2014 Master Builders Victoria Magazine Jun-Aug

MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF VICTORIA JUNE– AUGUST 2014 VOLUME 68 ISSUE 8

Brandon and Rhonda

Print Post Publication No. 100008007

joint State Apprentice of the Year winners.

Budget bonanza: Wins and losses from the State and Federal Budgets. p.14 Building Act: Changes to the Building Act impact builders. p.09 Green Living: The Green Living Expo is coming up. p.30

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forewords

Master Builder Victoria

1

A WORD FROM THE EDITOR

A word from the Editor As we pass the half way point of the year, there are a number of events and projects in full swing at Master Builders.

We’ve just announced our State Apprentice of the Year winners for 2014 with joint winners and a female winner, Laura Luvara Editor for the first time. Congratulations to both Brandon Betts and Rhonda Neil for a fantastic effort. You both have bright futures ahead of you.

Congratulations to all the winners of these awards too. Read more and see all the pictures from this event on p.18 There have also been a number of significant changes and announcements in the political sphere. Both the State and Federal Budgets have now been announced.

The State Budget was a mostly positive one for the building and construction industry with a focus on major projects and infrastructure. Read more about that on p.14

We have also seen some proposed amendments to Victorian residential building laws that could impact the way you do business. An extensive article outlining the proposed changes was linked in a Special Bulletin, emailed to members in June.

If you haven’t had a chance to read this and would like more information, read p.10 for a run down.

As the Regional Building Awards are now in full swing, we look forward to the Excellence in Construction and Excellence in Housing Awards that will be upon us before we know it. I encourage you to attend your local and/or the state events if you aren’t already. They are a great opportunity to celebrate your year’s work and to reward and network with your staff and clients. Contact Events Co-ordinator Lisa Sacco on (03) 9411 4595 to find out more.

Enjoy this issue of the Master Builder magazine and as always, please don’t hesitate to contact me with any feedback at all on (03) 9411 4534 or lluvara@mbav.com.au

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contents forewords A WORD FROM THE EDITOR

Master Builder Victoria

CONTENTS

features 1

FROM CEO RADLEY DE SILVA

membership 14

PRESIDENT’S FOREWORD

5

BLSC 16

GUEST FOREWORD

6

First hand experiences help shape simulation training courses

Daniel Andrews,

3

MEMBER PROFILE

42

DTC Family Builders

EVENT CALENDAR

46

EXLUSIVE DISCOUNTS

50

State Opposition Leader

COUNTRY SECTOR GROUP COMMITTEE

17

MEMBER MILESTONES

51

regulars

STATE APPRENTICE AWARDS

18

WELCOME TO OUR NEWEST MEMBERS

52

26

general features

NEWS ROUND UP CASE STUDY CONSTRUCTIONS

8 34

Chris gets the policy position

MEET THE STAFF

35

REGIONAL ROUND UP

36

SOCIAL PAGES

39

DIRECTORY 67 WHAT’S NEW

69

All the winners and entrants

BIM AND I.T IN CONSTRUCTION The past, present and the future

CAREERS 27

INSULATION 54

Why should you apply for a Master Builders Foundation Scholarship?

PRECAST CONCRETE

58

HOT WATER

61

TRAINING 28 Significant funding is available to upskill your staff!

GREEN LIVING

FLOORING 64

30

Want to build better homes with improved client outcomes?

BUILD & RENOVATING EXPO

32

Tips for adding value to your home through renovating

MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF VICTORIA 332 Albert Street, East Melbourne VIC 3002 Tel: (03) 9411 4555 Fax: (03) 9411 4591 Email: mbassist@mbav.com.au www.mbav.com.au Master Builder is the official journal of the Master Builders Association of Victoria, which was established in 1875 and is the state’s oldest employer organisation.

The organisation is part of the Australia-wide Master Builder movement. The keynote is service: and Master Builder is produced in line with this objective of keeping all members informed of all matters affecting them. Membership of the Master Builders is open to all qualified business operatives in the building and construction industry; the basis of membership is integrity and competence, based on training and experience.

BOARD OF MANAGEMENT: Greg Zuccala (President) Lou Raunik (Vice President) Hedley Davis (Immediate Past President) Melanie Fasham (Treasurer) Phillip Herkess, Peter Picking, Jarrod Sanfilippo, Robert Ferrari, David Moyle

Council of Management: Greg Zuccala (President) Lou Raunik (Deputy President) Hedley Davis (Immediate Past President) Melanie Fasham, Phillip Herkess, Peter Picking, Jarrod Sanfilippo, Robert Ferrari, Michael Clemenger, Tom Basel, Lindsay Barber, Claude Salvatore, Michael Cameron, Nic Morgan, Sandy McPherson, Paul Gardiner, David Moyle, Adam Siegel and Neil Grenfell.

CEO: Radley de Silva, 9411 4501 General Manager, Commercial Services: Viviana Hood, 9411 4516 General Manager, Corporate Services: Lawrie Cross, 9411 4582 General Manager, BLSC: Marc Lyons, 9411 8001 MANAGERS: Membership: Dom Butera, 9411 4598 Legal: Angelo Simonetto, 9411 4593 Industrial Relations: Daniel Hodges, 9411 4562 OHS: John Darcy, 9411 4521 Training: Julie-Anne Sheppard, 9411 4544 MBA Building Services: Geoff Woolcock, 9411 4573 MBA Insurance Services: Kevin Pattison, 9411 4532 Policy & Communications: Tim Salathiel, 9411 4515 Business Development: Tony Biffaro, 9411 4557 Finance & Administration: Ron Joordans, 9411 4556 Human Resources: Margaret Short, 9411 4540 Sponsorship & Alliances: Danielle Penna, 9411 4551 Magazine Editor: Laura Luvara, 9411 4534, lluvara@mbav.com.au

PUBLISHED BY

Tel: 1800 222 757 Fax: 1800 063 151 Email: production@crowtherblayne.com.au Advertising: Paul Baird Tel: 1800 222 757 Email: sales@crowtherblayne.com.au Production: Brooke Travers Tel: 1800 222 757 Email: production@crowtherblayne.com.au Graphic Design Team: Amanda Bennet, Byron Bailey and Carol Taylor Print: Newstyle Printing Distribution: adelaide business bureaux Disclaimer: The Publisher and the Master Builders Association of Victoria, their employees and agents take no responsibility for any inaccuracies or omissions. The opinions are those of the contributors and not necessarily of the Publishers nor of the Association. No warranty is given and no liability is accepted. Products and Services appearing in Master Builder are not necessarily endorsed by the Publisher or the Association.

While every care has been taken during production, the publisher(s) do not accept any liability for errors or omissions that may have occurred.

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forewords

Master Builder Victoria

5

PRESIDENT’S FOREWORD

Budgets, building acts and awards keeping us busy A tale of two contrasting budgets could be used to sum up the recent Federal and State Budgets, one being at the start of its Federal Governance cycle and the other nearing the end of its first term of State Government and seeking re-election in November. The Napthine Greg Zuccala President Government’s State Budget, delivered

by Treasurer Michael O’Brien, boosted infrastructure spending while also providing a surplus, including maintaining of our state’s AAA credit rating – all of which should benefit our construction industry.

By contrast, the Abbott Government’s first Federal Budget, delivered by Treasurer Joe Hockey, revealed what is considered to be the toughest Federal Budget for many years, and one which has contributed to a consumer sentiment that has been described as nervous, cautious and uncertain. This may lead to a downgrade of companies expected earnings and to subsequently weaker share prices. National Australia Bank predicts that the official cash rate will remain at about 2.5 per cent until the end of 2015, with a corresponding decline in the Australian dollar to US85c by the end of this year and to US80c by the end of next. NAB’s latest business confidence survey indicated that business survived the budget, but that confidence declined in May with forward indicators remaining soft. In our first issue of Master Builder in February this year, I commented on the transition of our economy from resources

dominated to non–resource. That transition still appears to be some way off, but the positive sentiment in the residential construction sector, which, despite some signs of correction in May, continues to be a significant contributor to our economy.

In this edition, our CEO Radley de Silva considers the State and Federal Budgets and the November State Election on p.14.

The State Government’s proposed Building Act Amendments have raised some serious concerns in regard to changes to Warranty Insurance, the new dispute resolution procedure, increased administrative burdens imposed on building surveyors and a raft of other measures that were recently highlighted in a Special Bulletin received by all members via email. Master Builders is representing our industry’s views strongly and is working closely with the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) and with government in this regard. Please take time to read more about this pressing issue on p.10.

The 2014 State Apprenticeship of the Year Awards were held on 9 May with more than 700 people attending, including Minister for Higher Education and Skills, Nick Wakeling and VBA Chief Commissioner, Bill Kusznirczuk. The feature article on p.18 illustrates the bright future of our industry that was showcased that evening by a group of talented and dedicated apprentices. I congratulate the winners, including all of our ALink apprentices.

6

forewords

Master Builder Victoria

GUEST FOREWORD

Labor’s vision for the future Victoria is going backwards. Instead of investing in our schools, TAFEs and hospitals, the Napthine and Abbott Governments are cutting billions.

Daniel Andrews State Opposition Leader

We’re losing jobs, losing work, losing contracts – we’re even losing international companies from our shores.

We’re not building the major projects our state needs, only those projects that our politics demand.

The pipeline is drying up. Building starts are faltering. The construction industry is struggling. Work is down in the residential and non-residential sectors.

Put simply: More people are working less, earning less, buying less and building less, while the condition of our services, schools and hospitals deteriorate.

It’s not enough for a government to simply encourage outersuburban growth. It has to invest in outer-suburban services, roads, transport, schools and hospitals.

They are the basic responsibilities of the State Government and they are fundamentals of every community. Denis Napthine doesn’t bother with the basics. But it’s Labor’s priority.

In November last year, we released Project 10,000 – our plan to transform roads and public transport in Melbourne and create 10,000 construction jobs.

Our plan will remove Melbourne’s 50 worst level crossings – unlocking our roads, putting more trains on the lines and making the drive to work faster and safer.

We’ll build Melbourne Metro Rail, to transform the public transport system, double the size of the City Loop and reduce congestion on the roads.

Unlike Denis Napthine’s botched transport scheme, which locks our busiest rail corridor out of the City Loop, Melbourne Metro Rail is the real priority for our state.

Project 10,000 will also take 5000 trucks off the Westgate every day, and invest $1 billion in outer suburban roads and $1 billion in regional roads.

Labor will also establish Infrastructure Victoria – an independent body to advise Government’s on the projects we need. Because Governments come and go, but our long-term infrastructure priorities always remain.

We need to make our suburban and regional communities more desirable: Better places to build, live and work.

That’s why Labor will build a world-class public transport system. That’s why Labor will improve our roads.

That’s why we stand up, every day, against cuts to TAFE campuses that have hurt jobs and skills, and against hospital cuts that have plunged our health system into crisis.

That’s why we speak up for those who live and work in growing communities, those who feel left behind and left out under a Liberal Government.

If we put people first and invest in the services they need, it can benefit every worker, every company and every industry – especially this one.

DANIEL ANDREWS WILL BE THE GUEST SPEAKER AT THE UPCOMING MASTER BUILDERS INDUSTRY BREAKFAST ON THURSDAY, 11 SEPTEMBER AT THE MCG. FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT US ON (03) 9411 4555.

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8

news

Master Builder Victoria

Have you heard about Building Victoria? Visit www.mbavnews.com.au for up GET YOUR TICKETS TO THE BUILDING INDUSTRY’S NIGHT OF NIGHTS, THE 2014 MASTER BUILDERS EXCELLENCE IN CONSTRUCTION AWARDS. The Excellence in Construction Awards showcase the finest commercial builders and buildings across Victoria, and reveal the winners of the awards, including the highly coveted Master Builder of the Year title.

Proceedings will be fresh, exciting and fast moving in a new, one room dining and awards presentation.

Special guests Stephen Curry and the Chloe Maggs Band will provide your entertainment for the evening.

Stephen became a household name with his breakout role in the classic Australian feature film The Castle, playing the character of Dale Kerrigan. Since then Stephen has starred in many films and television series over the years, and we can’t wait to have him host this event.

Chloe Maggs Band are Melbourne’s premier pop/dance outfit, and are sure to impress, and don’t forget to chat with Model Holly McSweeney on the red carpet and get a photo of you and your team.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Date: Friday, 8 August Time: From 6.15pm For more information or to book your tickets call Master Builders on (03) 9411 4555.

IN THIS SECTION IN MASTER BUILDER WE WILL REVIEW USEFUL APPS THAT CAN HELP YOUR BUSINESS (AND YOUR LIFE) RUN MORE SMOOTHLY. DO YOU USE MOBILE APPLICATIONS TO DO YOUR WORK MORE EFFICIENTLY AND EASILY? THESE APPLICATIONS, BETTER KNOW AS ‘APPS’ ARE PIECES OF SOFTWARE THAT CAN RUN ON THE INTERNET, YOUR COMPUTER, YOUR PHONE OR OTHER ELECTRONIC DEVICE (E.G. TABLETS).

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Features: This top-rated app requires no internet connection when searching words. It features both a dictionary and thesaurus with more than two million definitions, synonyms and antonyms. Daily content includes a Word of the Day, slideshows and a blog. There are also audio pronunciations, word origins and history and the ability to search your favourite words and receive special suggestions.

Is there an app that you love?

Let Laura Luvara know on (03) 9411 4534 or email lluvara@mbav.com.au and she will run your review here so others can hear about it too.

news

Master Builder Victoria

9

to the minute news and info from the building and construction industry, 24/7

Changes to the Building Code and how they affect you An advanced release of the Building and Construction Industry (Fair and Lawful Building Sites) Code 2014 (the Code) is now available.

Published in April, the Code will apply to building contractors wishing to be eligible for works funded by the Federal Government. It forms part of the Building and Construction Industry (Improving Productivity) Bill 2014 (the Bill) and will come into effect if passed by Parliament.

Daniel Hodges

Manager Industrial Relations

While it is unlikely the Bill will become law while Labor and the Greens are controlling the Senate (up until June 30), newly elected Senators are expected to pass the Bill soon thereafter.

The Code aims to address a raft of bad work practices and poor productivity in the construction industry as well as prohibiting restrictive work practices and discriminatory provisions. The Bill will also re-establish the Australian Building and Construction Commission (ABCC), who will be responsible for monitoring compliance with the Code.

A major focus of the Code is on ensuring strict compliance with freedom-ofassociation and right-of-entry laws by all industry participants. This means that any contractor that attempts to coerce or intimidate another contractor to ensure workers are union members, or have a

union endorsed EBA, will be in breach of the Code. Similarly, any contractor that allows union officials to enter site, other than through exercising a formal right-ofentry, will also be in breach.

In addition, the Code provides new requirements with respect to the content of enterprise bargaining agreements (EBAs) and prohibited content, arrangements and practices. These new requirements will apply to EBAs made after 24 April 2014. This means that any Code covered entity signing onto a noncompliant EBA after 24 April 2014 will be ineligible to work on Commonwealth funded projects.

Following a review of the Code and subsequent discussions with representatives from the Department of Employment, Master Builders believes the CFMEU Building and Construction Industry Enterprise Agreement 20112015 (Industry EBA 2011-2015) is not compliant with the Code, where made after 24 April 2014. Master Builders has sought a formal assessment from the Department of Employment to confirm this view.

The other significant change under the new Code will be the introduction of Workplace Relations Management Plans (WRMPs), based on a similar requirement under the Victorian Guidelines. Head contractors will be required to complete

(and comply with) WRMPs on projects where the Commonwealth’s contribution to the project is at least $5 million and represents at least 50 per cent of the total construction project value; and $10 million where the Commonwealth’s contribution represents less than 50 per cent of the total construction value.

Master Builders will be holding briefing sessions on the new requirements.

For more information contact the IR Department on (03) 9411 4560.

10

news

Master Builder Victoria

Have you heard about Building Victoria? Visit www.mbavnews.com.au for up

Building Bill takes aim at builders THE STATE GOVERNMENT HAS PROPOSED SIGNIFICANT REFORMS THAT WILL IMPACT BUILDERS ACROSS VICTORIA. At the time of writing, the Policy & Communications Manager State Parliament was expected to debate the Building Legislation Amendment Bill, which aims to boost consumer protection in the domestic building industry and is expected to have significant impacts on builders.

Tim Salathiel

Reforms in the Bill include changes to builder registration processes, domestic building insurance, building permits, consumer disputes and building surveyors. It will also introduce demerit points for builders found to have breached relevant building laws.

practitioners will need to renew their registration at least every five years and on each occasion will be required to undergo police background and financial probity checks. These checks replace the current ‘good character’ test used for new applicants.

New applicants for registration will need to satisfy new tests from 1 July 2014, while currently registered practitioners will go through the new process from 1 July 2015.

Additionally, the government is proposing to expand the registration system from individuals to include corporations and partnerships.

It will see the new Victorian Building Authority (VBA) empowered as a onestop-shop for all matters regarding the building industry, removing the roles held by agencies like Building Advice and Conciliation Victoria in consumer disputes and the Victorian Managed Insurance Authority, from the domestic building insurance market.

Consumer Disputes One of the key components of the proposed reforms is to amend how consumer disputes are dealt with and resolved.

Master Builders has reviewed the 700 pages of legislative material covered by the Bill and held a range of discussions with key State Government policymakers to provide you with the most detailed coverage of what these changes will mean for you and your business.

Following is an excerpt of an article which appeared on Building Victoria (www.mbavnews.com.au). To read the full version, we suggest you visit the blog or contact Master Builders on (03) 9411 4555 with any questions or feedback.

VBA officers will provide an onsite mediation and conciliation process to reduce the number of cases heading to VCAT. The VBA will be able to issue binding decisions, known as ‘rectification orders’, to both the builder and the consumer.

Builder Registration Whether you are applying for your builder registration for the first time or have been a registered practitioner for decades, new requirements will be introduced.

Rather than just paying an annual registration, registered building

Consumer Affairs Victoria will no longer hold any role in resolving consumer disputes. Instead, the VBA will handle this.

Master Builders believes the background, quality and availability of onsite mediators and inspectors will be crucial to the success or otherwise of this initiative.

Domestic Building Insurance The Bill proposes to introduce new domestic building insurance (DBI) triggers for defective building works. At present, DBI covers consumers for such works where a builder dies, disappears or becomes insolvent. New triggers proposed to come into effect from 1 July 2014 will cover the following events:

Failure by a builder to comply with a rectification order issued by the VBA; Where a builder has had their registration suspended, either temporarily or permanently; and/or Where the builder is incapacitated and unable to complete the works.

The maximum claim payout for consumers will also be lifted from $200,000 presently to $300,000.

Building works worth $16,000 or more must be covered by insurance, up from $12,000 currently.

Members with queries regarding the impacts of the insurance changes or how to account for them in contracts should contact MBAIS or our Legal Department on (03) 9411 4555.

Building Permits The building permits process is proposed to be significantly overhauled from mid-2015 in response to damning reports from both the Victorian AuditorGeneral and Ombudsman. These reports heavily criticised the building permits process.

The Bill will see the VBA issue building permit numbers to building surveyors before they can issue a building permit to you. The building permit number will only be issued once the VBA has received all required paperwork and the building levy payment.

A new IT system will need to be introduced by the VBA to manage this process. While moving to online systems is a good way of cutting red tape, Master Builders has concerns these changes will add new layers of red tape in the permits process and add more delays to projects.

Discipline and demerit points Rather than the lengthy investigations process through the Building

news

Master Builder Victoria

11

to the minute news and info from the building and construction industry, 24/7

Practitioners Board that often take months to resolve, the Bill will allow the VBA to gather information quickly and move against a builder who has failed to comply with their registration obligations, no longer meets registration requirements or fails to rectify work as ordered by the VBA. Demerit points for offences will be established for builders found to have breached the law. The system is expected to operate similar to the demerit points system for motorists, but it remains unclear what the points cap will be or how many points will be accrued for violations.

Consumer information The Bill proposes to improve consumer awareness of the role of building surveyors in projects. As a result, building surveyors will be required to provide owners with a VBA-approved information statement before accepting appointment for that work.

Builders will not be able to provide this information to owners.

The government says the information statement will inform owners who is responsible for engaging a surveyor, what the role of a surveyor is for building permits and inspections as well as the choices consumers have to engage a builder surveyor.

It’s another reform likely to introduce more red tape and make it harder to get building projects off the ground.

In addition, the Bill would allow the VBA to establish an online register of disciplinary action against builders. This would be available to consumers.

Seize and search If the Bill passes Parliament, the VBA will be given wide-ranging police-style

powers that will allow its officer to enter and search premises.

government decision-making processes that impact our industry.

While these powers will assist the VBA enter sites belonging to owner builders or where works are being done unlawfully by unregistered builders and tradespeople, it will no doubt also be used on sites of legitimate builders.

In its place, committees will be established as the government sees fit and there is no guarantee in the proposed legislation for industry to have a seat at the table, which is inadequate.

Owner Builders Disappointingly, the Bill overlooks the need to introduce much-needed reforms into owner builder activity.

Owner builder activity is substantially higher in Victoria than other eastern states because the law is not tight enough here. This escalating activity can deprive registered builders from winning new work and diminish the quality of our state’s housing stock.

That’s why Master Builders has recommended a range of actions for owner builders, such as increasing their recertification periods for different properties from three to six years, requiring them to undertake mandatory courses and sitting/passing a compulsory test before being certified.

Unfortunately, these actions have been incorporated into the Bill.

Registering Tradespeople Likewise, our recommendations to broaden requirements for registering tradespeople have also been overlooked.

Mandatory registration of tradespeople in states like New South Wales and Queensland have been attributed to delivering construction projects more efficiently than here in Victoria, which would benefit builders and owners alike.

Guaranteed industry representation The Bill will also abolish a range of committees that allow industry to provide direct input and feedback into

So if the government decides to review anything from minimum qualifications for builders to introducing compulsory professional development, to further tinkering with insurance, Master Builders may not be able to advocate for the needs of you and your business.

What’s next?

We will keep you informed as to what takes place with this Bill and the impacts it may have as more information becomes available. Updates will be posted on Building Victoria at www. mbavnews.com.au and sent to members via email. Feel free to contact Master Builders on (03) 9411 4555 with any questions or concerns.

12

news

Master Builder Victoria

Have you heard about Building Victoria? Visit www.mbavnews.com.au for up

New provisions for determining the slip-resistance to treads and nosing to stairways Application

Surface Conditions Dry

Wet

Tread surface

P3 or R10

P4 or R11

Nosing strip

P3

P4

Table 3.9.1.1

On May 2014 the Building Code of Australia introduced Deemed-to-Satisfy (D-t-S) provisions for determining the slip-resistance to treads and nosing to stairways of Class 1 -10 buildings and pedestrian ramps and landings of Class 2 - 9 buildings.

The BCA has for many years had a performance requirement that required the treads or the nosing on treads to a stairway to have a slip-resistant walking surface, however, there was no D-t-S provision in the BCA that provided a standard that the surface had to meet.

In BCA 2014 a D-t-S provision has been included that requires the treads or nosing to treads of a stairway to comply with a slip resistance classification when tested to Australian Standard AS 4586 – 2013 Slip resistance classification of new pedestrian surface materials.

BCA Volume Two Clause 3.9.1.3 (g): (i) a surface with a slip-resistance classification not less than that listed in Table 3.9.1.1 when tested in accordance with AS 4586; or

a nosing strip with a slip-resistance classification not less than that listed in Table 3.9.1.1 when tested in accordance with AS 4586.

evidence that their product has been tested in accordance with AS 4586. All tests should be undertaken by a NATA Registered Testing Authority.

Note: The provisions in BCA Volume one Clause D2.13 (a) (v) and D2.14(a) (ii) and Table D2.14 have similar requirements.

For timber stairs, where a stair manufacturer uses particular species of timber with recommended finishes, these variants may be pre-tested independently and provided that the material and finish to the installed tread or nosing is the same, then the test report for that material and finish can be provided to the Relevant Building Surveyor as evidence of meeting the D-t-S provisions.

Following the decision to adopt the BCA 2014 Volume one and two, the Victorian Building Authority recommended, that in Victoria, the provision of BCA Volume two for Class 1 and 10 Buildings 3.9.1.3 (g) not apply until 1 May 2015.

The Building Amendment (National Construction Code) Regulation 2014 was approved on 3 June 2014 and defers the introduction of the provisions until 1 May 2015 to enable the industry to undertake the measures required to meet the provisions of the BCA. Further advice regarding the regulation amendment is available on the VBA website.

What do you need to do now?

You need to consider all the finishes that you may install to the tread or the nosing of the tread of stairways and approach the relevant manufacturers or suppliers to determine if the product they provide has been tested to comply with the slipresistance classifications specified in the above table.

For finishes such as carpet, tiles, slate, vinyl, rubber or the like, the supplier or manufacturer may already have this information or they will need to provide

Timber stairs, particularly those with polished treads that are constructed on-site, may require an on-site test to confirm compliance with the Standard and BCA Tables 3.9.1.1 once the clear finish has been applied. The standard provides details of how the on-site tests are to be conducted.

These provisions will also be applicable to carpets used on stairways.

If you have any enquires regarding this matter please contact Mr Peter Zagorski at the Victorian Building Authority on 1300 815 127 This article was provided by the VBA

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to the minute news and info from the building and construction industry, 24/7 YOU MAY BE JUST STARTING OUT OR HOPING TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS. NO MATTER WHAT YOUR PLACE IS IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY, YOU DON’T NEED TO GO IT ALONE. THINK OF MASTER BUILDERS AS AN IMPORTANT MEMBER OF YOUR TEAM.

What is the value of my Membership

In this section of Master Builder we‘ll highlight the value of your Master Builders membership. There may be member services that you are not aware of, or financial benefits that you have not considered.

We hope this section will help you to make the most of your membership.

GAIN PEACE OF MIND ABOUT OHS OHS is important for everyone in construction, not just big commercial builders.

Your membership fee can save you the stress and cost of breaches of the OHS Act. The maximum penalties are high: just under $300,000 for individuals and more than $1.25 million for companies.

Did you know we offer site safety audits (worth more than $400) for free? Or that we offer free, three hour, small business OHS consultancies, ideal for new businesses (with less than 20 employees)?

With the help of our plain-English advice and approachable team you can gain peace of mind that you meet requirements.

Can you afford not to be a member? The fee to a private OHS consultant for just a few hours of advice is likely to cost you significantly more than your annual Master Builders membership fee, for this one service alone.

DO YOU DREAD THE THOUGHT OF APPLYING FOR FINANCE? With the Master Builders finance team you won’t waste time talking to people who don’t understand construction and being self-employed.

We will review your current financial situation, provide credit advice about the feasibility of your project, the maximum you can borrow and organise the funds from application to settlement.

We can source the best loan or project finance through our numerous contacts throughout the banking and lending industry. For your personal and business lending needs, speak to the team at Master Builders Financial Services to ensure you don’t pay too much for your finance or miss a good development opportunity.

Australian Credit Licence #387277 — Chocolate Money t/a Master Builders Financial Services.

TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THESE OR ANY OTHER MEMBER SERVICES, CONTACT OUR FRIENDLY TEAM. WE WOULD LOVE TO HELP.

Call us on: (03) 9411 4555

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BUDGETS DELIVER INFRASTRUCTURE WINDFALLS FOR BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION

Infrastructure was at the core of both the State and Federal Budgets this year. These are welcome initiatives for the building Radley de Silva and construction CEO, Master Builders Association of Victoria industry that we hope will stimulate the economy and create thousands of jobs for our sector.

In its final State Budget before the election, the Napthine Government has put forward a range of infrastructure projects worth up to $27 billion.

Projects to receive funding include the second stage of the East West Link road tunnel, a new cross-city train tunnel and a dedicated rail link to Melbourne Airport, removal of a host of level crossings, more lanes on the CityLink-Tullamarine corridor, new schools in growth areas

and a range of construction projects in regional Victoria.

Speaking at a recent Master Builders Industry Breakfast, Treasurer Michael O’Brien said the budget would build a better Victoria, with economic management allowing the government to deliver a record infrastructure program that will create jobs, boost productivity and deliver better quality services.

An unprecedented $7.5 billion will be invested into capital works in 2014-15 alone, up from an expected $5.2 billion in the current financial year.

build the infrastructure our growing state needs and enshrine Melbourne’s place as the world’s most liveable city.

Master Builders has been calling for the Victorian Government to address our state’s infrastructure backlog and it’s fantastic to see the Government stepping up to the plate to tackle this issue.

Victoria is embarking on a capital works program that will deliver Melbourne a world-leading, multi-model transport network that will be the envy of the country.

This ambitious infrastructure agenda will stimulate investment and drive new jobs into Victoria’s construction industry.

The Abbott Government chipped in a further $3 billion towards the first and second stages of the East West Link, bringing this major project closer to reality.

The Victorian announcements represent a big win for the construction sector, providing a pipeline of major projects that will secure 18,000 jobs. It is vital we

The projects funded in the State Budget include: • The Melbourne Rail Link Project, including a new rail connection to

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F R O M C E O R A D L E Y D E S I LVA

Melbourne Airport, worth up to $11 billion; • Upgrades to the Cranbourne and Pakenham rail lines, featuring four level crossing upgrades, at a cost of up to $2.5 billion; • The next stage of works for the East West Link second stage between CityLink and the Western Ring Road, expected to cost up to $10 billion; • More lanes along the CityLinkTullamarine corridor, worth $850 million; • New schools to be constructed in Melbourne’s growth areas, worth $500 million; and • Redeveloping the Latrobe Regional Hospital at a cost of $73 million.

Our industry should be excited about having the opportunity to build these city-shaping major projects, which will provide long-term solutions for Victorians battling chaotic traffic congestion or facing overcrowded trains.

Some of the downsides of the Federal Budget will hit the housing sector hardest. They include: • Scrapping of the National Rental Affordability Scheme (NRAS); • The abolition of the First Home Owner Saver Accounts (FHOSA). Treasurer Joe Hockey said the scheme “had limited effectiveness in improving housing affordability due to the low take up of the accounts”; • The cessation of the Tools For Your Trade program, offset by the Trade Support Loans for apprentices; and • The imposition of an increased fuel levy – up from 38.1 cents a litre, in line with inflation, twice per year. This is expected to add one cent per litre to pump prices each year.

On the up side, the Federal Budget delivered: • Staff increases for the Fair Work Building and Construction (FWBC) – from 131 to 155 in 2014-15 and

increased expenses from $29.8 million to $34.7 million; and • A 1.5 per cent reduction in the company tax rate for large companies.

Overall, there were some wins and some losses for our industry. The State Government were more generous in their stimulus to our industry, perhaps no coincidence in an election year.

We look forward to the raft of work opportunities the budgets have created for our sector and will keep members informed as more information about the initiatives comes online.

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BLSC

features

First hand experiences help shape simulation training courses The most popular course currently being delivered at the Master Builders Building Leadership Simulation Centre (BLSC) is the Managing on site industrial relations course. This course, delivered

by Master Builders Industrial Relations Manager, Daniel Hodges, benefits from the knowledge and experience that Daniel brings to the table.

John Darcy

OHS Manager

Daniel not only brings years of experience and strong knowledge of the Fair Work Act 2009, he also possesses an abundance of first hand experiences and anecdotes that feed into the course so that participants come away not only understanding what the laws require but also how the laws have been interpreted and applied.

I have taken the same approach in developing the recently introduced Managing on site safety course. I have followed Daniel’s lead and have included first-hand experiences of critical incidents, OHS prosecutions, safety disputes and good and bad OHS practices that have shaped the industry. Twenty five years of OHS knowledge and a direct involvement in the drafting of particular provisions of the Act (e.g. OHS Right of Entry) have helped to inform the thinking behind the course content.

A number of the course participants that have attended the Managing on site safety have previously completed Certificate III or IV in OHS and therefore have already had a good base of OHS knowledge. When these participants have been asked to recite what the powers of an OHS Representative (HSR) are, a common response has been to include “the power to cease work”.

The fact is that there is a process, proscribed under the OHS Act 2004, which is supposed to occur before a decision is made to stop work and the Act provides a number of steps that can be taken once that decision is made. It is

amazing how many times this detail has been overlooked, leading to sites being shut down unnecessarily.

This is an example of an area where we see managers and supervisors who have been through our Certificate III or IV OHS courses, have benefitted from participation in the Managing on site safety course. It is not a refresher course, but a course with a harder edge on the detail.

I recently attended a presentation for a class of Certificate IV in Construction Management graduates along with a representative of the OHS unit of the CFMEU. After I had suggested to the graduates that they should consider taking up Certificate III or IV as part of their career development, the CFMEU representative suggested to them that he “preferred that they didn’t do any OHS training because then he could come on site and tell them whatever he wanted to and they would believe everything that he said.”

Knowledge is power when it comes to managing safety and ensuring that it is not abused.

Other areas of focus in the course include the employer’s OHS duties to consult OHS committees, OHS issue resolution and OHS right-of-entry. Course participants walk away with a stronger

level of awareness of how the OHS Act is intended to be applied so that they can better manage the relationships on the sites that they manage.

I reiterate the phrase “that’s your job!” a number of times over the course of the two days because when participants leave the course the expectation is that they should clearly understand what is expected of them. It is not just the knowledge that they acquire, it is also the benefit of practicing their skills in the simulated activities that have been specifically chosen to complement the learning outcomes.

The Managing on site safety course is the perfect companion course for Daniel’s Managing on site industrial relations and I strongly recommend both to any builder wanting their managers or supervisors to have a stronger understanding of the OHS and IR laws, helping to ensure that safety on their projects is managed properly and that their projects are not disrupted unnecessarily.

For more information about Managing on site safety and Managing on site industrial relations call the BLSC on (03) 9411 8000.

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SECTOR GROUP COMMIT TEE

Country Sector Group Committee CONTINUING OUR SERIES ON MASTER BUILDERS SECTOR GROUP COMMITTEES AND THEIR PRIORITIES FOR 2014, THIS ISSUE WE WOULD LIKE TO INTRODUCE OUR COUNTRY SECTOR COMMITTEE. This committee represents the interests of our rural and regional members, both in the residential and commercial building sectors. The group is comprised of 12 members, chaired by David Moyle from Ballarat Construction Management, and holds four Council of Management positions.

The Country Sector Committee is a strong voice in the organisation, discussing key issues affecting regional builders including land supply and clearance controls, population growth, regional economic activity, OHS and building regulations. The committee also meets with the Housing Sector

Committee once a year to address common issues and has an annual site visit to construction projects of significance across the state. Recent visits have included to the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre and the Desalination Plant.

A key priority identified by committee members for 2014 is the recruitment of new committee members, particularly from regions currently under-represented such as Albury-Wodonga and Wimmera.

Committee member Hayden Bromley recently described the value of participating in the group as:

“Being on the Country Sector Committee is a fantastic privilege. Having the opportunity to put forward issues that concern builders in regional areas and also to hear first hand how Master Builders is working for us, is a great benefit. I would encourage any regional builder to become a part of this committee.

To register your interest in joining the Country Sector Committee or attending an upcoming meeting please contact Policy Adviser RenĂŠe Dunstan-Ratcliff on (03) 9411 4531 or email rdunstan-ratcliff@ mbav.com.au.

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features

State Apprentice of the Year Awards: A night of firsts In two firsts for the Master Builders State Apprentice of the Year Awards, joint winners including the first ever female, winner were announced.

Omeo local, Brandon Betts and Dandenong North girl Rhonda Neil shared the top honours as about 760 guests celebrated at the Pullman, Melbourne on Friday, 9 May. Melbourne funny man, Dave O’Neil kept all entertained as the special guest host for the evening.

More than 150 apprentices were recognised on the night, with all receiving Certificates of Merit for outstanding performances in their chosen trade.

All apprentices received an abundance of prizes with the total prize pool valued at more than $75,000.

Minister for Higher Education and Skills Nick Wakeling, presented the four major awards for the evening: Female Apprentice of the Year, Metropolitan Apprentice of the Year, Regional Apprentice of the Year and State Apprentice of the Year.

The Brian Fitzmaurice Memorial Award was also awarded on the night to Ross O’Neill of VR Builders.

business, one who Ross has encouraged to go from being an apprentice carpenter to now his Chief Estimator and Project Manager.

Ross currently has three apprentices employed.

Over the years, Ross’ apprentices have been successful at the Master Builders Apprentice of the Year Awards both in Bendigo and at state level. All winners have emphasised the importance of the support, guidance and encouragement from Ross that helped them become and achieve what they have today.

In the brief ten years since his company has been registered, Ross has employed more than 13 apprentices. Of these, eight have been retained within the

THE 2014 STATE APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR AWARD WINNERS ARE:

State Apprentice of the Year Brandon Betts

State Apprentice of the Year Rhonda Neil

Employed by Dinner Plain Constructions Attends: Advance TAFE

Employed by Apprenticeships Group Australia and host employer Willright Nominees Pty Ltd Attends: Apprenticeships Group Australia

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S TAT E A P P R E N T I C E AWA R D S

The Hon. Nick Wakeling and Metropolitan Apprentice of the Year, David Nygaard

The Hon. Nick Wakeling and Regional Apprentice of the Year, Gabe McClelland

The Hon. Nick Wakeling and Female Apprentice of the Year, Rhonda Neil

Metropolitan Apprentice of the Year David Nygaard

Regional Apprentice of the Year Gabe McClelland

Female Apprentice of the Year Rhonda Neil

Employed by: Heritage Building Services Attends: Holmesglen

Employed by: Duncan Pascoe Builders Attends: The Gordon

Employed by: Apprenticeships Group Australia and Host employer Willright Nominees Attends: Apprenticeships Group Australia

Bill Kusznirczuk, VBA and Employer Nominated Apprentice of the Year, Jason White

Cath Noye, Cbus and Diploma Student of the Year, Troy Gudgeon

David Burnell AIB and Florence M Taylor Award Winner, Richard McPherson

Apprentice of the Year Employer Nominated Jason White

Student of the Year Diploma of Building Troy Gudgeon

Florence M Taylor Award Richard McPherson

Employed by: D&D Milne Attends: Apprenticeships Group Training

Employed by: Hacer Attends: Swinburne University

Bill Kusznirczuk, VBA and Presidents Award Winner, Brandon Betts

Radley de Silva (on behalf of ABBTF) and Apprentice of the Year (Bricklaying/Blocklaying), Rhys Linnett

Khan Churchill, Incolink and Apprentice of the Year (Carpentry), Haydon Solomano

Presidents’ Award Brandon Betts

Apprentice of the Year Bricklaying/Blocklaying Rhys Linnett

Apprentice of the Year Carpentry Haydon Solomano

Employed by: Dinner Plain Construction Attends: Advance TAFE

Employed by: Andrew Larman Attends: Holmesglen TAFE

Employed by: Integra Quality Homes Attends: Murray Mallee Training Company

Employed by: Porter Davis Homes and host employed by Ivy Tower Pty Ltd Attends: Victoria University

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S TAT E A P P R E N T I C E AWA R D S

David Healy, Steel Blue and Apprentice of the Year (Off Site Construction), Robert Kenney

Trevor Macnish, FXD and Apprentice of the Year (Solid Plastering), David Nygaard

David Healy, Steel Blue and Apprentice of the Year (Wall & Floor Tiling), Taylor Lees

Apprentice of the Year Off-Site Construction (Joinery) Robert Kenney

Apprentice of the Year Solid Plastering David Nygaard

Apprentice of the Year Wall & Floor Tiling Taylor Lees

Employed by: Schiavello (Vic) Pty Ltd Attends: Victoria University

Employed by: Heritage Building Services Attends: Holmesglen

Employed by: C.J Eden & D.N Eden Attends: Murray Mallee Training Company

REGIONAL WINNERS

Ballarat Region Apprentice of the Year, Timothy McGee and and Lawrie Cross, Master Builders

Rodney Styles, CVGT and Bendigo Region Apprentice of the Year, Luke Lougoon

Mark Knox, AGA and Gippsland Region Apprentice of the Year, Richard McPherson

Apprentice of the Year Ballarat Section Timothy McGee

Apprentice of the Year Bendigo Section Luke Lougoon

Apprentice of the Year Gippsland Section Richard McPherson

Employed by: Philip Meaney Builder Attends: University of Ballarat

Employed by: McNamara Bricklaying Attends: Skill Training Victoria

Employed by: Integra Quality Homes Pty Ltd Attends: Murray Mallee Training Company

Matthew Francis, Irwin Tools and Geelong Region Apprentice of the Year, Matthew Burrell

Matthew Francis, Irwin Tools and Geelong Region Apprentice of the Year, Gabe McClelland

Chris Flipp, Metabo and North East Region Apprentice of the Year, Matthew Bekker

Apprentice of the Year Geelong Section Matthew Burrell

Apprentice of the Year Geelong Section Gabe McClelland

Apprentice of the Year North East Section Matthew Bekker

Employed by: Bruce Roy Drake Attends: The Gordon TAFE

Employed by: Duncan Pascoe Builders Attends: The Gordon TAFE

Employed by: Complete Construction & Design Attends: Goulburn Ovens TAFE Shepparton

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S TAT E A P P R E N T I C E AWA R D S

Chris Flipp, Metabo and North West Region Apprentice of the Year, Samuel Winfield

Chris Flipp, Metabo and Western Region Apprentice of the Year, David Kingan

Chris Flipp, Metabo and Western Region Apprentice of the Year, Ryan Leeder

Apprentice of the Year North West Section Samuel Winfield

Apprentice of the Year Western Section David Kingan

Apprentice of the Year Western Section Ryan Leeder

Employed by: DJ Hogan-Building Contractor Attends: Murray Malley Training Company

Employed by: Terry Watt Builder Attends: South West Institute of TAFE

Employed by: Workco Limited and host employer, Driller Building Contractors Pty Ltd Attends: Murray Mallee Training Company

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL WINNERS!

MASTER BUILDERS WOULD LIKE TO THANK THE JUDGES OF THE 2014 APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR AWARDS FOR THEIR CONTRIBUTION AND SUPPORT OF THESE AWARDS.

Ballarat Hayden Bromley David Moyle Jarrod Flanigan Bendigo Ross O’Neill Jarrod Flanigan

Geelong Mark Little Jarrod Flanigan

North East David Green Jarrod Flanigan

Gippsland Trevor Bowler Ken Hortsman Jarrod Flanigan

North West Ken Dean Simon Lever Jarrod Flanigan

Western Jarrod Flanigan Metropolitan Trevor Evans Sandy Grant Tim O’Connell Jarrod Flanigan

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S TAT E A P P R E N T I C E AWA R D S

The 2014 State Apprentice of the Year Awards were proudly sponsored by the following companies.

ABBTF

ARID ZONE

CBUS: JOIN CBUS ONLINE

ABBTF was set up in 2003 with the aim to address the skill shortage of qualified skilled brick and blocklayers and improve the standing of the trade within the community and industry.

ABBTF provides employment opportunities and financial support to ensure there is an adequate, competent bricklaying workforce enabling architects and builders to use bricks and blocks as a valuable construction material.

Arid Zone has 1000’s of promotional product ideas to promote your business!

If you’re in the building and construction industry, chances are Cbus is your industry super fund. And joining Cbus online is easy.

Grow your business A well-designed promotion can increase awareness, generate business and impact client and staff retention.

Your promotional products partner for: • Branded Merchandise • Customer gifts • Uniforms & Safety Wear • Clothing & jackets Looking for more ideas? Visit aridzone. com.au or phone 1800 818 108

AGA Apprenticeships Group Australia (AGA) is one of the most experienced and respected Group Training Organisations and Registered Training Organisations (TOID 3829) in Victoria.

AGA is a not-for-profit organisation that provides employment, placement, trade training, and support services to apprentices, trainees, students and businesses. AGA has been successfully employing high quality apprentices and trainees to industry for over 30 years.

AGA have talented apprentices who have diverse skills and hold enthusiasm to fulfil their chosen career path.

Contact Apprenticeships Group Australia (AGA) for more information: Phone: 1300 AGA 000 Website: www.agaustralia.com.au Email: enquiries@agaustralia.com.au Facebook: facebook.com/agaustralia Twitter: @AGAustralia

Simply visit www.cbussuper.com.au/join - it takes around five minutes and can be done wherever you can access a computer.

BEAUMONT TILES Beaumont Tiles is Australia’s largest tile and bathroom-ware retailer, with just under 100 stores Australia-wide.

Currently in a growth phase and expanding in both NSW and Tasmania this innovative brand is involved with both Channel 9’s The Block and Channel 7’s House Rules, perfect vehicles for showcasing their stunning and inspirational range.

CVGT CVGT Australia is a not-for-profit employment services company delivering a range of State and Australian Government employment programs across Victoria, NSW, SA and QLD. These include Australian Apprenticeship Support Services, Job Services Australia, Disability Employment Service and Group Training.

For an employment solution to meet your needs, phone 13 CVGT (13 28 48) or visit www.cvgt.com.au.

DAHLSENS Dahlsens is a leading supplier of building materials to builders, covering the whole of Victoria, southern NSW, central Sydney, far North Queensland, Darwin NT and Broome WA. It remains since 1877 a family business that is 100 per cent Australian owned and operated.

Contact your local Dahlsens store on 1300 DAHLSENS. www.dahlsens.com.au

features DULUX Dulux, the most recognised paint brand in Australia, is the leader in paint technology and performance.

Our diverse range of premium and trade paints are designed to meet the specific needs of professional painters. From Decorative to Powder and Protective Coatings, to Texture and Timber finishes, Dulux offers the widest range of protective, high performance and corrosion resistant finishes.

Environmental sustainability forms a core element of our business philosophy.

Parchem, B & D Doors and Lincoln Sentry are all now part of the Dulux Group. www.dulux.com.au

Master Builder Victoria

S TAT E A P P R E N T I C E AWA R D S

FXD Better look, better function.

We’ve been designing and making purpose built, technical apparel for boardshorts and streetwear for 25 years, our guy works hard and plays harder.

Enter FXD FXD ‘Function by Design’ is the brand and the mission we offer and better look and better function through carefully designed and styled work wear that exceeds all current standards, and looks killer doing it.

This year, Fagg’s Geelong celebrates 160 years of trading in timber and hardware.

We pride ourselves on our customer service and providing value for our customers. Our four stores cater to a wide group of builders across Geelong, The Bellarine and Colac. We have one of the biggest ranges of timber and hardware, paint and garden in South East Victoria and would welcome the opportunity to quote for your business.

INCOLINK Incolink has been providing security and support to workers and the industry for over 25 years, and is the oldest and largest redundancy funds provider for the commercial building and construction industry; Incolink is a proud long term supporter of the Master Builders Association of Victoria.

IRWIN TOOLS

GORILLA LADDERS FAGGS MITRE 10

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Gorilla Ladders manufactures the highest quality products available, representing outstanding value across a broad range of applications. The Gorilla Ladders product offer extends from our Domestic range to suit the home DIY user, right through to our Industrial Heavy Duty range for serious Trade use.

Gorilla Ladders are manufactured in the largest ladder manufacturing plant in the world, to Australian and New Zealand Standards. All research and development is conducted in Australia, with designs tested and modified in Australia and New Zealand.

Gorilla Ladders are once again happy to proudly support the Master Builders Apprentice of the Year awards in 2014 and congratulate this year’s winners on their outstand performances.

IRWIN Tools manufactures and distributes professional grade hand tools and power tool accessories for trade professionals who demand superior performance and durability on the job.

IRWIN Tools brand portfolio features user-preferred category leaders such as IRWIN®, VISE-GRIP®, MARATHON®, QUICK-GRIP®, SPEEDBOR®, STRAITLINE® and Unibit®. IRWIN Tools is dedicated to delivering quality tools that meet the stringent requirements of our toughest critics – professional tradesmen.

JAMES HARDIE James Hardie® is a longstanding industry innovator, and works consistently to improve the sustainability of its products and manufacturing operations. The new generation of sustainable building products Scyon™, features an advanced cement composite to help develop a tougher and greener tomorrow.

To find out more Ask James Hardie™ on 13 11 03 or visit our website: www. jameshardie.com.au.

Disclaimer: © 2014 James Hardie Australia Pty Ltd ABN 12 084 635 558. ™ and ® denotes a trademark owned by James Hardie Technology Limited.

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MASTERS HOME IMPROVEMENT Masters, now has 17 stores open in Victoria plus over 35,000 items that can be ordered online at masters.com.au When you’re in store, ask about becoming a Masters Trade Member to take advantage of exclusive trade promotions, and find out how a Master Trade Account^ will give you access to an ongoing 5 per cent* trade discount right across the store. * 5 per cent discount excludes gift cards, trade packs and quotes. ^ Visit masters. com.au/trade for terms and conditions and to apply.

TOOL CENTRE MCKINNON Tool Centre McKinnon prides themselves on having an extensive range of products from all the major manufacturers.

They offer: • Rotating specials and promotions.

• Free quotes on repairs – if we don’t fix it, we don’t charge!

• Unbiased advise.

• Mention the Makita cash-back promotion for apprentices.

• Free delivery within Melbourne metropolitan area.

Experienced, old fashioned friendly service and advice, the team at Tool Centre McKinnon look forward to serving you.

METABO Metabo takes great pride to be able to support the Building industry leaders of tomorrow. As a company we are now celebrating 90 years of manufacturing high quality power tools, and 47 years of operation in Australia.

Metabo congratulates all apprentices and trades people involved.

PASLODE Paslode Australia have been manufacturing and supplying trade clients with reliable and innovative gas and pneumatic fastening solutions since 1935. Committed to the Australian construction industry through research and development that keeps their products ahead of the latest building material trends, Paslode Australia specializes in the distribution of power nailing and stapling equipment for the residential construction markets. Some of their groundbreaking fastening technologies include Impulse, CladFast, dekFast and TetraGrip.

POSITION PARTNERS Position Partners is the exclusive Australian distributer of Topcon and PLS construction lasers and levels for building projects.

Every construction laser sold is supported and backed with an industry leading warranty and network of dealers and service centers throughout Australia.

We are committed to building lasting business relationships through increasing productivity for our customers with products which are reliable, high quality, accurate, affordable, and above all else, well supported.

STEELBLUE If you work on your feet all day, comfort is absolutely essential. So whatever game you’re in, demand the 100 per cent comfort of Steel Blue work boots.

Steel Blue’s comfort technology absorbs more shock, cushioning the feet from day-to-day fatigue. So by wearing Steel Blue work boots, you are protected from stress-related injury to the ankles, knees, hips and spine Steel Blue boots are the only work boots in Australia endorsed by the Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA). The APA will only endorse a product that offers clear health benefits for the patients of physiotherapists.

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Master Builder Victoria

I .T.

Imagine a world where all of the information you need to manage your next project is kept in the one place. A world Laura Luvara Editor where that data remains accessible by all stakeholders now, and for the life of the project.

That is exactly what Building Information Modelling (or Management), known as ‘BIM’ can offer. BIM collates digital data that is generated for a building by designers and consultants and structures it, providing a platform for builders and subcontractors work from. BIM systems can be used to record all of the intricate details and information required during the design and building phase while allowing you to recalculate and alter specification where required.

BIM Advocate: Alex Baltovski has been using BIM technology to improve the efficiency and outcomes of projects.

Probuild Design Manager Aleks Baltovski has been using BIM on his projects since 2010, with great success. Projects that Probuild have used BIM on include the Monash University New Horizons Project, South East Water Headquarters, Frankston, Swanston Square and most recently on the Shrine Galleries of Remembrance Project.

“BIM is an overarching concept. It is not limited to one type of software or hardware and can be a reference point during and after the project’s completion,” Aleks said.

“Since we started using BIM, we’ve experienced a significant reduction in our

features BIM and IT in construction: The past, the present and the future.

setting up process time and encouraged more improvements and efficiencies with our workflow.”

Aleks will share his BIM experiences, as guest speaker at the next Tomorrow’s Leaders Networking Evening. As a predominantly site based Design Manager, Aleks works closely with Probuild’s construction teams and consultants through the design development and documentation stages, utilising his programming, project management skills and provides systems support to the project teams. This event will be an opportunity for anyone interested in utilising this innovative technology to find out more and ask questions.

“In my opinion, BIM can be utilised during the design and documentation phase and to minimise errors and identify inefficiencies and after the project is completed,” Aleks said.

“It can also help with safety issues for the same reasons and could even be used in conjunction with Master Builders’ Building Leadership Simulation Centre to run project simulations before you start an actual build.”

BIM can be used on Smartphones and tablets to manage projects on site in ‘real

time’ to keep track of and communicate defects and alterations and more.

“There are multiple ways that BIM can be used as a simulation and communication tool,” Aleks said.

“From an administrative point-of-view, it reduces the time to reference specifications and helps on site in terms of setting out the process efficiently,” he said.

“We’ve learned that the earlier in the process we use BIM, the more benefits we can find with using the BIM process on a project.”

The Tomorrow’s Leaders event will be an ideal opportunity for those seeking to learn more or get started with using BIM on their projects.

For more information call (03) 9411 4555 or visit www.mbav.com.au to register now.

TOMORROW’S LEADERS – BIM AND IT IN CONSTRUCTION Date: Thursday, 7 July 2014.

Time: 6.30pm-8.30pm.

Venue: Honey Bar, 345 Clarendon Street, South Melbourne.

Cost: $50 for members or $75 for non-members.

features

Master Builder Victoria

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CAREERS

Why should you apply for a Master Builders Foundation Scholarship?

Leading the way: Devin Grant has used his opportunities to their fullest.

This is one of many success stories from the Master Builders Foundation, with well over $100,000 of scholarships awarded, and more than 50 apprentices assisted with the payment of TAFE fees and other building related courses. The Master Builders Foundation is a way that the industry is able to help the apprentices that cannot afford these payments.

If you are able to assist, please make a donation to the Master Builders Foundation or if you know an apprentice that may be struggling to pay those TAFE fees, or is an outstanding future leader, please do no hesitate to contact the Foundation to see how we can assist.

The Master Builders Foundation is the Building Industry helping our future through apprentices.

For more information, please call Master Builders on (03) 9411 4555.

The Master Builders Foundation offers scholarships of up to $10,000 to trade apprentices and young people in the building industry to help them further their studies and career. In this issue of Master Builder, we profile scholarship recipient Devin Grant to discover how he’s put his scholarship to good use and how it has helped him succeed.

Devin Grant As 2012 Master Builders Apprentice of the Year, Devin Grant was already on the path to success. To win this award, Devin had already demonstrated all of the attributes an individual requires to apply for the Master Builders Foundation Leadership Scholarship. He was driven, skilled and committed.

Subsequently, Devin was awarded a $10,000 Leadership Scholarship by the Master Builders Foundation to assist him with his career.

In his application, Devin explained his desire to be the best that he could be in the building industry, how he wanted to give back to the industry by becoming registered and employing and training apprentices in the future and to be able to run a professional and successful business.

He outlined a training plan to achieve these goals, but as a recently completed apprentice who had only recently paid for his own wedding, these goals seemed to be financially unachievable.

In receiving the $10,000 scholarship, Devin was able to enrol in a Diploma of Building and purchase the relevant computer equipment that he required to achieve his goals.

In May 2014, Devin successfully gained his registration and has now commenced in building his own house.

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Master Builder Victoria

TRAINING

features

Significant funding is available to upskill your staff!

One of the quickest ways to boost productivity in your business is to upskill your staff.

By Corrie Williams

In its Future Focus, 2013 National Workforce Development Strategy, the Australian Workforce and Productivity Agency (AWPA) identified several key factors to increase Australia’s growth potential.

Assistant Manager of Training Operations

These included: “Driving improved productivity in workplaces by providing greater access for industry to government funding for workforce development and by gaining a better understanding of the capabilities of Australia’s managers.”

And: “Stepping up to the challenge of raising language, literacy and numeracy levels as a critical national priority, through fiveyearly sampling of performance, better marketing of existing programs and targeted funding”.

Master Builders strives to realise these goals in the quality training services that we deliver, as we exist to provide services to you, our members, and help your businesses thrive.

For the first time, Master Builders is able to offer Victorian Training Guarantee (VTG) subsidised training for our Nationally Recognised qualifications in 2014. This funding provides significant subsidies to eligible students through funds provided by the State and Federal Governments. The VTG is available for Australian, New Zealand or Australian permanent visa holders who are either under 20 years of age, or over 20 and looking to study a qualification higher than one they currently hold. Eligible

students can access up to two subsidised places through the VTG funding when enrolments are at different levels.

Qualifications covered include Certificate III and IV in Work Health and Safety, Certificate IV in Building and Construction (Building), Certificate IV in Building and Construction (Estimating) and our Diploma of Building and Construction (Management).

Even if you are not eligible to receive VTG funding, please call us as we may have other options that will help you to develop a training plan that’s right for you.

For more information, visit www.mbav. com.au or phone (03) 9411 4535.

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Drizoro cement-based waterproofing products are non-toxic, and are suitable for all concrete surfaces, bricks, blocks, AAC panels and blocks. These products are ideal for repairing and sealing cementitous surfaces against water penetration and as a protective coating for all concrete and mortar based construction surfaces.

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Master Builder Victoria

GREEN LIVING

features

Want to build better homes with improved client outcomes?

Phillip Alviano Sustainability Adviser

COME TO THE 2014 GREEN LIVING CONFERENCE! Green info: Some of the stands from last year’s highly successful Green Living Conference.

Last year, a sell out crowd of about 130 people gathered at the Building Leadership Simulation Centre (BLSC) to hear how to build tighter buildings to reduce heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer. While this has a number of advantages, they also learnt that there are concerns around the impact on indoor air quality, condensation and mould formation.

Those present learnt about the benefits of tighter buildings, the materials and methods used to improve the air tightness. They also heard about the

methods and the products used to help better understand how tight the building is and how to control air flow in and out of your house without losing hot or cool air.

This year’s Green Living Conference will turn the focus to the latest developments for providing improved outcomes for your clients. As well as a range of speakers and product demonstrations designed to equip you with the latest information, you will also get the chance to ask all the questions you want. Hear from real builders implementing these strategies in real projects. A range of giveaways,

morning tea, lunch and a chance to have a chat at the concluding barbecue, makes this an event not to be missed.

Get in early to avoid disappointment as last year was a sell out.

The ranges of topics include: Breathable walls Exactly how do you assemble walls that are tighter, properly insulated and are able to breathe to prevent condensation build up?

features Energy efficient renovation strategies The renovation market is booming. Ever wanted to know what types of strategies you can use during a renovation to provide more comfortable and energy efficient house for your clients? Too expensive I hear you say? Well there have been a number of studies recently looking at some of those costs and comparing them to the improvement in the house’s energy efficiency and cost savings. The result is a priority checklist that shows you the areas to focus on to impress your clients.

PV and batteries Rising electricity prices, soon to be high gas prices and poor feed in tariffs for solar generated power have heightened people’s interest in batteries which can store energy to be used later. There is also a buzz around abandoning gas supply altogether in favour of selfproduced energy to avoid fixed supply

Guest Speaker: A crowd listens to one of last year’s speakers.

costs. Hear from a range of speakers who can provide answers to all your questions and cut through the myths.

Geothermal Geothermal power is starting to make inroads in the Australian market. How does it work? What do you need to watch out for? How much space does it need and how expensive is it? Find out the answers to these questions and more at this session.

Still not convinced? Some comments from last year’s attendees of the Green Living Conference include: “Excellent organisation and hospitality.”

“Overall very interesting and a lot learnt and explained well.”

“All presenters were great.”

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GREEN LIVING

“Good format, do it again.”

“Great to hear from a builder who is practically executing the ideas discussed every day.”

The 2014 Green Living Conference will be held on Friday, 22 August at the BLSC in South Melbourne.

For more information and to register please visit www.mbav.com.au or phone (03) 9411 4555.

Master Builders Green Living Victoria is supported by:

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features

Master Builder Victoria

Tips for adding value to your home through renovating

By Bernadette Janson Director and Head Renovator at the School of Renovating

Renovating can be addictive and many of us justify the compulsion to be continually spending money on improvements believing that we are adding value.

Unfortunately not all renovations add value and if you don’t want to be pouring good money down the drain it’s wise to be conscious and informed about where you spend your money.

bedroom home, it will add significant value because it will bump the value of the home up into the next price bracket.

The amount it adds will depend on where you live; in my area that’s about $100,000 to 150,000. The bigger the home; the less the impact. If you were to take a home from five to six bedrooms, there would be little or no impact.

So before I go on, it’s important to understand that renovations fall into two categories: The first is the improvements that expand the function or livability of the house.

These are structural in nature such as changes to the floor plan and additions, they usually cost more but the flip side is that they have greater potential to add value and the added value has longevity.

It is important to remember that any floor plan changes should be well considered, avoid creating a rabbit warren effect, and don’t have bedrooms opening onto living rooms.

The second category is the cosmetic or aesthetic improvements including painting, rendering, floor coverings, even kitchen and bathroom upgrades can fall into this category.

While they still have the potential to add extraordinary value, the value begins to depreciate the minute they are finished.

So when you are planning your renovation, keep in mind that some of the improvements will grow in value with the capital value of the home but the cosmetic improvements will do the opposite, they will reduce in value as they date and deteriorate and if you want to realize the full potential of your renovations, they need to be completed no more than 18 months before property is put on the market.

My first tip would be to: 1. Expand the floor plan.

Look at where you can expand the livability of the home. The first place to look is the kitchen. If you can open it up to a more open plan, it’s an easy value add.

If you are able to add an extra bedroom, say taking a two bedroom home to a 3

Which brings me to my next point.

2. Engage an architect.

Before you do anything, engage an architect to develop the concept plan for your renovations, even if you are not doing the work in one go. It doesn’t cost a lot and can save you from making expensive mistakes. Architects have a highly developed and unique mix of technical skills and creativity. They understand how space and light work and will not only help you realise your dreams for your home but will maintain the integrity of the design of the home.

While we are on the subject, if you are a follower of the TV shows Grand Designs you may have some appreciation for the fact that ‘over the top’ architectural designs rarely add sufficient value to cover the costs. The reason for this is that they are pitched at highly individual tastes and values, which in the long run will narrow the market of buyers. Property values are driven by supply and demand, for maximum value you want your home to have broad appeal, but if you opt for a highly individualised home, then you are getting into minority territory.

That aside, for your family home, value should not only be measured in financial terms. If living in a home that is tailored to your individual taste is important to you then you are investing in quality of life that has benefits that money can’t buy.

3. Keep the style, look and feel consistent.

It is important to ensure that the renovation fits in with its surroundings by keeping the style consistent with the streetscape. For example if your home is in a street of predominantly Victorian terraces, plonking an ultra modern renovation in the middle of them is not the smartest move.

This does not mean that your home should be identical in style to the surrounding homes but it needs to be sympathetic. So before you lift a finger, make a decision about the style you are going to adopt and then stick to it.

The need for consistency also applies to colour. Establish your colour palette at the outset and take the scheme right through the house. This will give the home a look of quality. While staying neutral is important, it doesn’t need to be boring, the colours can be quite strong and you can play with the strengths for different effects.

4. Improve the street appeal This is a powerful way to add instant value, by virtue of the fact that it broadens your market. The first thing to look at is the front door. If the home is tired and dated, start by giving the front door a modern upgrade and paint it in rich oil based gloss paint. It can cost around $600 installed and will instantly transform the look of the entrance.

On dated brick homes, cement render is another high impact value add. Have sloping windowsills knocked off and squared for a more modern look. The down side of cement rendering is that it

features requires painting. The acrylic alternatives don’t, and while they cost more, they will look good for years to come.

The front driveway is highly visual so needs to be spotless. Resurfacing concrete driveways is fast and effective but my advice would be to get plenty of quotes as they can vary significantly.

Add a well-manicured front garden and lawn and some external lighting for some after dark charm.

5. Create views Water views are the holy grail of house value with salt water being the most prized. If your home is not in a view worthy setting, a lush garden can be a good alternative.

Interestingly a framed view is more desirable than an expansive view. Plan to create views from every window of the home, by cultivating the garden.

This does not mean spending large

Master Builder Victoria

amounts of money on expensive landscape design but strategically planning, planting and maintaining your garden so that it looks good from inside and out. In addition this will help to maintain privacy which is another huge value add.

Bernadette Janson, Director and Head Renovator at the School of Renovating will talk at the Master Builders Build & Renovating Expo on Sunday 6 July at 12.45pm. Come along to hear Bernadette’s talk 30 of the best : Ideas for adding renovation value.

The Build & Renovating Expo will be held from 4 to 6 July at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre. Entry is free for Master Builders members. For more information, visit http://www.buildexpo. com.au/ or phone (03) 9411 4555.

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Master Builder Victoria

C A S E S T U DY C O N S T R U C T I O N

Chris gets the policy position

Chris from Case Study Construction

Chris from Case Study Construction had just engaged in a long winded discussion with a local council about getting a permit for an upcoming residential project. During the discussion, Chris was informed by the council that new planning zones would be coming into effect across all councils in Victoria after 1 July. He was directed to the council website to see what this particular council was proposing.

After looking at the website, Chris was concerned about the changes and how they would vary across the different council areas that he builds in. He decided to call the Master Builders Policy Unit to find out more about the changes.

Chris spoke to Master Builders Policy Adviser Renée Dunstan-Ratcliff.

“The Minister for Planning, Matthew Guy introduced changes to Victoria’s residential, commercial, industrial and rural zones into the Victoria Planning Provisions and planning schemes in July 2013,” Reneé said.

“The changes are designed to simplify requirements and better manage Victoria’s growing population,” she said.

“This followed consultation with key stakeholders, including Master Builders and our submission can be found on the Master Builders website.”

Reneé went on to explain that councils across Victoria have been given until 1 July 2014 to have the amendments to their existing Planning Schemes approved by the Minister.

“I am not too happy with the changes that the council I am dealing with are proposing as it looks as if they are using the new Neighbourhood Residential Zone to lower building heights,” Chris said.

“Can anything be done about that?”

Renée explained to Chris that he could make a submission to the council, and explained how this would impact his business. Chris indicated he would definitely write a submission.

Renée agreed to write to the council on behalf of Master Builders as well to express concern. She also noted that Master Builders has held policy seminars on this issue in October 2013 and June 2014, and to watch his inbox for further seminars on topical issues like this.

“As a member, am I able to have more input into these type of government decisions in the future?” Chris asked.

Renée suggested that he might be, interested in joining Master Builders Housing Sector Committee which meets regularly to discuss topical issues, and invited Chris to attend an upcoming committee meeting as an observer.

Reneé also noted that members are welcome to call the Policy Unit anytime to discuss their concerns, as Master Builders had regular discussions with government.

Chris was pleased that he was able to get a clear explanation of what Master Builders was doing to address the concerns of industry. He was also excited to learn that he could play a significant role in helping to inform and shape some of the policy decisions.

For more information about the Policy Unit, Policy Seminars or committees, contact Master Builders on (03) 9411 4555.

regulars Name: Carl Krelle Position: Cadet Building Inspector Location: Bendigo

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M E E T T H E S TA F F

Name: Kelly Ambrose Position: Member Relations Consultant Location: East Melbourne

How long have you been with Master Builders?

Four months.

How long have you been with Master Builders?

Four years.

What does your job entail?

Building inspections, reports, customer service, assisting plan checking and more.

What does your job entail? My role is to serve the needs of existing members, give advice on products and services and also to complete the reference checks for all new members.

What’s one thing members may not know about your department? We are an agent for Coliban Water.

How do you help Master Builders members?

Provide them with great service and information to the best of my ability.

What’s the most rewarding part of your job?

Getting a “thank you’’ from a client knowing you were able to help and provide them with the appropriate information.

What’s the most challenging part of your job?

Having to remember all of the building regulations, standards and codes.

What do you enjoy most about working for Master Builders? Friendly people and great opportunities.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

Sport, fishing, spending time with family and friends.

Tell us one interesting or surprising fact about yourself?

I’m a qualified builder by trade.

What’s one thing members may not know about your department? We are responsible for contacting more than 1000 members per year.

How do you help Master Builders members? I discuss the ways that Master Builders can assist members with their businesses, suggest products to use, and refer members to the services that are available to them such as Legal, Insurance, IR and OHS. What’s the most rewarding part of your job? Dealing with all of the people that I look after and support, especially helping them solve issues and to achieve their goals.

What’s the most challenging part of your job? I really cannot think of anything challenging, although I am on the phone constantly.

What do you enjoy most about working for Master Builders? My clients and the fabulous environment that I work in.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time? I am really into music of any genre, I go to a lot of concerts and festivals. My most recent concert was the Arctic Monkeys.

Tell us one interesting or surprising fact about yourself?

I am a stamp nerd. I collect stamps. I have about 30,000 catalogued and another 10,000 that I am working on. I started collecting from an early age and have some of the most beautiful stamps. (People usually start yawning around now). I love the design of stamps and they are functional.

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Master Builder Victoria

REGIONAL ROUND UP

BALLARAT

BENDIGO

The Ballarat office has been a hive of activity with Building Surveyor and Manager Wayne Cooper on annual leave for most of June, until 23 June. He was taking a hard earned break in Thailand.

Bendigo’s building sector is buzzing at the moment as the $630 million Bendigo Hospital Project continues towards the 2016 completion date.

Exemplar Health Consortium won the tender to build what will be Victoria’s largest regional hospital. It will be a world-class, state-of-the-art facility, providing high quality healthcare for the greater Bendigo community. More than 770 construction industry and supply chain jobs will be created to complete the project. The total project value over 20 years will be more than $1 billion.

The South West Regional Building Awards were held on Friday, 20 June at The Pier, Geelong with more than 200 guests attending. Stuart Allen Building were named South West Regional Residential Builder of the Year for their Lake Wendouree project while Nicholson Construction were named South West Regional Commercial Builder of the Year for Federation College and Manufacturing and Engineering Skills Centre, Federation University, Ballarat.

The Ballarat Section meeting was held on Wednesday, 25 June. Contact the office for the date of the next event Building Services Coordinator Nada Mijatovic finished up in the Ballarat Offices on Friday 27, June and her replacement will begin soon. We thank Nada for her contribution and look forward to working with a new addition to the Ballarat family.

The Certificate III in Work Health and Saftety is to be run in the Ballarat office on 21 and 28 July, 4, 11, 18 and 25 August.

Course participants may be eligible for VGT funding. Contact the Ballarat Office to find out more on 5320 9999.

Commercial winner: The Nicholson Construction project at Federation University that took top honours in the South West Regional Building Awards (for commercial).

GEELONG The Geelong Region had a good attendance to the May Section Meeting with about 30 people in attendance.

Master Builders’ Legal Manager, Angelo Simonetto delivered an informative presentation on “When is a Builder out of the woods? The law of liability and the statute of limitations.”

The $500 prize voucher has not been drawn, so come along to the next meeting to have your chance to win.

Upcoming events: • Regional Building Awards (South West) - 20 June • Section Meeting – 24 June • Members Night (Formerly Trade Night) - 20 August

The Bendigo Section held it’s annual Charity Golf Day last November. The Ambrose event, consisting teams of four, was held in perfect conditions.

There were those aspiring to Adam Scott’s talent and some just out to support, Soar Adventures was the worthy cause whose role is to empowering young people in schools in the Bendigo region. Even the kookaburras were drowned out with the laughing and expert tips being offered by the entrants. The Section would like to thank the willing support of the Bendigo community for their donations ensuring the generous contribution of $5200 was given to our chosen charity.

GIPPSLAND As part of our commitment to the Gippsland area, Master Builders recently opened a new office in Traralgon. It is a small office, but a big statement of positivity that the regional builders have already expressed appreciation for.

The office is located at Unit 3, 6-16 Rocla Road, Traralgon. It will be the home of Area Manager, Rod Ware as well as being an outlet for members to purchase Master Builders products.

Residential winner: The Stuart Allen Building home in Lake Wendouree that took top honours at the South West Regional Building Awards (for residential).

To recognise the occasion we had a low key office opening barbecue for local members on Thursday 22 May.

regulars Membership Manager, Dom Butera and CEO Radley de Silva made a special trip down to Traralgon to help celebrate the event.

Dahslens Building Centre staff kindly cooked a barbecye to feed the 30-plus members that turned up to check out the new premises.

It was a pleasant evening and the response from everyone was very positive.

To contact the Traralgon Office phone (03) 5174 2754.

Section Meetings were held in both Mildura and Shepparton to update builders on proposed changes to legislation in Victoria and New South Wales.

The Murray Division Breakfast Meeting will be held on 8 August at the Commercial Club, Dean Street, Albury.

More info to come.

The Murray Division Members’ Night will be held on 2 September, also at the Commercial Club, Dean Street, Albury.

To register for events or for more information about anything happening in the North East and West, contact the Wodonga Office on (02) 6058 2000 or visit www.mbav.com.au

Top house: Scott James Builder won Residential Builder of the Year (North East) for this beautiful home in Albury.

Local Rep: Rod Wave

NORTH EAST & WEST

Scott James were named best residential builder for their work on an Albury home and Joss Construction were named best commercial builder for the Huon Hill Quest and Hotel in Wodonga. More than 230 people attended the awards ceremony at The Cube, Wodonga.

WorkSafe Victoria and WorkCover NSW joint forces to provide an informative breakfast meeting at Dahlsens Trade Centre, Albury on 17 June. The meeting was to help builders and subcontractors to comply with safety obligations.

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REGIONAL ROUND UP

SHEPPARTON The Shepparton Members’ Night will be held on 16 July at Sherbourne Terrace, Shepparton with seven sponsors offering displays and discussion on their latest products. This is also a great night to catch up with other builders.

Come along to the North East Section Meeting on 15 August at Sebastian’s Restaurant, 6.30pm start for dinner.

A special note to all Benalla builders, with the pending retirement of some of the private sector Building Surveyors, it’s a great time to consider utilising the Shepparton Master Builders office for your Building Services including permits and applications.

For more information about the events or Building Services in Shepparton, contact David Green or Melanie Jackson on (03) 5822 4980.

New office: The launch of the new Traralgon office.

Scott James Builder and Joss Construction have been named the top builders in the region at the North East Regional Building Awards on 13 June.

Master Builder Victoria

Top project: Joss Construction were named best commercial builder in the North East for this hotel project in Wodonga.

WIMMERA The Wimmera Sector held a recent Section Meeting on 18 June. It was a very informative night with Master Builders Solicitor, Marvin Ward explaining the most common problems encountered by builders and bringing locals up to speed with the recent changes to the Victorian Building Authority and Building Act Amendments.

The Wimmera Wanderers have their yearly Melbourne Study Tour scheduled for 18 July. Construction Company’s PCL and Grocon will provide a tour of the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre (VCCC) Project. The $1 billion facility is being purpose-built for cancer research, treatment and care in the Melbourne suburb of Parkville. Construction is under way to create a brand new home for the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and new cancer research and clinical services for Melbourne Health and The University of Melbourne.

Contact Area Manager Ashley Nichol on 0411 260 943 for more information.

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Warrnambool from the East Melbourne office. Pop in and see Ian at the Kepler Street office (next to Pontings).

WARRNAMBOOL

Warrnambool Master Builders now provide an expanded service in the south-west including issuing building permits, as well as domestic and commercial inspections. The office can also provide a regulatory advice, reports and responses to council notices, performance determinations and reporting authority appeals. Ian is always happy to take your call on (03) 5562 9067 or if you prefer, just drop in for a chat.

Friendly face: Come in and see Warrnambool based Building Surveyor, Ian Welch, at the Kepler Street office (near Pontings), for all of your permit and building services needs.

Ian Welch, the new Building Surveyor at MBA Building Services (Warrnambool) has settled in well. He’s been in the role since January after moving to

Builders already using the Warrnambool Master Builders services are giving positive feedback including quick turnaround on applications, competitive pricing, and friendly service and advice.

Aberline Road and the new Riverside at Wollaston, Wollaston Road) should provide consistent opportunities for members over the next couple years. As a special offer, members who don’t currently use our services for permits will receive and additional 5 per cent discount on their first permit application in any of these estates. This will be in addition to the usual 10 per cent member discount.

Warrnambool Master Builders cover a large area of the south west including Cape Bridgewater, Portland, Hamilton, Mortlake, Lismore, Camperdown, Colac, Apollo Bay and around the coast back to Warrnambool. This coverage gives you flexibility in your quoting and work by not having to use the local council for permits, reducing unnecessary delays to your project, and giving you consistency across all of your projects.

The three major new housing subdivisions in Warrnambool (Toohey Estate, Wangoom Road, Russells Creek Estate,

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regulars

Master Builder Victoria

39

MASTER BUILDERS MEMBERS AND STAFF HAVE ATTENDED A RANGE OF EVENTS OVER THE PAST FEW MONTHS INCLUDING THE 2014 STATE APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR AWARDS, MEMBERS’ NIGHTS AND THE INDUSTRY BREAKFAST.

Big win : Appre ntice J Bell, w ordan ith fam ily and friends .

elland with family Top job: Apprentice Gabe McCl Awards. at the State Apprentice of the Year

d Caree e O’Neil an e : Host Dav at the Stat Fun times an ig an Fl Jarrod wards.

Manager, A ar Ye e e of th Apprentic

Prize winners: Hanh and Vico Chung with their prize at the Preston Members’ Night.

rs

Strong leaders: Master Builders CEO, Radley de Silva, Minister for Higher Education and Skills, Nick Wakeling, and Master Builders President, Greg Zuccala at the State Apprentice of the Year Awards.

speak with rtunity to ve the oppo es at the ha ic rs rv be Se rance op: Mem ilders Insu Talking sh Bu r te as from M Sonia Kerr r’ Night. kes Membe Taylors La

Morning beef: The State Treasurer Michael O’Brien addresses guests at the Industry Breakfast.

Super prize: Member receiving his prize of a barbecue, provided by John Mancuso, Selkirk at the Preston Members’ Night.

ratulations oup: Cong ds.

Winners gr e Year Awar th of e tic Appren

to all our w

inners at th

e e 2014 Stat

social pages If you have any photos you’d like to submit for the Social Pages, please email them to lluvara@mbav.com.au naming who is in the photo and where it was taken. Likewise, please contact us on (03) 9411 4555 or visit www.mbav.com.au if you’d like to know what events are happening in your area.

rying s on: T c ts on Ha n d u d ro ep out th the State t ea r a r e ff o f the Y ntice o XD’s re p p F A s, with Award l Manager, na Natio nish. r Ma c Trevo

40

Master Builder Victoria

A DV E R T O R I A L

advertorial

The importance of site preparation Before you even think of hammering that first nail or laying that first brick, there are a number of things you need to consider.

Is the site secure?

Building sites are a hazardous place. Protect the general public from wandering onto your building site by installing temporary fencing that is at least 1.8m high. Chain mesh fencing is ideal as it is difficult to scale, while interlocking sleeves or clamps prevent panels being pulled apart.

What site facilities have you provided for workers?

You need to provide your workers with clean and hygienic toilet facilities; a ready supply of clean drinking water and depending on the size of your site, portable site sheds and lunch rooms. Site sheds come with air conditioning and your choice of fit out.

Have you complied with local government requirements?

Check with the local Council to ensure you comply with local government regulations. Some Councils require timber footpath crossings to protect Council assets and may charge large fines if construction begins before a crossover is laid.

Have you considered silt and sediment control?

Protect adjoining properties and public land from silt and

sediment run off from site. Scoria filled silt bags placed on the downslope of a property are ideal for sediment control and more and more Councils are requiring them. You can also hire heavy duty builders’ tarps to keep sand, soil and landfill contained on site.

Do you need temporary power?

Depending on what you are building, will you require a domestic, commercial or 3-phase power pole? Will it be installed overhead or underground? If there is already a pit on site you may be able to install a temp-in-perm connection.

When a new build is commissioned, the first person you need to call is your friendly Aim Hire operations consultant. We can help you prepare your construction site for the long build ahead.

For more information contact: Email: hiring@aimhire.com.au Phone: (03) 9720 4455 Website: www.aimhire.com.au

advertorial

Master Builder Victoria

41

A DV E R T O R I A L

CLOUD ACCOUNTING…. Making life easier for you!

Have you ever wondered what all the fuss is about Cloud Accounting? The simple answer is… it’s a lot easier for you to manage your accounts Cloud Accounting is the ability to access your accounting files or accounting package via the internet rather than operating the software through your computer drive. The program runs on servers housed in the sky (cloud). So what does that mean for you…

Easy Access At the end of the day the last thing you want to do is be tied to your computer in the office or home. Could Accounting allows you to access your files, enter quotes or raise invoices from anywhere at any time on any device.

Multiple Users One Data File As soon as you send your accounting file to your accountant chances are that file is already out of date. Using the cloud enables people (entirely at your discretion) to access and work on the one file at the same time.

Its Cheaper - Reduced Costs Traditionally accounting software was purchased and downloaded to the one computer. Every time there was an

update to the file, you had to purchase new software. With the Cloud Accounting, it removes the need to purchase software, hardware or updated versions.

Real time information - Bank Integration Using the Cloud provides you with the advantage of being able to integrate your banking information with your accounting package. This will significantly reduce data entry.

Improved Business Performance Cloud Accounting provides you with real time information via dashboards that enable you to make educated decisions on the spot, leaving you more time to concentrate on growing your business. Kemp & Partners are experts in Cloud Accounting solutions proactively using the cloud to provide innovative accounting services to you.

If you would like to know more about Cloud Accounting and the benefits that it can bring to your business, please contact us on (03) 9781 1888 or info@kemppartners.com.au or visit www.kemppartners.com.au

Is this how you feel about accounting?

Let Kemp & Partners make it easy for you.

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42

membership

Master Builder Victoria

M E T R O P O L I TA N M E M B E R P R O F I L E

DTC Family Builders • Based in the northern suburbs.

• Commercial and domestic builder.

• Member since 2006.

Marcel Mott from DTC Family Builders has been in the building and construction industry for ten years, starting with a commercial limited license followed soon by the domestic license.

“I got involved with the building industry when I first came to Australia,” Marcel explained.

“My father-in-law is a land developer with extensive projects in Whittlesea and Wallan and I first started as a labourer helping to build factories in Wallan and soon was managing new construction.”

DTC Family Builders work in the commercial sector extends to simple factories and custom design buildings such as ambulance stations, veterinaries, play centres and shops.

One of their largest projects, the Super IGA in Whittlesea, included 26 carparks and basement offices on the second storey and a 2000-square metre shop on a 6000 square metre construction site.

“My wife has a civil engineering background and is involved with the company wherever possible as she is also a property developer and oversees the running of two country newspapers,” Marcel said.

“As for my kids they are still too young but DTC is named after them - Dexter, Thomas and Chloe.”

Marcel said the best thing about the job was the satisfaction of building projects and dwellings for clients.

“Having to be involved with people from start to finish can be very rewarding,” he said.

“Also, the building industry is a very dynamic industry with lots of new and challenging construction methods like

Family builders: Marcel Mott has been building for 10 years.

the Bondor panels that we are using on our display home in the Springridge Estate in Wallan.”

Marcel said the down side of the job was the red tape with authorities such as Melbourne Water, councils and Vic Roads.

“I would like to see better recognition from councils that if I’m a member of Master Builders, that I know how to construct without the need to submit meaningless construction method plans,” he said.

Marcel said he decided to become a member because Master Builders had a lot to offer for a starting builder.

“There were courses, support and documentation and now being established I find Master Builders very useful for information in regards to legal changes in our industry,” Marcel said.

“It’s important to help me keep abreast of all changes across the industry rather than me spending my time going through it, which means I have more time to spend with clients and getting on with projects.”

Marcel said the most important key to success was good communication, cash flow and planning.

“When you keep updating your clients on any issues, which there always are, then they become resolvable,” he said.

“Also communication lines to and from suppliers are the key to good planning, which will contribute to success.”

OUTSMART THE OTHER 10,511 BUILDERS IN VIC SAVE THOUSANDS ON A TRUSTY WORKHORSE

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As a member of the Master Builders Association, you can take advantage of Gold Fleet Discounts across the Toyota range, excluding Special Edition models. And that could save you thousands. With the savings you want and the durability you need, it’s a smart way to stay ahead in business. Talk to a Fleet Specialist about the right vehicle for you.

To find your local Fleet Specialist Dealer, call 1800 444 847

2014

toyota.com.au

44

advertorial

Master Builder Victoria

A DV E R T O R I A L

Incolink is changing The Melbourne Cup is not the only important event happening in November.

Over the Melbourne Cup long weekend, Incolink will be introducing a new Contributions Management System that will mean most of Incolink’s business will be transacted online.

What will the new system mean to commercial employers?

• Upgraded online return processing allowing all employers to process their returns online 24/7.

• Automatic calculation of payment liability based on data entered.

• Employers will register and terminate workers online.

• Electronic reminders when payments are about to become overdue.

• No more sending paperwork to Incolink, meaning your monthly returns will be processed far quicker.

• New employers will be able to apply for registration online.

• Improved electronic access for your workers including the introduction of online claims processing.

• Improved two way communication through the use of electronic methods.

• Removal of the option to pay by EFT with BPay being the preferred method.

Incolink will be holding information sessions for employers closer to the time and providing employers with online demonstrations and assistance in adapting to the new processes.

For more information, contact Incolink on (03) 6939 3000 or freecall 1800 337 789 from regional areas only.

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2014

ION CT ES U R AT ST ON LL ST C T A EN FOR R R TS U C OS C

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LOOKING FOR AN APPRENTICE? Apprenticeships Group Australia (AGA) is one of the most experienced and respected Group Training Organisations in Australia.

AGA has been successfully hiring high quality apprentices and trainees to industry for more than 30 years.

WE OFFER APPRENTICES AND TRAINEES IN THE FOLLOWING TRADES / VOCATIONS:

WHY CHOOSE AGA? AGA will recruit and employ the apprentice, look after the induction process, train and mentor the apprentice while they are placed with you.

At AGA we make it our business to find you the right apprentice to suit your business needs.

A dedicated AGA Field Officer will work closely with you and the apprentice for the duration of the apprenticeship.

Placements can be as short as a few weeks or as long as the full duration of the apprenticeship.

If you are interested in hiring an AGA apprentice or business administration trainee or would like further information on apprenticeships in general, contact AGA on: 1300 242 000 facebook.com/agaustralia @AGAustralia agaustralia.com.au

MC continues to be a market leader in providing labour and personnel solutions across a broad range of industries.

To support industry into the future, MC has continued its focus on up-skilling and cross-skilling, to allow us to move with the innovation and shifts in the market. MC Labour is committed to understanding the unique needs of each individual project and client. This ensures that our clients receive efficient, cost effective and quality labour hire solutions, tailored specifically to suit exact job requirements

MC is a specialist provider in:

Combine this with the MC Database of more than 20,000 experienced personnel who can be mobilised at short notice across a broad range of industries.

In addition, MC can supply industrial relations, human resources and safety specialists as well as site and project managers. MC has developed strategic alliances with a number of premium business partners. Supported by our AS4801 accreditation, MC can provide more personnel solutions than ever before.

• Construction • Rail • Civil • Security • Traffic • Industrial • Natural Resource Sectors

For more information please visit www.mclabour.com. au or call our 24/7 National Customer Service Centre on 1300 10 12 14.

46

membership

Master Builder Victoria

2014 MASTER BUILDERS JUNE 4

Members’ Night – Wonthaggi

Wonthaggi Workmans Club, Wonthaggi

10

Mornington Group Meeting

Mornington

13

Regional Building Awards – North East

The Cube, Wodonga

18

Wimmera Section Meeting

Horsham

20

Regional Building Awards – South West

The Pier, Geelong

24

Geelong Section Meeting

TBC

25

Gippsland Section Breakfast Meeting

Sale

25

Ballarat Section Meeting

Ballarat

27

Regional Building Awards – North West

Quality Resort All Seasons, Bendigo

4

Regional Building Awards – South East

Premiere Function Centre, Traralgon

8

North West Section Meeting

Mildura

JULY

15

North East Section Meeting

Shepparton

4 - 6

Build & Renovating Expo

MECC, Melbourne

16

Members’ Night – Shepparton

Sherbourne Terrace, Shepparton

16

Bendigo Section Meeting

Bridge Hotel, Bendigo

17

Tomorrow’s Leaders Networking Evening

Melbourne

22

Geelong Section Site Visit

TBC

ALink Road Show

TBC

AUGUST 8

Excellence in Construction Awards

Crown Palladium, Southbank

11

Mornington Group Meeting

Mornington

13

Members’ Night – Bendigo

Quality Resort All Seasons, Bendigo

22

Green Living Conference

BLSC, South Melbourne

20

Members’ Night – Geelong

Buckley’s Entertainment Centre, Breakwater

20

Ballarat Section Meeting AGM

Ballarat

27

Gippsland Section Breakfast Meeting

Warragul

3

ALink Road Show

Holmesglen, Chadstone

3

Members’ Night – Ringwood

Karralyka Centre, Ringwood

9

North East Section Meeting AGM

Shepparton

10

Wimmera Section Meeting AGM

Warracknabeal

10

ALink Road Show

VUT, Sunshine

11

Industry Breakfast

MCG, East Melbourne

16

North West Section Meeting AGM

Mildura

17

Members’ Night – South Morang

Plenty Ranges Arts & Convention Centre, South Morang

17

ALink Road Show

Federation University, Mount Clear, Ballorat

17

Bendigo Section Meeting

TBC

23

Geelong Section Meeting AGM

TBC

SEPTEMBER

membership

Master Builder Victoria

EVENTS CALENDAR OCTOBER 8

ALink Road Show

NMIT, Heidelberg

8

Members’ Night - Moorabbin

Hemisphere Conference Centre, Moorabbin

9

Tomorrow’s Leaders Networking Evening

Melbourne

14

Mornington Group Meeting

Mornington

15

ALink Road Show

The Gordon, Geelong

17

Excellence in Housing Awards

Crown Palladium, Southbank

22

Members’ Night – Mornington

Mornington Racing Club, Mornington

23

Gippsland Section Dinner Meeting

Traralgon

24

Traralgon Golf Day

Traralgon

28

Geelong Section Meeting

Grovedale Hotel, Grovedale

30

ALink Road Show

Chisholm TAFE, Frankston

NOVEMBER ALink Road Show

TBC

12

Gippsland Section Breakfast Meeting

Cowes

13

Industry Breakfast

MCG, East Melbourne

19

Members’ Night – Bairnsdale

Bairnsdale RSL, Bairnsdale

ALink Road Show

TBC

19

Bendigo Section Breakfast Meeting

TBC

25

Geelong Section Meeting

Grovedale Hotel, Grovedale

National Awards

TBC

3

Wimmera Section Christmas Breakup

Horsham

5

Mornington Group Christmas Breakup

TBC

Bendigo Section Christmas Breakup

TBC

Geelong Section Twilight Sailing

TBC

DECEMBER

PLEASE CALL MASTER BUILDERS ASSIST FOR INFORMATION ON ALL UPCOMING EVENTS ON: (03) 9411 4555

47

GO BEYOND THE TAX BREAK. CHOOSE HEALTH COVER FOR THE LONG RUN. When it comes to better health, there are 364 days just as important as June 30.

It’s tax time again and while other private health insurers may focus on June 30, we’re just as focused on everyday after. These are the days that are most important. These are the days where you’ll actually use and benefit from the cover you have chosen, where you’ll want it to work for you, everyday.

Do yourself a favour and if you’re looking for health cover during tax time, go beyond the tax break and choose health cover for the long run.

ENJOY AN ONGOING 8.3% DISCOUNT * WHEN YOU JOIN CORPORATE HOSPITAL AND EXTRAS COVER

VISIT

CALL

ONLINE

in store

131 680

medibank.com.au/mbavic

*Discount based on the premiums of equivalent and eligible Medibank retail covers and applies for the life of your corporate cover.

50

Master Builder Victoria

E XC L U S I V E D I S C O U N T S

membership CHOICE HOTEL OFFER

ESTIMATE FASTER AND EASIER

Choice Hotels offers all members access to both the Corporate and Best Online Rate of the day through both the web (www.choicehotels.com.au) and reservations - 13 2400

Master Builders can save

20% on any costing product.

We have the estimating

Simply quote or enter the Association code: 00223300

solution for you!

For on or oFF site, europcar will have a solution For you.

1800 80 60 60

Visit choicehotels.com.au, the newest and largest hotel website in Australasia with the best online rates guaranteed!

As a proud partner of Master Builders, Europcar offers you great car rental rates with reduced excess liability.

www.cordellestimating.com.au marketing@cordell.com.au

Choice Hotels Australasia™ has more than 290 Comfort™, Quality™ and Clarion® hotels in the Australasia region.

Reservations:

1300 555 242 or europcar.com.au & quote promo code 47684221

Phones & internet Master Builders member-only deal with Telstra can save you money on a wide range of mobile, landline and internet products.

Benefits include: • Up to 25% off mobile phone plans • Share call and data allowances across your account

MBA HAS PARTNERED WITH MEDIBANK TO BRING ITS MEMBERS A GREAT DEAL ON THEIR HEALTH INSURANCE.

Website designs with Master Builders members in mind

Starting from $550

• Get an ongoing 8.3% discount – that’s like getting one month of cover free each year *

+ GST

• Tailored packages for every stage of life • 24/7 health advice line with hospital cover

• Two month ‘port-in’ credit for switching providers

* Discount based on premiums of equivalent and eligible Medibank retail covers and applies for the life of your corporate cover. Over 12 months, the 8.3% discount is worth approximately 1 month of equivalent retail cover.

• Private Australian-based help desk.

Call 1300 88 13 72 to get connected.

131 680 in store corporate.medibank.com.au/mbavic

Call Master Builders Assist on (03) 9411 4555 or visit bluerisedigital.com.au

*Conditions apply.

Medibank Private Limited ABN 47 080 890 259.

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Receive a 16% discount off the recommended retail price of the entire range of work wear and safety clothing and a 10% discount on other products, such as camping gear, outdoor furniture etc. Apply for your discount card today. Call Master Builders on (03) 9411 4555 for an application form.

membership

Master Builder Victoria

51

MEMBER MILESTONES

MEMBER MILESTONES MASTER BUILDERS VALUES LOYALTY TO OUR ASSOCIATION AND AWARDS CERTIFICATES TO MEMBERS AT MILESTONES OF 10, 15, 20 AND 25 YEARS, AND PLAQUES AT 30, 40 AND 50 YEARS OF CONTINUOUS MEMBERSHIP. We would now like to recognise and thank the following members who have achieved these milestones between 19 March and 4 June 2014.

We appreciate that many members have continuous years of service that fall between these milestones and hope that you understand that we award certificates and plaques only for the milestones mentioned. If you are a long term member we thank you for your commitment and look forward to recognising your loyalty when you receive your next milestone certificate or plaque.

10 YEAR CERTIFICATE

15 YEAR CERTIFICATE

A & B Castle Pty Ltd A & K Building Construction P/L A T Gormanns & Associates Pty Ltd ADG Pty Ltd Ando Constructions Pty Ltd Arens International B & B Roberts B.W Butler Builders Pty Ltd Barzen Builders Basement Construction Services Bendigo Superior Homes Boutique Homes Pty Ltd C & B Balcombe Pty Ltd C & H Nikolitsis Chocolate Home Loans Click 2 Kitchens Cosentino Builders Pty Ltd Cyrus Australia Duncan Thompson Building Concepts P/L Dzine Construction Group GSM Paton Constructions J&RD Construction Kepal Building Services Kingston Property Improvements Kleev Homes Pty Ltd LWY Constructions Marriott Builders Pty Ltd Matthew Shepherd Mediterranean Pools Meridian Enterprises Multiworks Services Pty Ltd Paul Fish Phelan Interiors Pty Ltd Scott Bros Design & Const Pty Ltd Sherbrooke Constructions South 25 T R L Building Excellence The Bottom Line Building Company P/L The Sovereign Hill Museums Association U Need A Fence Pty Ltd Workplace Access & Safety Pty Ltd

Alwood Constructions Pty Ltd Building & Beyond Pty Ltd C C O Constructions Colisee Group Pty Ltd Diamond Fence (Aust) Pty Ltd Dynamic Shopfitting Gary J Hughes Hacansson Pty Ltd I G Parker Pty Ltd J & F May Bricklayers Pty Ltd Kieran L Byrne Building Contractor L J A Constructions Mark Henderson Constructions Nellakir (Aust)Pty Ltd Peter Griffiths R V C Builders Solaron Vic Stuart Allen Building T W Y Carpentry & Joinery Unlimited Building Pty Ltd Vcon Pty Ltd Waydon Builders Wyndham City Council

20 YEAR CERTIFICATE All Systems Scaffolding Pty Ltd Comelli Constructions Dahlsens Building Centres Pty Ltd Deakin University- Property Services Division Holmesglen Institute of Tafe Lettieri Property Group Pty Ltd Mulgrave B’lay & Bldg Cont Pty Ltd N P D Developments Pty Ltd Pivot Homes Sinclairs Constructions Tapper Builders Pty Ltd V & G Concrete Constructions Pty Ltd

25 YEAR CERTIFICATE A-Line Partitions Pty Ltd Amica Constructions Pty Ltd

Asset Interiors Pty Ltd Becon Constructions (Aust) Pty Ltd Building Images Pty Ltd Chene Construction Pty Ltd Chiarotto Development Corporation Pty Ltd E & N Elmazovski G B & T L Roberts G P & L F Rogan Joe Dean Builder Paterson Gillespie Pty Ltd S R B Constructions Traian Iurescu

30 YEAR PLAQUE A & M Saliba Excavations Pty Ltd Ace Drilling & Construction Apex Constructions Bryant Builders Pty Ltd Coastal Property Developments Pty Ltd Drago Kozuh G J & J K Thomas G J & S E Porter J F Heber Australia Pty Ltd Keith M Ambrose Kibard & Partners Loro Homes Lucania Concrete & Excavations Pty Ltd M F & M F Henderson Roman Catholic Trusts’ Corp Sixty Third Evolution Pty Ltd Stephen Daniels Pty Ltd T J & C & K J Morrison Venten Holdings Pty Ltd

40 YEAR PLAQUE Frank Power Constructions Jetfield Constructions Pty Ltd Rider Levett Bucknall Victoria Pty Ltd Swenrick Constructions (Vic) Pty Ltd

40 YEAR PLAQUE Jeff Edwards

52

Master Builder Victoria

NEW MEMBERS

membership

WELCOME TO OUR NEWEST MEMBERS MASTER BUILDERS IS PLEASED TO WELCOME THE FOLLOWING NEW MEMBERS WHO JOINED THE ASSOCIATION IN MARCH, APRIL & MAY 2014.

CONGRATULATIONS FOR JOINING THE MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF VICTORIA. ASSOCIATE

Fine Design Engineers Pty Ltd

Old Melbourne Restorations Profile Developments Pty Ltd R & R Quality Homes Redpath Building Solutions Pty Ltd Richard Deasey T & V Builders Ultimate Creative Designers Urbanised Property Developers Pty Ltd Vebo Group Australia Vipsor Pty Ltd

GENERAL CONTRACTOR

HOUSING PROVISIONAL

BMF Pty Ltd Mavaco Pty Ltd Rockland Construction Pty Ltd

4 Square Building Pty Ltd A & H Business Solutions A N Gale Adam Matthews Adam Packer Adrian Koro Alastair Croser Aleksandra Knez Alex Wehbe Alistair Meallin Angelo Arena Atrium Building Pty Ltd Biggs & Co Brick & Blocklaying Bill Vlahos Painting and Decorating Blunt Building & Construction Pty Ltd Brett Chandler Brett Duffy Bruce McPhee C.J. Mather Cameron Asche Campbell & Johns Landscaping Cansin Ozturk Christopher Darkovski Christopher Tyas City Wide Building Solutions Coad 88 Pty Ltd Cobuilt Concept Building Group Pty Ltd Contrive Constructions Cutting Edge Carpenters Pty Ltd D & R Pike Concretors Daniel Drake Daniel Holder Daniel Weislitzer David Boyce Deol Constructions Duco Group Pty Ltd Ercon Constructions Event Construction

Active Community Housing Ltd Green Solar Designs Hire a Hubby Franchise Operations Pty Ltd Ramzi Design and Construction

ENGINEERING

GENERAL CONTRACTOR PROVISIONAL Davinder Singh Rayat Flex Fencing Pty Ltd Juscot Investments Pty Ltd Letterbox Lane Constructions Pty Ltd MOC Developments Pty Ltd Pacifico Structural Steel Raw.Shopfitting Pty Ltd

HOUSING Allwood Building Group Pty Ltd Anthony Young Architectural Home Builders Atvil Constructions Barton Builders BDK Homes Pty Ltd Belgrave Builders Pty Ltd Blue Ridge Homes Pty Ltd CPBB Developments Pty Ltd CSA Development & Constructions Pty Ltd Grenville Architectural Construction Hawthorn Builders Pty Ltd James Donaghey Kevin Rose Kimberley Homes L. T. N. Constructions Lentelle Pty Ltd Multi Tech Builders Pty Ltd New Directions Building Group Pty Ltd Newhaven Edge Pty Ltd Northbay Constructions Numurkah Building & Plumbing Pty Ltd

Fitzgerald Building & Construction Fowcon Francesco Sirianni Geelong Building Services Pty Ltd Geoff De Visser George Savidis Graeme Christopher Johns Grand Home Investment Pty Ltd Hidaet Barucija HuynhMate’ Pty Ltd Intemerato Pty Ltd IQ Living Pty Ltd Iron Oak Pty Ltd ISM Corporation Pty Ltd JA Project Services Pty Ltd Jada Homes Pty Ltd James Kheissy Jayden Tonkin Jeremy Flanagan Jim Liontos JM Earthworks John Feehan John Stepan Jordan Solimo Josh O’Connor Joshua Romein Joshua Trimble Journeyman Constructions Kashif Hanif KCMS Constructions Keith Jack Kim Inc Kinghorn Constructions Knockout Clothing Pty Ltd Lachlan Graf Lamco Solutions Landmark Building & Carpentry Liam Scott Lucas Gelsumini Luke Skehan Luke Virgona Lyle House Developments Pty Ltd Mark Milne Mark Semmens Martin Di Crosta Martin Noakes Matt Butt Matt Williams Matthew Adams Matthew Robertson Max Packer May Star Construction Pty Ltd

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general features

Insulation for comfort and energy saving WHAT’S OUT OF SIGHT SHOULDN’T BE OUT OF MIND WHEN IT COMES TO CONSTRUCTION OF NEW HOMES OR CONDUCTING RENOVATIONS, AS AN INDUSTRY WE PLAY A MASSIVE PART IN ENSURING THE SAFETY, HEALTH AND COMFORT FOR THE FAMILIES THAT LIVE IN THE HOMES THAT WE BUILD. The construction industry has a responsibility to construct homes that are warm, dry and energy efficient. Insulation plays a vital role in the overall comfort and safety of your client’s homes, as homes with insulation can reduce heat loss by 70%. Reducing heat loss results in a significant drop in energy usage and also has a direct effect in the number hospital admissions for respiratory illnesses.

Due to the adverse effects of not having adequate insulation, (i.e. sickness, mould, and excessive energy usage) it is important to make sure we get the fundamentals right when making decisions around the type of insulation installed.

Making the wrong choice can cost exorbitant amounts of money as replacing insulation requires cladding or interior linings to be removed.

To make an informed decision, it is important to understand how the insulation does its job when installed, look for products that declare a resistance-to-heat-flow value (R-Value) or a detailed description of how a total systems R-Value is obtained. Always make sure the insulation you are installing complies with AS/NZS4859.1. This standard sets out the applicable test methods and labelling requirements that are relevant to insulation. If unsure ask the supplier

or manufacturer to provide evidence of conformity and to ensure the products suitability for the intended use.

Some simple things to take into consideration when making your insulation choice: • Does the insulation have AS/NZS4859.1 building code certification?

• How long will the insulation continue to perform for? Some insulation does not have a long life-span, make sure you choose an insulation that has a 50 year warranty.

• Does the insulation contain harmful chemicals? Some insulation contains harmful carcinogens, and can be toxic for installers and homeowners. Make sure you install products that contain no chemical binders and toxic irritants to ensure a safe environment.

• Can your insulation tolerate moisture and mould? Some insulation will slump and stop preforming if subjected to moisture or mould, it is important to choose an insulation that will recover if subjected to moisture and continues to perform over its lifetime.

• Is your insulation resistant to pests and vermin? Making sure you have chosen an insulation that can’t be torn or chewed through by pests and vermin is crucial to providing a warm, dry and comfortable home.

Regardless of your preferred selection, where possible choose a product that is capable of controlling more than one performance criteria as it provides better value for you and your client. Ensure the insulation is installed correctly as required by the manufacturer and is in accordance with the current version of AS3999, ensuring a high quality level of installation.

Taking all these points into consideration will ensure you are providing a home for your client that is safe, warm, dry and healthy for years to come.

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RMAX Orange Board® The complete cost effective EIFS Cladding System

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The RMAX Orange Board® Cladding System has been specifically designed as a complete BRAC Accredited

system to provide architects, builders and specifiers with a fully compliant cladding system verified by the Building Regulation Advisory Committee (BRAC) Certificate v11/10.

The system comprises all the necessary specifically designed components including primer, render, wall mesh and fixing accessories to produce a compliant exterior wall.

Design flexibility is a key characteristic of RMAX Orange Board®. It can be easily cut without loss of strength. It offers the dual benefits of thermal insulation and a superior rendering surface for a wide range of residential, commercial and industrial buildings.

RMAX OrangeBoard® is easy to install. Its lightweight rigid construction enables it to be easily transported and maneuvered on site.

It is easy to shape, quick to fix and is perfect for render.

Environmentally friendly, RMAX Orange Board® is manufactured from RMAX Isolite® EPS, noted BAL-29 Compliant

for its exceptional environmental credentials. Made in Australia it conforms to the BAL 29 Bushfire Attack Level conformance requirements as tested by EXOVA Warringtonfire.

RMAX innovation working for you.

RMAX OrangeBoard® is a good example of RMAX innovation at work in the development of expanded polystyrene for the building and construction industry.

If your next project requires a unique insulation solution, contact RMAX on 1300 888 972 and talk to one of our experts. Or visit our web site - www.rmax.com.au

general features TYPES OF INSULATION Reflective insulations are typically used to help reduce heat gain but will often not be as good at insulating against cold. If used reflective forms of insulation are best to use in conjunction with other types of insulation.

To provide performance all year around you can typically install bulk insulation directly on the ceiling below. When doing this ensure the selected foil is suitable for the application due to vapor flow and condensation risk. It is also worth noting, as reflective coatings become covered in dust the performance of this reflective insulation may decrease significantly.

Foam board or rigid foam insulation will often have high thermal values in relation to their thickness. This is useful when there is limited cavity space available but it’s often very difficult to install these products. Some also use a foil that over time can become covered in dust resulting in lover thermal values. Buildings are typically purpose designed and built for this form of insulation to work as described. Advice on condensation control is advisable as some types will not allow adequate water vapor to escape

Get your hands on the

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and drainage will be required. Use only proven, high quality options that have good detail regarding correct installation methods.

Traditional bulk fiber insulation is reliable and provides improved thermal efficiency and increased acoustic performance. Other forms of insulation often aren’t able to provide both so this is a bonus for the building users.

The use of bulk insulation may require increased cavity spacing to achieve the required thermal ratings, but will also give more consistent thermal performance regardless of the heat flow. This is useful for climates that have high summer temperatures and cold winter periods like some areas of Victoria.

Take care to select types that are non-toxic, non- allergenic and don’t contain carcinogens and is resistant to moisture.

Bulk polyester insulation is a great option that is used heavily in commercial applications as it is non-irritant and safe for the installers and building occupiers. Polyester insulation is also resistant to from moisture giving it long lasting durability in most applications.

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general features

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CONCRETE

Precast concrete utilisation in multi-rise concrete buildings Concrete Concepts Technology Review site labour and speed advantages of off site precast manufacture as the principal drivers for this form of construction.

CCAA case study based research would suggest the following reasons as best explaining these observations:

Hollowcore floor planks being fixed into position on a multi-storey deck

Multi‑rise buildings in Australia are overwhelmingly constructed with concrete framed structures. Recent qualitative and quantitative research

by CCAA has found that the design and construction sector has utilised innovation and technology to make Australian concrete framed construction among the most cost effective and efficient in the world1. However most of the technology advancements in multirise structures have focused on the in‑situ concrete construction method, and to some extent the utilisation of precast concrete has been overlooked.

Construction research undertaken by representative bodies in the United Kingdom and Europe suggest that multirise structures benefit from the thoughtful integration of both precast concrete and in-situ concrete. Undertaking work on behalf of the UK concrete industries, Goodchild and Glass2 propose that, "Combining the two by adopting hybrid techniques gives even greater speed, quality and overall economy."

In Australia precast is not commonly used in the framing structure of multirise commercial buildings over 10 storeys high. In lower height commercial buildings however, examples of precast building frames can be readily found.

Hughes and Crisp3 outline the history and growing use of such structures in Melbourne, citing the reduction of on

• Minimising crane time is a construction economic and speed imperative that increases with increasing building height.

• Minimising crane dependence is viewed by builders as minimising risk.

The risk is twofold – lost days due to high wind speeds shutting down safe crane operations, and the bottleneck effect on moving materials required for fitting out the building that are also relying on crane movement.

• Full moment connections between precast elements are time consuming and costly to construct. With increasing height, structures invariably require the columns and floors to act in frame action to resist lateral loads rather than rely totally on the service core to resist all lateral loads. In lower height structures all precast connections can be treated as simple pinned connections which are relatively faster to construct and less costly.

In multi-rise buildings of all heights precast is commonly used in the construction of facade walling which is typically non load bearing. In facade work, precast concrete has the well deserved reputation of being able to produce high quality architecturally expressive surface finishes. In residential multi‑rise buildings precast is also frequently used for internal walls and columns.

Benefits of precast concrete in multirise buildings From the preceeding discussion, it follows that incorporating precast concrete into the design of a multi-rise building can add considerable value as long as its strengths are utilised while managing the potential

Precast floor soffit reduces propping and formwork requirements

challenges of crane time and connection detailing. The following list summarises the potential benefits of most significance to multi-rise construction: • Construction speed gains that flow from off site prefabrication.

• Reduction of the amount of formwork required for the project which can be a construction speed constraint.

• Precast concrete floors reduce the amount of propping required, and require no formwork or the associated false work. The resultant access for following trades is improved allowing floor fit outs to be completed earlier and more efficiently.

• High quality architectural surface finishes are possible, which has most relevance to facades. (Utilising concrete's high thermal mass in the building fabric can greatly enhance the building's energy efficiency).

• For buildings that typically have a large amount of walls, for example hotels and residential apartments, there may be construction speed gains in utilising precast walls.

• In order to obtain these benefits in multi-rise construction projects, it is advisable that early consultation take place between the precast concrete supplier, builder and engineer.

Project examples There are numerous project examples in Australia which demonstrate the value that can be provided by utilising precast

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concrete in multi-rise construction. The following projects are a small selection that demonstrate the benefits described above in a real project context.

14 storey Santos office building, Adelaide: Precast concrete floors The new headquarters office for Santos in Adelaide is a recently completed 14 storey office building. The structural frame consists of a mixed construction of in-situ concrete columns and core with all suspended floors designed in precast concrete. Suspended floors consist of prestressed 320 mm deep hollowcore plank units with a 75 mm in-situ concrete structural topping that span up to 15 m5.

Innovative precast flooring connection details between planks and supporting in-situ concrete beams designed by structural engineers Wallbridge and Gilbert minimised the overall floor structure depth, and hence floor to floor height. The precast flooring system was selected by Hindmarsh design and construct project team as the lowest cost solution to achieve the key project criteria of a 3,525 mm floor to floor height and large clear floors without column intrusions. The resulting combination of in-situ concrete and precast concrete construction provided an optimal mix in terms of speed and cost for the structure.

12 storey Liberty Towers residential building, Adelaide: Precast concrete floors and walls A similar example of the use of precast flooring from the residential apartment building sector is provided by Billinger and Tsoukalas6. The 12 storey Liberty Towers utilises a total precast concrete floor structure consisting of prestressed precast band beams supporting prestressed precast hollowcore floor planks. Extensive use of precast walls is also employed in the project, with the principal decision drivers for the use of precast being speed of construction and allowing an earlier commencement of unit fit outs. The use of precast on this project is cited as making a substantial reduction in holding costs to the developer.

40 storey Southport Central mixed

multi‑rise buildings while maintaining the construction key value criteria of speed and cost.

Hollowcore floor plank units being craned into position

use towers, Queensland: Precast concrete columns Southport Central project comprises three 40 storey mixed use towers. Builder / developer Raptis Group opted to make all columns carrying only compression loads (about 60 percent of all columns) precast to assist in achieving a very high construction speed of four day floor cycles7 (CCAA, 2007d). The speed gains resulting from this strategy were achieved by removing the forming of columns from the critical time path. A unique connection detailing system employed on the project enabled seamless precast erection. Simple and efficient connection detailing that works well in the construction phase is critical for precast concrete vertical elements to realise their potential speed gains.

Westin Hotel, 1 Martin Place Sydney: High quality precast concrete facades Sydney's GPO building was re‑developed by the Grollo Group into a mixed use commercial, hotel and retail complex and completed in mid 1999. The project was completed on time, notwithstanding the delays from unusually heavy rain.

The project features 6,500 m2 of high end architectural polished precast concrete facades which are load bearing, as well as extensive internal load bearing precast walls. A full case study is provided by Hanson Precast8.

The key architectural feature of the facade was the polished reconstructed granite precast panels. Victorian Riverena granite was used, the final product being virtually indistinguishable from polished dimension stone at a greatly reduced cost. This project is an excellent example of the use of precast to create exterior architectural expression in

Conclusion Research by CCAA has found that the popularity of concrete framed structures in the Australian multi-rise building sector is largely due to the presence of innovation and technology in the in-situ concrete construction industry. Precast concrete has not enjoyed the same level of utilisation in this market sector, however has many potential benefits when integrated in an optimised mixed construction philosophy. International studies in hybrid construction provide a useful framework for maximising value of the frame structure by the inclusion of precast concrete.

The use of precast concrete in the framing of multi-rise structures over 10 storeys high is expected to increase with time due to its benefits of speed, reduction of formwork and associated propping, and facilitating earlier floor fit outs. Recent project examples show that precast floor systems, columns and walls may all be value adding inclusions for particular projects.

References 1. 'Costing study confirms concrete's competitive edge' Concrete Concepts Costing Study, Cement Concrete & Aggregates Australia, 2007, www.ccaa.com.au.

2. Goodchild CH and Glass J 'Best practice guidance for concrete hybrid construction' London: The Concrete Centre; 2004, www.concretecentre.com.

3. Hughes S and Crisp BE 'Structural precast concrete in Melbourne Australia' In: Proceedings, Concrete Institute of Australia 23rd biennial conference, Concrete 07 – Design, materials and construction, Sydney, 2007.

4. 'Difficult construction challenge solved by concrete framing'. Concrete Concepts Case Study 10, 2008, www.ccaa.com.au.

5. 'Concrete framing overcomes Adelaide's strict building height regulations'. Concrete Concepts Case Study 07, 2007, www.ccaa.com.au.

6. Billinger M and Tsoukalas N 'Adelaide's largest building – Liberty Towers Holdfast Shores' In: Proceedings, Concrete Institute of Australia 23rd biennial conference, Concrete 07 – Design, materials and construction, Sydney; 2007.

7. 'Raptis Group manages risk with concrete framing' Concrete Concepts Case Study 02, 2007, www.ccaa.com.au.

8. 'No.1 Martin Place The Westin Hotel' Hanson Precast, 2005, www.hansonpc.biz.

Article by Cement Concrete & Aggregates Australia (CCAA), reproduced with permission. The Concrete Concepts Technology Review is based on a technical paper Innovation and Trends in Multi‑rise Concrete Construction by T A D Glasby delivered at the Australasian Structural Engineering Conference (ASEC), 26–27 June 2008, Melbourne, Australia. For more information go to: www.ccaa.com.au/ concreteconcepts

general features A review of the BIG 4 hot water technologies in Australia WATER HEATING IS RESPONSIBLE FOR AROUND 25 PER CENT OF THE AVERAGE AUSTRALIAN HOUSEHOLD'S ENERGY BILL, ACCORDING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF INDUSTRY. So it is no wonder that many people are beginning to think about how they can best heat their water. For many, the ideal system will be cost-effective and kind on the planet.

Builders and plumbers are often seen as trusted advisers for hot water systems, and consumers often look to them for advice on the different options available.

It is important you understand the differences in hot water technologies so you can best advise your customers.

Here is a guide to the four biggest hot water technologies: Electric, gas instantaneous, heat pump and solar.

Electric water heater Electric water heaters use the most energy of all four. While only half of Australian households have these fitted, they are responsible for around 80 per cent of the greenhouse gases produced by water heating, according to Your Home, an Australian government guide to sustainable homes.

While smaller households may choose modest units, it is important to note that storage units under 150 litres are the most expensive to run as they rely on peak electricity.

Larger tanks can utilise the cheaper off-peak tariffs but they must heat the larger capacity, which increases overall energy consumption.

Although relatively cheap up front to purchase and install, an electric storage hot water system running costs can quickly add up. An electric hot water system on peak tariff (based on $0.28c/ kWh) will cost between $1,000 and $1,600 per year to run. While an off-peak tarriff (based on $18c/kWh) electric hot water system will cost between $700 and $1,000 per year to run.

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H O T WAT E R

Hot water heat pump Heat pumps use electricity to extract heat from the surrounding air and transfer it to water stored in a tank.

Rather than directly heating water through an element, the electricity is used to drive a compressor and fan, making its energy usage much more efficient. The technology is much the same as that used in refrigerators and reverse-cycle air conditioners.

Gas instantaneous Water heated by an instantaneous natural gas or LPG heater can provide a virtually unlimited supply of hot water to the home, as water is heated on demand.

Heat pumps can operate in most climates, but are most efficient in hot and humid conditions. When installing a heat pump it is best to position it in the warmest and sunniest location possible to maximize its output. You will also need to be considerate when selecting the installation location as there will be some noise generated from the fan and compressor.

Turning the hot tap on triggers the instant water heater, and due to its tank-less design, it is generally cheaper to run than a storage unit, as there is no heat loss to contend with. Instantaneous gas heaters increased in efficiency over the years, however their running costs still depend solely on the purchase price of gas.

Heat pumps can be run on off-peak tariff over night, but are most commonly used on peak tariff, which allows the system to operate during the warmer periods of the day and heat more efficiently. A heat pump running on peak tariff (based on 28c/kWh) will cost between $400-$650 per year to run.

Tip: Reducing the temperature of the water being heated can help reduce ongoing running cost of a gas instantaneous heater.

Solar hot water systems The most efficient means of heating water is a solar hot water system, solar hot water systems use the sun's rays, or irradiation, to heat water through a solar collector generally located on the roof of the property.

Similar to an electric storage system, an instantaneous gas system is relatively cheap to purchase and install, but how do the running costs stack up?

A 6-star gas instantaneous running on natural gas (based on 1.75c/MJ) will cost between $240-$400 per year, while its 6-star LPG (based on 4c/MJ) counterpart will cost significantly more at between $550 and $927 per year!

Residents of NSW will be hit with a 17.5% increase in gas prices from 1 July. This is a great example of why households across Australia need to begin factoring in the long-term ongoing costs when selecting a water heater, rather than simply basing their selection on up front affordability.

On average, there are between six to eight hours of sunshine per day in Australia, depending on the state. Due to our abundance of sunshine, a solar hot water system can provide up to 90 per cent of a home's hot water directly from the sun – at no cost, and without creating any greenhouse gas emissions.

Any shortfall between supply and demand can be made up using electric or gas boosting, so householders need not worry about running out of hot water during overcast or rainy conditions.

Considerations need to be taken when assessing the suitability of a solar collector to the home – ideally the collector would face as close to north as possible and remain un-shaded throughout the day.

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However if a north roof is unavailable there are mounting frames that can be used to bring the collector to its ideal pitch and orientation.

Due to the collectors being exposed to the elements, you also need to take into consideration the wind conditions (is it a cyclone region?) as well as the temperature range it will be operating in (is it a frost region?). Many solar hot water systems rely on frost valves or an antifreeze solution to prevent water freezing and damaging the collectors, the evacuated tube style collectors most commonly have in-built anti freeze through a setting on the solar controller.

Although a solar hot water system is the most efficient of the big four hot water technologies, with the lowest ongoing running costs, a lot of consumers do not weigh up the long term benefits and concentrate on the higher up-front costs of going solar. Utility bills may be affordable now – but will they still be in 5 or 10 years down the track?

The running cost of a solar hot water system depends on the booster you have installed, and how it is configured. Natural gas boosted solar systems can be as little as $115 to $200 per year to run. An LPG Gas boosted system costs between $230 and $440/year an electric boosted system averages at between $200 and $400 per year to run. The electric booster can also be configured with a timer on peak tariff, and if set up to suit the home hot water usage patterns, can cost less to run than an off-peak booster!

Flat plate collectors tend to work very well in the warmer climates and during the summer months of the year, however performance can be greatly reduced in the winter months or in the colder regions of Australia.

Purchase costs of flat panel collectors are generally lower than evacuated tubes, but installation costs could be higher with an on-roof tank model due to heavy lifting requirements.

Evacuated Tube Collectors Evacuated tubes have become more and more popular in Australia, as they are an extremely efficient means of heating water. Essentially the operation of the system is the same – but it is how the heat is captured and transferred into the water that makes the evacuated tubes stand out.

A vacuum created between the two layers of glass within the tube allows heat energy to be absorbed, and prevents it from escaping. This is an extremely efficient insulator (similar to a thermos flask) that minimises heat loss to the

atmosphere making evacuated tubes a great choice for cooler regions of Australia. The in-built frost protection means that the same evacuated tube collector installed in regions like North Queensland can also be installed in the coldest regions of Tasmania with little, or no changes.

Their curved shape means the sun's rays strike the tubes at a perpendicular angle from early morning right, through to late in the afternoon, giving greater heat output.

Running Cost Comparisons The below graph, shows a visual representation of the different hot water technologies running costs, and how these costs stack up against each other.

Hot water systems are an essential appliance in any home and ongoing running costs must be a major factor to consider in the decision making process.

Much like fuel economy is considered when purchasing a new car, Australian families need to find the right balance between upfront and ongoing costs when purchasing a new hot water system.

There are two main technologies used for solar hot water collectors: Evacuated tube and Flat Plate Collectors.

Flat Plate Collectors Flat plates are the most widely recognised solar collectors. They consist of an absorber plate, or sheet of copper bonded to a number of copper pipes and contain heat-transfer fluid. These are generally enclosed in an insulated metal frame to reduce heat loss from the back and sides.

Source: Running cost data, and electricity and gas unit prices used within this article was used from data published by Sustainability Victoria: www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/services-and-advice/households/energy-efficiency/at-home/hot-watersystems/hot-water-running-costs Article by Brendan Graetz, Apricus Australia Pty Ltd

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Flooring! Flooring! Flooring!

By Brett Scarpella

No matter whether it’s a new build, a domestic renovation, or a commercial fitout, choosing from flooring internal options seems to be a more and more stressful and confusing experience with every project. It’s probably because of the ever expanding number of options and the huge amount of inconsistent information available, and of course the fact that this one single decision can make such a massive impact on the look, feel and of course, value of any building project or home renovation.

Historically things seemed a lot simpler, the first consideration for choosing flooring or floorcoverings for a specific environment would always be that it should be “appropriate” and “serviceable” for the intended

applications. This would naturally lead into good common sense judgements that reflected above all ‘practicality’ and good value for money. In these good old days the decisions just seemed to be preordained or ingrained into us by the paths previously followed by our ‘respected elders’ - who had likely made similar decisions at a time when one would be influenced by the far less complex norms of the day, and in a time of far less affluence.

Today however the amount of consideration that needs to be given to a decision on flooring seems to have become almost as complex as the decision on the ‘the acoustics in the home theatre room.’ These decisions are also now spiced up with the more

superficial elements that affect many of our other modern day decisions, and it is with concern that we see factors such as short term appearance and convenience are at the top of one’s list, surpassing the seemingly ‘trained practicality’ of the past in many situations. It seems our disposable approach to everything is now also guiding the flooring choices we make.

We are now bombarded with choice, anything from bamboo flooring, laminates, engineered floors, luxury vinyl tiles, and timber look vinyl plank.

All of which look fabulous on a Google search and even installed, and all come in to play as more convenient options when compared to traditional flooring with their relatively quick installation

general features times, less preparation and mess, and all wrapped up with perfect finishes.

It certainly would seem a much easier avenue than enduring the required processes and expense of ‘old fashioned’ solid timber flooring, cork, or even parquetry.

While there is no argument that these modern flooring alternatives are definitely attractive, convenient, and for the most less expensive, but how on earth - in the context of the price of a piece of real estate of massive financial proportions - did we get to this place? A place where an albeit visually attractive piece of comparatively disposable flooring that is unlikely to bring any tangible longer term value to the table, can be so much more popular (at least in sales volume) than the solid timber flooring alternatives?

My theory is that during the more recent years of massive growth in the building industry and timber flooring demand we lost the plot a little, dropped the ball, missed the bus, failed to launch, or even just got plain carried away, and probably just a tiny bit lazy. As we felt our way through this golden era of construction and of course got busy counting the money that came with it, we failed to adapt or to consider the impact that the resulting changes in timber production processes, larger innovative building designs, and more open construction environments, could potentially have on our traditional flooring products and installation practices, and maybe burnt our fingers a few times.

This likely included a few expensive and timely issues that only seemed to come with installing solid timber flooring, the aftermath of which was definitely a contributing factor in the emerging aversion among builders to solid timber flooring use. As prevailing circumstances meant that many projects were effectively set up to fail, slowly the builders and buyers resolved to find more reliable ‘controllable’ flooring alternatives - still able to deliver a short term bang for a smaller, more bankable buck. From this it would seem emerged the ‘floater,’ followed by the somehow more exclusive ‘engineered board,’

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then the environmentally interesting bamboo, and now it seems all systems are go for the improved laminates. We appear to have embraced convenience above all else.

variation have tightened up, and of course ultimately the timber flooring product itself has improved. The natural solid timber product provided by our major suppliers is the best it has ever been.

“Where is he going with this?” you might well ask. What if someone told you that you could have your cake and eat it too? What if you could use natural solid timber rather than one of the myriad of manufactured alternatives - that are ultimately designed to look like timber without as many of the concerns that have more recently been associated with a timber floor?

In addition to this, our specifically involved Timber Flooring Associations now exist throughout the country and are active in educating the installers and finishers of timber flooring in industry best practices and techniques, thus surpassing the old “slap it down and pray” methods employed by some in days passed, and ensures that the incidence of misadventure and ‘doh’ moments’ in flooring installations are absolutely minimised.

Even if you’re dubious to the possibility, it must definitely be worth exploring, as I for one – flooring person of some years and fan of flooring materials in general, can’t ever imagine seeing a lovely 20 year old laminate floor, a truly majestic aged bamboo, or a lovingly restored luxury vinyl tile, existing or adding significant value to any project in the future – only solid timber is proven to do that, and it does it easily.

Things have changed in the timber flooring world In more recent years, timber processing practices have evolved as previous limitations have been acknowledged and dealt with, greater understanding of timber and improved stock management has meant that tolerances for timber

To complete the picture, the greatest advance however comes in the form of the “bread and butter” items, the things you don’t think about or see on a daily basis – the stuff that holds the whole puzzle together, the moisture vapour barriers that control or inhibit moisture in the subfloors we lay over, and the adhesives that fix the timber down and makes your floor a floor as opposed to a bunch of wood.

Modern moisture vapour barriers start the ‘insurance’ policy off, with moisture blocking capabilities far superior to the previously popular and expensive alternatives used, and they don’t just stick things down, many of them also

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general features

improve a concrete surfaces and dry quickly to take days and risk off the entire installation process – and many of the more advance offerings are even solvent or V.O.C free and ideal for use on busy domestic or commercial sites.

Using these super barriers in conjunction with the cutting edge modified silicate (MS) technology of the new breed of modern flooring adhesives and your timber floor will be stuck like nothing else - whilst allowing, yet minimising the impact of seasonal and site variation on the finished timber floor and moderating effects such as shrinkage and cupping etc. Most of these adhesives are much easier to use than old fashioned elastomeric adhesives and are also V.O.C and isocyanate free, making them site friendly, inexpensive and waste free.

Some even have the added benefits of improved acoustic performance, and just

to make the fantasy complete they’re easy to clean up and installers will never have black hands again.

Finish of the picture with a modern site applied waterbased polyurethane finish, natural oil, or hard wax, all designed for superior appearance, moisture resistance, and durability, and you have a timber floor with wow factor that will provide years or even decades of service, is flexible in appearance (varied stains and finishes available) and it is suggested future appreciation in floor and site value.

Solid timber flooring can set the tone of a room and provide the single greatest increase in value to the home above many other finishing considerations.

Cheap and fast ‘take away’ floors can provide a fast, short-term result, but solid timber flooring is an investment that installed and maintained properly will provide long-term satisfaction, increased site value, and is likely to outlast all of us.

Article by Brett Scarpella, Loba Australasia Pty Ltd

Australian species solid timber flooring is back on the table as a reliable and affordable mainstream timber flooring option, and it’s time to revisit the timber products available for your next project knowing that things have changed for the better.

Perfection in Timber Flooring Installation Whether Your Next Solid or Engineered Timber Flooring Project needs a First Class Loba Timber Finishing System or A Bullet Proof Vapor Barrier & Adhesive

Waterbased Polyurethanes Natural Oils & Hardwaxes Stains & Special Effects On Site UV Finishes Anti Slip Finishes

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PH: 03 9460 3444 M: 0419326976 E: lobafloor@outlook.com

Since 1922

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Includes :  Airfare with Vietnam Airlines  8 nights accommodation  All meals  All transport  Entry fees where applicable Exclusions :  Drinks with meals  Tipping approx $63 is payable on arrival in Vietnam  Items of a personal nature

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*Travel agent service fees and credit card fees may apply.

Conditions apply. Prices are per person on twin share (include savings). Prices and information are correct at time of issue and subject to availability and change at time of booking. Prices may fluctuate due to changes in charges, taxes and currency. Prices do not include taxes or charges collected directly by third parties. Conditions apply see in store for details.

Mention Master Builders at time of booking these are exclusive to Master Builder’s members Independently owned and operated by Travel Glen: A Division of Lead Travel Pty Ltd - ABN: 29 111 727 229 Licence: 32627

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directory

Master Builder Victoria

• Building Law • Mediation

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what’s new

PROPERTY FACILITATOR Be part of highest Court in Victoria – The Supreme Court About Us: We are Funds In Court (FIC) – a self-funded division of the Supreme Court of Victoria whereby all funds paid into Court are held, invested, and administered by the Senior Master, who is an Associate Judge of the Court.

The Role: We are seeking an experienced Property Facilitator to provide high-level support to The Judiciary and Beneficiaries Services Team relating to the maintenance and building issues regarding properties purchased for the beneficiaries.

Your responsibilities will include but not be limited to: • Provide specialist, authoritative reports recommending actions and advice in relation to rentals, new buildings, modifications etc.

• Identify current and potential maintenance issues in beneficiary homes and contribute to the implementation of actions to address these issues.

• Team up with contractors to ensure satisfactory completion of agreed work and follow up any shortcomings.

• Assist team members in carrying out the implementation of various policies, standards, procedures and programs relating to the overall maintenance and upkeep of the properties.

You: Having a trade qualification or extensive experience in residential building, your strengths lie in having: • Sound written and verbal communication skills.

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• Newly created position: Full-time Ongoing.

• Fantastic salary on offer: $72,584 - $82,354 + super.

How to apply: Please send your application before close of business 18 July 2014 to: graeme.morris@supremecourt.vic.gov.au For further information on the role, please contact Graeme Morris-Beneficiary Services Manager on 9032 3740.

For further information about Funds In Court, please visit: www.fundsincourt.vic.gov.au We provide a comprehensive employee benefit program and the opportunity to participate in professional growth and development.

We are an equal opportunity employer and foster diversity in the workplace.

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W H AT ’ S N E W

SAVES YOU MONEY!THE UNBREAKABLE SHOWER BASE Finally an Australian made shower base that saves the builders WALLET and his BACK! SHOWERLINE present the new way forward in shower bases.

POLYLITE™ is a revolutionary new material in the shower base market. It is constructed of a new-age polymer composite that is extremely LIGHT in weight and EXTRA STRONG. Eliminating OH & S handling issues for the TRADESMAN. Now a 900 x 900 base weighing under 5kg compared to a traditional poly-marble base weighing 37kg. Larger size base weights are also drastically reduced with a POLYLITE™ 1500 x 900 base weighing under 10kg (that’s 42kgs less than a polymarble!).

Overall benefits: • Save time Save money.

• Reduces manual handling risks.

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• Reduces labour costs and installation timeframes.

• Fixed to floor via flexible bonding agent creating a permanent stable contact to foundation.

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• Superior strength – tested to withstand 2400 psi.

• Longevity after installation. *** Product can be ordered through Bunning’s Trade Centres. ***

For more information contact: Phone: 1800 688 745 Website: www.showerline.com.au

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Master Builder Victoria

W H AT ’ S N E W

REVOLUTIONARY PILING & FOUNDATION SYSTEMS. Blade Pile is an advanced piling system that’s a cost effective substitute for screw piles, timber piles, and concrete bored piers.

The Blade Pile features: • The PATENTED Blade Pile Cap acts as a structural slip joint where articulation is required between the pile and structure, making it the perfect bored pier replacement.

• DUAL BLADE BEARING PLATES, providing up to 25% greater load bearing capacity than traditional helical piles.

The TWIN BLADES dramatically improve the balance and vertical accuracy of the piles during installation in comparison with screw pile alternatives.

• The PATENTED DESIGN allows the pile to narrowly drill into the ground with minimal surrounding soil disturbance which significantly improves compression and tension load capacities.

Manufactured from High Tensile Steel, Blade Pile products are significantly stronger than most Screw Pile alternatives.

Blade Piles are ideal for all residential applications and are a leading solution for problem sites such as those with reactive clay or loose sandy soils. All of our products are independently tested and compliant with AS2159 and AS2870.

For more information or a free quote on your next job: Phone: 03 9775 0096 Email: office@bladepilevic.com.au Website: www.bladepile.com

SCREW PILES, A SIMPLE SOLUTION TO MULTIPLE PROBLEMS. A Screw Pile is primarily a steel pipe with a ‘Helix’ or large dia thread at the bottom end with a point protruding. With a down ward force it is rotated to “screw” into the ground by using a hydraulic drive on an Excavator.

Screw Piles & Excavations have been providing Screw Pile solutions to foundation problems for many years.

Applications for Screw Piles: • FOUNDATIONS and Deep Stumps in filled, wet, soft or unstable ground, that can’t support a conventional footing, • EASEMENT and TREE ROOT protection, • In ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE areas SCREW PILES are now called up so as to minimize ground contact for board walks and foot bridges.

• As ANCHOR points to oppose uplift, • RETAINING WALL structural posts in sand etc.

Other uses for SCREW PILES; swimming pool support, founding in wet or reclaimed swamp areas, , anchoring for retaining walls, light, power and large sign pole foundations, creek culvert anchoring. Screw Piles & Excavations have shown that Screw Piles are the simple, quick and cost effective way to solve the problem. As there is practically no spoil to remove and no vibrations during installation, Screw Piles are an excellent choice to save time money and excavating.

Servicing Nth’n NSW and Vic. Screw Piles & Excavations P/L Branches in Northern NSW & VIC Tel: 0409 939 967 Email: dennis@screwpiles.com.au Website: www.screwpiles.com.au

EVEN BIGGER BANG FOR BUCK WITH YOUR CALTEX STARCARD Take advantage of our exclusive deal with Caltex. Master Builders’ members can now save 3.5 cents p/ltr off unleaded fuel and 4 cents p/ltr off diesel fuel with their Caltex StarCard.

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