efficient products increased?

Are you experiencing increasing competition from overseas?

Are you experiencing increasing competition from overseas, then mainly from which country?

2025 Outlook

The majority of respondents are expecting 2025 revenue outcomes at or above 2024 levels, despite a myriad of contradictory data points and, indeed, some survey respondents forecasting top-line contraction.

Do you expect your 2025 turnover to be? For non-supplier respondents.

While, in part, this will be naturally driven by the cost increases felt by many survey participants, it is not wholly unexpected, with revenue expectations roughly similar across the key market segments and geographic locations.

Interestingly, this top-line stability does not appear to indicate inaction, with many Suppliers and Window Fabricators intending to introduce new products in 2025. These intended product range increases are most acutely observed in businesses with a multi-state or national footprint, particularly with a presence in the key Victorian and NSW markets.

Do you plan to offer or launch new products in 2025?

Supporting these topline market actions, over 50% of respondents in each category are considering increasing production capacity to help drive their business in 2025, with 88% of Suppliers and 70% of Window Fabricators seemingly choosing to leverage capital investment to support these initiatives. While 30% of respondents are likely to increase staffing levels across all sectors, the differential emphasis on staff, as compared to capital investment, indicated a preferential focus on capital efficiency to support productive outcomes, with staffing decisions likely supporting these investments.

Do you plan changes to your production capacity in 2025?

Do you plan changes to your production capacity in 2025?

Do you plan to change staffing levels in 2025?

While a more conclusive analysis from this survey will likely come from multi-year comparisons, the responses are interesting and help paint a picture of innovation and adaptability within the industry. I would like to thank those members who responded to the survey and encourage all members to participate in next year's pulse survey.

Everyone Has The Right To

THE UNDERESTIMATED ROLE OF THE ESTIMATOR

Leanne Xerri Technical Auditor, AGWA

The role of an estimator is often overlooked, yet it is crucial to the success of a window business. While an estimator’s work is less visible than other roles such as project managers or sales representatives, the accuracy of their estimates can determine whether a project is profitable or not.

Understanding the full scope of an estimator’s responsibility highlights why this role deserves greater recognition and appreciation in our industry. The core of an estimator’s job is to assess the scope of a project, then calculate material and labour costs, and prepare the final quote. However, the role encompasses much more than simply providing a quote.

An estimator begins by analysing detailed project documents such as drawings, specifications, scopes of work, technical reports, and contracts. They must understand technical specifications, Building Codes, and Standards, requiring knowledge of both the window industry and the actual product. Given the complexity and variability of buildings and windows themselves, the estimator’s job requires an in-depth understanding of construction techniques, materials, technical details, and company processes, as well as the ability to identify potential challenges or issues that may arise.

The success of any quote depends on maintaining a balance between the costs of supplying materials and labour and the revenue generated from the project. Failing to accurately calculate the costs, or overlooking key details or requirements, could result in underestimating, potentially leading to financial losses, as more may be spent on materials and labour than initially planned for. On the other hand, overestimating, where an estimator has inflated costs, could price a business out of the market as clients and contractors will often look for competitive pricing. Finding this correct balance between underestimating and overestimating is key to maintaining a healthy profit margin and a competitive edge, as well as gaining a good reputation in the market.

It is important for an estimator to maintain relationships with key stakeholders to estimate successfully. To gather information needed for calculations, the estimator must liaise with architects,

engineers, builders or homeowners, certifiers, suppliers, and subcontractors, as well as internal company staff. Effective communication with clients ensures that the estimator receives all the information necessary to complete an accurate quote. They will also need to contact suppliers and contractors to ensure that the estimation costs are current and that any future changes in prices, special items or project discounts are allowed for. Internal communication with sales, operations, project managers and transport is also essential, ensuring that the project fits within the company’s capacity and capabilities.

When preparing the client’s final submission, the estimator must ensure that all aspects of the quote are effectively communicated. This means that all inclusions and exclusions, special conditions and contract requirements are clearly indicated in the submission and checked against the specification and scope of work. Any omission of an important item may cause issues further along in the process.

An estimator’s work does not end once the quote is submitted, as there are drawings to be completed and variations to quote. Often an estimator’s communication with the client will last throughout the life of the project.

In conclusion, the role of the estimator is critical to the success of any business. While estimators may not always be in the spotlight, their work has a profound impact on a company’s profitability, operational efficiency, and reputation. The estimator’s skills include costing, technical details, clear effective communication and an excellent knowledge of Standards, Codes and company procedures and processes. By recognising and valuing the estimator’s contributions, businesses can improve their overall performance and remain competitive in an increasingly challenging market.

Are you interested in learning more about estimating? Find out more about AGWA’s Estimator Training Course contact training@agwa.com.au.

Walshs Glass And Glasshape Partner To Deliver Cutting-Edge Cyclonic Glass

In April, Walshs Glass proudly announced an exciting partnership with Glasshape to introduce StormShield®, the thinnest, lightest, and strongest cyclone-rated glass available for common framing systems to Perth-based customers.

Walshs Glass and Glasshape team members Paul Bullock and Greg Milne hosted an enthusiastic group of architects, builders, supply partners and customers at a riverside launch event. The launch included an interactive demonstration of the performance of the StormShield® product, designed to withstand the harshest cyclonic conditions.

Andrew Parker, Executive Director for Walshs Glass said, ‘Through this exciting partnership, Walshs Glass will supply StormShield® to customers from Dongara in the north, to Perth and southwestern WA. Every year the WA cyclone season is becoming more extreme, and this year was no different. We want to work with architects, government decision-makers and building businesses based in Perth, to provide a solution so that they are prepared and cyclonic compliant.

Designed to resist extreme wind speeds and penetration from flying debris, StormShield® is certified as a debris impact-resistant glazing solution, making it an ideal choice for cyclone-prone regions C and D in Australia, which includes the northern Coast of Western Australia.

Key Features of StormShield®:

• Available in multiple thicknesses, catering to various cyclone region requirements.

• Two new enhanced product variants: StormShield® Ultra (impact resistance up to 39 m/s) and StormShield® Extreme (impact resistance up to 44 m/s).

• The only annealed laminated cyclone-resistant glass that can be cut and processed from stock sheets.

• Proprietary ultra-high-grade laminate formulation allows expansion and contraction up to five times the normal rate before breaking.

• Superior performance ratings in lighter, thinner compositions compared to competitors.

• Remains weather-tight even when damaged, preventing hazardous glass shards from scattering.

• Offers increased design flexibility, allowing for larger window spans to maximize natural light and open spaces.

StormShield® products are the only available annealed laminated product solution for cyclone resistance that can be cut and processed from stock sheets and are available from Walshs Glass.

For more information, please see www.walshsglass.com.au.

Global Vision, Local Commitment: Kömmerling Opens A New Chapter In Australia

Dr Peter Mrosik’s Visit and the First-Ever Conference in Australia

Recently, Australian and New Zealand uPVC fabricators and our industry partners witnessed a significant milestone with an historic visit from Dr Peter Mrosik, Owner and CEO of Kömmerling. Dr Mrosik’s presence, not only, demonstrated strong support to local partners, but also marked the official opening of the company’s latest investment, a state-of-the-art lamination line in Melbourne. This initiative is a testament to Kömmerling’s unwavering commitment to the region and a bold step toward the future of uPVC window and door profiles in Australia.

This expansion elevates Kömmerling’s operations both globally and locally, introducing onshore production of coloured profiles using the latest European lamination technology, specifically tailored to meet the demands of Australia’s diverse climate and architectural preferences.

Beyond a simple ribbon cutting ceremony, this event celebrated a company that continues to lead through innovation — the first to build uPVC profiles in the world, the first to launch BIO ATTRIBUTED profiles, and the first to achieve a 100% recycled profile system. Now, with its first ever official conference in Australia, Kömmerling proves that it is not just a participant in the market — it’s a true pioneer.

Increasing The Range: Rolling Out The Best

The DR2210 by Doric fits even more aluminium, timber, and uPVC sliding doors. With multiple variations available, this versatile and heavy-duty roller is built to increase longevity and durability, while reducing wear and tear, making it a competitive choice for both residential and commercial applications. Capable of handling doors up to 200 kg, the DR2210 has been adapted to more sliding door systems through collaboration with customers, ultimately benefiting fabricators with installation and end users for longevity.

Doric’s customers, familiar with the DR2000 and DR1000 rollers, have welcomed the transition to the DR2210. The latest additions to the DR2210 range complete the original line up and introduce new fittings, offering more options for fabricators.

Key Improvements and Benefits

• Superior corrosion resistance and durability with an engineered polymer outer carriage and passivated aluminium inner carriage.

• Enhanced protection from the inner aluminium carriage, reducing installation damages.

• Fully adjustable inner carriage with 10 mm height adjustment via a stainless-steel adjustment screw and nut.

• Suitable for a range of sliding doors up to 200 kg.

• Internal pivoting housing ensures constant 2-point contact between wheels and track, providing smoother operation by distributing weight across all 4 tyres.

• High-performance engineered polymer tyre with a ‘ZZ’ rated bearing and dust seal for superior load rating and cyclic operation.

• Tested for durability and salt spray corrosion.

Held over 2 days in Melbourne’s Docklands, the event created an inspiring platform for exchanging ideas, exploring future trends, and unveiling new partnerships and products set to launch soon. The local Kömmerling team is currently working closely with national fabricators on a series of next generation products and services, designed with Australian performance Standards and customer expectations at their core.

For the uPVC fabricators and our customers, this moment represents more than just an introduction of a new production line. It signals a paradigm shift — a commitment from one of the world’s most respected brands to grow with, and for, the local market.

Kömmerling is not just leading the way. It’s building the way forward — first.

The DR2210’s adaptability is thanks to Doric’s ability to develop variants for specific door extrusions, offering better choices for fabricators and manufacturers.

Discover more at: doric.com.au/dr2210-roller/

KSD-A

Perfect seaming quality under any conditions

 The new standard for seaming - thanks to LiTEC slider

 Fast and reliable

 Modular and sophisticated

Glaston presents patented process sequence TPS® insulating glass with ultra-thin centre glass down to 0.5 mm

Glaston has introduced triple TPS ® insulating glass (IG) units with an ultrathin centre glass down to 0.5 mm, revolutionising the glass industry. This innovation addresses the challenge of modernising outdated windows, without complicating the replacement process. The unique system configuration and patented process sequence enable automatic production of these new IG units.

Glaston, the inventor of TPS ® (Thermo Plastic Spacer) insulating glass technology, showcased this new manufacturing process at glasstec 2024. There were significant technical challenges to overcome in developing these energy-efficient, thin triple TPS ® IG units. Traditional methods proved unsuitable, prompting Glaston to develop a novel production technology, patented since Autumn 2024. This approach minimises stress on the thin centre glass and reduces the risk of breakage.

The Glaston TPS ® technology ensures high insulation values and gas tightness, improving the performance of these IG units. The fully automated system reduces manual handling, crucial for the sensitivity of thin glass. The production line offers maximum flexibility for conventional and thin glass TPS ® IG units, even in mixed operation. All processing stations are optimised for the ultra-thin centre glass, ensuring protection through offset and encapsulation in the thermoplastic spacer and secondary sealing layer.

Triple TPS ® IG units with ultra-thin centre glass are lighter and offer high performance glazing in a slimmer package, with up to 20% better U-values than conventional double glazing. They are ideal for residential applications in new construction and renovation, simplifying transportation and installation. Thinner glass has higher light transmission and requires less raw material.

These units provide a significant performance upgrade and fit existing window frames, making them perfect for easy window upgrades. The combination of reduced frame support and lower U-value means a higher return on investment, making them a game changer in the glass industry.

For more information, please see https://glaston.net/machine/thin-insulatingglass-tps/

Weatherproofing, Compliance And Testing: Ensure Your Build Is Weatherproof

According to clause F3V1 in Part F3 of the NCC 2022, roof and wall cladding must be designed and installed to prevent water penetration, which could lead to the deterioration of building elements.

There is a range of advanced techniques which Azuma uses to ensure your constructions are compliant, including:

• Mock-Up Testing

• Pressure Differential Testing

• Water Penetration Testing

• Sealant and Flashing Inspection

• Material Durability Analysis

Clause F3V1(6)(a) specifies compliance for a direct fix cladding wall and a unique wall as being met by no presence of water to the inside surface of the façade. This includes the surface of the external wall, which is fixed to the internal wall, or for a single skin wall, the internal wall.

Regarding clause F3V1(6)(b), cavity wall’s compliance is different in nature, primarily due to the purpose and nature of cavity walls. Water, which passes through the primary weather defence, will gradually be removed from the cavity either through weep holes or evaporation.

Compliance to the Standard therefore allows water to enter the cavity, provided water is not present on the removed surface of the cavity. However, there are exemptions to this, as water may transfer to the removed surface through an isolated blemish due to

the introduced defects. Water can also contact cavity surface such as battens, however, you must demonstrate that the water can pass off/through these surfaces.

Partner with Azuma to guarantee that your building projects are thoroughly tested and compliant with the NCC’s stringent weatherproofing Standards. Our comprehensive approach ensures that your roofs and walls will withstand the elements, protect your investment and ensure the safety and comfort of building occupants.

Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you achieve excellence in construction. To read the full article click on the link below.

Full article: https://www.azumadesign.com.au/weatherproofingtesting-f3v1-ncc

TPS

Reactive v Non-Reactive, Know the Difference.

Kommerling developed the original TPS, Thermoplastic Spacer in 1995 and released it to the market 3 years later in 1998. This product was originally developed to increase productivity by offering a fully automatic application, which replaces the conventional edge sealing system with spacer, desiccant and primary sealant, optimally assuming the function of both, while eliminating the metal thermal bridge.

The product worked perfectly when applied in a controlled environment where the manufacturer would supply and install units with polysulphide as secondary sealant in the correct application. Issues arose when silicone was used as secondary sealant with installations carried out by others using incompatible products such as glazing blocks and glazing silicone. This resulted in obvious failures as the PIB and spacer were now one.

Kommerling began developing the 4SG (4 Structural Glazing) Reactive product in 2005. It has an enhanced chemical adhesion to the glass and silicone, greatly reducing or avoiding the visual and structural effects of incompatible products over nonreactive products, which these do not chemically bond with other components, resulting in visual sagging (Garland effect), loss of gasses and entry of moisture.

The chemical bond of a reactive product to the glass also greatly reduces the enormous strain on the butyl caused by climatic expansion and contraction of the insulating glass. This permanent stress of the primary seal can cause seal failure over time.

Reactive TPS has now become the leading solution for designers working on the most creative projects all over the world. Please contact Elegant IG for more information on TPS products www.elegantig.com.au

VECTOR 800XR

Xtra Reach Remote Drive

LIFTING CAPACITY UP TO 1000 KG

• Wireless remote driving and steering

• Two Stage powered boom

• Six adjustable vacuum cups

Nine Degrees Of Powered Movement via Wireless Remote

• Forward & Reverse driving

• Left & Right steering

• Elevation

• Forward extension

• Tilt vertical to horizontal

• 360° Rotation

• True side-shift at vacuum head

• Side pivot left & right

• True Vertical Shift

• Narrow 900mm width

• Includes Extra Front Wheels & Axles

• Includes Extra set of H/duty Out Riggers

• Includes Back up Plug-in Remote with Variable Speed Dial

Martin 0415 895 327

martin@quattrolifts.com www.quattrolifts.com.au

Bovone’s Integrated Robotic System: All The Flexibility, Productivity And Versatility Of The Seventh Axis

First showcased in Dusseldorf at Glasstec 2024, the latest BRS configuration is the multi-axis robotic system for edging and polishing.

Bovone, the Italy-based company that has always been synonymous with excellence, innovation, performance, and reliability has designed this new system. It includes an anthropomorphic robotic arm that moves on 7 axes, a straight edging machine, 2 dedicated slab storage units and is integrated with the optional BVR vertical washing machine.

This plant combines flexibility, efficiency, and adaptability in a single integrated solution and can be customised according to customer needs.

In addition to the benefits of increased productivity, reduced operating costs, very high precision and end-product quality, production flexibility, customisation, and safety, there also these specific benefits of the seventh axis:

• Increased reach: allows the robot to cover a larger work area by moving along the track.

• Optimised layout and dimensions: an optimised system that can operate in extremely small spaces.

• Flexibility: thanks to the 7-axis synergy, which adds an extra level of mobility, the robot can access multiple workstations or machines within the production plant.

• Optional Capacity upgrade to 1000Kg

• Optional Jib Hook Attachment to 500Kg SWL

• Optional Fully Enclosed; Lockable Tandem Trailer

• Modularity of the system: adding new machines or modifying the existing layout is accomplished without significant interruption to production. This level of customisation would not be achievable with static systems.

• Optimisation of workflows: the robot can move smoothly between one or more machines, reducing waiting times and ensuring that each machine is operating at full capacity.

• Adaptability to production variations: the robot’s ability to handle different machines and operations makes it extremely adaptable to production variations. Handling complex glass and manoeuvring in confined spaces become smooth and simple operations.

BRS’ robotic automation takes companies’ production to a new level of productivity, giving a big boost to their competitiveness and sustaining it in the long term thanks to the reliability of the technologies and the competence and efficiency of the service.

For more information, please see www.bovone.com.

JUST RITE

Just Rite, a new member, has a longstanding history as a family-owned business operating in the housing and energy efficiency sector. Earlier in the year, AGWA’s Technical Auditor, Leanne Xerri, visited its premises in Fyshwick ACT to meet the team and trial AGWA’s new reseller audit. Meeting the new owners, husbandand-wife team Chelsea and Joshua Bryce, she was interested to learn more about their operation.

Just Rite has been involved in creating energy-smart homes since the late 1970s. Today their product range is extensive and includes skylights, roof windows, double glazing, and replacement windows in aluminium, thermally broken and timber. Involved in the ACT retrofit market, double-

glazed units are fitted into the existing aluminium or timber window frames of good condition, preserving the integrity and style of the home, while allowing for thermal and acoustic improvements. The process, very economical compared with a full window replacement, means that installation is relatively quick and easy, offering all the benefits of regular double glazing without the expense of full rip out and replacement. Just Rite also offers a full remove and replace service. Canberra and the ACT have a large proportion of older homes and, with its significant temperature extremes between summer and winter, there is a high need for this service.

The reseller audit is an opportunity to assess the members’ knowledge of the relevant Standards and to confirm the original client request, plans or window take off against the original quote or order. A reseller must provide evidence demonstrating that their supplier/s (both overseas and domestic) are providing compliant product, meeting Australian Standards, into the national market. AGWA is currently trialling the reseller audit before being fully launched later this year.

The Just Rite team passed its first audit with flying colours in all 3 Pillars of the

Accreditation Program: Compliance, Skills and Training and Safety. Congratulations to the team and thanks to Chelsea and Joshua for being a part of the trial reseller audit and for being extremely accommodating and well prepared.

AGWA Welcomes The Following New Members

All Glass Byron Bay, Byron Bay, NSW

Austral Monsoon, Carole Park, QLD

Australia Jewel Green Group, Wingfield, SA

Bold Architectural Windows & Doors, Carrum Downs, VIC

CapLock, Cromer, NSW

Clear Glass & Glazing, Chirnside Park, VIC

Custom Architectural Windows, Canning Vale, WA

Frontier Windows and Doors, Carrum Downs, VIC

Gatewise Metals, Chipping Norton, NSW

Hilton Brothers Glass & Aluminium, Forrestdale, WA

Metro Gates & Balustrades, Canning Vale, WA

Millennium Glass, Burleigh Heads, QLD

Montague Glass House, Narooma, NSW

Newcastle Glass Services, Broadmeadow, NSW

Ocean Glass, Wheeler Heights, NSW

Pickering Joinery, Belmont, VIC

Procon Materials, Cremorne, VIC

Smart Doors and Windows, Albion, VIC

Stein, Sydney Olympic Park, NSW

SurfCoast Glazing, Torquay, VIC

Sustainable Windows, St Marys, NSW

Thinxtra, Sydney, NSW

Tiptop Aluminium Windows & Doors, Dandenong South, VIC

Urban Windows & Doors, Kilkenny, SA

Watson Glass, Yennora, NSW

AGWA Technical Fact Sheets

AGWA would like to advise that the following Technical Fact Sheets have been recently updated on the website. Please see www.agwa. com.au/Members/Technical Resources for the most up to date versions.

AGWA Barrier Quick Reference Guide

Architectural One-Offs

DTS Requirements for uPVC Windows

Glazing in Kitchens and Bathrooms

Non-Combustible Requirements for Frames

Queensland Building Form

Tropical Cyclone Alfred Variance in WERS Data

Ultra-thin 0.5 mm center glass in unique TPS® IG units

Change your glass game with the latest advancements in TPS® technology.

Process ultra-thin 0.5 mm center glass for triple or quadruple TPS® IG units. And get 20% greater insulation with the same IG unit thickness and weight.

Put our patented process and special line configuration to work for you.

Discover Glaston thin glass technology.

Quick and easy installation

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