AE Smith COOL BREEZE 2013 issue 17

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A E S m i t h ’ s m ag az in e f o r s t a f f a n d f r i e n d s brisbane bowen melbourne perth

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2013 issue 17                    

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Shared Voice for Safety on Video What are Your Expectations of Safety? Video Cast & Crew Subscribe to Cool Breeze and WIN* Microsoft Surface Variable Repair Costs Slashed at Private School Culture Survey says AE Smith is on Track with Right Attitude to Safety Practical Solutions Deliver 31% Energy Saving Technical Service Combines with Respectful Service to Win Queensland Health Contract Walk the Talk the AE Smith Way Constructing Success Estimating Success Festive Fun Helping Baptcare Working with the Elderly Training Delicate Job Needs the Big Guns Heritage Building Gets Green Makeover Bright Sparks Lighting up Brisbane Five Green Stars for University of Tasmania Speed Demon Factory Manager New GM for AE Smith Building Technologies 7 Years & 21,500 Trees Later Helping Hands conditioning

building

services

energy

efficiency

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Shared Voice for Safety on Video Over 100 people - including 48 family members - volunteered to participate in the AE Smith workplace safety video - a unique safety awareness initiative that’s starting important conversations at worksites, offices and around family dinner tables

“ The messages from AE Smith staff and their wives, partners, girlfriends and children are totally unscripted and heartfelt, so it really packs a punch about the real reasons why safety is so important ”

In a filming blitz across the country, staff and their loved ones representing every AE Smith office stepped forward to share on film their answer to the same question: “What are YOUR EXPECTATIONS of safety?”

The result is a series of short YouTube movies with staff and their loved ones explaining why being safe at work is so important to them.

Family members, including 30 children aged from 10 month to 16 years old also voiced their opinions. While filming in Sydney, even a much-loved family pet - a racing greyhound named “13” - makes an appearance.

“Involving our staff’s loved ones in this initiative was crucial to the success and meaningfulness we were hoping to achieve. Their response has been amazing.” says AE Smith CEO, Andrew Permezel.

“Turns out, more often than not, the reason why we choose to work safely is not at work at all. It’s actually at home. It’s because of our loved ones.

So it really did make sense to have family members involved in sharing their expectations of safety too,” adds Andrew.

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As the largest privately owned mechanical services contractor in Australia, AE Smith is forging new ground with this powerful and heartfelt approach to safety awareness that draws on unscripted and unprompted concerns about the real reason we should work safely all the time.

“The messages from AE Smith staff and their wives, partners, girlfriends and children are totally unscripted and heartfelt, so it really packs a punch about the real reasons why safety is so important,” adds Permezel.

Quickly growing in hits, the YouTube video on the AE Smith website is being screened at dozens of tool box meetings, Friday afternoon gatherings and inductions for new staff.

The feedback to such confronting content has been positive, says Andrew.

“Just as the interest in being involved in the making of the videos was impressive, the response to the finished production has been fantastic and really shows how all of our team are on the same page when it comes to safety.”

The participation from staff and the willingness of families to be involved is also an encouraging sign to AE Smith’s new National Safety Manager, Nick Daley.

“The way so many of our teams and their family members got involved in the video’s production really shows to me the commitment we all have to spreading the word about safety,” Nick says.

“I know it’s helped start a lot of conversations not just around the workplace but also at home - which goes a long way to building awareness and wanting to put safety first in everything we do.”

The new safety video is now another tool for awareness, education and training across all AE Smith offices and work sites around the country.

Used correctly, it is a powerful multimedia tool that helps remind people why each of us must choose to work safely all the time.

“Safety is a universal top priority for all businesses and business leaders, and in this spirit please feel free to share the AE Smith safety video with other like-minded individuals who also value the importance of a strong safety culture amongst their people,” said Andrew.

To see the “What are YOUR EXPECTATIONS of safety?” video search for “AE Smith Safety” in YouTube or visit www.aesmith.com.au See also next page, the full list of cast and crew who, without their help, time and effort, the video could not have been produced.

“Thank you for your help and support in creating the AE Smith workplace safety video. I hope you like it and I hope you will want to share it with others,” concluded Andrew. AES

We believe in helping people in everything we do.

The way we help is by taking the time to hear what is really important to you.

We accept personal responsibility to use our resources and expertise, to find the right outcome.

We care about people’s welfare, believe in family values and do what we say we are going to do.

AE Smith is the largest privately owned mechanical services contractor in Australia that delivers practical solutions in air conditioning, building services and energy efficiency across the country.

Andrew Permezel, CEO

Cover page: The Barry family (L to R) Carra, Phillip, Kathryn and Isaac at the Nth Qld safety video shoot in Townsville.

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What are Your Expectations of Safety?

Video Cast & Crew Thank You to AE Smith staff and their families for helping make the AE Smith workplace safety video (Alphabetical order. *Asterisk denotes AE Smith team member.)

“ Designed to create a fun and engaging activity that generates positive word-ofmouth amongst staff and their loved ones, the creation of a short safety video that captures real people, sharing real expectations, will help refocus our attention on putting safety first in the AE Smith workplace ” Andrew Permezel CEO

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Brisbane Cast Alan Dacey* Alicia Dacey Andrew Kelk* Arthur Ribet* Ben Ovington* Brian Carroll* Byron Scott* Carolene Jacinto* Courtney Dacey Darrin Rolph* David Kratzman* Estelle Leadbitter Evelyn Leadbitter Jacob Anderson* Joan Kenavan John Venardos* Karen Dacey Kassandra Venardos Katina Venardos Marion Venardos Peter Chamberlain* Rob Anderson* Ryan Anderson Sarah Leadbitter Scott Rolph* Stavros Venardos Toby Anderson Gold Coast Cast Adam Robinson* Angel Robinson David Nordstrom* Lachlan Nordstrom Mackay Cast Adam Roney* Alec McDonald* Angela Beardmore Bradley Beardmore* Clive Swan* Jake Patteson* Julian Chapman* Katie Webb Luke Arlott* Luke Harvey* Maya Webb Morgan Webb* Nathan Gibbs* Nicholas King* Nicolas Beardmore Wayne Reinke*

Melbourne Cast Amanda Steers* Amaya Cleven Anicca Main Ash Carmichael* Austin King Blake Carmichael Cailey King Damien Cleven* Dylan Jenkinson Fraser King Josh Jenkinson Lee Cole Lisa Jenkinson* Raymond Lee* Simon Boucher Sophie Permezel Steve Cole* Stewart King* Victoria Cleven Perth Cast Amelia Kenny Eddie Giangiordano* Gemma Stewart Geoff Binns* Graeme Stewart* Jessica Stewart Joel Tebbenhoff* Layla Kenny Nicolas Blachon* Norm Ball* Rachel Giangiordano Taylia Kenny Sydney Cast Anja Williams Bob Blair Capri can der Ent Chris Pearce* Cindy "13" Daniel van der Ent* Danielle Gale Faith van der Ent Jarryd Hitchcox* Jess Harrower Jett Gale Mat Williams* Matthew Gale* Naomi Shearsby Penny Pearce Samuel Williams Taj Gale Tim Harris* Tony Melki* William Isles

Tasmania Cast Alicia Benier Allen Benier* Craig Lucas* Ian Cook* Peter Allie* Tim Vanengen* Trish Benier Townsville, Bowen & Cairns Cast Aaron Cox Carra Barry Carter Wilson Daniel Martin* Isaac Barry James Wilson* Kathryn Barry Keith Lamrock* Kristie McQuilty* Mark Lovelady* Michael Moore* Patrick Armistead* Renee Lovelady Ryan Dickens* Simon Anderson* Tiffany O’Keefe Crew Aaron Cox Branden Jovaag* Carolene Jacinto* Graeme Stewart* Ian Coe* Linda Isles* Maria Harrison* Mark Lovelady* Melissa Phillips* Morgan Webb* Virginia Whalan* Editing Raymond Lee* Ian Coe* Director, Producer, Video, Lights & Sound Raymond Lee* Executive Producers Andrew Permezel* Aldo Cevaal* Nick Daley*

Subscribe to Cool Breeze and WIN* Microsoft Surface www.aesmith.com.au/subscription $559 prize value

“ Have been subscribed to Cool Breeze for a long while now and enjoy each edition.

Congratulations, an excellent read for clients of AE Smith.

The willingness to share company culture and passion is to be applauded and is done with great technical detail and valued respect �

AE Smith Townsville Customer testimonial

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Variable Repair Costs Slashed at Private School Ursula Frayne Catholic College, Perth’s 113 year old, dual campus private school, has effectively slashed ad hoc repair costs and lost time due to equipment failure

“ By year two the cost reductions in terms of the money spent on ad hoc repairs were evident and today I can say we have saved money ” Jody Cabalzar Business Manager Ursula Frayne Catholic College

According to the College’s Business Manager, Jody Cabalzar, the cost and time savings are significant but did not come as a surprise.

When Jody (pictured standing above left with AE Smith Service Technician, Joel Tebbenhoff) joined the college five years ago, he invited air conditioning specialist AE Smith to tender for a formal repair and maintenance contract on the basis of the company’s outstanding performance at his two previous schools.

“When I started here, the air conditioning program was more reactive than preventative,” Jody said. “Plus, a lot of the equipment was nearing the end of its useful life and running at far from optimum efficiency.

“Once AE Smith won the contract we went through the place, carrying out a stock take of all equipment and developing an action priority plan as part of putting in place the maintenance agreement.

“In the first 12 months we did not see an immediate improvement as a result of the legacy of the previous years. But by year two the cost reductions in terms of the money spent on ad hoc repairs were evident and today I can say we have saved money.”

Jody said that escalating electricity costs, a 25% increase in student numbers in the past six years and an increase in the school’s building footprint meant that his school’s energy bill was inevitably increasing.

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However, AE Smith has been able to help keep the bills manageable while still delivering a practical solution and keeping students and teachers comfortable.

“I’m sure our 120 staff and 1300 children are glad there are nowhere near as many breakdowns on 40 degree days.”

Apart from maintenance, AE Smith has also won tenders to supply and install a significant amount of new equipment in recent years; going to great lengths to turn variable cost into fixed cost, and accept personal responsibility to use the right resources, to find the right outcome.

Jody says that although they are still contending with legacy issues, AE Smith are doing exactly what they said they would do. There are inherent problems when new and old buildings are mixed with new and old equipment.

“Our schools are on two separate campuses and both have buildings that are incredibly old. Some of the AC units, for example, may have been installed when funds were tight, put in to a budget rather than a specification, and have never been able to adequately serve the area. We certainly have areas where these units run at capacity in order to have an impact so it can be a challenge for the technicians.”

Jody, whose responsibilities extend from the financial management of the two schools to human resources, property and equipment, said that one of the real benefits of having professional and trustworthy suppliers such as AE Smith is that air conditioning and heating issues no longer consume his time.

Other than regular meetings, or when a new technician is coming into the school, he rarely has to worry, one of the reasons why he has used the firm at three successive schools.

“The bottom line is that they provide a very good service, which is equally as important as pricing,” he said.

Jody rates communication and high quality service as AE Smith’s top strengths. They take the time to hear what is important to him and Ursula Frayne.

“The attractions of the mining industry in the west are such there’s always a demand for good people so a lot of the trades we deal with have trouble getting and keeping staff.

“AE Smith must be doing something right. The people that come here are pretty good, carry themselves well and know what’s required to be on a school site with kids. Usually we get the same technician time and time again but if they have a staff change they will ring me in advance of the visit to let me know so that I can meet and brief the person.”

Jody said that particularly during the Building The Education Revolution period when a lot of different trades were on site, he would often have to speak to other service companies about language, dress, behaviour or smoking.

“ AE Smith must be doing something right. The people that come here are pretty good, carry themselves well and know what’s required to be on a school site with kids ”

“I can say with complete confidence I have never had to challenge any of the AE Smith people. They must have the right training processes in place,” he said. AES

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Culture Survey says AE Smith is on Track with Right Attitude to Safety When it comes to workplace health and safety, having the right culture is just as important as having the right policies and procedures With this in mind, AE Smith National Safety Manager, Nick Daley believes measuring and understanding safety attitudes and opinions is a vital step in putting safety first in the workplace and the journey towards Zero Harm.

“ The survey results demonstrated that AE Smith has a positive safety culture and we take safety very seriously ”

“Historically we’ve done a lot of work on understanding risks and preventing incidents, but we also need to understand how our attitudes toward a safe workplace can affect the ways policies are implemented day to day,” says Nick.

In July 2012, every AE Smith employee was invited to participate in the inaugural AE Smith Safety Culture Survey administered by Insync Surveys, an independent survey provider.

“Monitoring our thoughts about health and safety in the workplace and what we can do to improve is incredibly important,” he adds.

And a 81% participation rate of all AE Smith employees - well above the industry average of 65% for survey participation - provided valuable insights says Nick: “The fact that four out of every five employees took the time to complete the survey shows a really positive commitment to safety issues across the company - and this commitment is key to working safely all the time.”

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This above industry average response and the high total participation number underscored the validity of the overall survey results.

“The survey results demonstrated that AE Smith has a positive safety culture and we take safety very seriously,” adds Nick.

Favourable responses in six key areas were at the heart of the encouraging survey results and included positive answers to the statements:

     

My safety at work is important to the organisation; I feel safe at work; The person I report to is interested in my safety; The person I report to takes suggestions for improving health and safety seriously; I understand the safety standards expected of me; and I am proud to be working here.

But the intent of any survey is to also highlight areas for improvement, better systems and further training - which were also identified by the survey results.

“Our collective thoughts and attitudes about safety are really positive.

However, the survey also showed that we can look to improve some of our policies, systems and education,” comments Nick.

Some areas identified for improvement included how near misses could be avoided again in the future; clearer safety procedures and standards and the effectiveness of AE Smith’s current Safety 1st Task Force as well as the Safety Bucks program in improving safety awareness.

A variety of new training initiatives and systems are now being put in place, spearheaded by Nick Daley. Incident analysis training is about to commence at each branch to review and investigate incidents and near misses, while current safety procedures are being simplified with additional training being undertaken.

“ 81% participation rate of all AE Smith employees - well above the industry average of 65% for survey participation provided valuable insights ”

“The survey told us the old Safety 1st Task Force wasn’t as effective in communicating as it needs to be. So we’re replacing it with a new Safety Management Team, reviewing who the team representatives should be and charging its members with the important responsibility of “closing the loop” by sharing more feedback to worksites, projects and their branches at our regular meetings,” adds Nick.

The Safety Bucks program will also undergo a review. The first change will see the removal of Lost Time Injuries (LTI) milestone team rewards.

“We discovered that people’s behaviour towards disclosure potentially changes as significant LTI milestones targets drew close. Hardly the behaviour we want to encourage in building a strong safety culture.”

And while surveys, policies, standards and training are helping to strengthen and reinforce a positive safety culture at AE Smith, Nick is also quick to point out that safety is also a personal choice.

“Safety is choice and the choices we make each and every day makes a difference. When it comes safety, set your expectations high because your loved ones have an expectation of you.” AES

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Practical Solutions Deliver 31% Energy Saving Long term energy savings are a positive development for any business, especially when they can be achieved in an extremely cost-effective manner

“ To date the savings have exceeded our expectation and are 10% higher than what we had originally expected ” Nick Bradley Investment Manager Fife Capital

That’s exactly how AE Smith helped Fife Capital at their Sydney 89 York Street property by delivering a 31% reduction in energy costs in the first month following completion of works.

Remarkably, this result was obtained without mass replacement of equipment or disruption to building tenants, and for a budget value of only $210,000.

The key was taking a holistic practical approach to more intelligent management of existing building systems, delivered with minimal disruption to Fife’s tenants.

David Odd, AE Smith Sustainability Engineer, worked closely with the client to develop the design brief, taking the time to hear Fife Capital outline their specific needs, before accessing the nationwide resources of AE Smith to obtain the most cost-effective options.

“The brief was to save energy, in order to reduce outgoing costs for tenants in terms of energy use,” explained David (main picture sitting centre).

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“Firstly we conducted an Energy Opportunity Study of the building. Most of the issues identified centred around the controls for the HVAC systems, which were in need of upgrading. The air conditioning economy cycles also needed rectification. As a result of the study, an Environmental Sustainability Plan was prepared which outlined our recommended initiatives and funding options.

“AE Smith Building Technologies supplied, programmed and commissioned a new Tridium BMS system. Then, taking advantage of the more sophisticated control system now in place, the Sydney AE Smith team under the watchful eye of Project Manager, John Michelakis (main picture sitting right) completed minor mechanical works such as installing modulating controls to more accurately match the output of the electric duct heaters with the required load.

“Instead of replacing the equipment, we simply control it more efficiently,” said David.

Other installation work included new control valves on the condenser water system to allow the pump to slow down to match the load in the building, and a carbon monoxide monitoring system to control car park ventilation. A common area lighting upgrade was carried out for lift lobbies, amenities and car park. T5 and LED lighting were retrofitted and PIR motion detectors installed in the lift lobbies and toilets.

AE Smith also included a retro-commissioning and fine tuning stage which comprised the rebalancing of the air and water systems at 89 York Street.

“AE Smith gave Fife Capital a guarantee that the practical solutions would result in a minimum of 20% energy savings over the first 12 months of operation – and so far we’ve achieved a 31% energy saving in the first month,” said David.

“Installing the new BMS [Building Management System] has allowed us as a building owner to be proactive rather than reactive in achieving tenant demands with regards to air conditioning,” said Nick Bradley, Investment Manager for Fife Capital.

“Project delivery was on time and with minimal tenant disruption.

Tenants have taken well to the new BMS as it has allowed them to know that we are monitoring their air conditioning and we are able to react a lot quicker to breakdowns and maintenance than before.”

“To date the savings have exceeded our expectation and are 10% higher than what we had originally expected,” said Nick (main picture sitting left). AES

“ AE Smith Building Technologies installed a new Tridium BMS system…

Instead of replacing the equipment, we simply control it more efficiently ”

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Technical Service Combines with Respectful Serv It’s not just technical expertise and resources that are winning AE Smith new maintenance contracts. Demonstrating a helpful, responsive and caring service approach has been the key to AE Smith Brisbane securing a large-scale public health service contract

“ It’s such a pleasing result to see our technical expertise and ability to deliver practical solutions come together with a customer who values good working relationships as much as we do ”

Recently appointed to provide preventative maintenance for Queensland Health means the Brisbane AE Smith Service team is managing the service requirements for Ipswich Hospital, Logan Hospital, North Lakes Hospital and various public health, aged care, dental and mental health facilities across Brisbane.

“It was a very competitive tender process, but one where we were able to demonstrate how we combine our skills and expertise with a service approach that’s all about helping our clients,” says Matthew Steele, General Manager Brisbane, AE Smith Service (pictured third from left).

“The primary focus was understanding how Queensland Health needed support to proactively managing all of their assets, so our proprietary Condition Reports and auditing were seen as a great resource,” he adds.

But it was also the positive working relationships the AE Smith team had begun to establish that helped the Brisbane team stand out from the crowd. Various technicians were already working at some of Queensland Health’s facilities, demonstrating a responsive, reliable and respectful on the ground service approach that didn’t go unnoticed.

“We’d been told that Queensland Health were impressed with the professional attitude and friendliness of our technicians, who are really

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vice to Win Queensland Health Contract the face of our business and critical to developing long term partnerships with our customers,” adds Matthew.

Conducting work in hospitals requires certain sensitivity for security reasons not to mention upholding specialist safety requirements while conducting maintenance in public healthcare places.

AE Smith technicians approached these special needs by undergoing police checks, implementing particular safety measures while completing work in public spaces and also being respectful of the amount of public interface while on the job.

“ We’d been told that Queensland Health were impressed with the professional attitude and friendliness of our technicians, who are really the face of our business and critical to developing long term partnerships with our customers ”

“It can be all very well and good to be highly capable at auditing, reporting and servicing, but our team on the ground completing the work really need to understand the unique requirements of the customer and in a healthcare environment, these are pretty specialised,” comments Matthew.

A team of full time technicians now works across the Queensland Health contract, who Matthew believes have been the secret to AE Smith’s success.

“These guys have been doing a wonderful job at really helping this customer with the day to day service requirements that can be highly critical in hospitals, but also developing a really respectful and reliable service reputation,” Matthew says.

“It’s such a pleasing result to see our technical expertise and ability to deliver practical solutions come together with a customer who values good working relationships as much as we do.” AES

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Walk the Talk the AE Smith Way When it comes to describing AE Smith’s culture, three managers who’ve returned to the company after stints away are well placed to help explain

“ Since I’ve returned to AE Smith, I feel like I’m doing some of the best work I’ve ever done. I know this because I’m doing work worth doing; I’m following leaders worth following; and I definitely feel like I’m part of a culture worth belonging too ”

“Sometimes you don’t know what you’ve got until it’s gone,” says AE Smith Marketing Manager Raymond Lee, who returned to the company after leaving to join a high technology venture.

“My time away from AE Smith really helped me appreciate the great culture we have here,” adds Raymond.

Recently on behalf of the Executive Managers, Raymond facilitated an training initiative with the Customer Service team to introduce and share the ‘The AE Smith Way’ - a powerful tool that, used correctly, will help improve the way AE Smith does business because it documents the cultural norms we expect of one another when we work together at our best.

The ‘AE Smith Way’ is something Raymond keenly observed from afar during his time at another business, recognising the impact a positive workplace culture has on people’s performance.

“Like me, I know AE Smith really cares about people’s welfare, they value family, they value good work life balance,” says Raymond. “And from this alignment of values between the company and person, good performance naturally follows.”

“Since I’ve returned to AE Smith, I feel like I’m doing some of the best

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work I’ve ever done. I know this because I’m doing work worth doing; I’m following leaders worth following; and I definitely feel like I’m part of a culture worth belonging too,” he adds.

Raymond believes it’s not just AE Smith’s resources or expertise, but the company’s stated belief in helping people, internal and external, that’s at the heart of each and every AE Smith project, service job or maintenance contract that’s the key to the company’s success.

Other ‘returning’ managers also herald the company’s values as the way to continuously improve the business.

“In sharing The AE Smith Way formally we’re actually highlighting things we really already practice and know - listening to our customers, providing practical solutions, developing good working relationships and being easy to work with,” comments Mark Lovelady, North Queensland General Manager.

Mark has recently returned to AE Smith too, drawn back to the company because of a shared business philosophy.

“You can really commit to a business and give it your best when you share the same values - and I certainly share the same values as AE Smith that are all about listening, helping, integrity and initiative,” says Mark.

“And when you’re working with a group of people who all also share the same values and therefore work toward the same goals, it’s a great way to do business and help our customers,” he adds.

The beliefs, values and behaviours identified in the AE Smith Way training are also championed by Peter McCarthy, Melbourne Service General Manager.

“Understanding what we’re known for; recognising what that means to others; and living the behaviours which bring credibility to what we say and do is vital,” says Peter, who worked with AE Smith as a technician, left to be National GM of a multinational company and has been back at AE Smith for seven years after living and working in Singapore for several years.

“Firstly, the company places safety, family and work life balance at the forefront which creates a great work place environment.”

“And then with us all understanding that we value safety, team work, relationships, communication and integrity in everything we do, means we all just naturally strive towards helping each other do good work together,” adds Peter.

Main pic: Melbourne AE Smith Service circa 1988. Can you spot current employees Peter McCarthy, Russell Wilson and Trevor McAllen?

Pics (top to bottom): Peter McCarthy, Mark Lovelady, Raymond Lee.

It’s this approach that makes AE Smith a happy place to work, says Peter but one that’s ultimately a successful business.

“When we’re all working together at our best, our customers reap the benefits - and combining that with our resources, expertise and practical knowledge in air conditioning, building services and energy efficiency makes AE Smith an impressive outfit that I’m really proud to be a part of.” AES www.aesmith.com.au

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Constructing Success Dino Zamparo sights Austin Hospital, the Crown Metropol Hotel, and the redevelopment of Royal Children’s Hospital and the Royal Melbourne Hospital as his most challenging and rewarding projects.

Now a Site Foreman, Dino says his role is all about “keeping things smooth” on site from organising the labour, resources and materials, helping with client and builder liaison as well as collaborating with the estimating team.

“Dino’s a real team player and much valued by our clients, our suppliers, other contractors and his own team for the way he fosters good working relationships,” says Victoria Construction General Manager, Doug Smith.

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Circa 1990 on a new build at 333 Exhibition Street in Melbourne, Dino Zamparo first noticed the AE Smith way was something he wanted to be a part of 20 years later, Dino has just notched up two decades of service with AE Smith Construction Victoria.

“I was amongst a few contractors working on a busy site and I thought gee those AE Smith boys look pretty good at what they do,” recalls Dino of his first encounter with AE Smith.

“It was the sort of company, the sort of team and the kind of work I wanted to be doing. I really wasn’t happy with the idea of sticking with sanitary plumbing for the rest of my days, so I approached AE Smith and I guess, that was that,” says Dino, who’s now one of many long standing AE Smith team members that can celebrate 20 or more years service.

Over the years, Dino has played his part in a host of Melbourne’s landmark buildings, hotels and hospital projects with AE Smith. Recent highlight being project works at the Royal Melbourne Hospital.

“The way AE Smith goes about things from the big focus on safety, the way they’ll help you out and the friendships you create is definitely a big plus.

It’s the reason I’ve been here so long, it just fits - we’re all about helping each other do good work we can be proud of,” said Dino. AES

Estimating Success Long time AE Smith employee, Serge Kraskov knows collaborative team work and years of expertise is the secret to the success of the Victoria Construction Estimating team Recently appointed as the Sales & Estimating Manager, Serge now leads a four person team that boasts a combined experience with AE Smith of over 35 years.

“ We understand the value of creating positive working relationships and relish the variety of work that sees our estimating team collaborate with internal and external customers to achieve joint goals ”

“Our Estimating team has an amazing amount of varied experience and we’ve been focusing on how we can use this to initiate better systems for tendering and communicating with our internal teams as well as builders, customers and contractors,” says Serge.

Starting out at AE Smith 12 years ago as a trainee draftsperson, Serge has also worked as a Project Manager before being promoted to the new Sales & Estimating management role.

His team includes Sue Montebello, an estimator at AE Smith for over 15 years; Rory Long who joined the team from Ireland five years ago and Michael Dimech, a qualified mechanical plumber and former Project Manager.

“We all share a loyalty to AE Smith because we really appreciate the company’s culture,” adds Serge.

“We understand the value of creating positive working relationships and relish the variety of work that sees our estimating team collaborate with internal and external customers to achieve joint goals,” he says. AES

Pic: (R to L) Serge Kraskov, Sue Montebello, Rory Long, Michael Dimech

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“ On behalf of Baptcare, our families and children, I want to sincerely thank our major sponsor AE Smith, who throughout the year have supported Baptcare with numerous initiatives all aimed at giving more to our clients ” Marita Scott General Manager Family and Community Services Baptcare

Festive Fun Helping Baptcare AE Smith were once again gold sponsors of the annual Baptcare Children’s Christmas party, where more than 300 children with a disability or in foster care and their families were brought together by the charity at Moonee Valley Racecourse for a day of festive fun A long time AE Smith customer, Baptcare is a not-for-profit organisation based in Victoria and Tasmania supporting children in Melbourne’s North and West through foster care, disability care and a range of other family services. The popular community Christmas event brightens up the day of hundreds of children – with a visit from Father Christmas a crowd favourite.

“Baptcare values the opportunity to hold such an event for our families, providing a free and fun filled party for the beautiful children and families we provide services for,” said Marita Scott, Baptcare’s General Manager Family and Community Services.

AE Smith Service, Melbourne General Manager, Peter McCarthy said the involvement with the Christmas Party was a small but important part of their community focus, and something all of the staff really enjoyed being a part of.

“While they are also a long time client we take great pride in helping, being able to support Baptcare at events like their family Christmas Party is a wonderful way to nurture our relationship,” says Peter.

“Seeing families having some care free fun and smiling helps us realise how important our support is and we look forward to it continuing.” AES

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Working with the Elderly Training AE Smith Service technicians undergo specialist training that enhances their understanding and appreciation of helping aged cared customers “Working with the Elderly” training was commissioned by AE Smith to augment the specialist range of air conditioning, building services and energy efficiency services the company delivers to aged care facilities.

The training, designed and delivered by Aged & Community Care Victoria, focuses on various issues facing aged care facilities and the residents they take care of, including communicating with the elderly with respect and understanding. This proactive commitment to ensuring high levels of service has not gone unnoticed by AE Smith’s aged care clients.

“We share similar values in that we both seek to bring the highest levels of service and care delivery to our valued aged care residents,” says Rob Preisig previously of RSL Care WA. Doug Binns, AE Smith’s GM Solution Sales & Business Development believes undertaking training like this demonstrates AE Smith’s core values that go way beyond business transactions.

“ By specially training our technicians to understand the unique environment of aged care and the needs of residents and staff means we can really deliver on our service promise ”

“We believe in helping people in everything we do - so we care about the welfare of our customers and their clients,” says Doug.

“By specially training our technicians to understand the unique environment of aged care and the needs of residents and staff means we can really deliver on our service promise,” he adds. AES

www.aesmith.com.au

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Delicate Job Needs the Big Guns

“ We had to ensure each piece of the old and new units were a certain size and weight – at times the crane was close to its maximum lift capacity ”

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Closing down main streets, liaising with nearby residents and working with police and city councils to get a job done is all in a days work for the Gold Coast team A recent project for iconic Surfer’s Paradise hotel the Crowne Plaza, saw the AE Smith team utilise a 350 tonne crane to install a new PowerPax chiller on top of the 24 storey building.

But the large equipment required a sensitive and delicate approach to ensure the job could be completed safely.

“The team had to ensure each piece of the old and new units were a certain size and weight – at times the crane was close to its maximum lift capacity,” says Service Supervisor, Stephen Leake.

The twelve hour job saw a 4am start, with the old unit decommissioned and removed piece by piece from the roof via the crane.

Transporting the new water-cooled chiller took seven separate crane lifts to the top of the hotel building.

“The new chiller was installed in various sections in much the same fashion so we could fit it back through the same louver and also work within the crane limits by reducing weight,” adds Stephen.

The AE Smith team were then on hand to assemble and arrange the commissioning of the PowerPax chiller.

Meantime, in Brisbane (pictured bottom and right), AE Smith recently worked to close one of the busiest street in the CBD to replace a chiller on top of the Theiss building.

Coordinating with the Southbank Corporation, Brisbane City Council and several contractors, the AE Smith team facilitated a seamless installation via crane.

“It was a great example of team work,” says Brisbane Service based Project Manager, David Kratzmann. AES

“ Coordinating with the Southbank Corporation, Brisbane City Council and several contractors, the AE Smith team facilitated a seamless installation via crane ”

www.aesmith.com.au

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Heritage Building Gets Green Makeover

“ The owners Chester Holdings, were really keen to demonstrate how a heritage listed building can evolve into a sustainable one, especially in a tropical climate �

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AE Smith Townsville has helped breathe new life into an 1885 heritage listed and National Trust registered building to bring it into the 21st century The redevelopment of Federation Place in CBD Townsville had a key goal - to ‘green’ the building to ensure it would maintain its prominent role in the city.

Federation Place has had many guises as a landmark building - from a drapery wholesale warehouse, a war room during World War II and then government offices to most recently professional tenancies and an arts precinct showcasing local work.

“We were proud to work on this important project for Townsville and help transform the energy efficiency of a 19th century building,” says Daniel Martin, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Service Manager.

“The owners Chester Holdings, were really keen to demonstrate how a heritage listed building can evolve into a sustainable one, especially in a tropical climate,” Daniel adds.

Appointed by project managers GHD, AE Smith collaborated on scoping and design of air conditioning systems to help achieve a range of energy efficiencies that’s helped the building receive its lowest electricity bill and considerable improvement in building amenity and temperature control.

At the heart of the project is a unique community interface program, where the public can access building data through a portal between the building and the web created by Science Mob. Some of the energy efficiency initiatives at Federation Place Townsville include:    

Use of spill air from air conditioned spaces to cool the foyer; Upgrading building fresh air provisions to improve amenity within tenant areas; Upgrading power distribution and metering systems; and Installation of a photovoltaic generation system to produce the equivalent of building common area electricity consumption.

“ AE Smith collaborated on scoping and design of air conditioning systems to help achieve a range of energy efficiencies that’s helped the building receive its lowest electricity bill and considerable improvement in building amenity and temperature control ”

For more information about how AE Smith can help deliver practical solutions in air conditioning, building services and energy efficiency in Townsville and North Queensland, please contact Mark Lovelady on 0407 585 020. AES Image source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/29289211@N05/7311542862/

www.aesmith.com.au

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“ It’s the ease of doing business and the great pride the electricians take in their work...

AE Smith electricians are now available for all forms of electrical work in the Brisbane area ”

Bright Sparks Lighting up Brisbane Bright sparks inEngineering the Brisbane AE Smith team help existing and Peter Kinsella, Manager of Service AE Smith Construction Victoria, new customers meetVice theirPresident electricalofcontracting needs with ease has been appointed the world wide peak body - the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) Qualified electricians, Tyson Kimlin, Kevin Hoy and David Harris are specialist “sparkies”professional when it comes to for air the conditioning maintenance and As the international body building services profession, repairs – but they’re also turning hand to all manner of electrical CIBSE has a membership of over their 17,000 in 87 countries. work for customers.

Kinsella’s appointment as the one of two Vice Presidents complements “We’re our customers happy to call on us for theirforindividual his rolefinding of Regional Chairman are for Australian & New Zealand the same electrical requirements as well, comes even if at it has nothing do with their organisation.

His appointment a time whento there’s increasing air conditioning,” says Matthew Steele, AE Smithare Service, General spotlight on the role Australia and New Zealand playing in the Manager in Brisbane. building industry and how we are helping set the international agenda.

“Our have been completing work from electrical “The guys building services industry is other facingelectrical a major change of focus from boards to anytendered break downs, repairs andthat installations,” adds Matthew. lowest price work to projects consider efficiency and sustainability – it’s an exciting time to be at the coalface and bringing our And whenperspective wonderingto why additional work has come about, Matthew regional thethis world table,” comments Kinsella. believes it’s the ease of doing business and the great pride the electricians in at their on site for air conditioning contractis With over 10take years AE work Smithwhen leading the Engineering team, Kinsella work beenGreen noticed. also athat’s qualified Star Accredited Professional, a director of ARBS as well as holding an Honours Degree in Building Services Engineering from “I’m sure our guys accountability and responsiveness shines through – the United Kingdom. so our customers are happy to use people they can rely on and trust,” adds Matthew.

AE Smith congratulates Peter Kinsella on his prestigious appointment.

AE now available for all forms of electrical work ForSmith more electricians information are about CIBSE visit www.cibse.org.au for facilities in the Brisbane area. For more information contact Matthew Steele on 0411 698 367. AES

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Five Green Stars for University of Tasmania AE Smith has helped Tasmania achieve its first Green Star rating for an educational building The University of Tasmania’s new Medical Science 2 (MS2) building is the first educational building in the apple isle to achieve a Green Star rating.

The project has been awarded a 5 Star Green Star “Education Design v1” rating by the Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA).

“ We worked with the University’s project team towards attaining their green building credentials and drew on our expertise from similar projects AE Smith has delivered elsewhere around the country to a tailored solution ”

Some of the building’s environmentally-sustainable attributes include a 80,000 litre rainwater-harvesting tank, energy-efficient lighting units, 200 secure bike parking spaces with showers and storage for staff and students, and priority parking for small cars.

Contributing to the five star rating is the efficiency of the mechanical services and energy solutions that were designed, commissioned and now managed by AE Smith.

“It was a rewarding project to help our partners achieve their goal of top environmental performance,” says Harry Chugg, General Manager, AE Smith Construction in Tasmania.

“We worked with the University’s project team towards attaining their green building credentials and drew on our expertise from similar projects AE Smith has delivered elsewhere around the country to a tailored solution,” adds Harry.

MS2 is also only the fifth building in Tasmania to achieve a Green Star rating. AES www.aesmith.com.au

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The 500 mph Man “The engine (originally from a Chinook helicopter and needs rebuilding after 50 hours of running) is a T55L11C turbine with approximately 5000HP. That’s more than eight times one F1 car,” said Trevor.

“Having full telemetry on the car there is only one instrument in the drivers compartment.

There is a huge amount of data collection on the car, in fact more than is allowed on a F1 car. The instruments monitor all aspects of the cars performance, actions and attitude. As the rules dictate there is NO electronic control of any aspect of the car such as traction control.”

“The run is over the measured mile, bi directional and will be proceeded by a five mile run up.

At speed the car will cover a mile in less that 14 seconds or a kilometre in under nine seconds.” add Trevor.

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When Trevor Slaughter isn’t managing production at AE Smith’s Brisbane factory, he’s planning how he’ll become a world record breaker Trevor’s working toward being the next man to break the world land speed record for a wheel driven car in a vehicle he’s designed and constructed himself in his very own backyard.

“It’s been a dream 30 years in the making,” says Trevor, who was inspired by a meeting with the Australian record holder Donald Campbell at the tender age of ten. “Something just clicked when I met him and I’ve been working towards it ever since.”

With the help of a few mates, construction of a 9.4 metre long, 1 metre wide and 800 mm high wheel driven vehicle has taken nearly six years.

Testing will begin February this year on Lake Gairdner SA and later Bonneville USA. “More men have been to the moon than over 400 mph on earth,” said Trevor.

“But we’ll be going for a new world record. The goal is to reach 500 mph (or 800 kmph) to beat a world record that currently stands at 458 mph.

It’s very doable and something that’s kept me focused all this time.”

Follow Trevor’s progress toward his world record attempt at www.slaughtermotorsport.com AES

New GM for AE Smith Building Technologies AE Smith Building Technologies has a new General Manager. Long time Victorian team member, Peter Ferguson has stepped into the role bringing with him over six years of experience at AE Smith as the Victorian Service Manager “I’m really looking forward to combining my service experience with my controls background and expertise,” says Peter, who originally qualified as an electrician 33 years ago in Scotland.

And Peter has plans to bring his responsive and reliable service approach to Building Technology customers - inside and outside of AE Smith.

“ Creating good working relationships with our customers is at the heart of being able to bring new ideas and cost saving solutions to every project, no matter its size or complexity…

Just like how we helped deliver a 31% energy saving in month one for 89 York Street; a customer of AE Smith Sydney ”

“We have great expertise and products to offer and many advantages to provide because of our propriety technology - and I’m keen to bring that to even more construction customers through a helpful service approach,” he adds.

AE Smith Building Technologies provides a comprehensive range of BMS (Building Management System) solutions from environmental and energy efficiency management systems to security, access controls, CCTV and remote monitoring.

“Creating good working relationships with our customers is at the heart of being able to bring new ideas and cost saving solutions to every project, no matter its size or complexity,” says Peter. “Just like how we helped deliver a 31% energy saving in month one for 89 York Street; a customer of AE Smith Sydney.” [see page 10 for more information.] AES www.aesmith.com.au

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7 Years & 21,500 Trees Later The ultimate reason for planting these trees is to create healthy forests that recapture carbon from the atmosphere.

Greenfleet works to create forests in areas of environmental concern, putting back (where possible) the mix of native species that would have been present in the local area prior to land clearing.

Visit www.greenfleet.com.au for more information.

Since 2005, more than 21,500 native trees* have been planted in Australia by Greenfleet on behalf of AE Smith to offset over 5,500 tonnes CO2-e generated by fleet and air travel AE Smith has implemented new tools to reduce emissions (like video conferencing) and is committed to offset the remaining emissions associated with fleet and air travel with Australia’s most respected carbon offset not-for-profit organisation Greenfleet.

“It is a fantastic achievement,” says Greenfleet CEO Sara Gipton. “Seven years is a long time, and we are pleased to see the difference AE Smith has been making on the ground by helping Greenfleet to remove carbon and restore biodiverse forests.”

The mix of native trees planted or sown on behalf of AE Smith is spread across a few sites in Victoria and growing really well. The biodiverse forests they form part of have recorded a high level of wildlife and insect activity, which is a sign of good health and performance.

Cool Breeze is a magazine published by AE Smith & Son Pty Ltd ABN 54 004 274 793 for its staff and customers. Subscription is free and available directly from AE Smith. © 2013 AE Smith & Son Pty Ltd. Important Notice: The information contained in this magazine is given in good faith. To the maximum extent permitted by law, neither AE Smith, its employees or contractors accept any liability for loss or damage arising as a result of any person acting on information contained in this magazine. This magazine should not be used or relied on as a substitute for detailed professional consultation with AE Smith.

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Sara Gipton thanked AE Smith for their long-term commitment and support, “we’re glad to celebrate this 7th year of working together and we look forward to planting more trees on behalf of AE Smith.” AES * The word ‘trees” & ‘planted’ are used to represent 0.268 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions (CO2-e) and does represent a physical tree. 0.268 tonnes of CO2-e is the average amount of greenhouse gas emissions absorbed by trees within Greenfleet’s forests, but realistically this varies according to species selection, planting density, geographic location and other specific site criteria. Greenfleet’s aim is to achieve an average of 268 t CO2-e per hectare over 20 years - to achieve this Greenfleet plant forests at an initial rate of between 750 and 1,200 stems per hectare. This number of trees is a reasonable estimate of the number of trees required to be initially planted to sequester the total quantity of carbon purchased and takes into account that not all trees initially planted will survive due to the natural survival rate of trees. Accordingly, trees that do not survive following initial plantation may not necessarily be replanted.

Greenfleet's commitment to recapture carbon on behalf of their supporters involves the management of native forests across all their planting sites. Greenfleet’s forest pool is forecast to meet its overall carbon commitments to supporters.

Helping Hands AE Smith’s Melbourne team is proud of its long association with “the house that love built” - Ronald McDonald Houses in Monash and Parkville. Both provide a home away from home for families with seriously ill children Peter McCarthy, AE Smith’s Melbourne General Manager says the relationship with Ronald McDonald House has far reaching benefits.

“It gives our day-to-day work another dimension. Our team are always really keen to get there to help the kids.”

“We’re really proud of the Joint Venture project AE Smith delivered at the new Royal Children’s Hospital. Knowing that RMH Parkville is such an important part of the Royal Children’s highlights just how important we feel it is for families doing it tough to get as much help as we can muster,” adds Peter.

In addition to the pro bono help and support AE Smith provides RMH Monash and Parkville in Melbourne, AE Smith also helps Ronald McDonald Houses in Perth, Brisbane, Townsville and Sydney.

In total providing around $60,000 of in-kind air conditioning and maintenance service annually.

For more information about helping a Ronald McDonald House in your state, visit www.rmhc.org.au

“We’re thrilled to be able to support two RMH’s in Melbourne alone, plus four others around the country. We provide the labour to service the air conditioning at no charge and if we can help out in other ways too, we do.”

General Manager of RMH Parkville, Peter Bishop says AE Smith’s assistance is invaluable.

“We are so appreciative of the approach and support from AE Smith.

Every cent means we have more to do what we do best - looking after families of seriously ill kids.” AES www.aesmith.com.au

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