CCF SA SOUTH EAST CONFERENCE

Written by Melissa Ekberg, Civil Contractors Federation SA

On 3 May 2023, CCF SA headed to Penola to host a regional conference and dinner at Chardonnay Lodge for 60 representatives from our industry. Phillip Dowsett, Deputy Industry Advocate, started off the conference, discussing, and detailing the purpose of the Industry Advocate, Tailored Industry Participation Plans, and the importance of using local expertise and resources. Supporting local businesses is not just about convenience or price; it's an investment in the well-being of our community, fostering economic growth, preserving local character, and creating a more sustainable and vibrant environment for everyone involved.

Ged Killick, Fulton Hogan’s Program Manager – DIT Regional South Maintenance, spoke about the status of the current maintenance contract for the region, and showed some brilliant innovation that is being used for surveying road surfaces, roadside infrastructure, and surrounding environments. This data can be used for asset management, road maintenance, and planning purposes. An efficient way to making the public dollar work where it is needed most for road safety.

Representatives from the Department for Infrastructure and Transport – Jon Whelan, Andy Excell, and Emma Kovak, delivered presentations on current works, what is in planning stages, showed some highlights of the jetty refurbishment program, and disclosed information about some key projects for the region. The 90-day Federal Infrastructure Investment Program review was discussed, with all looking forward to seeing the outcomes, particularly to the SE region.

Tom Earls from Fairwork Lawyers provided a high-level overview of the recent Fair Work Commission changes, and how they will affect employers and employees alike. Hot topics such as IR Compliance, the abolishment of the ABCC, wage secrecy, and sexual harassment were all discussed, with no question left unanswered.

CCF SA CEO Rebecca Pickering, opened up the floor to all attendees seeking feedback on what is keeping them up at night, the 90-day Federal Infrastructure Investment Program review, apprentices and what CCF SA can do to assist.

CCF SA thank Adelaide Traffic Control and Loadex Hire (SA) for partnering with us in this conference. Established in March 2021, Adelaide Traffic Control is founded on the principles of customer service excellence, outstanding performance, and maximum safety. As a South Australian owned-and-operated organisation, the company is recognised locally as a leading provider of comprehensive traffic management solutions.

Loadex Hire (SA) is a family owned and operated business that supplies quality earth moving machinery and construction plant to the Civil Construction, Mining and Agricultural industries in Australia. Established in 2008, has grown over the past nine years, becoming a major supplier of diverse earth moving plant and attachment hire to South Australia.