2015 MB NSW Magazine Aug-Sep

Official Magazine of the Master Builders Association of NSW | Issue Four | August/September 2015

DRAFT LEGISLATION FOR DEFECTS BOND MASTER BUILDERS PRE APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM

EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING & POOL AWARDS 2015 THE WINNERS REVEALED INSIDE

CONTRACTING WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY

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*Recommended drive away price for the Kangoo Manual Short Wheelbase, Master Manual Short Wheelbase and New Trafic Short Wheelbase Single Turbo each with non-metallic paint. Valid for vehicles ordered between 01/07/2015 & 30/09/2015 while stocks last. Renault reserves the right to vary, extend or withdraw this offer. Offer available to ABN holders only and excludes fleet & government buyers. †5-years/200,000km warranty (which includes two (2) years Extended Manufacturer Warranty) and 5 years/200,000km Roadside Assistance both apply to all new or demonstrator Kangoo models ordered between 1/07/2015 & 30/09/2015 while stocks last. Warranty and Roadside Assistance both valid for 5 years or 200,000km (whichever comes first) from new. Demonstrator vehicles receive balance of new vehicle warranty and Roadside Assistance. Renault reserves the right to vary, extend or withdraw this offer. ‡3-years/200,000km warranty and 3 year/200,000km Roadside assistance both apply to Master and Trafic III models. Warranty and Roadside Assistance both valid for 3 years or 200,000km (whichever comes first) from new. Demonstrator vehicles receive balance of new vehicle warranty and Roadside Assistance. ^First 3 scheduled maintenance services capped at $349 per service on new and demonstrator Master, Trafic III and Kangoo models, based on standard scheduled servicing from new and on normal operating conditions. Scheduled maintenance services required every twelve (12) months or up to 30,000km (whichever occurs first) on Master and Trafic III, and twelve (12) month or 15,000km (whichever occurs first) on Kangoo. However, Master and Trafic III are subject to adaptive servicing requirements, as determined by the Oil Condition Sensor, and may require servicing prior to the standard twelve (12) months or 30,000km service interval.

If Master, Trafic or Kangoo is not presented within three (3) months of when the scheduled service is required, right to that capped-price service under the program is forfeited.

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2

contents

IN THIS ISSUE: Official Magazine of the Master Builders Association of NSW | Issue Four | August/September 2015

REGULARS Contact List

4

President’s Viewpoint

6

Executive Director’s Viewpoint

8

Newsbrief

10

Regional Roundup

11

FEATURES

DRAFT LEGISLATION FOR DEFECTS BOND

Excellence in Housing and Pools Awards

29

Women in Construction

13

Investing in Women Funding Program – Round Two

MASTER BUILDERS PRE APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM

EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING & POOL AWARDS 2015 THE WINNERS REVEALED INSIDE

CONTRACTING WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY

Housing

14

More Flexibility for Apartment Development, but more Paperwork Print Post Publication No. PP100003016

Draft Legislation Establishes a Defects Bond Apprenticeship

19

The Master Builders Pre Apprenticeship Program Workplace Health & Safety SALES MANAGER: Peter Shepherd EMAIL: peter.shepherd@crowtherblayne.com.au ADVERTISING SALES: Peter Shepherd, Craig Flenley, Dean Wedding, Rose Delosreyes and Liam Daly EDITOR: Samantha Regan LAYOUT: Michelle Triana GRAPHIC DESIGN TEAM: Byron Bailey, Andrew Crabb SALES TEAM: Toni Allen, Rose Delosreyes, Craig Flenley, Trish Riley, Peter Shepherd

20

WHS Regulators Have Very Broad Coercive Information Gathering Powers Master Builder Wins International Safety Management Award Legal

24

Residential Contracting with Friends and Family Traders Penalised for Unlicensed Work Industrial Relations

28

Does the CFMEU Dare to Change?

EMAIL: trish@crowtherblayne.com.au PRODUCTION: Brooke Travers

GENERAL FEATURES Unlocking hidden Capacity by Closing the Gaps

67

PRINT: Newstyle DISTRIBUTION: Newstyle

Consumer Kitchen and Bathroom Survey of Australian Consumer Wish Lists

70

Keeping it Real: Why Customised Replica Timber Cladding Makes Sense

72

CONTACT DETAILS PO Box 824 Surfers Paradise QLD 4217 TEL: 1800 222 757 FAX: 1800 063 151 EMAIL: publications@crowtherblayne.com.au WEB: www.crowtherblayne.com.au

Timber: The Natural Flooring Solution

74

DIRECTORY

77

WHAT’S NEW

79

Disclaimer: The Publisher and the Master Builders Association of NSW, 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.

M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F N S W A U G U S T / S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5

• Avoid the risks of using Non-Compliant Steels • How to assure product conformance to standards • National & International Speakers on Compliance Risks

ACRS

Steel Compliance Seminars Australia & New Zealand – October 2015 PERTH – Monday October 12th, 5.30pm-8.30pm SYDNEY – Tuesday October 13th, 5.30pm-8.30pm MELBOURNE – Thursday October 15th, 5.30pm-8.30pm CHRISTCHURCH – Monday October 19th, 5.30pm-8.30pm AUCKLAND – Tuesday October 20th, 5.30pm-8.30pm BRISBANE – Thursday October 22nd, 5.30pm-8.30pm SEMINARS ARE FREE TO ATTEND AND CPD POINTS MAY BE APPLICABLE. • Australia and New Zealand are part of a global supply chain and building & construction products are now being sourced from both overseas and local manufacturers and suppliers. Alarmingly, there is increasing evidence that many suppliers of products, regardless of where they are made, are not providing evidence that they meet Australian and New Zealand Standards and building requirements, and hence they may not comply.

• Formed in 2000 by peak construction industry bodies, the Australasian Certification Authority for Reinforcing and Structural Steels, “ACRS”, independently assesses and third party certifies steel manufacturing & processing at over 150 locations in over 15 countries worldwide for construction steel products supplied to Australian and New Zealand standards.

ACRS is your toolkit for steel compliance.

To register for the free ACRS Seminar Series visit: www.steelcertification.com or www.steelcertification.co.nz

Call ACRS on (02) 9965 7216, email info@steelcertification.com or visit www.steelcertification.com ACRS – The Australasian Certification Authority for Reinforcing and Structural Steels Ltd ABN 40 096 692 545

4

contact list MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF NEW SOUTH WALES 52 Parramatta Road, Forest Lodge NSW 2037 / Private Bag 9, Broadway NSW 2007 Tel: (02) 8586 3555 | Fax: (02) 9660 3700 Email: enquiries@mbansw.asn.au Website: www.mbansw.asn.au | ABN 96 550 042 906

HEAD OFFICE

EVENTS & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Awards Coordinator Assistant Awards Coordinators Special Projects Officer Business Development Manager

EXECUTIVE BOARD Paul Maginnity Ross Mitchell Gordon Leggett Martin Patience Simon Pilcher Chris Calderbank-Park

President Deputy President Immediate Past President Vice President Vice President Vice President Brian Seidler Amanda de Vries

8586 3503 8586 3507

Luke Hueston Edwina Lyall Aravinda Mathuran Adam Myers Dele Omisore Erroll Wong Adam Fawcett

8586 3519 0412 806 700 8586 3556 8586 3501 8586 3583 8586 3568 0466 770 910

MBA INSURANCE SERVICES State Manager Senior Account Manager Account Executive - General

Authorised Representative Capital & Construction Risk Managers Pty Limited Account Executive - Home Warranty Daniel Vine Jayne Pan Account Executive - Warranty Joel Beater National Business Development Manager (Surety) Bill Korakis Business Development Manager (NSW) Leeanne Farmer

8586 3566 8586 3528 8586 3565 8586 3541 8586 3512

MASTER BUILDERS FINANCIAL SERVICES Broker

Ogarit Kelley

0414 919 194 1300 760 366

MEMBER SERVICES Manager Member Services Membership Coordinator

Graham McGuiggan Paul Love

Membership Representative Member Services - Administration Member Services - Administration Member Services - Administration

Mark Shearwood Joan Ah-Hen Samantha Bell Susie Bell

8586 3554 8586 3540 0413 306 556 8586 3520 8586 3515 8586 3572 8586 3581

TRAINING Education Centre Training Manager Qualifications Coordinator Qualifications Administrator Cert III Coordinator Cert III Customer Service Cert III Lead Trainer Short Course Coordinator Short Course Administrator Training Accounts /Administration Coordinator MBA Skill Recognition Centre

Darin Grace Dean Edser Jade Lane Carson Gao Jason Kim Andrew Turner Jake Curran Vanessa Herrera Sharon Eakin

8586 3588 8586 3579 8586 3548 8586 3582 8586 3559 8586 3559 8586 3578 8586 3534 8586 3577 8586 3553 1300 884 315

Safety Officer IR Administration Officer Secretary

Director Finance & Administration Accounts Supervisor Credit Control Manager Credit Officer Inventory & Property Administration Officer Accounts Payable Officer Reception #2 Fishbowl #2 Charles Martin Room

8586 3508 8586 3511 8586 3509 8586 3567 8586 3527 8586 3510 8586 3526 8586 3530 8586 3546

Joanne Papageorge Daniela Fraumeni

8586 3555 8586 3555

RECEPTION Receptionist

REGIONAL OFFICES NEWCASTLE OFFICE Level 1, 165 Lambton Road, Broadmeadow NSW 2292 Tel: Hunter Region Manager Len Blakeney Office Administrator Sarah Croft Receptionist Amy Porter Industrial Relations Officer Ben Ziolkowski Shona D’Arbon Safety Officer John McGhee Trade Events & Divisional Coordinator Haley Tibbetts Membership Representative Luke Reeves Events and Training Coordinator Kerri Richards MBA Insurance Services - Newcastle Leeanne Farmer

4953 9400 4979 0101 4979 0103 4953 9400 4979 0107 4979 0116 4979 0112 4979 0106 4979 0109 4979 0105 0466 777 057

NORTHERN REGIONS Shop 1, 97 Tamar Street, Ballina NSW 2478 Tel: Regional Coordinator Member Services Representative

Graham Marchant Marlee Rudgley

6681 4266 0428 412 784

GOSFORD Unit 7/4 Stockyard Place, West Gosford NSW 2250 Tel: Director Housing Peter Meredith Member Services Representative Zoe Gardnier Unit 1, 171 Princes Highway, Ulladulla NSW 2539 Tel: Regional Coordinator Lynn Smith Member Services Representative Debbie McDonald

8586 3538 8586 3533 8586 3536 8586 3542 8586 3550 0423 025 380 0412 499 754 0401 998 853 0413 316 407

Peter Meredith

4323 4588

WOLLONGONG

Robert Collings Hannah Shephard Daniel Schwebel

8586 3517 8586 3517 8586 3517

Unit 3, 29-35 Princes Highway, Unanderra NSW 2526 Tel: Regional Coordinator Michael Hart Member Services Representative Ruth Billington

4323 4588 0412 694 001 4323 4588

4454 1955 0418 633 297 4454 1955

ALBURY/WODONGA 35 Hovell Street, Wodonga VIC 3690 Tel: Regional Manager Office Manager Administration Assistant

Steve Donaghey Lesley Donaghey Pauline Meade

6058 2000 0402 044 075 6058 2000 6058 2000

PORT MACQUARIE Unit 3, 12 Jindalee Road, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 Tel: Member Services Representative Kerrie Clark

6581 4033 6581 4033

4272 9409 0419 140 126 4272 9409

ORANGE

INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS AND SAFETY Director Construction Executive Officer Safety Industrial Relations Officers

Arthur Johnson Strebre Delovski Leon Kopcikas Frank Chevell Rheannon Vea Vea Bridget Delmore

FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION

Karen Kellock Perry Wynn Maria-Luisa Branezac Kelly Graham Teigen Morier Paulo Atienza Ben Mitchell Frank Luppino Donna Seidler

LEGAL Head Solicitor Solicitor Legal Assistant

8586 3537 8586 3539 8586 3562 8586 3580 8586 3525

8586 3588 8586 3557

HOUSING Director Housing

Craig Donovan Omesh Jethwani Steven Swan Amanda Kernaghan Alexander Ashley-Carrington

Laura Weston

APPRENTICESHIP SERVICES Apprenticeship Services Manager Apprenticeship Services Coordinator Apprenticeship Payroll Supervisor Apprenticeship Payroll Officer Apprenticeship Field Officer Apprenticeship Field Officer Apprenticeship Field Officer Apprenticeship Field Officer Apprenticeship Mentor

Director Operations Government Projects & Programs Manager Communications Manager IT Systems Manager IT Support/Webmaster

SOUTHERN REGIONS

NORWEST EDUCATION CENTRE 5 Burbank Place, Baulkham Hills NSW 2153 Reception Executive Office

8586 3506 8586 3564 8586 3504 0421 050 395

OPERATIONS

EXECUTIVE Executive Director Executive Assistant

Susan Manning Helen Harris Amanda Kelly Juliet Pratley

Peter Glover David Solomon Rod Grace Nicholas Arends Iain Jarman Chris Schultz Judy Macgregor Beverly Glover

8586 3535 8586 3552 8586 3574 8586 3573 8586 3502 8586 3522 8586 3531 8586 3523

Level 1, 296-298 Summer St, Orange NSW 2800 Tel: Fax: Mob Regional Coordinator Chris Dunn

02 6362 6895 02 6369 0390 0458 243 976

MATES IN CONSTRUCTION Hotline:

M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F N S W A U G U S T / S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5

8586 3575

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6

president’s viewpoint Federal Parliament is currently holding an enquiry into non-conforming products and is due to report by mid October 2015. The terms of reference are all encompassing and include the impact of these products on industry supply chains, industry safety, and on the overall quality of Australian buildings.

• Apprenticeship levels remain of serious concern.

President Paul Maginnity

Statistics indicate building and construction is going from strength to strength in NSW. Our industry is a major pillar of the Australian economy, and accounts for ¼ quarter of the national value of work on its own.

NSW in the year up to the end of the March quarter 2015, has seen some 50,000 dwelling starts – NSW’s 10th highest level of starts on record, and with housing finance commitments in proportion to this number, this has contributed to NSW being the nation’s number one economy.

Furthermore, growth is forecast for each sector of the NSW building and construction industry over the next 3 years to 2018.

There are however, three major issues which will impact on our industry and the way we undertake projects. These include: • The issue of non-complying building products and materials remains a major threat for industry and governments across the country.

The recall of defective imported electrical cable as mentioned last year has been added to with the unintentional use of non-conforming hightensile bolts, which failed in the construction of a structural steel building, as well as the discovery of asbestos in imported plasterboard on separate projects.

Some examples of the nightmare confronting our industry where we the builders and contractors face onerous replacement costs through no fault of their own, by simply relying on products allowed to enter the market place or utilised by our contractors.

A statutory warranty that materials will-be-fitfor purpose is written or implied into our NSW State law, in particular the Home Building Act, however there are no concessions offered where a builder unknowingly uses or provides a defective product or material.

Master Builders calculates that some 300,000 new skilled workers will be required nationally in the industry by the end of this decade, to meet the demand for future new building projects. In addition, some 30,000 workers will leave the industry due to retirement or career change annually.

As most of you would be aware in the past our main feeder to replenish these tradespeople is through the apprenticeship system, which at its current rate will not satisfy the retirement rate of trades people leaving a major shortage of future trades.

It is critical that we as builders encourage our contractors and tradespeople particularly in the housing sector to embrace the engagement of apprentices and that we push to make our industry the first choice career move for the youth of tomorrow.

This issue has triggered an industry discussion at a national level within Master Builders movement to examine new options to boost the number of apprenticeships – including rethinking the apprenticeship model itself.

This rethinking could include for example: • Greater opportunity to start industrystandard trade studies while still in secondary school; • Greater flexibility in the delivery of apprenticeship training; • More incentives to employ young people as apprentices from governments, whether that be State or Federal; and • The introduction of a quota or ratio of apprentices to tradespeople on specific projects, are all to be considered.

The trend to buy-in the skill rather than training our future needs is now certainly becoming entrenched – a trend which we must resist, for the sake of the future of the industry.

• Warranty Insurance, the third Item is an ageold issue for the industry and government.

The past 12 months has seen some significant changes with the Home building Act, and the NSW Government is working hard to

M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F N S W A U G U S T / S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5

maintain an insurance scheme that is both fair to consumers and builders alike, as well as being self sustainable and allowing new young builders into the industry in a controlled manner.

As mentioned last year we acknowledge the NSW Government’s collaborative approach on this front. But I put it to the industry that perhaps it is time we should be looking to work with the Government to offer alternatives to that system and perhaps as an industry our housing sector should seriously consider some form of self- regulatory regime.

This type of system may see builders being screened for professionalism, training and strong business structure, and rewarded accordingly with a more saleable product with premiums reflective of the risk to the consumer.

In simple terms an option where, not unlike large tier companies self insure, warranty assurance is driven through your Association membership, with clear pathways of growth and support for your business.

This edition of the Master Builder Magazine showcases the winner of each category for this year’s Excellence in Housing and Pool Awards. These Awards are a celebration and acknowledgement of excellence in building and construction in NSW. This year the industry has again produced magnificent quality and exceptional levels of detail. Nine judges commenced judging in May this year – and concluded in July, some 3 months of full time judging. Each building project entered was visited and a site inspection conducted. The construction value for all of the entries received this year equated to some $867M, extraordinary amount and an extraordinary feat for the judges to view.

I should add that according to the judges the quality and detail in this year’s entries again displayed some of the most extraordinary building practices and finishes they have ever had the pleasure of inspecting.

A special mention goes to the 2015 Master Builder of the Year, Sammut Developments of Caringbah NSW, and to Ciaran Goodman of Bronxx Construction Management Pty Limited, awarded Young Builder of the Year.

On behalf of the Master Builders Association of NSW, I congratulate all of the entrants and winners of the 2015 MBA/NSW Excellence in Housing and Pool Awards. I would also like to thank the judges, and the sponsors for supporting the industry and such an important event.

Paul Maginnity MBA/NSW PRESIDENT

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executive director’s viewpoint Executive Director Brian Seidler It is interesting to recall that at this time last year I reflected on an industry survey that Master Builders had undertaken regarding apprentices and apprenticeship levels. With the increased building activity in NSW unfortunately we are not seeing a corresponding lift in apprenticeship levels.

Executive Director Brian Seidler

The construction industry is one of the key growth sectors of the economy with average real growth of around three per cent per annum expected. This growth risks being constrained by shortages of labour, including in semi-skilled, skilled, para-professional and managerial roles.

Master Builders predicts that the construction industry will require an additional 300,000 people over the next decade, a 30 percent increase on the current workforce of 1,033,000 people.

The industry’s challenge is to meet the rising demand for a skilled workforce against a background of decreasing apprentices in accredited training, high drop-out training rates, an ageing demographic and a yearly exit rate of existing workers at approximately 30,000.

The construction industry has experienced a 23 per cent drop in the number of apprentices in training, from 56,000 to 43,100 since 2010.

In addition, the apprenticeship commencement rate has decreased by 18.8 percent since 2010, from 22,100 to 18,000 commencements in the past five years.

The nature of construction jobs is changing due to the introduction of new technologies and pre-fabrication. This is leading to altered work practices which no longer guarantee that traditional career paths will generate the mix of skills needed to meet the future demands of the industry.

M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F N S W A U G U S T / S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5

Employers have reported that apprentice quality is the number one issue impacting on their businesses. Employers report that there is a lack of awareness of construction career opportunities amongst teachers, parents and students; apprentice candidates lack “soft skills” such as communication, time management and life skills; and apprentice candidates do not possess the necessary literacy and numeracy skills to successfully complete an apprenticeship. New thinking and approaches are required for skills development and attainment suitable for the construction industry.

Recently the Master Builders produced a position paper called, Towards 2020: Policy for Australian Apprenticeship Reforms. This Document identifies the need to reform the current apprenticeship system, the reform challenges, as well as identifying reform benchmarks.

It is clear that a redesign of training packages to deliver skill sets that match modern building techniques, a redesign of early training delivery to ensure that apprentices are site and job ready, and industry engagement to not only promote trade skills as a profession, but also promoting the building industry as a great place to work.

I encourage members to read Towards 2020 and engage an apprentice for the future of the industry.

I would also like to take this opportunity, with the President to congratulate all winners of this year’s Excellence in Housing and Pool Awards.

Brian Seidler EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

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newsbrief

‘BUILDING AUSTRALIA’ – MASTER BUILDERS NATIONAL CONFERENCE

By Wilhelm Harnisch CEO Master Builders Australia I am extending a personal invitation to join me at Building Australia - Master Builders’ biennial national conference.

The conference will be held at Jupiters on the Gold Coast on 12-14 November. We are returning to the Gold Coast by popular demand. There is no need for me to ‘sell’ the destination – it sells itself. If you have been to our National Conference in past years, I look forward to seeing you again and promise you that this year’s event will be even better.

The program will focus on giving you tools to grow your business. Speakers have been carefully selected to cover a range of topics important to the contemporary building and construction industry.

We have enlisted high profile speakers who can give you the edge by sharing their knowledge of topics and trends which affect businesses large and small, commercial and residential. In acknowledgement of the phenomenal rise of social media, we have included a presentation by an expert who will give you the confidence to harness the power of social media platforms to extend your advertising reach. Some of you who are daunted by social media will be surprised by the benefits to be gained by ‘engaging’.

The XXI Commonwealth Games will be held on the Gold Coast in 2018. Over 11 days of competition, 6,500 athletes and officials from 71 member countries and territories will participate in 17 sports, including para-sports for elite athletes with disabilities. It is one of the biggest international multi-sporting events in the world. The infrastructure associated with the Games is currently under construction, and builders involved have kindly agreed to share their insights at a case session prior to a tour of sporting and residential building sites. This is a unique opportunity for members to see firsthand the complexities involved in delivering projects of this magnitude.

A comprehensive social program and special Ladies Tour have been designed to entertain and ensure that the event is an exciting experience for everyone. The National Excellence in Building and Construction Awards presentation dinner on the final evening will be a spectacular finale.

The 2015 Building Australia conference and National Awards ceremony promises to be invaluable for your business and rewarding for your social calendar and I look forward to welcoming you to the Gold Coast.

For more information or to register your details or book your place, visit http://www.masterbuilders.com.au/events/ national-conference

®

BUILDING AUSTRALIA Master Builders National Conference | Jupiters, Gold Coast | 12-14 November 2015

M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F N S W A U G U S T / S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5

regional roundup

BRUSHING UP ON WATERPROOFING FOR THE CENTRAL WEST DIVISION The Central West Division recently conducted a waterproofing course in Orange. The four day course, which is tailored for experienced practitioners to gain their formal qualifications for their waterproofing contractor licence, was presented by Andrew Golle and participants received a full qualification for Certificate III in Construction Waterproofing (CPC31411) as recognised by the Department of Fair Trading.

Practical exercises involved construction of full scale wet area, frame and fit, sheeting, levelling, joint sealant selection and application, and installation of class 3 membrane. Areas were then demolished and assessed for film thickness, application faults, angle placement, connector sealant function and bond breaker function.

Technical aspects covered were AS 37402010 Waterproofing Domestic Wet Areas, and AS 4654.2- 2012 External Above Ground Waterproofing Membranes. Practical application techniques were discussed incorporating various waterproofing systems, remedial waterproofing and defects.

Parex Davco and Sika generously provided technical support and materials. These partners have been a valuable support link for participants, offering direct specification services and product knowledge.

M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F N S W A U G U S T / S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5

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regional roundup

ULLADULLA AWARDS PRESENTATION NIGHT The Master Builders Association of NSW, Ulladulla Office held the South East Regions Building Awards Presentation Night on Saturday 20th June at the Ulladulla Civic Centre where over 200 people attended and were entertained

by MC Clint Paddison, Comedian Darren Carr and live music by Hipnoses.

The entries received from all over southern NSW were entered into different categories and a winner was selected by the judges from each of these categories and awards were presented on the night.

There were 3 Judges on the Panel, Jim Greenshields, who has been judging these awards since they began in 2008, new addition Ross Meredith who is now a retired builder from the Southern Highlands who has received the MBA Gold Medal and just received Honurary

Membership for the services he has provided for the Southern Highlands Division and Bruce Cohen who has a Property Inspection Business in Batemans Bay inspected every entry and selected the winners.

Residential Builder of the Year was presented to Richard Herborn, Puuka Constructions from the Southern Highlands, Commercial Builder of the Year went to Damien & George Hoyland, Hoyland Constructions from Bega, Encouragement Award was presented to Shane Rofe, Rofebuild Pty Ltd from Southern Highlands and the New Builder of the Year was presented to Patrick O’Donnell, O’Donnell Homes from Ulladulla.

We do encourage every builder to enter these awards to showcase their work as they should be very proud of what they achieve.

ASBESTOS TRAINING IN HIGH DEMAND FOR PORT MACQUARIE Asbestos is a key issue for WorkCover NSW on the mid north coast, due to the frequency of renovations, including kitchens and bathrooms.

MBA Port Macquarie has run three Remove Non-Friable Asbestos and two Supervise Asbestos Courses in June and July due to a high demand for them. The purpose built wall, designed and built by our long time member Jeff Walsh, has proven to be a resounding success for use in the practical component of the Remove Non-Friable Asbestos course.

Upcoming courses and dates for training in the Port Macquarie office are: • General Construction Induction (White Card) 23 September 2015 21 October 2015 • Testing and Tagging of Electrical Equipment 12 October 2015

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The Manning Great Lakes Divisional Information Nights - the final one for the year including the AGM - will be on 13 October 2015

The Oxley Divisional Information nights Information Nights - the final one for the year including the AGM - will be on 14 October 2015

The MBA Port Macquarie office will be hosting a WorkCover breakfast on Friday 30 October, which will be a perfect opportunity to ask any questions, whilst not on site, and hear about any updates or issues WorkCover may have.

Also, save the date for the Oxley Division Christmas Party, which will be on the Port Venture’s “River Princess” on the picturesque Hastings River, on Friday 20 November 2015.

women in construction

INVESTING IN WOMEN FUNDING PROGRAM – ROUND TWO Master Builders NSW had partnered with Women NSW to successfully implement the Women in Construction project to educate and provide access to career pathway information and dynamic online resources in the building and construction industry for girls and women.

The project was funded by Women NSW to provide opportunity for projects that lead to economic empowerment of women through training and employment in non-traditional trades. Non-traditional trades are those with 25% or less participation of women.

The Investing in Women funding program is about supporting key stakeholders to encourage women into the trades and to improve opportunities and outcomes for women in the priority area of economic participation.

Furthermore, the project tailored and delivered an accredited Certificate II in Construction pre-apprenticeship course building course delivering essential skills and key competencies that linked and provided further career opportunities in the building and construction industry for girls and women. In addition, there was access to mentoring, networking and potential job placements for girls and women looking for career opportunities in the building and construction industry.

Over 100 posters were printed and mailed to all females and co-ed high schools promoting construction trade apprenticeships to girls and women using the Girls in Trades branding.

Trade career information via 21 trade flyers, career pathway flyer, job search booklets and 12 fact sheets about the building and construction industry were developed and distributed at school presentations and career expos. Furthermore Girls In Trades section was developed in ALink NSW (www.alinknsw.org.au) website to promote the building and construction industry as a career choice for girls and women.

Master Builders NSW Women In Construction Group assisted with promotions, marketing and campaigns which assisted with embedding cultural change to embrace the participation of girls and women in nontraditional trades through its 8000+ members.

Master Builders NSW currently has four volunteer female mentors to provide mentoring to female apprentices thereby enhancing the retention of girls and women in non-traditional trades.

linked and provided further career opportunities in the building and construction industry.

The pre-apprenticeship course was delivered at the Master Builders Education Centre at 5 Burbank Place, Baulkham Hills NSW 2153.

On completing the course, students had learnt how to: • work effectively and sustainably in the construction industry; • plan and organise work; • conduct workplace communication • carry out measurements and calculations; • read and interpret plans and specifications; • use constructions tools and equipment; and • apply OHS requirements, policies and procedures in the construction industry Furthermore, the pre-apprenticeship course assisted in building the participants’ confidence, educated them on the various career trade opportunities available and encouraged them to consider a career in the building and construction industry.

Four female participants completed the 8 weeks accredited Certificate II in Construction pre-apprenticeship course which delivered essential skills and key competencies that

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housing

MORE FLEXIBILITY FOR APARTMENT DEVELOPMENT, BUT MORE PAPERWORK

The three-year review of NSW’s apartment design rules has finally drawn to a close, with the publication of the new Apartment Design Guide and final amendments to the State Environmental Planning Policy No 65 - Design Quality of Residential Flat Development (SEPP 65).

The new rules commence on 17 July 2015.

Development applications lodged before the announcement of the changes on 19 June 2015 will still be determined under the old unamended SEPP 65 and the existing Residential Flat Design Code.

The Apartment Design Guide (the Guide) says that it is about introducing ‘greater flexibility into the design process to encourage more innovation’. This flexibility is reflected in the Guide’s four-tiered approach.

Design quality principles At the highest level are nine design quality principles. These replace (and are similar to) the existing 10 design quality principles set out in SEPP 65. These principles are very broad.

In development assessment, architects will need to ensure that these principles are ‘addressed’ by a residential apartment development (under clause 50(1AB) of the amended Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000).

Objectives The second tier is the 80 objectives (set out in parts 3 and 4 of the Guide). The objectives are very general qualitative (non-numeric) goals.

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Architects will be required to explain how these objectives are ‘achieved’ in their design verification statement. This is also something that town planners will probably also need to deal with in the course of a typical approval process.

Design criteria Sitting underneath some of the objectives are ‘design criteria’. The purpose of ‘design criteria’ is to provide measurable requirements for how an objective can be achieved.

‘Design criteria’ are prescriptive and are similar to the ‘rules of thumb’ under the existing Residential Flat Design Code. The prescription of the ‘design criteria’ is moderated by the Guide’s explicit acknowledgment that it may not be possible to satisfy the design criteria.

housing The objectives with ‘design criteria’ relate to: • Communal open space • Deep soil zones • Building separation between sites • Car parking provision rates • Direct sunlight • Natural cross-ventilation • Ceiling heights • Apartment size and layout • Private open space and balconies • Common circulation spaces • Storage.

The other objectives do not have ‘design criteria’.

Design guidance The lowest tier is the ‘design guidance’. This is ‘advice’ on how the objectives and (where applicable) ‘design criteria’ can be achieved.

The Guide does not hold back on its ‘design guidance’, with 278 individual items of guidance littered throughout parts 3 and 4 of the Guide. Like the design criteria, each item of design guidance relates to one of the higherorder objectives (referred to above).

When the ‘design criteria’ for an objective is not met by a proposed development, the associated ‘design guidance’ can be used to assist in demonstrating how the proposed design response nevertheless achieves the objective.

For the objectives that lack ‘design criteria’, the ‘design guidance’ must be referred to when demonstrating how an objective is being achieved.

Overall status of the Guide While the Guide sets up this four-tier hierarchy, it is important to understand that there is no requirement for a consent authority to strictly apply the provisions of the Guide.

Instead, the (amended) SEPP 65 merely requires that, when development applications are decided, the following matters must be taken into consideration: • Any advice from a design review panel; • The design quality of the development when evaluated in accordance with the design quality principles (referred to above); and • The Guide (parts 3 and 4 of the Guide being the most relevant to development assessment).

These matters join a long list of other issues that must always be considered in

development assessment, such as: • The suitability of the site for the development; • The likely impacts of the development on the built environment; and • The likely social and economic impacts.

It is quite possible that, in some cases, there could be tensions between the provisions of the Apartment Design Guide and other matters that must be considered. When these tensions arise, it is open to a consent authority (or the Land and Environment Court on appeal) to decide not to apply a provision of the Guide (despite any mandatory language in the Guide itself).

Having said this, there are three respects in which the Guide becomes more than just a guide. Clause 30 of the amended SEPP 65 prevents a consent authority from refusing a development application - if the relevant design criteria are met - in relation to: • Car parking provision; • The internal area of each apartment; and • Ceiling height.

This is based on an existing provision in SEPP 65 for apartment sizes and ceiling height.

However, the new clause 30 is weaker than the existing provision. This is because it requires a consent authority to refuse development consent if it thinks that the development does not demonstrate that adequate regard has been given to the relevant objective, even if the design criteria has been satisfied. In practice, it may prove difficult for consent authorities to rely on this provision (and would probably only be invoked in unusual circumstances).

Consent authorities must also refuse to grant development consent if they think that inadequate regard has been given to the design quality principles.

It’s worth briefly commenting on the way that clause 30 deals with car parking (a new provision) and apartment size (an altered provision).

Car parking Some of the changes to car parking rules flagged when the draft Apartment Design Guide was released last year have been abandoned.

The Guide’s design criteria for car parking (under objective 3J-1) now sets the minimum car parking requirement for residents and visitors in certain areas as the lower of either: • The requirement prescribed by the council; or

• The amount set by Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) in its Guide to Traffic Generating Developments.

In some areas, this will reduce (but not eliminate) the requirement to provide car parking.

For example, the Hills Shire Council requirement for two residential car parking spaces to be provided for each two bedroom unit located outside of a centre is higher than the RMS’ requirement of 1.2 residential spaces for two bedroom units in medium residential flat buildings. Clause 30 of the amended SEPP 65 effectively overrides the DCP and – for a development of that kind - the RMS minimum is the actual minimum in the areas nominated in the design criteria under object 3J. Apartment size The new apartment size design criteria effectively overturns a Land and Environment Court decision handed down in April. That decision said that consent authorities were able to refuse development consent on the basis of apartment size, even when the minimum sizes set out in the existing rule of thumb were satisfied (our earlier article on this case is available here).

The new Guide contains only one single list of apartment sizes (avoiding the problem that arose under the State Residential Flat Design Code, where there were two competing lists).

However, the new list is not exactly the same as the existing ‘rule of thumb’ in the Residential Flat Design Code. Namely: • Two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartments now have a recommended minimum internal area of 75m2 (up from the previous ‘rule of thumb’ minimum of 70m2).

• Three-bedroom, single bathroom apartments now have a recommended minimum internal area of 90m2 (down from the previous rule of thumb minimum of 95m2).

The minimum internal area for three-bedroom, two-bathroom apartments remains the same (ie 95m2).

This will create a perverse incentive for some developers to do away with the amenity of a second bathroom from two bedroom apartments. Other developers may feel forced to maintain bathroom numbers due to market sentiment, but reduce the number of new homes in the development (and therefore reduce the supply of housing coming onto the market).

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housing Having said this, the Guide itself allows for the merit assessment of proposed apartments that are below the minimum size – meaning a noncompliant development can still be approved.

For this merit assessment to take place, the Guide expects that it be demonstrated that proposed apartments are well designed with useable and functional space.

It’s also worth noting that: • The new design quality principle 1 says that good design responds to context (context is defined to include economic conditions); and • Housing affordability is an objective of the amended SEPP 65.

In our view, this makes it possible for applicants to argue (and provide evidence) that strict adherence to the design criteria on apartment size may have housing affordability implications in high-demand areas, due for example to demographic considerations and market demand (or lack thereof).

Sunlight and daylight access The Guide has some (potentially) significant new provisions on sunlight and daylight access. At present the Residential Flat Design Code’s rule of thumb envisages that at least 70 per cent of a development’s apartments should have living rooms and private open spaces that receive a minimum of three hours of direct sunlight between 9 am and 3 pm in midwinter. In ‘dense urban areas’ this can be reduced to two hours. The Guide re-states this rule of thumb as part of the design criteria for objective 4A-1, however the two-hour exception is extended to apply to the whole Sydney metropolitan area and the Newcastle/ Wollongong local government areas. The expectation is that the two hours be between 9am and 3pm (rather than say from 8am and/or until 4pm) has not changed. There is still scope to argue in favour of utilising a different range of hours, but in those cases the consent authority may be entitled to refuse a development application on that basis.

There is a new, additional, design criterion that no more than 15 per cent of apartments in a building may be without direct sunlight between 9 am and 3 pm in midwinter. This may complicate the approval process for developments that include a significant number of lower level units that are shaded at this time of day.

The Guide sets out design guidance (ie ‘advice’) on how objective 4A-1 and its

associated design criteria (above) can be achieved. It says that ‘to maximise the benefit of direct sunlight within living rooms and private open spaces, a minimum of 1m2 of direct sunlight, measured at 1m above floor level, is achieved for at least 15 minutes’.

This advice raises several practical issues.

For example, if the advice is to be followed, it would require an analysis of what happens to direct sunlight within a unit. Analysis of this kind is not routinely required under the existing Residential Flat Design Code.

Additionally, the advice seems to overlook the benefits for room amenity of direct sunlight that hits internal walls and other surfaces that are not aligned with a hypothetical surface one metre above the floor level.

Objective 4A-2 requires daylight access to be maximised when sunlight is limited. The design guidance for this objective suggests that habitable rooms cannot rely on courtyards, skylights and high-level windows (with sills of 1.5 meters or greater) as their primary light source. A ‘courtyard’ is defined to be ‘communal space at ground level or on a structure that is open to the sky, formed by the building and enclosed on 3 or more sides’.

This design guidance has the potential to complicate the approval process for courtyard apartment developments that include habitable rooms whose only aspect is the courtyard.

Some provisions of DCPs wiped out Requirements of a development control plan (DCP) will have no effect if they relate to certain objectives, design criteria and design guidance set out in the Guide. These are: • Visual privacy; • Solar and daylight access; • Common circulation and spaces; • Apartment size and layout; • Ceiling heights; • Private open space and balconies; • Natural ventilation; and • Storage.

This should reduce the potential for provisions in DCPs to compete with (and overlap with) provisions in the Guide.

However, local councils have still been left with the freedom to impose their own DCP provisions in relation to other aspects of development.

Other new guidance The Guide is littered with new and revised text.

Apartment developers may find some text encouraging and other text worrying.

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For example: • Habitable room depths are limited to a maximum of 2.5 times the ceiling height (although in open plan layouts the maximum habitable room depth is still 8 meters from the window).

• Living rooms or combined living/dining rooms have a minimum width of: • 3.6 metres for studio and one bedroom apartments; and • four metres for two and three bedroom apartments.

• When residential buildings are to be located next to commercial buildings, the separation distances for retail, offices spaces and commercial balconies are to be measured as if they are ‘habitable rooms’.

Apartment developers and their consultants whose development applications are (to be) lodged from 19 June 2015 will want to study the new Guide closely to see if it has implications for their proposed developments.

More paperwork Performance objective 3A-1 requires the Guide’s site analysis checklist to be addressed.

Additionally, the SEPP 65 design verification statements - which are now often only a few pages - will need to be more elaborate.

This is because architects – in addition to addressing the design quality principles - will be legally obliged to explain how the Guide’s 80 objectives are achieved.

Increased DA fees The development application fee (when there is to be a referral to a design review panel) will increase by $2,240 on 17 July 2015.

Need help?

Gadens’ experienced planning and environment teamwork with a wide range of urban developers.

Feel free to get in touch with Gadens’ partners Anthony Whealy on (02) 9931 4867, Aaron Gadiel on (02) 9931 4929 or Christina Renner on (02) 9931 4701.

housing

DRAFT LEGISLATION ESTABLISHES A DEFECTS BOND As predicted in the previous edition of Master Builder (Call For Return of The Clerk of Work), the re-elected NSW Government under the Minister for Fair Trading, Victor Dominello has released for public consultation the draft Strata Schemes Development Bill 2015 and the Strata Scheme Management Bill 2015.

The reform process has been lengthy with a Discussion Paper on proposed Strata Title Law Reform released back in November 2013, and consultations occurring well before this commencing in 2011. The process of the review of strata laws has passed through the hands of four Fair Trading Ministers (Minister's Roberts, Ayers, Mason-Cox and Dominello) and it is expected there will be significant pressure on Minister Dominello to ensure the draft Bills can successfully navigate Parliament, unlike what occurred with the planning reforms.

Building Bond Master Builders has from the outset opposed the proposition of a defects bond (Building Bond), with the view that it doesn’t proactively address building defects during the construction process. It has been estimated that eighty percent of medium-density apartments have defects.

Our concern is that the proposed Building Bond will impose additional red-tape and associated costs and is more likely to benefit those inspectors engaged to undertake inspection and reports than delivering defect free apartments to consumers. There is also the issue of competition with other States and jurisdictions to attract much needed investment in apartments when no other jurisdiction has moved to impose a defects bond.

At a recent industry meeting on the release of the draft Bills, Minister Dominello and senior Fair Trading staff made it clear that the Policy position is locked in and that the consultative process in relation to the draft Bills is about the practicality on implementing the reforms and identifying any unintended consequences.

In otherwords, NSW apartment developers will be locked into a two per cent Building

Bond, unless compromise is required through government negotiations to get the Bills through Parliament.

Part 11 of the Strata Schemes Management Bill 2015 provides for the introduction of the Building Bond. The Bond will be two percent of the contract price for the building work, paid by the developer into a ‘Building Bond Account’. The Building Bond Account is to be administered by the Chief Executive of the Office of Finance and Services, under which Fair Trading resides.

Amounts will be paid from the Building Bond Account to an Owners Corporation to meet the costs of rectifying defects identified in a final inspection report provided no later than two years after the completion of the project.

The Building Bond must also be released within the same period or within sixty days of the final report being provided to the developer, whichever occurs later and where the final report provides a clearance in respect of defects identified in an earlier report; or otherwords defect free at the compilation of the final report.

It appears that interest on bond money will be retained in the fund and used to offset the administration costs of the fund, although this proposition is yet to be clarified.

The requirement for a Building Bond will apply to residential building work which is exempt for the requirements of the Building Compensation Insurance Scheme (formally Home Owners Warranty Insurance) including mixed use buildings with residential parts. This is a change from a previous version of the draft Bill which included all residential strata projects, including those already covered by insurance.

Inspection and Reports Division 2 of the draft Bill provides that developer of a strata scheme is required to appoint and pay for a ‘Building Inspector’, approved by the Owners Corporation to undertake an interim and final inspection and report on any defective work. Should the developer and the Owners Corporation fail to agree on the appointment of the inspector, the appointment of the Building Inspector will fall to the Chief Executive of the Office of Finance and Services.

We have previously suggested that developers are likely to default the appointment of the Building Inspector to the Chief Executive rather than enter debate with the Owners Corporation on the appointment of the inspector. Any subsequent grievances by the Owners Corporation in respect of the conduct and performance of the inspector would subsequently lay with the Chief Executive and could not be proportioned back to the developer over the appointment.

Such details as the experience and competency of the Building Inspectors, insurance cover and indeed, the scope or work covered by the inspection and structure and content of reports is left to be detailed in the supporting Regulations. We are advised that Master Builders will be involved in the development of the supporting Regulations.

The Building Inspector is to be appointed no later than twelve months after the completion of the building work and an interim report outlining any building defects, and the likely cause of the defects is to be provided no later than eighteen month after completion.

A further and final inspection and report must

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housing be arranged by the developer no later than eighteen months after the completion of building work. The object of this report is to identify if defects outlined in the interim report have been rectified and further defects have been found.

Copies of the reports must to be provided by the inspector to the developer, Owners Corporation and the Chief Executive. The developer in-turn must provide a copy of the report to builder.

Bond no finality for future action The proposed scheme for Building Bond will not provide finality to any future or associated action in respect of matters identified in the report or covered by the Building Bond. The draft legislation makes it clear that Part 11 will not affect any other remedies (will not extinguish Statutory Warranties) that may be taken for defective building work. A future Court or Tribunal must consider a report, however are not bound by the report.

It appears it will be left to the Regulations to see if a Building Inspector will be indemnified for any direct action in respect of conducting inspections and subsequent reports. Master Builders recalls that during previous discussion with Fair Trading, it was suggested that inspectors would be

indemnified. The Regulation will also address any requirements for inspectors to hold professional Indemnity Insurance.

Commentary Master Builders is sceptical that the proposed scheme will do anything to address the continuing prevalence of defects in apartment buildings. The Department of Finance and Services engaged Ernst & Young to evaluate the direct and indirect costs of the Building Bond initiative. Master Builders is unaware of the results of this work by Ernst & Young and no reference is made to this work in relation to supporting the requirements for a Building Bond.

We question as to whether indeed the proposal of Part 11 of the Bill satisfies the NSW Principles for Better Regulation: 1. The objective of the Building Bond is not clear, in that it has not been clearly established if the objective is to compensate aggrieved unit owners; or is it a process to reduce defects in strata buildings. The proposal in our view certainly does not target the issue of preventing defects in strata buildings if indeed this is a key objective.

The Bond targets defects via superficial inspections after completion of the building, it does not seek to address such defects during the construction process.

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2. The costs and benefits of the proposal have not, as we understand been disclosed nor the evaluation of any alternative proposals.

3. Part 11 goes against the simplification and consolidation of existing legislation by providing a new mechanism for residential building defects outside of what is considered the host legislation for residential building work, the Home Building Act. A significant concern for our members is that the cost of the Building Bond will be passed on to the builder by way of retentions sums.

This being the case, certain developers will continue to pressure down on price, resulting in the substitution of cheaper materials or construction methods and consequently be prepared to right off the bond due to holding retention money. The new requirements for retention trust currently apply to projects exceeding twenty million dollars.

While we welcome the opportunity to participate in the development of the supporting Regulations in relation to putting detail around the appointment of inspectors and scope of inspection and reports, we will watch with interest the passage of the Bills through the Parliament.

apprenticeship

THE MASTER BUILDERS PRE APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM Karen Kellock, Apprenticeship Services Manager and Darin Grace, Training Services Manager have joined forces to create the Master Builders Pre Apprenticeship Program.

As an Industry Association, a Group Training Organisation and a Registered Training Organisation, we are significantly invested in seeing young men and women enter the Building and Construction industry with a greater understanding of their chosen trade, the safety, the industry itself, and the people that make the Building and Construction Industry strong.

The Master Builders Pre Apprenticeship Program is designed to deliver this understanding.

Why did we develop this Program?

• Competency based progression means an apprentice can progress to 2nd stage with minimal on site experience, and in some cases without setting foot on a construction site.

• Some apprentices that we have employed have been returned or left their apprenticeship because they lack experience or understanding • We don’t believe in ‘training for training’s sake’ The Master Builders Pre Apprenticeship Program is the solution Master Builders are taking a holistic approach to preparing a new apprentice for day to day life in this industry to create the best quality 1st year apprentice.

Our program will include some of the necessary skills and units of competency a 1st year apprentice carpenter needs to learn, but stops short of the 25% milestone.

During the Master Builders Pre-Apprenticeship Program, participants will handle carpentry tools and equipment, they will complete small projects and learn to work as a team in a simulated site and workshop environment.

This program will also deliver necessary training in working safely at heights, first aid, cultural awareness, site safety, conflict resolution, communication skills, drug & alcohol awareness, maths skills for site and how to handle money through the Governments’ Money Smart program.

Another important part of this program is hearing from people currently working in our industry. We will ask Apprentices, Tradies, Sub Contractors and Business Owners to talk to our potential apprentices about their story and answer questions to get a greater understanding of what our industry is all about.

If you would like to come along and tell your story, we’d love to hear from you.

Excursions are planned to visit work sites, both residential and commercial, to enable these new comers to understand and appreciate the differences.

We’ll take them to trade suppliers to see where a tradie, sub-contractor and builder goes to buy building supplies, tools and equipment.

And the very best part – we will place them with an actual Master Builders Training Employer for 2 weeks to get a feel of a real site.

The entire program lasts for 7 weeks including the 2 week trial and will take place at Master Builders Education Facility at Baulkham Hills.

The first Program is planned to start in early September 2015.

WE ARE CALLING ON INDUSTRY SUPPORT AND EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST Each successful program participant will be employed by Master Builders Apprenticeship Service and offered to Master Builders Training Employers under a Group Training arrangement for the 2 week paid trial at a greatly reduced hourly rate.

We’re hoping that these young apprentices will impress and you’ll want to keep them!

Your 1st year apprentice will remain a 1st year until their onsite skills marry their trade course skills, which may take a full year. We are not creating 2nd years.

YOU’LL BE ABLE TO SELECT YOUR APPRENTICE! Training Employers who have expressed their interest will be invited to come to our Master Builders Education Facility, enjoy a BBQ lunch where you will meet all of our apprentices, talk to them about their Program experience, see their completed projects and participate in a ‘speed interview’ system.

Call Master Builders Apprenticeship Services to register your interest and become part of the Master Builders Pre Apprenticeship Program (02) 8586 3533.

We’ll be posting updates on our Website with images and information of their achievements as the Program progresses.

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workplace health & safety

‘WHS REGULATORS’ HAVE VERY BROAD COERCIVE INFORMATION GATHERING POWERS The Supreme Court of NSW has confirmed the extensive scope of the ‘WHS Regulators’ coercive information gathering powers in terms of their scope of content, geography and timeframes, as well as their capacity to reach into the Boardroom (parent companies take note!).

In short, Regulators can obtain, on mandatory basis, information that: • is held in another Australian jurisdiction; • does not relate to safety • Pre-dates a relevant incident; and • Is created for Board use (including that of a parent company, rather than the subsidiary operating the business in which the relevant incident occurred).

What happened?

Perilya Broken Hill Ltd (PBHL) operated a mine at Broken Hill NSW where an employee suffered serious injuries when he fell 14 metres down a shaft in June 2012. The NSW Department of Trade and Investment investigated and in May 2013 an inspector directed PBHL's holding company – Western Australia-based Perilya Ltd (Perilya) – to provide him with: • The minutes from all Board meetings convened between May 2008 and December 2012 • The request was not confined to minutes that dealt with safety; and • Copies of all documents produced between May 2008 and December 2012 for the purpose of advising its directors on safety matters at the Broken Hill Mine.

The Supreme Court found – The regulator's power to obtain information under the model WHS Act is not blocked by state borders.

The subject matter issue – the information sought must be limited to ‘safety’ issues.

The Supreme Court found – The regulator's power is not limited to documents that specifically refer to safety matters - the absence of safety information in documents may prove that a WHS duty has been breached.

The time frame issue – documents created between 2008 and late 2011 could not be relevant to determining compliance at the time of the incident in June 2012.

Perilya Limited v Nash [2015] NSWSC 706 (5 June 2015) The Supreme Court found – Information relevant to safety at the Broken Hill mine held by the holding company of PBHL was within the coercive powers conferred upon the regulator under s155 to acquire 'information' and inspectors had broad powers and could request any documents or other evidence that helped them monitor or enforce compliance with the WHS Act.

Perilya provided edited versions of the relevant documents, and then refused two statutory requests to provide un-redacted copies, claiming the omitted material was commercially sensitive and confidential information.

The Board room issue – information held by the holding company relating to the relevant period was not relevant to the June 2012 incident.

Perilya’s Argument and the Supreme Court’s Finding Perilya argued:

The Supreme Court found – Holding companies can hold information relevant to breaches at operations conducted by their operating companies and accordingly the notice was valid in that regard.

The jurisdictional issue – the notices demanding the information were invalid because the inspector's power to compel the production was limited to documents or matters that arise in, or are related to NSW, and as Perilya’s head office was in Perth, it could not be the valid subject of a notice.

Other key issues about coercive information gathering powers • These are "controversial and extraordinary" powers that exceed police powers in some jurisdictions.

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• WHS duty holders should understand how these powers work – duty holders regularly: - Misunderstand their rights and hand over information that is not required -Participate in ‘voluntary’ interviews thereby not engaging their abrogated immunity against self-incrimination; and - Do not fully appreciate that whenever they give information to an inspector, it can be used against them for the reasons discussed below - so care should be taken.

• WHS Inspectors in the harmonised WHS jurisdictions operate in a system "in which they must serve two masters", they are: - First, the acquisition of information for the promotion of voluntary and preventative programs; and - Second, the acquisition of information for enforcement action including prosecution.

• It can be unclear which stage of the investigation continuum the inspector is up to ("Are they after facts, or putting together a prosecution brief?"). This makes it difficult to know when to "lawyer up".

Think twice before: • Agreeing to be filmed or audio recorded during a WHS interview – notwithstanding pressure to do so; or • Signing any ‘statement’ or other similar document; there is no legal obligation to sign a statement – at the very least, ensure the document has been comprehensively reviewed and ideally, advice taken about it. Statements signed in haste often contain inaccurate information that can be relied upon to support an "unmeritorious" decision to prosecute duty holders.

Kindly provided by: Siobhan Flores-Walsh Siobhan Flores-Walsh is a partner in Corrs Chambers Westgarth’s workplace law practice.

She is one of Australia’s leading work health and safety lawyers. To contact: Direct: (02) 9210 6279

ABBTF Operating Results 2014/2015

During the year to June 2015 the Australian Brick & Blocklaying Training Foundation (ABBTF) achieved the following: • 105 careers events and promotions were attended to encourage young people into the trade. Many of the events included Try-a-Trade.

• 2,193 students were provided with Try-a-Trade and Step Out Programs at targeted schools.

• 2,841 schools were provided with regular trade and career information, including a student nomination web page.

• An extensive recruitment program to fill apprentice vacancies was conducted with online promotion, job advertising and candidate assessment.

• 385 job seekers received short Work Ready bricklaying courses with an on-site trial and sign up of the new apprentice.

• 11,000+ Facebook Fans were reached via social media contact targeting Gen Y and Z.

• 63 adult apprentice bricklayers were supported with a $2,000 incentive for employers to partly offset the adult pay rate cost.

2,474

2,042

ABBTF Supported Apprentices

1,641

1,302

ABBTF Supported Commencements 890

595

• Contacted supported apprentices and their employers to provide support in line with the retention program.

ABBTF Supported Completions

302

478

63

35

385

80

• 19 e-newsletters, 8 print newsletters and 58 blog articles were created to inform the industry on brick and blocklayer and ABBTF activities.

Careers Expo Events Attended

• Gained extensive media coverage on the bricklayer shortage leading to promoting and filling apprentice job vacancies.

• Worked with a growing number of residential builders to share ABBTF strategies and address the bricklayer shortage.

• Supported quality apprentices participating in WorldSkills Australia competitions at regional, national and international level.

• 1,641 apprentices were supported with • Provided a scholarship to support the training employment and training via the Brickstart and preparation of the WorldSkills bricklaying Subsidy, an increase of 26% on the previous competitor for the 2015 WorldSkills year.

International competition.

Adult Apprentice Support Work Ready Course Enrolments

105

127

2,193

2,616

Peak Monthly Websites Visits

16,832

8,308

Facebook Fans

11,100

7,800

Step Out Program and Try-a-Trade

FINANCIAL RESULTS

4,620

4,248

Total Expenditure

4,672

3,950

Operating Surplus

(52)

298

Training Reserve

2,203

2,255

App Subsidies to Employers

2,052

1,433

Recruiting and Training Support

429

366

Taster and Work Ready

236

314

Promotion

373

337

Development

870

832

Administration

712

668

Geoff Noble, ABBTF Chief Executive Officer

ABBTF Strategy Achieves Younger Workforce

Supported by Brick & Block Manufacturers of Australia

August 2015

800

No. of Bricklayers

700

2014/15 2013/14 $000’s $000’s

Revenue

The full Statutory Annual Report will be available on the website or as hardcopy on request.

Bricklayers Ages - Censuses 2001, 2006, 2011

2011 2006 2001

600 500 400 300 200 100

17

Ye a

rs Ye 19 ars Ye 21 ars Ye 23 ars Ye 25 ars Ye 27 ars Ye 29 ars Ye 31 ars Ye 33 ars Ye 35 ars Ye 37 ars Ye 39 ars Ye 41 ars Ye 43 ars Ye 45 ars Ye 47 ars Ye 49 ars Ye 51 ars Ye 53 ars Ye 55 ars Ye 57 ars Ye 59 ars Ye 61 ars Ye 63 ars Ye 65 ars Ye 67 ars Ye 69 ars Ye ar s

0

15

A comparison of ages of bricklayers at each of the past three Censuses shows a marked increase in younger bricklayers in the workforce. The ABBTF programs over past years have boosted apprentice numbers and younger people joining the trade. Joint contributions by Brick and Block Manufacturers and the building industry purchasing their products continues to be a sound investment in addressing the skill shortage in bricklaying.

2014/15 2013/14 Nos. Nos.

Apprentices in Training

• Surveyed 1st Year apprentices to identify the influences and reasons for deciding to become a bricklayer.

• Provided advice to Government and industry • Up to 200 apprentice job vacancies were identified through the support of training organisations in some states on bricklayers and Group Training Companies. workforce participation and training strategies.

• Introduced a Spotters Fee reward to past and current apprentices who nominated a new apprentice in bricklaying.

OPERATING RESULTS

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics 2011 Census compared with two prior Census Reports data.

1300 66 44 96

www.abbtf.com.au | www.becomeabricklayer.com.au

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workplace health & safety

MASTER BUILDER WINS INTERNATIONAL SAFETY MANAGEMENT AWARD Master Builders Association of New South Wales is proud to announce that we have been awarded an International Safety Management Award from the International Safety Quality Environment Management Association (ISQEM) a United Kingdom based professional association.

This latest award is in recognition of Master Builders Association of New South Wales commitment to keeping its workers and workplaces healthy and safe.

“As the primary employer association in the state’s building and construction industry, MBA prides itself on taking a leading role in the Work Health and Safety space” said Brian Seidler, MBA Executive Director.

“It is extremely gratifying that our experienced safety team has been internationally

recognised for its initiative and drive for a best practice approach to safety which is taken both internally and externally by our organisation” Mr Seidler said.

The International Management Awards seek to celebrate and promote the success of the winning organisations and their employees in maintaining a safe and healthy working environment for all. They are open to businesses, public and third sector bodies of all sizes and sectors.

The President of ISQEM Wayne Taylor congratulates Master Builders Association of New South Wales on its success.

“The International Safety Management Awards rightly reflects the importance of aiming for good standards of health and safety at

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work. Master Builders Association of New South Wales should rightly be proud of its achievement. Congratulations.”

International Safety Quality Environment Management Association (ISQEM) ISQEM is a UK registered non-profit making organisation contributing to the enhancement of safety quality and environmental management on a global scale. The association is fully international with over 28,000 members from the UK, USA, Europe, Asia, Africa and the Middle East, who have joined together to ensure that the three key areas of management Safety, Quality and Environment are being raised and improved worldwide.

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24

legal

RESIDENTIAL CONTRACTING WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY We are finding that a large number of the MBA’s legal enquiries begin with: “I did a job for a relative as a favour” or “I did some work for a friend trying to help him, or her out”.

Warning bells go off when we hear this as it is usually the case that the Builder, in an effort to be a kind family member or a helpful friend, has cut corners to reduce the price or to make life easier for the Owner.

It is nearly always the Builder who suffers when these situations go wrong, not the Owner.

Quite often the Owner gets to save money – but at the Builder’s expense.

A classic example is entering into a fixed price contract so the Owner can obtain funding from their bank, if the bank will not accept a cost plus contract, and then agreeing “on the side” to carry out the works under a cost plus arrangement instead. Don’t do this. It is a fraud on the bank, and if the costs go over budget under the cost plus arrangement, the Owner is likely to blame the Builder and then try to hold him to the fixed price provided to the bank.

Another minefield for potential problems is agreeing to supervise or manage a project for an Owner-builder because they are a friend of a friend or a cousin and just “need a bit of a hand” or to do the job using the Builder’s licence but the Builder doesn’t “formalise”

things. It is not impossible to work for Ownerbuilders, particularly as a trade subcontractor, but when a Builder gets involved with overseeing a project, with or without using his licence, he will invariably be held to be performing the role of the Builder and Principal Contractor. Avoid contracting with an Ownerbuilder to manage a project. This article will not cover all the risks involved in doing so but this topic is briefly mentioned because Builders will quite often get themselves into such a situation because the Owner-builder is someone they know and think they can trust. If things go wrong, however, the Builder will be blamed.

The Big Three The three main things to remember when contracting with friends or family to carry out residential building works are: 1. Sign a contract which is compliant with the Home Building Act 1989 (NSW); 2. Hold a current contractor licence for the work to be carried out; 3. Take out insurance under the Home Building Compensation Fund (“HBCF”) (formerly Home Warranty Insurance) for the scope of works in the contract.

Contract The contract should be in writing, include all the features required by the Home Building Act and accurately reflect what the Owner has asked to be done. Don’t agree verbally to carry out work or help out on a project for a friend or relative – or anyone. It is illegal and it is the Builder who suffers the consequences if the proper procedures are not followed.

These consequences can include prosecution

by NSW Fair Trading and in some cases even licence suspension. It is not worth jeopardising your licence and future.

Licence Holding a licence may seem straightforward – but ensure the entity that contracts with the Owner actually holds the licence. So if a company is on the contract then the Pty Ltd company must hold a licence. Don’t agree to start work whilst waiting for a licence application to be approved by Fair Trading just because the Owner is a personal acquaintance – this is a breach of the Home Building Act, which a rogue Owner will happily use against a Builder later on as an excuse not to make payment. Similarly, never “lend” a licence to an Owner to use on their project without direct involvement in it. This is extremely dangerous and not only carries risk for the length of the construction period, but also for a number of years after completion. Finally, don’t carry out work which your licence doesn’t allow you to do. This would be classed as unlicensed work and is prohibited by the Home Building Act. The risk is simply not worth it.

Insurance under the Home Building Compensation Fund When contracting with an Owner, be they friend or foe or somewhere in between, the requirements for insurance under the HBCF are the same. If the work you are doing is over $20,000.00 the insurance must be taken out.

If the Owner is an Owner-builder, the insurance must still be taken out. If the contract is for supervision of the works, the insurance must be taken out for the relevant scope of works.

Again, if the Builder is managing the project for an Owner-builder it is likely they will be seen to be the responsible Builder. Appropriate insurance should be in place.

The 2015 amendments to the Home Building Act removed the ability of Owner-builders to obtain insurance under the HBCF in order to remove some of the confusion surrounding the issue of contractors working for Owner-builders failing to take out such insurance. The bottom line is – when helping out a friend or family do ...continues on page 26

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legal not cut corners and fail – or forget – to take out insurance under the HBCF. If the insurance is not in place, the Owner can refuse to pay unless the Builder can show exceptional circumstances why they ought to be paid. It is simply not worth the hassle or the risk to your licence.

Whilst it may seem all doom and gloom, the harsh reality is that where money is involved, friends and family can quickly turn into enemies. Usually the Builder never expects it and is, needless to say, disheartened and frustrated by the turn of events. It doesn’t always happen – but it happens all too often.

The best way for a Builder to protect himself against time-consuming civil claims brought by a disgruntled or devious Owner is to dot the “i”s and cross the “t”s in relation to the contract, the licence and insurance under the HBCF. The contract will assist in determining exactly what works – and subcontractors – the Builder is responsible for, holding the correct licence will eliminate any excuse not to pay and having proper insurance in place will also reduce the Owner’s reasons not to pay.

Adhering to all three requirements will prevent prosecution by Fair Trading and/or penalties being imposed for non-compliance.

Once a Builder has done the right thing in relation to the “Big Three” he should ensure he follows the contract. Just because the Owner may be a friend or relative does not mean contract administration should be left to go down the drain. Notify the Owner of Extension of Time Claims where applicable, claim properly in accordance with the contract and above all, get variations signed in writing.

This too, is a topic for another day, but it is equally as important when working for personal acquaintances so as to prevent things from getting very messy as the works progress.

Doing things properly, and being careful even where the Owner is known personally, can help friends to remain friends and keep relatives on speaking terms.

TRADERS PENALISED FOR UNLICENSED WORK Two traders have recently received penalties of up to $8000 in the Parramatta Local Court for conducting work they were not licensed or suitably qualified to do.

Two traders have recently received penalties of up to $8000 in the Parramatta Local Court for conducting work they were not licensed or suitably qualified to do.

On June 12 Roselands trader Xiaoke (aka David) Li, trading as Solar Island Energy Pty Ltd (now deregistered) and also Rosh Home Technology Pty Ltd was ordered to pay $8406 in fines and professional costs for contracting and coordinating unlicensed specialist work.

Mr Mitchell has not held a license since 25 July 2013. In January 2014 he applied for a new license. Mr Mitchell’s application was refused because he had failed to satisfy a NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal order for an unrelated issue.

Despite being unlicensed, Mr Mitchell contracted to supply and install a new kitchen and TV cabinet for a Niagara Park customer, with the total job valued at more than $17,000.

The court heard Mr Li, through the two companies, had allegedly made representations he could supply and install solar panel systems for hot water and electricity.

Mr Mitchell demanded and received an initial deposit of $5,500 for the works, exceeding the legally applicable limit, which is ten percent of the overall contract price.

For a period of almost two years from December 2012 to June 2014, the trader allegedly procured solar installation work from customers in the Roselands and Mt Pritchard areas either carrying out the unlicensed work himself or coordinating third-party installers to do it.

NSW Fair Trading Commissioner Rod Stowe reminded consumers to check that traders are appropriately qualified and licensed, before agreeing to work or making any payments.

Also in June, Bligh Park trader Neil Charles Mitchell, trading as Great Australian Kitchens and Joinery, was ordered to pay $2411 in fines and professional costs for contracting and conducting work without an appropriate license, demanding and receiving payment before residential work commenced and falsely representing that he held a contractor license.

If you have any queries in relation to this article please contact MBA Lawyers on (02) 8586 3517 or legal@mbansw.asn.au

M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F N S W A U G U S T / S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5

“For many people the family home is our largest investment, so it is important you do your homework before you commit to residential building work,” Mr Stowe said.

“Reputable traders should be able to provide new customers with referees and contact details of previous clients so they can check on the trader’s past performance.”

For more information or to check a trader’s license is valid visit the NSW Fair Trading website, www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au.

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industrial relations

DOES THE CFMEU DARE TO CHANGE? When it comes to normal community standards of behaviour the CFMEU just don’t get it.

The community doesn’t condone or tolerate racism, yet the CFMEU and one of its officials has just been fined for racially vilifying a site representative on a construction site.

As a community we don’t tolerate violence against women in the home; we don’t tolerate intimidation and coercion in the workplace, building sites should be no exception. Yet the Royal Commission and the courts have heard evidence of acts of aggression against and denigration of women by some CFMEU officials.

Yet, when called to account for their unlawful actions the union often seeks to excuse its aberrant behaviour on grounds of promoting safety, despite the fact that their abusive and aggressive behaviour undermines a strong safety culture on building sites.

Surely the community deserves better, particularly as the CFMEU’s actions undermine both the economy and key social policy aspirations.

There is no place in the building industry or the wider community for rogue operators who use ‘phoenix’ companies to resurrect failed businesses in a new corporate form to avoid paying sub-contractors and worker entitlements.

There is no doubt that the CFEMU’s industrial tactics drive up the cost of publicly funded community infrastructure or that suppressing CFMEU industrial thuggery delivers substantial benefits from increased productivity, though the extent is difficult to numerically quantify.

The Productivity Commission (PC) inquiry into the cost of constructing public infrastructure found a strong adverse link between the poor industrial relations environment on major project sites and the cost borne by taxpayers.

Yet, the Royal Commission has heard that the CFMEU repeatedly signed enterprise agreements (EBAs) with the phoenix companies controlled by underworld identity George Alex, despite those firms owing thousands in unpaid workers’ entitlements.

Less schools, hospitals, childcare centres, aged care facilities and roads is the price our community pays for the toxic culture of the CFMEU. Liveability and more connected communities are sacrificed in pursuit of the union’s industrial agenda.

The community also has expectations that its members will return home safely to their families on completion of a day’s work, building sites should be no exception. Safety on building sites is paramount for Master Builders and improving safety outcomes is a responsibility that must be shared by both employers and employees. Safety is a shared responsibility and building sites are safer workplaces when everyone works together.

The PC also highlighted how the union’s industrial tactics act as a barrier to increasing the participation of women in the building and construction industry. Our industry has the lowest female to employment ratio at just under 12 per cent compared with around 45 per cent for all industries. Worse, female participation actually declined in the building industry over the past 20 years, against the trend in all other industries.

In no other workplace are employees subjected to the intimidation, abuse and coercion, building sites should be no exception.

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The PC suggests that the aggressive nature of industrial confrontations in our industry might act as a barrier to women’s increased participation.

This is hardly surprising when women in construction can expect to be confronted by CFMEU aggression and denigration, such in the instances alleged to have occurred against women FWBC inspectors heard recently by the Royal Commission.

Women in our community pay the price of the CFMEU’s cultural problems in lost opportunities for rewarding careers in a key growth industry just as the community pays in lost productivity that results from gender diversity.

Master Builders strongly supports the return of the powers of the Australian Building and Construction Commission (ABCC) because of its success in supressing industrial thuggery and affecting cultural change, both essential prerequisites to increased participation of women in our industry.

The CFMEU protest that restoring the ABCC would unfairly single them out from other unions. In reality, that is achieved by the union’s belief that they are above the law and exempt from community standards of behaviour.

The union self-consciously declares that it “dares to win”. The question is, does the CFMEU dare to change? All that is asked is that they behave like a normal union and its officials like normal people.

excellence in housing & pool awards

EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING & POOL AWARDS The Master Builders Association of NSW’s Excellence in Housing and Pool Awards is the state’s most prestigious residential building awards, celebrating excellence in workmanship, innovation and quality.

Venue, THE STAR Event Centre, Pyrmont

The Housing Awards showcase the very best in residential building and attract a broad cross section of the residential building sector including project home builders, contract builders, unit developers as well as builders specialising in additions, alterations and renovations.

2015 saw a huge number of projects entered with the judges astounded by the quality of workmanship and the many construction difficulties successfully overcome as well as the excellent relationships between clients, builders and sub-contractors.

The winners were announced at a gala presentation at the Star on the 29th of August, with the black tie event hosted by television personalities Sylvia Jeffreys and Tim Gilbert, with entertainment provided by comedian Gary Eck and the After Party Band.

The MBA congratulates all winners listed here but in particular, the Master Builder of the Year, Sammut Developments and the Young Builder of the Year, Ciaran Goodman from Bronxx Construction Management Pty Limited. The MBA would also like to thank its dedicated panel of judges who personally inspect each and every entry as well as our generous sponsors.

Comedian Gary Eck

Comperes Sylvia Jeffreys & Tim Gilbert

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excellence in housing & pool awards

Master Builder of the Year Award – Sammut Developments

Master Builders Association of NSW, President Paul Maginnity

Young Builder of the Year Award – Ciaran Goodman, Bronxx Construction Management Pty Limited

The After Party Band

M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F N S W A U G U S T / S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5

excellence in housing & pool awards

HOUSING AWARDS 2015 JUDGING PANEL ALAN BROWNE Alan Browne has been a building consultant since 1988. Prior to this he was a licensed builder with a trade background in carpentry and joinery. He holds a Carpentry & Joinery Trade Certificate, Building Foreman & Clerk of Works Certificate, Building Certificate and a Post-Graduate Diploma in Building Surveying and Assessment from UTS. He has had a varied career, including being a part-time teacher at TAFE teaching the Building Supervision Course (now Certificate IV) and assessing earthquake damage for the Earthquake Commission of New Zealand following the earthquakes in Christchurch. He is a past president of the St George Division of the Master Builders Association, and has had a heavy involvement with local St George and Chullora TAFEs.

PETER COURT Peter Court is managing director of Concourt Pty Ltd, which he established in 1971. He graduated from the University of NSW in 1966 with a building diploma (ASTC Build). Peter has been a member of the Master Builders Association of NSW for 33 years and has sat on the MBA Council of Management and the Housing Sector Committee since 1990.

Concourt Pty Ltd won three excellence awards in the 1990s and subsequently Peter became a judge for the MBA Excellence in Housing Awards. He has been judging for the past 19 years and was also a board member of the MBA of NSW for 10 years.

PETER HAIKALIS Peter Haikalis has a background in project management for domestic, commercial, and industrial projects. He graduated with an Associate Diploma in Applied Science Building and then a Bachelor Degree in Building from the University of NSW. He is managing director of the project management firm, Home and Investment Property Services Pty Ltd, and acts as a defects inspector as well as providing contract project management services. He is involved in his own property development of luxury residential homes and multi-dwelling projects.

MAX MOSHER Max Mosher is an energy consultant and has worked in the energy industry for more than 35 years. During that time he has gained a wealth of knowledge and experience, especially

in relation to solar and energy-efficient house design, including energy utilisation in the domestic sector and thermal performance assessments. Max has been a committee member on a Standards Australia Review Committee BD/058 titled “Materials for the Thermal Insulation of Buildings”. He has been on the judging panels for the Building Designers Association Annual Design Awards, the Master Builders Association Excellence in Housing Awards, the Master Builders Association Excellence in Construction Awards, The Master Builders Australia National Excellence in Building and Construction Awards, and the Local Government Association Environment Awards.

Max is a founding member and former director of the Association of Building Sustainability Assessors (ABSA).

MICHAEL O’DONNELL Michael O’Donnell is a licensed builder and is currently chairman of the MBA NSW Housing Committee. He is also the NSW representative on MBA Australia’s Residential Builders Council, is one of four industry representatives on the NSW Government’s Home Warranty Insurance Fund Underwriting Committee and is the builder representative on the TDA’s National Timber Design Awards. Michael joined NSW homebuilder Huxley Homes in March 1976 after nine years in the Australian Army.

In 1979 Michael took over Huxley Homes’ newly established Regional Building Division.

Michael resigned from Huxley Homes in 1995, which enabled him to establish his own building business, MKO Constructions, which specialises in the design and construction of residential extensions, renovations and first floor additions. Since establishing MKO Constructions, Michael has completed more than 300 new homes and extension/renovation projects in the Baulkham Hills, Hornsby and Ku-ring-gai council areas.

STEPHEN RAYNER Stephen Rayner has been a member of the Master Builders Association for the past 36 years. He is a past president of the MBA Northern Suburbs Division and has held the position of treasurer since 2008. Stephen holds a Carpenter and Joiner trade certificate along with a Clerk of Works certificate. He is the director of Stream Constructions

Pty Ltd, which specialises in architectdesigned projects, domestic and commercial renovations. His most recent project was a $2m home renovation at Longueville. During his building career, Stephen was a part-time teacher at Hornsby TAFE, teaching the building component of the Real Estate Certificate. He received the MBA Divisional Gold Member award in February 2012.

DANIELLE TOWNSEND Danielle Townsend is a freelance editor at Universal Magazines, a well-known publisher of niche titles for the Australian and international markets. She has worked on numerous home titles including Grand Designs Australia, Pool + Spa, Australian Period Style, Build Home, Poolside, Kit Homes Yearbook, Master Builders Association Excellence in Housing Awards Annual, Renovate, Kitchens and Bathrooms Quarterly, and Home Design. This is her 12th year as editor of the Master Builders Association Excellence in Housing Awards Annual. She was previously features editor at a country newspaper, where one of her main roles was as real estate editor.

JOHN WORTHINGTON John Worthington has been a member of the Master Builders Association of NSW since 1976. He graduated from Sydney Technical College in 1971 and holds a building diploma.

He also received a Timber Pest Certificate from TAFE in 1989, Master of Dispute Resolution from the University of Technology in 1998, Professional Certificate in Arbitration and Mediation from the University of Adelaide in 1999, Accredited Certifier Program (BSAP) from the University of Technology Sydney in 2004, and is an associate member of the Institute of Arbitrators and Mediators. He was awarded national accreditation in 2008. John is chairman of the Building Consultants Council and a member of the Council of Management of the MBA. He is currently engaged as a building consultant, acting as an expert witness in the Consumer Trader & Tenancy Tribunal and the court system in Australia.

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excellence in housing & pool awards

MASTER BUILDER OF THE YEAR

Sammut Developments A SOUTHERN SYDNEY ICON

EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS

Nautilus could be considered one of the most amazing homes in Sydney, if not Australia, and has already become an icon of Sydney’s southern suburbs. Set over four lots on the foreshore of Burraneer Bay in Cronulla, it consists of six levels, from the waterfront heritage-listed two-storey boathouse with private beach through to the porte cochere and extensive forecourt at street level.

For relaxation there’s the choice of a gymnasium, a two-lane completion bowling alley, state-of-the-art cinema, 2000-bottle wine cellar and tasting room, 25m-long lap pool, two spas, a day spa with steam room, outdoor futsal court and access to a private beach.

Despite boasting approximately 3950m2 of roofed area, Nautilus has been designed to nestle within the site so as to sit comfortably with its neighbours and not impact the foreshore. Even though the home is generous in size, it has been designed to accommodate easy accessible living in a warm, cosy environment.

The design and construction statistics for this residence are quite staggering.

The first sketch concept was done in January 2010 and more than 5500 man hours were spent on the architectural planning of the residence, not including interiors and structural design. Construction commenced in September 2011 and 750 tradesmen worked on the site, which peaked at around 100 separate tradesmen in a single day.

From the street, the residence is hardly noticeable, screened by extensive landscaped gardens and mature trees. Two private driveway tunnels lead to underground garages plus two driveways access the visitor parking and entrance. Almost half of the area of the home is below natural ground level, thus the subtle appearance from both the street and the water.

Approximately 2300m3 of concrete was used to construct the structure. There’s also 300 tonnes of reinforcement steel in the concrete slabs and footings. The excavation itself exceeded 6500m3.

Collaboration between Sammut Developments and consultants allowed amazing clear span structures and cantilevers, ensuring that the inside flows to the extensive garden and entertaining areas. The entry has a feature stair based upon the geometry of a Nautilus shell, and took hundreds of man-hours to ensure millimetre precision.

The contemporary design has been enhanced with extensive use of natural stonework as well as feature zinc roofs. Expansive terrace areas and the extensive use of glass, including clerestory windows, has created a light-filled home that serves as a hub for the large extended family.

The seven-bedroom dwelling incorporates three lifts, one accessing a 15m-long and 8m-deep tunnel that allows the occupants to access the water from the porte cochere without needing to climb, or descend even one step. Sammut believes it’s the only residence in the Southern Hemisphere to have three separate lifts.

On the waterfront, a sea pool was demolished and a new beach added. Extensive renovations to the heritage boatshed were also carried out.

Nautilus features a remarkable 20 car spaces, eight living areas, extensive entertaining rooms, an underground music room, two separate guest pavilions, two studies, six kitchens, an outdoor Teppanyaki kitchen, a commercial bar, 20 bathrooms and four laundries.

The house has more than 200 individual windows with an accumulative area of 950m2. The lower floor has sliding doors that span a distance of 13m clear. The sliding doors in the main living were custom built in Switzerland and are one of the largest door units, at 4.2m high, in an individual home, with a tolerance of 0.1mm.

More than 1000 individual light fixtures and 4.5km of pipes were laid during construction.

Outside, more than 6000 individual plants were installed, and some trees were even craned in, the heaviest being magnolias at 3.5 tonnes.

An astounding amount of custom joinery features throughout, with 68 individual customised joinery items for the six kitchens, two bars, wine tasting room, Teppanyaki bar and 20 bathrooms.

More than 2400m2 of tiles were sourced from around the globe, in 13 different styles.

Nautilus has to be seen to be believed, and truly is a remarkable collaboration between owner, architect and builder.

Judges’ comments: Sammut Developments was founded in 1995 by brothers John and Allen Sammut, who followed in the footsteps of their father, who was also a builder. The works carried out on their entry this year took more than three years to complete and Sammut Developments has now produced one of Australia’s most beautiful homes. Congratulations to the Master Builder of the Year for 2015 and a very much-deserved prize.

M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F N S W A U G U S T / S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5

Sammut Developments

2015 MBA Master Builder of the Year | Multiple MBA Award Winner

Boutique Builder and Developer of Luxury Homes and Prestige Apartments.

Sammut Developments are a Sydney based company and hold 26 Major Industry Awards.

www.sammutdevelopments.com.au

02 9542 7366 | enquiry@sammutdevelopments.com.au

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YOUNG BUILDER OF THE YEAR

EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS

Bronxx Construction Management Pty Limited STEADY PROGRESSION Director of Bronxx Construction Management, Ciaran Goodman, has worked in the construction industry for the past 16 years, primarily with tier-one and tiertwo construction companies Laing O’Rourke and Baulderstone (respectively).

He has worked across a broad spectrum of construction projects ranging from large-scale retail, commercial, residential and specialist projects to mediumscale refurbishment and residential projects.

His commercial work includes roles as site manager of Pinnacle Office Park in North Ryde; the Dapto Mall extension in Dapto; the Westpoint Shopping Centre refurbishment in Blacktown; the Apple Store upgrade at Castle Towers Shopping Centre; and the Nepean Hospital extension at Penrith.

As director, his work includes the design and construction of a one-off 500m2 home at Bingara Gorge; the design and construction of four two-storey townhouses, known as Lighthouse Mews at Breakfast Point; and the design and construction of 16 three-storey terraces – Ashmore Terraces – in Erskineville.

Ciaran has worked his way up the ranks, starting as apprentice carpenter, leading hand carpenter, before moving to sub foreman, foreman, site manager, project manager and director. He comes from a trade background of carpentry and progressed through the ranks, which provided him with a strong grounding and skills in design management, construction and trade procurement, construction programming and construction management, EH&S and quality management and relationship management.

Bronxx Construction Management is a positive and dynamic residential construction company which provides design and construction services. Ciaran founded the company in 2011 to offer clients a business they can engage with, and manages all aspects of construction projects. It has progressively grown each year as a result of the passion and desire instilled by Ciaran.

The company’s core capability is multi-residential projects where Ciaran can take the lead role in design management and shape the project vision. He takes pride in working to a vision and ensuring the client’s expectations are delivered.

“The best results are founded on strong teamwork and the ability to re-create the project vision on-site,” says Ciaran.

His company focus is repeat business throughout all facets of the project life cycle. “Relationships with developers, architects, other project consultants and subcontractors are a focus that we work hard to maintain and foster,” says Ciaran. “The end product is a direct result of this hard work, thus ensuring delivery of projects where quality is paramount.

“Each project team member embraces our company focus of repeat business and ensures we are proud to showcase our completed projects to existing and new clients.”

Judges’ comments: In awarding the title of MBA Young Builder of the Year, the first consideration for the nominee is to be under 40 years of age. The other consideration is that the nominee must have won a category in the Excellence in Housing Awards for 2015. The judges took into consideration the type of building work, the value of the build and the variety of construction. The history of the nominee and the future works provided a picture of a young man who has methodically planned the company’s growth and built a team who is taking the company forward. From an apprentice carpenter progressing through all the roles in the building industry and holding Advanced Diplomas in Building Construction, Business Marketing and Business Management, we are confident that our winner is well experienced and qualified to be our Young Builder of the Year. Congratulations to Ciaran Goodman from Bronxx Construction Management Pty Limited.

M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F N S W A U G U S T / S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5

Our experienced construction team will build you a high end architecturally designed home or commercial space for you or your clients to enjoy.

We provide impeccable service and quality workmanship, taking a project seamlessly from the initial concept through to completion.

Services include: • Renovations and additions • New builds • Project management and construction of architecturally designed projects • Commercial office and showroom fit outs • Commercial café, bar and restaurant fit outs

Scott Reidy: scott@hammerstone.com.au 0414 853 014

Eris Dufficy: eris@hammerstone.com.au 0424 144 388

www.hammerstone.com.au

EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS

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WINNER

WINNER

EXHIBITION / PROJECT HOMES UP TO $100,000

EXHIBITION / PROJECT HOMES $100,001 - $200,000

COMPANY: MASTERTON HOMES ENTRY: HAVEN 2, WARWICK FARM

COMPANY: FAIRMONT HOMES NSW ENTRY: HAMPTON 23, DENHAM COURT (WILLOWDALE ESTATE)

Who said we could not get something new out of something old? Well we have!

With Jim Masterton again looking outside the square to come up with a creative and functional home called the Haven granny flat design. This detached granny flat design is a true haven that includes all the features any one could ever need in a home with its open plan living and dining areas and kitchen at its heart complete with a breakfast bench. It has two bedrooms, a foldaway laundry and clever storage space tucked away. The Haven is a compact clever design that packs a lot of punch and craftsmanship and is ”Master-one”!

Built in Denham Court by a family owned business operating since 2000, this home was inspired by the Hamptons beach house style. The judges were impressed with the smooth finishes to the home in the adaptable areas combined with the superior quality of the workmanship. The resort style theme of this home has features such as an oversized ensuite and large master bedrooms with a further three generous sized bedrooms. The kitchen, meals and family areas open up to the rear corner with a flow that is seamless through to the alfresco area. The home theatre is conveniently placed in the middle of the house creating the flexibility to be used as a children’s playroom.

WINNER

WINNER

EXHIBITION / PROJECT HOMES $200,001 - $250,000

EXHIBITION / PROJECT HOMES $250,001 - $300,000

COMPANY: FAIRMONT HOMES NSW ENTRY: CARMEL 27, DENHAM COURT (WILLOWDALE ESTATE)

COMPANY: BEECHWOOD HOMES (NSW) PTY LTD ENTRY: ASQUITH 36, SHELL COVE

The Carmel 27 stands out from other homes because it’s uniquely produced style which uses a mixture of materials inside and out. The well laid stonework to the front facade creates an external ambiance which is continued internally with the sandstone look porcelain tiles. The use of Hebel paneling with an acrylic render creates a smooth finish and also increases the speed of production for a much cleaner and safe site. The Carmel 27 creates a feeling of space and grandeur as you walk through the entry with a large foyer oversized front door and free flowing floor plan design. Natural lighting has been incorporated into the house with two large skylights, one in the centre dining area and the other letting natural light into the main bathroom.

This home is an entertainer’s delight. It features four bedrooms. The master has an ensuite as well as a guest suite with its own ensuite. The home features huge living, dining, kitchen areas as well as a media and theatre room. It all adds up to a very livable family home with ample separate bedroom, bathroom and informal living areas. The judges were impressed with the amount of natural light and ventilation and the overall quality of finish.

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WINNER

WINNER

EXHIBITION / PROJECT HOMES $300,001 - $350,000

EXHIBITION / PROJECT HOMES $350,001 & OVER

COMPANY: ANSTEY HOMES PTY LTD ENTRY: SORRENTO 5.5, CASUARINA

COMPANY: ANSA HOMES ENTRY: THE ASTAIRE, EDMONSON PARK

This single level home has open plan living with emphasis on the alfresco entertaining space and is ideally suited to the New South Wales north coast.

The neutral colour scheme maximises the coastal location with natural light and ventilation. Energy efficiency is incorporated with rainwater tanks, solar passive design aided by external screening and cooling airflow. The mix of new and innovative materials creates an interesting feel to the home. The craftsmanship complements the excellent design and feel of this house.

This double storey home with an attached garden apartment or granny flat caught the judges’ attention not only for the functional design but also that it can, in most cases, be approved as a complying development on the average size block of land. The design in its current format is mostly suited to a corner block of land but is sufficiently adaptable to suit most average size blocks. The home contains all of the features the market has grown to expect in a double storey four bedroom home and the attached two bedroom garden apartment - which is fully self-contained and separated from the main home - would suit any parent or grandparents. The builder has achieved an above average standard of construction and finish and the judges had no hesitation in awarding the “The Astaire” by ANSA Homes this award.

02 6680 9333 ansteyhomes.com

WINNER OF BOTH REGIONAL AND STATE AWARDS FOR THIS DISPLAY HOME! BESPOKE HOME DESIGN AND 30 YEARS OF AWARD WINNING CONSTRUCTION. INTERIORS BY A DZGN.

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EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS

excellence in housing & pool awards

EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS

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excellence in housing & pool awards

WINNER

WINNER

DESIGN & CONSTRUCT – HOUSE UP TO $500,000

DESIGN & CONSTRUCT – HOUSE $500,001 - $700,000

COMPANY: LIVING GREEN DESIGNER HOMES PTY LTD ENTRY: AVOCA BEACH HOUSE

COMPANY: HATCHWAY DEVELOPMENTS PTY LTD ENTRY: OYSTER BAY ECO HOUSE

This house gives you the feeling of being on a beach holiday. It is full of natural light with great window design and positioning to give good cross flow ventilation. The house has been built to minimise its carbon footprint. There is clever use of materials and design keeping costs down but not changing its livability. The house wraps around the deck on three sides, creating a courtyard feel. Large opening aluminium sliding doors create a good flow of internal/ external space.

This design is excellent with all trade finishes perfect and demonstrating excellent workmanship. This beautiful home consists of four bedrooms, a two car garage and a swimming pool. Another great job carried out by a young builder.

JOINT WINNER

JOINT WINNER

DESIGN & CONSTRUCT – HOUSE $700,001 - $1 MILLION

DESIGN & CONSTRUCT – HOUSE $700,001 - $1 MILLION

COMPANY: PIONEER BUILDING GROUP PTY LTD ENTRY: FAIRFIELD

COMPANY: PETER O’BRIEN CONSTRUCTIONS PTY LTD ENTRY: ORANGE

Looking from the street, this house has many separate roof sections, which show very clever flashing detailing. The house has high ceilings, a large living area and a gas fireplace. The plastering on the high raked ceiling was well executed. An impressive staircase with glass balustrading sits in the foyer and with the 6 metre high ceiling and glass chandelier, gives a definite ‘wow’ factor.

The ceiling in the dining room has an interesting lowered section over the table area, which disguises air-conditioning ducts. Good use of stainless steel, marble and timber can be found in the kitchen. All finishes throughout the house are of a high standard.

Another young builder who has designed and built this most outstanding home.

The inclusions comprise full air conditioning, four bedrooms and two bathrooms with under floor heating. None of the internal doors even rattled. Great work and well deserved.

M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F N S W A U G U S T / S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5

WINNER

WINNER

DESIGN & CONSTRUCT – $1 MILLION - $2 MILLION

DESIGN & CONSTRUCT – $2 MILLION - $4 MILLION

COMPANY: ZAC HOMES PTY LTD ENTRY: TOYNTON, ST IVES

COMPANY: BUILD-IT DEVELOPMENT ENTRY: CHATEAU DE VIE, MOUNT VERNON

This house features a great sense of space and openness with high ceilings and large open areas. A high standard of finishes can be found throughout the house. Hardwood timber flooring is used in all common areas. The kitchen is well laid out, featuring excellent joinery work and includes a butler’s pantry. The kitchen and family room open out directly to the pool. This provides great family and entertaining areas. The roof is cleverly cantilevered over a section of the swimming pool creating shade for hot summer days.

A most impressive grand entry, which gives you the appearance of a French Chateau. Finishes throughout were perfect. Much of the wrought iron work was manufactured in China. Congratulations to the builder.

WINNER

WINNER

DESIGN & CONSTRUCT – $4 MILLION & OVER

CONTRACT HOUSES UP TO $500,000

COMPANY: CHATEAU ARCHITECTS + BUILDERS ENTRY: COLLAROY BEACH RESIDENCE

COMPANY: RENXTEND PTY LTD ENTRY: RENWICK RESIDENCE

This house took 16 months to complete and made great use of new products giving the building durability and low maintenance. Examples of this include the Danpalon wall paneling, the Alucabond eaves sheeting and Zinc roofing. A great deal of time and effort has been put into the European glazed pyrolave bricks in a bright teal colour which is a central feature of the staircase. A job well done.

The builder was hired to complete the project from design stage up to the landscaping, with the challenge of keeping the house on one level with no split.

The 25° pitch of the trust roof and the trusses spanning 15 m the apex was 3.5 m high and there was difficulty in construction. Even with all the site difficulties, the project was completed within 21 weeks and all the council conditions such as no soil being removed from site and a maximum cut not exceeding 750 mm combined with a 2.1 m for from back to front allowed the builder to show his true craftsmanship. The attention to detail was excellent and typified by the head course over the opening and expensive ensuite.

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EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS

excellence in housing & pool awards

EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS

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excellence in housing & pool awards

WINNER

JOINT WINNER

CONTRACT HOUSES $500,001 - $650,000

CONTRACT HOUSES $650,001 - $800,000

COMPANY: CONTEMPORARY HOMES ENTRY: ORANGE

COMPANY: HORIZON HABITATS PTY LTD ENTRY: WOOLLAHRA

This entry is a 477m2 home built on a 1000m2 block of land. The east-west design and elevated position has enabled the builder to capture the northern winter sun into all of the living areas of this splendidly designed home. All windows are double glazed and the frames have been sealed to minimise drafts. Two 2.0m high retaining walls were constructed on the northern side of the home to achieve sufficient elevation to ensure the views and northern exposure would not be hindered by any future development on the northern side of the home. The home features 2700mm high ceilings and 2340mm high doors adding to the feeling of spaciousness in the home.

This weatherboard house entry was built on one of the smallest sites the judges had seen to date. The builder’s trades people were excellent, with exceptional painting and tiling work.

JOINT WINNER

WINNER

CONTRACT HOUSES $650,001 - $800,000

CONTRACT HOUSES $800,001 - $900,000

COMPANY: MICRAH PROJECTS PTY LTD ENTRY: FOREST LODGE

COMPANY: JAKIN CONSTRUCTION GROUP ENTRY: MIDDLE COVE

This house only took ten months to complete even though the whole footprint had to be raised due to the flood affected area. Sandstone extends up to the floor level and continues with rendered brickwork and cladding. The large kitchen and family room is full of natural light. The marble work and joinery are to a high standard as is the tiling and painting. The house has many good design features and finishes demonstrating good value for money.

This entry submitted by a young builder has the most appealing finishes the judges had seen to date. The features include white oak flooring, ducted floor heating, very detailed skirting features, high ceilings and Versiclad roofing. A great job.

M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F N S W A U G U S T / S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5

WINNER

WINNER

CONTRACT HOUSES $900,001 - $1 MILLION

CONTRACT HOUSES $1 MILLION - $1.2 MILLION

COMPANY: RAWSON HOMES PTY LTD ENTRY: NORTHBRIDGE

COMPANY: ORBIT BUILDING PTY LTD ENTRY: BELLEVUE HILL

This house has a very impressive kitchen and family room both opening out onto a covered entertaining area, which flows down to the pool. High quality finishes and clever design features are found throughout. The design and installation of the stainless steel and glass handrails on staircases and balconies were excellent. Well done.

This entry has been well constructed and the finishes throughout were perfect.

The house design is an interpretation of a traditional bungalow. Excellent work.

WINNER

WINNER

CONTRACT HOUSES $1.2 MILLION - $1.5 MILLION

CONTRACT HOUSES $1.5 MILLION - $1.7 MILLION

COMPANY: VALIDVS CONSTRUCTIONS PTY LTD ENTRY: HUNTERS HILL

COMPANY: JOHN NEWTON BUILDING PTY LTD ENTRY: PACIFIC HOUSE, PALM BEACH

This site, although in a great position, proved challenging to the builder in getting materials on site due to the narrow and winding roadway. The house features good use of timber flooring and marble in large slabs on the walls.

Clever detailed tiling work both inside and out and a marriage of stone, timber and glass work well to create a good impression. The house has ducted airconditioning with a gas fireplace to give a comfortable living environment. A job well done.

This entry is stunning and superbly built with all trades exceptional. The builder should be very proud of this entry.

M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F N S W A U G U S T / S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5

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EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS

excellence in housing & pool awards

EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS

42

excellence in housing & pool awards

WINNER

WINNER

CONTRACT HOUSES $1.7 MILLION - $2 MILLION

CONTRACT HOUSES $2 MILLION - $2.5 MILLION

COMPANY: LOCHBUILD ENTRY: PADDINGTON

COMPANY: CUMBERLAND BUILDING PTY LTD ENTRY: WARRIEWOOD

This entry has been beautifully finished and it was a very difficult site. Both judges felt that the builder had constructed a great home for himself and his architect partner. A job well done.

This house has great street appeal with a very interesting curved garage door and from the rear, looks over the ocean. The house is environmentally friendly with solar power, LED lighting, IGU glass and water tanks. Finishes, including timber, steel, copper and concrete, are widely used to great effect.

These materials create interesting proportions on the exterior of the house.

An impressive staircase uses vertical slats, which raise the height of the stair, and encases it along the hallway. The design and placement of windows ensures there is ample natural light throughout the building. Well designed bathrooms and a kitchen using various materials creates a warm and inviting family environment.

WINNER

WINNER

CONTRACT HOUSES $2.5 MILLION - $3 MILLION

CONTRACT HOUSES $3 MILLION - $4 MILLION

COMPANY: MORMANIS CONSTRUCTION ENTRY: SOUTH COOGEE

COMPANY: PACIFIC PLUS CONSTRUCTIONS PTY LTD ENTRY: ‘K’ HOUSE, VAUCLUSE

This house took two years to complete and has wonderful street appeal. The tiling on the suspended internal staircase was cleverly detailed as was the tiling throughout. Plasterwork and paintwork is of a very high standard. The house features high ceilings, a good floor layout and large spacious entertaining areas.

There is ducted air-conditioning, a gas fireplace and great finishes throughout the house with excellent attention to detail.

This entry was designed to fit within the local planning envelope controls. It was an extremely complex design with a zig zag profile on the northern facade. The builder has produced a wonderful entry.

M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F N S W A U G U S T / S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5

WINNER

WINNER

CONTRACT HOUSES $4 MILLION - $5 MILLION

CONTRACT HOUSES $5 MILLION - $7 MILLION

COMPANY: F.S. HOUGH ENTRY: YOORANA, MOSMAN

COMPANY: BELLEVARDE CONSTRUCTIONS ENTRY: BALMORAL HOUSE, MOSMAN

The first thing noticeable about this is the attention to detail between the random sized block sandstone walls and the timber lined eaves with built-in lighting. Timber windows have very detailed glazing, giving a great effect. The house is full of outstanding finishes installed to the highest standard. Great job.

This house is something out of the ordinary with no window visible from the street and a natural colour of formed concrete. The extensive use of internal concrete has been lifted by the warmth of the timber floors and joinery. The detailing of the junctions where concrete, timber and brass meet is excellent.

There is innovative engineering that makes this house contemporary. Attention to detail with lighting cast into the concrete ceiling was excellent. It was a pleasure to see such exacting standards in the concrete formwork.

WINNER

WINNER

CONTRACT HOUSES $7 MILLION - $10 MILLION

CONTRACT HOUSES $10 MILLION & OVER

COMPANY: YUNCKEN BUILDERS & PROJECT MANAGERS PTY LTD ENTRY: PIRRAMIMMA, WENTWORTH FALLS

COMPANY: SAMMUT DEVELOPMENTS ENTRY: NAUTILUS, BURRANEER BAY

The design of this project is truly unique. This includes many distinctive features such as a curved zinc roof, used recycled timber throughout, a rammed earth wall, cambered beams and extensive Class1 off-form concrete. The finished home is perfect.

This entry, if not Australia’s most amazing home, has already become an icon in Sydney’s southern suburbs. The home is set over four lots on the foreshore of Burraneer Bay and comprises six levels, three lifts and a 20-car space garage as well as a two-lane bowling alley. The builder has produced a stunning entry and is a most worthy winner.

M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F N S W A U G U S T / S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5

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EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS

excellence in housing & pool awards

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excellence in housing & pool awards

WINNER

WINNER

TOWN HOUSES OR VILLAS / DUAL OCCUPANCY UP TO $250,000

TOWN HOUSES OR VILLAS / DUAL OCCUPANCY $250,001 - $400,000

COMPANY: TORI PETER GROUP PTY LTD ENTRY: VICTORIA HOUSE, MUDGEE

EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS

Although a Sydney-based company the Tori Peter Group has concentrated most of its building works in the booming mid-western region of New South Wales.

The house is modern, innovative and functional with aesthetic features that are complemented by the excellent quality of the construction. Victoria House is an attached single-storey dual occupancy located on a battle-axe block in the heart of Mudgee town CBD. The clever use of recycled railway sleepers in the retaining walls and boundary fencing along with the old Mudgee handmade convict bricks that were found on the original site all form part of the boundary fence to create an aesthetically pleasing backdrop. The placement of stones in the Gambion style wall with its white cages is a simple but effective feature.

COMPANY: LYNCH BUILDING GROUP ENTRY: MUDGEE One word can describe this entry - Wow! The design is sleek and modern with high raked ceilings and skillion rooflines along with the contemporary combination of timber and brickwork. The residence has open plan living and dining areas, which are functional, spacious and practical for a family home. The 70 mm stone bench top to the kitchen and mirrored splashback incorporated into the innovative design are functional and looks out onto an open plan living area and beyond to the outdoor entertainment area and backyard. The builder has addressed the most challenging components of construction with the truss design, which incorporated skillion rooflines to achieve a dramatic, open-living feel inside the house.

WINNER

WINNER

TOWN HOUSES OR VILLAS / DUAL OCCUPANCY $400,001 - $600,000

TOWN HOUSES OR VILLAS / DUAL OCCUPANCY $600,001 - $1 MILLION

COMPANY: QUINCE’S QUALITY BUILDING SERVICES PTY LTD ENTRY: MORTDALE

COMPANY: BRONXX CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT PTY LIMITED ENTRY: 7B3 LIGHTHOUSE MEWS, BREAKFAST POINT

The builder has been established since 1989 and began business as a small family building company. The duplex project at Mortdale is the result of over 25 years of experience and this is reflected in a home that demonstrates superior appearance, design and finish. Due to the orientation, the builder has saturated the formal living and dining areas with abundant winter sun, which the judges found unusual with duplex projects that are a mirror image of each other. This together with a high degree of finish has earned this builder the award for this category.

The project consisted of the construction of four double story Torrens title townhouses including external courtyards and common driveway. There were a number of difficulties in construction such as the ceiling heights requested by the client, which resulted in restricted zones for the floor joists and services.

This was further exacerbated by the request to have a column free environment internally around the centre courtyard and glazing sweets. This posed issues due to the long spans between the external walls and also having the requirement to support the second-storey facade elements with no columns.

Special attention was required to the roofing design, which consisted of both concrete tiles and metal deck roofing intertwined to create the roof membrane.

M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F N S W A U G U S T / S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5

excellence in housing & pool awards

WINNER

WINNER

TOWN HOUSES OR VILLAS / DUAL OCCUPANCY $1 MILLION & OVER

HOME UNITS UP TO $300,000

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COMPANY: TAYLOR CONSTRUCTION GROUP PTY LTD ENTRY: PUTNEY HILL FIGTREE APARTMENTS, RYDE

The residence was built on the site of the owner’s childhood home and therefore included the demolition of the existing single-storey brick house and construction of the new three-storey duplex. With its flowing lines and curved surfaces in the balconies and large glass windows, the residence gives the feel of a magnificent ocean liner and its location close to the heads with views over the ocean and Sydney Harbour. Spread over three generous levels, the main living area has a large open balcony with entertainment areas and an uninterrupted view use Sydney Harbour Bridge. The quality of the building is first class with the builder paying particular attention to all the joinery works, which continue the seamless flow from room to room and level to level.

This unit was surprising. As soon as you walked in there was a terrific sense of space and light. A 2.7-meter high ceiling and a great floor plan opening out to a balcony creates a wonderful and spacious feel. Incorporating the highest level of detail, the unit has quality fittings and fixtures throughout including ducted air-conditioning and LED lighting. Biowood was used on the deck to help keep maintenance to a minimum. A great job.

WINNER

JOINT WINNER

HOME UNITS $300,001 - $500,000

HOME UNITS $500,001 - $700,000

COMPANY: CEEROSE PTY LTD ENTRY: DNA, CAMPERDOWN

COMPANY: WESTBOURNE CONSTRUCTIONS PTY LTD ENTRY: MONACO APARTMENTS, RHODES

This development comprises a range of studios, one and two bedroom units and three bedroom garden apartments. This new generation design fuses urban style with green sensibilities. The finishes throughout are first class.

This unit has two levels, entering from the top floor to the bedroom level. The lower level reveals a large kitchen and family room opening out to a large covered area overlooking the Parramatta River. From this level you can enter the two-car garage through the laundry, which features a skylight looking through to the garden above. This design made it a winning entry.

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EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS

COMPANY: CRITHARIS CONSTRUCTIONS ENTRY: THE WAVE, DOVER HEIGHTS

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JOINT WINNER

WINNER

HOME UNITS $500,001 - $700,000

HOME UNITS $700,001 - $1 MILLION

COMPANY: CROWN GROUP ENTRY: VIKING BY CROWN, WATERLOO

COMPANY: GROWTHBUILT PTY LTD ENTRY: AURORA, LANE COVE

This unit complex is most outstanding in both its design and construction on a long narrow site and included in the design is a 25m pool and a fully equipped gymnasium. A most impressive entry.

A most impressive block of apartments. The design uses materials and textures such as concrete, brickwork, sandstone, timber and aluminium screens. The unit in this category was superb. Well done.

WINNER

WINNER

Photography by Product K - Kata Bayer

HOME UNITS $1 MILLION & OVER

HOME UNIT RENOVATION / OPEN PRICE CATEGORY

COMPANY: HORIZON HABITATS PTY LIMITED ENTRY: BELLEVUE HILL

COMPANY: PURE CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT PTY LTD ENTRY: SYDNEY

This unit was one of two in the block with an outlook over the city. On two levels and featuring an internal lift, the layout is spacious with good natural light. The marble work on the stairs is very impressive with handrails made of glass and stainless steel. The selection of materials and finishes throughout the unit are a standout. The generous sized balcony is made for entertaining!

Situated overlooking Sydney Harbour, this internal apartment refurbishment was perfect. A very difficult job indeed and congratulations to the builder.

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WINNER

WINNER

HOUSE ADDITIONS / ALTERATIONS / RENOVATIONS UP TO $150,000

HOUSE ADDITIONS / ALTERATIONS / RENOVATIONS $150,001 - $250,000

COMPANY: ASPIRE CONSTRUCTIONS ENTRY: MOSMAN

COMPANY: NEWLAND CONSTRUCTIONS PTY LTD ENTRY: ERSKINE PARK

The entry was principally a renovation project but due to the transformation that the home undertook, the judges felt this project and home was well deserving of the award. The renovation of this five-bedroom home was carried out while the owners remained in the residence. The builder was able to manage the project so that the inconvenience to the owners was significantly minimised.

The renovation of the bathrooms and the small additions to the ground floor involved the removal of some structural members and were all completed to a very high standard.

This entry is resort living in the heart of Sydney’s sprawling western suburbs.

The home was originally a three bedroom, single bathroom, double garage brick veneer home. The builder has transformed this fairly typical home into a “5 star resort” comprising four bedrooms, two bathrooms and a three-car garage.

Added to this is an indoor gym, pool and separate outdoor entertaining areas.

The owner’s sister was up from Canberra when the judges were inspecting the property and she commented that why should she pay to go and stay in a resort when she can come and visit her brother and stay here for free!

MERIT

WINNER

HOUSE ADDITIONS / ALTERATIONS / RENOVATIONS $250,001 - $350,000

HOUSE ADDITIONS / ALTERATIONS / RENOVATIONS $250,001 - $350,000

COMPANY: M G HUDSON PTY LTD ENTRY: NORTH ROCKS

COMPANY: CAPE COD AUSTRALIA ENTRY: BRONTE

A merit award was granted for proven consistency on all projects, over many years. This project had a good match of new and existing brickwork.

Mr Hudson’s work was an example of a proven builder with high values.

The work was sympathetic to the original dwelling with a seamless fusion with the original house. “Cape Cod Australia” provided good value for money.

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excellence in housing & pool awards

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excellence in housing & pool awards

WINNER

JOINT WINNER

HOUSE ADDITIONS / ALTERATIONS / RENOVATIONS $350,001 - $450,000

HOUSE ADDITIONS / ALTERATIONS / RENOVATIONS $450,001 - $550,000

COMPANY: THE BUILDING GUILD ENTRY: SOUTH COAST HAMPTONS ESCAPE, GERROA

COMPANY: ASPIRE CONSTRUCTIONS ENTRY: ALEXANDRIA

An interesting use of hardwood timber to the exterior facing the ocean. The use of hardwood was also brought into the house as a feature.

The young builder hand manufactured his own beams and doors on site using plywood material. The judges were impressed with the rear circular studio as it was acoustically perfect indicative of the accuracy involved.

JOINT WINNER

WINNER

HOUSE ADDITIONS / ALTERATIONS / RENOVATIONS $450,001 - $550,000

HOUSE ADDITIONS / ALTERATIONS / RENOVATIONS $550,001 - $700,000

COMPANY: NORDACON PTY LTD ENTRY: WEST PENNANT HILLS The young builder took on a project that was difficult from an engineering aspect. The original architectural design of the 1970’s house had to be respected, and this was achieved. The judges were impressed with the stability of the freestanding deck and bridge. The glazed triangular windows were also impressive.

COMPANY: PIN POINT CONSTRUCTION PTY LTD ENTRY: JEN WHITE DESIGN, MARRICKVILLE Good value, well finished and with site difficulties. The builder overcame major sewer and heritage concerns.

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WINNER

OWN YOUR OWN HOUSE PROGRAM • RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL • DEVELOPMENT

HOUSE ADDITIONS / ALTERATIONS / RENOVATIONS $700,001 - $800,000 COMPANY: EXPRESSION CONSTRUCTIONS PTY LTD ENTRY: CALYPSO, MOSMAN Great use of recycled bricks. The builder’s workmanship was very detailed and complementary to the architectural character required by the client.

Own an Award Winning home with only $6000 savings!

Call: 1300 720 594 www.peterobrienconstructions.com.au

HOUSE ADDITIONS / ALTERATIONS / RENOVATIONS $800,001 - $1 MILLION COMPANY: BUILDABILITY CONSTRUCTIONS ENTRY: CROWS NEST High finishes with large format tiling posed great difficulties when it came to the internal resilient finishes. The best part of this project was the fact that the old heritage listed house which was completely dilapidated was salvaged and fused into the new work.

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EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS

WINNER

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excellence in housing & pool awards

WINNER

WINNER

HOUSE ADDITIONS / ALTERATIONS / RENOVATIONS $1 MILLION – $1.3 MILLION

HOUSE ADDITIONS / ALTERATIONS / RENOVATIONS $1.3 MILLION – $1.5 MILLION

COMPANY: STUDIO NINE ONE EIGHT PTY LTD ENTRY: WEST RYDE

COMPANY: RECONN PTY LTD ENTRY: BALMORAL HOUSE, MOSMAN

A blend of the old house and the new modern extension, FC work at the rear looked like concrete. The judges were impressed with the remediation of the composite precast stone blocks that were part of the original structure.

Difficult site conditions were solved without the use of a crane. There was significant structural work to be completed, in conjunction with good finishes and detailed interiors.

First Floor, 32 Clarke Road, North Sydney NSW 2060 99224667 | info@reconn.com.au

EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS

www.reconn.com.au

Refurbishment – Construction – Civil

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MERIT

JOINT WINNER

HOUSE ADDITIONS / ALTERATIONS / RENOVATIONS $1.5 MILLION – $1.8 MILLION

HOUSE ADDITIONS / ALTERATIONS / RENOVATIONS $1.5 MILLION – $1.8 MILLION

COMPANY: CITY RENOVATIONS NSW PTY LTD ENTRY: SPRINGETT HOUSE, BRONTE

COMPANY: HOME CONSTRUCT ENTRY: CREMORNE

Exceptional off-form concrete finishes to walls and ceilings. The set out was very precise and near perfect.

The additions were complementary to the original house. What impressed the judges was the value for money, the extent of the work and the high level of finishes.

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1800 800 860 M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F N S W A U G U S T / S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5

EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS

Build your business

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excellence in housing & pool awards

JOINT WINNER

JOINT WINNER

HOUSE ADDITIONS / ALTERATIONS / RENOVATIONS $1.5 MILLION – $1.8 MILLION

HOUSE ADDITIONS / ALTERATIONS / RENOVATIONS $1.8 MILLION – $2 MILLION

COMPANY: BAILEY AND MORRIS CONSTRUCTIONS ENTRY: BELLARIMBAH, PALM GROVE

COMPANY: B-MAC CONSTRUCTIONS PTY LTD ENTRY: VAUCLUSE

EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS

The project was heavily influenced by the use of recycled timber in all aspects, featuring internal finishes and structural components.

The project was well built, with the style of this house similar to the Hampton style. The level of detail and finishes were consistent throughout.

Winner House Additions/Alterations/Renovations $1.8 Million - $2 Million Vaucluse Multi Award Winning Construction Company - Commercial & Residential Construction Management - Design & Construction - Project Management - Building Construction & Maintenance T:

(02) 9457 7866

M:

0438 56 4066

E: info@b-mac.com.au

W:

www.b-mac.com.au

B-MAC Constructions Pty Ltd is proud to be associated with the MBA Excellence in Housing Awards 2015 Over 40 years building experience

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JOINT WINNER

WINNER

HOUSE ADDITIONS / ALTERATIONS / RENOVATIONS $1.8 MILLION – $2 MILLION

HOUSE ADDITIONS / ALTERATIONS / RENOVATIONS $2 MILLION – $2.5 MILLION

COMPANY: VANDA CONSTRUCTIONS ENTRY: ST IVES

COMPANY: COUNTY CONSTRUCTION (NSW) PTY LTD ENTRY: PALM BEACH

Exceptionally unique features that satisfied the client requirements. The effort by the builder to convert the original building was evident to the judges.

Heritage imposition was placed on the site after works commenced. A significant amount of stone and site work was involved. The work completed by the builder met the requirements of council’s original heritage impositions. An extremely detailed and complex project.

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Exclusive stockist of Buzon products in NSW/ACT

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Ausdrain

Suite 10, 2-4 Bells Ave, Cammeray NSW 2062 Tel: (02) 9929 7650 Fax: (02) 9929 7655 www.ausdrain.com

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EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS

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excellence in housing & pool awards

WINNER

WINNER

HOUSE ADDITIONS / ALTERATIONS / RENOVATIONS $2.5 MILLION – $3 MILLION

HOUSE ADDITIONS / ALTERATIONS / RENOVATIONS $3 MILLION – $5 MILLION

COMPANY: PAUL KING PTY LTD ENTRY: DOUBLE BAY HOUSE

This site was well built. The judges acknowledged the builders effort and the high level finishes throughout.

COMPANY: SYDCON BUILDING SERVICES PTY LTD ENTRY: POINT PIPER HOUSE Exceptional Bronze copper features and glazing works. The detail and workmanship is an example of what is expected in this price range.

EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS

Hugh Rhodes-White established Sydcon Building Services Pty Ltd in 1989 with a view to carrying out high quality residential projects.

Today the company holds an enviable position in the market place undertaking large, demanding, high quality residential renovations, additions and new houses for several of Sydney’s best known architects and high profile clients.

Sydcon is committed to providing its clients with high quality projects completed on time and within budget and the business continues to grow on the back of this commitment.

Suite 40, 47 Neridah St, Chatswood, NSW 2067 Ph: 02 9412 3549 info@sydconprojects.com.au www.sydconprojects.com.au

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Images: courtesy Gold Coast Tourism

BUILDING AUSTRALIA Master Builders National Conference Jupiters, Gold Coast,12-14 November 2015

®

Register Early and Save $200 The Master Builders biennial National Conference is heading to the Gold Coast in November, for what will undoubtedly be the industry event of the year once again. ‘Building Australia’ focuses on assisting members to make informed decisions in continuing to grow their business whilst developing and maintaining strong leadership attributes within their business ethos. The lineup of high profile speakers includes Olympic Gold Medalist, Alisa Camplin OAM and Chris Richardson of Deloitte Access Economics. The site tour of the XXI Commonwealth Games Infrastructure offers a unique opportunity to inspect facilities currently under construction. The program includes a balance of business sessions and social activities — something for everyone!

Early Bird is now open. Save $200 on the standard rate by registering early! www.masterbuilders.com.au/Events/national-conference The Master Builders Excellence in Building and Construction Awards will be presented as part of the National Conference on the Saturday evening as the grand finale to an exciting conference on the Gold Coast.

We look forward to seeing you there!

PLATINUM SPONSOR

EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS

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excellence in housing & pool awards

WINNER

JOINT WINNER

HOUSE ADDITIONS / ALTERATIONS / RENOVATIONS $5 MILLION – $7 MILLION

HOUSE ADDITIONS / ALTERATIONS / RENOVATIONS $7 MILLION & OVER

COMPANY: PIMAS GALE CONSTRUCTION PTY LTD ENTRY: CLAREVILLE

COMPANY: LOVETT BUILDING COMPANY PTY LTD ENTRY: CLAREVILLE

Beautiful workmanship which matched perfectly the era of the original house, great terrazzo finishes and significant structural work within constricted time frames.

Extremely detailed and high level finishes, including very intricate tiling. The work was very detailed and substantial in its proportions.

JOINT WINNER

WINNER

HOUSE ADDITIONS / ALTERATIONS / RENOVATIONS $7 MILLION & OVER

ROOF & ATTIC CONVERSIONS OPEN PRICE CATEGORY

COMPANY: ALVARO BROS BUILDERS PTY LTD ENTRY: BLOOMFIELD, BOAMBOLO An expansive project with many varying facets. The builder succeeded in replicating the character of the original house.

COMPANY: LIGHTHOUSE LOFTS PTY LTD ENTRY: STIBBARD LOFT, CENTENNIAL PARK The site and the type of terrace posed many height restrictions that were overcome by the builder.

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WINNER

WINNER

RESTORATION UP TO $500,000

RESTORATION $500,001 - $1 MILLION

COMPANY: IDEAL BUILDING PTY LTD ENTRY: SLATE ROOF RESTORATION, BELLEVUE HILL

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COMPANY: AEA CONSTRUCTIONS PTY LTD ENTRY: WOOLLAHRA This 1870’s sandstone home has been restored to its original finish. The trades have carried out their works perfectly. A wonderful result.

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Ideal for cars, boats and caravans, you’ll have 100% confidence in your gravel and stone paths and driveways will look great in the years to come.

www.surepave.com.au

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EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS

This project involved initial work to straighten the rafters and install new timber purlins and rafters to achieve a perfect even plane and pitch. Canadian Glendyne slate tiles were laid to sit flat. The gable ends were rebuilt with new V joint eave linings and weatherboards featuring many details. Well done.

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excellence in housing & pool awards

WINNER

WINNER

RESTORATION $1 MILLION - $2 MILLION

RESTORATION $2 MILLION & OVER

COMPANY: CHASE PROJECTS PTY LTD ENTRY: GOONOO GOONOO HOMESTEAD

COMPANY: ARANAC (CONTRACTING) PTY LTD ENTRY: THE ABBEY, ANNANDALE

This historic cattle station is situated on the outskirts of Tamworth.

The homestead has now been restored to its original beauty. Wonderful work.

This house is known as The Abbey. The stable, as part of the restoration, was challenging as it had seen many different uses in the past 100+ years. Now the stable features garages and store areas and an upper loft one bedroom apartment. Some of the ornate steel trusses in the stable were remade to match existing. A new external timber and steel staircase with wrought iron handrails and a curved corrugated iron roof was installed to give access from the stable walkway to the house. In the walkway and over the staircase to support the roof, turned timber posts were specially made to match the existing. Arches along the wall of the walkway as well as new timber windows in the stable were also made to match existing. The outside restorations excellently blend old with new. Terrific attention to detail.

INNOVATION BY DESIGN

EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS

P R O J E C T S

www.chaseprojects.com.au

ADDRESS / 1/12 Ethel Ave, Brookvale 2100

EMAIL / brenden@chaseprojects.com.au

Ad artwork_HP.indd 1 M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F N S W A U G U S T / S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5

MOBILE / 0450 095 777

5/08/2015 7:56 am

WINNER

WINNER

INTEGRATED HOUSING OPEN PRICE CATEGORY

ADAPTIVE RE-USE UP TO $2 MILLION

COMPANY: ICON CONSTRUCTION AUSTRALIA (NSW) PTY LTD ENTRY: URBANEST CENTRAL STUDENT ACCOMMODATION, ULTIMO

COMPANY: PIVOTAL CONSTRUCTIONS PTY LTD ENTRY: ANNANDALE WABI-SABI

The existing site consisted of two street frontages and was bounded by neighbouring buildings on the north and south boundaries. The development consists of five separate buildings that vary in height from three to wake levels and includes 430 rooms to accommodate 665 students. The built form consists of a structure that is founded on C A piles with reinforced concrete slabs at ground level and post-tensioned suspended slabs. Prefabricated pod bathrooms can be a great advantage- when they arrive at their programmed date. When the prefabricated pod bathrooms failed to be delivered this resulted in the builder rescheduling works whilst the clients sourced a new modular pod manufacturer. The quality of workmanship and materials along with the design make this a worthy winner of this category.

This 1950’s architecturally crafted warehouse and panel repair shop has been converted into a grand home. The builder has produced a most stunning entry.

The trades’ workmanship is perfect.

WINNER

WINNER

ADAPTIVE RE-USE $2 MILLION & OVER

AGED CARE BUILDINGS OPEN PRICE CATEGORY

COMPANY: NOVATI CONSTRUCTIONS PTY LTD ENTRY: HENRY, LILYFIELD

COMPANY: LIPMAN PTY LTD ENTRY: ARV LOBER SQUARE REDEVELOPMENT STAGE 1, CASTLE HILL

This old warehouse and factory has been transformed into a boutique apartment complex, with building kept within the shell of the existing factory walls. The one, two and three bedroom apartments are over two levels with great use of natural light. They are well appointed with detailed finishes.

Excellent landscaping enhances the appeal of this complex.

The Anglican retirement village organisation is certainly a showpiece for excellent building construction and this entry is no exception. The contract at work for the ARV stage one project comprised the demolition and removal of the existing buildings, trees and all miscellaneous structures within the development zone including bus shelters, carports and sheds and the construction of 35 independent living units. The judges were impressed that even though this entry involved many facets, the underlying theme was one of quality of build, design and cooperation and is a worthy winner.

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EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS

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excellence in housing & pool awards

WINNER

WINNER

LIFESTYLE LIVING OVER 55’S OPEN PRICE CATEGORY

AFFORDABLE HOUSING OPEN PRICE CATEGORY

COMPANY: GRINDLEY CONSTRUCTION PTY LTD ENTRY: THE BRIGHTON, CROYDON

COMPANY: RICHARD CROOKES CONSTRUCTIONS PTY LTD ENTRY: NORTH EVELEIGH AFFORDABLE HOUSING

The construction consists of 101 independent living units over five buildings with a mix of two and three bedroom apartments, and associated community facilities including a day spa, theatre, indoor heated plunge pool and a dining hall. The contract was a design and construct with all consultants retained by the builder, which involve working closely with the client and achieved considerable savings for Catholic Healthcare without compromising the built project. One significant item was a change of brick type and manufacture.

The rationalisation of services rises and cores and incorporating the same into a DINCEL core structure, freed up the floor space and lobbies. The judges were impressed with the attention to detail and the obviously good working relationship between client, builder and adjoining owners

The judges highly praised this development as very livable and solid low maintenance affordable housing that takes advantage of its vista and orientation. Built on the site of the old North Eveleigh Rail workshops, this 88 unit development fully integrates with the surrounding neighbourhood.

The landscaped common areas feature artworks that are relics from the old workshops. The building has a range of louvres and sunshades along the balconies, windows and galleries, which enhances orientation and livability for the residents.

Crowther Blayne is an Australian leader in business-to-business online and print publications for a variety of industries worldwide. Crowther Blayne publications provide businesses with the broadest possible audience and target the most relevant decision-makers. By providing a platform of the highest quality, products and services are presented in the best possible light to the marketplace.

If you have a specific enquiry about our services, or simply want to get in touch, please contact: Trish Riley | Business Development Manager | P: 1800 222 757 | trish@crowtherblayne.com.au | crowtherblayne.com.au

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excellence in housing & pool awards

WINNER

WINNER

SPECIAL NEEDS COMMUNITY HOUSING OPEN PRICE CATEGORY

ENERGY EFFICIENCY HOUSING OPEN PRICE CATEGORY

COMPANY: WESTBURY CONSTRUCTIONS PTY LTD ENTRY: 137 PICADILLY, RIVERSTONE

COMPANY: GRAYBUILT PTY LTD ENTRY: 2 CORNER HOUSE, MONA VALE

The owners, McCall Gardens Community Limited, have been providing care and accommodation for residents for over 50 years in their home at Box Hill. As part of their urban living project, being carried out in conjunction with the NSW government, 40 existing residents are being provided with new homes within the local community. The residence in Riverstone is the first of such homes to be constructed and was designed as a single storey home with easy access to functional and livable outdoor living and entertaining areas. Internally, the privacy and dignity of the residents is paramount and has been designed with well-zoned bedroom areas and open plan living areas. Internal finishes were selected to provide a calming and contemporary feel with stimulus control assisting resident’s behavior.

The 2-corner house is a solidly built refuge high on an exposed sloping shale site overlooking Warriewood Beach. The floors on all three levels are polished concrete structural slabs to provide thermal mass, but also with integrated hydronic heating. The reverse veneer walls with concrete internal and timber cladding, high levels of insulation to the walls ceilings roof and floors, north orientation and double glazed (low E argon filled) timber framed windows and doors, ceiling sweep fans in the bedrooms, all contribute to a remarkably stable thermal environment which does not require any active cooling. The house is fitted with a 4.5kW solar power system, 10,000 litre rainwater tanks, electric induction cooktop and LED lighting throughout.

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Suite 2.02 - Level 2, 33 Lexington Drive, Norwest Business Park, BAULKHAM HILLS NSW 2153

P: (02) 9186 2580 | F: (02) 9659 1377

www.wbury.com.au

• Construction • Refurbishment • Heritage Restoration “SPECIALIZING IN: • SPECIAL NEEDS ACCOMMODATION • AGED CARE • RETIREMENT LIVING”

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EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS

Westbury

Constructions Pty Ltd

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excellence in housing & pool awards

WINNER

WINNER

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT HOUSING OPEN PRICE CATEGORY

BEST USE OF TIMBER

COMPANY: STEELE ASSOCIATES ENTRY: GREEN COPPER HOUSE, CLOVELLY

EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS

The Green Copper House is an exemplary representation of intelligent modern building design, bringing together style, livability and both passive and active energy saving measures, ensuring a house that is comfortable year round with minimal environmental impact. A large 7.4 kW photovoltaic (PV) system is installed on the roof, which is complemented by a 6kWh battery bank. Due to the large size of the PV system installed, electricity is used to drive heat pumps for water heating, swimming pool and the hydronic space. Rainwater is harvested and stored in 10,000-liter tanks for use in the laundry, toilet flushing, gardens and topping up the swimming pool.

COMPANY: F.S. HOUGH ENTRY: YOORANA, MOSMAN As you step through the gate onto the walkway to this house you notice the spectacular use of red ironbark in the eaves lining, the windows and exterior door. At the rear of the house, full height timber sliding panels stack to each side of the living area, allowing the room to open up completely to the outside.

The back verandah has a timber panel ceiling, matched to the eaves, with timber sections of louvre privacy screens. The interior staircase timber balustrade is something special, made from Euro oak. The cellar has vaulted recycled timber in three separate sections. A wonderful use of timbers!

WINNER

WINNER

BEST USE OF ZINC

BEST USE OF CONCRETE

COMPANY: YUNCKEN BUILDERS & PROJECT MANAGERS PTY LTD ENTRY: PIRRAMIMMA, WENTWORTH FALLS The project was around 600 sqm and the wall was twisted. The zinc was Rheinzink Graphite grey and the system was a double standing seam. The cross seams to the facade had to remain at a constant level which meant each facade sheet was tapered and a different length. The fascia cladding was also very tricky. A very complex project.

COMPANY: BELLEVARDE CONSTRUCTIONS ENTRY: BALMORAL HOUSE, MOSMAN Concrete has been used for all external walls in this house with most of the ceilings and internal walls in off-form concrete. The kitchen bench also makes use of concrete with a waterfall end. A concrete vanity top and bare concrete in the shower area feature in the bathroom. The house has some amazing concrete spans and cantilevers throughout. A very impressive use of concrete.

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WINNER

WINNER

BEST USE OF BRICKS

BEST ROOFING

THE BRIGHTON, CROYDON COMPANY: GRINDLEY CONSTRUCTION PTY LTD

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One look at this project and you will see the vast variety and combination of bricks used in this building. A closer inspection will also reveal the very high quality of bricklaying. The builder is deservedly proud of what he has achieved.

The project manager needed to have a specialist foreman on site to ensure the pattern and bricklaying bond was strictly adhered to and an award winning finish has been achieved.

The new roof material was sourced from Koramic, which is based in Austria.

The terra cotta shingles are not available in Australia. The entire roof had copper flashings guttering and downpipes with also lead flashings, which were measured, folded and welded onsite by craftsmen. Exceptional finishes.

WINNER

JOINT WINNER

TRADITIONAL OR GEOMETRIC CONCRETE POOLS UP TO $50,000

TRADITIONAL OR GEOMETRIC CONCRETE POOLS $50,001 - $100,000

COMPANY: ALL NORTHERN CONSTRUCTIONS ENTRY: RUNDLE, COLLAROY PLATEAU This winning traditional pool is made entirely from natural stone – basalt (charcoal) throughout the pool surrounds and Sukabumi Indonesian green stone that the owners sourced and imported from Bali for the interior. A customised waterfall was also designed using the basalt tiles, with a custom-made stainless-steel reservoir housed behind the wall to feed the stone overhang with a very natural flow of water. The Sukabumi tiles, once laid and grouted, were ground and honed smooth for a great underfoot feel. All of the pool’s mechanics have been cleverly incorporated into a daybed seating area that houses the Jacuzzi and overlooks the koi pond. Overall, this classic and timeless pool brings together attention to detail, bespoke design and the individuality of the owners and their home.

COMPANY: FREESTYLE POOLS ENTRY: PADDINGTON This elegant pool offers a big, bright look in a small space in inner-city Paddington and has been designed to maximise the available area without compromising functionality for the family, so they can enjoy the water, entertain and relax.

The most inspiring aspect is the inclusion of the acrylic panel in the end, which, combined with the frameless glass fencing, really adds to the visual impact.

Fibonacci stone is used on the patio area to provide a seamless transition between spaces. The pool also boasts three jets with multi-coloured lights – at night, these look like fibreoptic cables bending the light and creating a visual effect and pleasant water-trickling sound to drown out city noise.

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EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING & POOL AWARDS

COMPANY: DA CONSTRUCTION GROUP PTY LTD ENTRY: JALNA, DURAL

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excellence in housing & pool awards

JOINT WINNER

WINNER

TRADITIONAL OR GEOMETRIC CONCRETE POOLS $50,001 - $100,000

TRADITIONAL OR GEOMETRIC CONCRETE POOLS $100,001 & OVER

COMPANY: PREMIER POOLS PTY LTD ENTRY: SOUTH COOGEE

EXCELLENCE IN POOL AWARDS

This small, modern pool demonstrates that it is possible to create an oasis in a small space, with the combination of good pool design and beautiful landscaping. A standout feature is the bridge that links the outdoor area with the pool in a very interesting and harmonious way. A great achievement by Premier Pools.

COMPANY: PREMIER POOLS PTY LTD ENTRY: VAUCLUSE This modern, fully mosaic tiled spillway pool uses the cliff it sits on to give a sense of never-ending water, with the ocean in the background. It really is “swimming on the edge” and is the ideal way to complement an enviable home and location. Absolute perfection from Premier Pools – it doesn’t get much better than this.

WINNER

WINNER

FREEFORM OR NATURAL CONCRETE POOLS UP TO $50,000

FREEFORM OR NATURAL CONCRETE POOLS $50,001 - $100,000

COMPANY: ACG BUILDING PTY LTD ENTRY: DRAGON EYE, CHIPPING NORTON

COMPANY: SPLISH SPLASH POOLS ENTRY: LANE COVE

This winning design, named Dragon Eye, is part of a completed garden transformation for a family of five. The client was after a simplistic but unique setting, including 40mm sandstone coping, with a mosaic trim. This is highlighted with each colour change from the brilliant remote-controlled LED lights that shimmer throughout the pool and water feature. A great effort from ACG Building.

A deluxe raised round spa, rock water feature and timber deck around the pool make this winning pool from Splish Splash Pools a real standout. Splish Splash has created a highly impressive backyard space for these homeowners – just beautiful.

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excellence in housing & pool awards

WINNER

WINNER

FREEFORM OR NATURAL CONCRETE POOLS $100,001 & OVER

DISPLAY POOLS OPEN PRICE CATEGORY

COMPANY: LAND FORMS PTY LTD ENTRY: PALM BEACH

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This pool was constructed in a landslip hazard zone and as a result, the first stage was the construction of retaining walls to support the site and the existing house perched above the pool. The pool shell was formed using carefully constructed suspended plywood shutters to achieve the desired curve of the infinity-edge pool wall. The poolside deck was built with customprofiled ironbark decking boards, cut with a 3mm cricket bat profile on the top face to ensure water runs off. The pool was then tiled with 48mm Crystal Glass mosaics, in a colour, which blends perfectly with the Pacific Ocean beyond. A stunning result from Land Forms, who should be commended for the high level of effort this construction required.

The oasis pool was designed to make the most of the backyard’s natural features. The L-shaped pool, with an integrated spa, is edged by leafy foliage along two sides in a raised planter box, with a stunning granite block wall surround. Frameless glass provides an uninterrupted visual link to the garden. A glass feature panel at the front of the pool extends 400mm below the waterline to highlight the Tuscan turquoise interior. Porcelain coping pavers and rich warm timber decking, with subtle lighting, provide a stunning and welcoming ambience, both day and night. A much-deserved award for Award Pools.

WINNER

WINNER

FIBREGLASS POOLS OPEN PRICE CATEGORY

POOL RENOVATIONS OPEN PRICE CATEGORY

COMPANY: BOSTOCK POOLS & SPAS ENTRY: WOONONA

COMPANY: AWARD POOLS GROUP ENTRY: PALM BEACH

The customer brief was to create a contemporary pool to complement their existing home. This was somewhat challenging due to the triangular-shaped yard and existing large curved alfresco. This gave the Bostock team the opportunity to take the Compass fibreglass ceramic pool to the next level of customisation. Bostock requested the factory to rebate two areas – doing this allowed for the construction of a tiled bench seat and sunpod water feature area, adding an additional 4m2 to the overall finished pool. The natural tones of the existing rich green foliage are offset by the combination of tumbled travertine and green jade interior, creating a tranquil atmosphere for relaxation.

Bostock Pools always impresses in this category, and this year is no exception – the company has shone once again.

Situated on the edge of Pittwater and nestled between two private jetties, this absolute waterfront pool provided a challenge for Award Pools Group.

Environmental considerations and beachfront construction required careful planning and consultation, while access difficulties meant that manual labour was required for many tasks and tide times had to be considered. The final result is a stunning work of art, with shades of aqua blue complementing the sky and surrounding water perfectly. The aged timber deck completes the natural look.This truly magnificent pool is a testament to the design and project management skills of Award Pools.

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EXCELLENCE IN POOL AWARDS

COMPANY: AWARD POOLS GROUP ENTRY: SEAFORTH

EXCELLENCE IN POOL AWARDS

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excellence in housing & pool awards

WINNER

WINNER

COMMERCIAL POOLS OPEN PRICE CATEGORY

COMMERCIAL WATER FEATURE OPEN PRICE CATEGORY

COMPANY: CRYSTAL POOLS PTY LTD ENTRY: TURRELLA

COMPANY: CRYSTAL POOLS PTY LTD ENTRY: TURRELLA

This fully tiled and heated rooftop lap pool services many apartments in this southern Sydney complex. For exercise or play, the 25m-long pool has it all, including a wading section with stepping stones, black granite coping and a fully automatic cleaning system. Modern and chic, this is a real winner, both for Crystal Pools and the apartment dwellers.

There are two water features in this southern Sydney apartment complex – one below the main pool, and one standalone feature that’s fully tiled with 20mmx20mm mosaics. The water feature incorporates a wet wall and tiered design - the perfect finishing touches from Crystal Pools.

WINNER

WINNER

COMMERCIAL SPAS OPEN PRICE CATEGORY

RESIDENTIAL SPAS / PORTABLE SPAS / HOT TUBS OPEN PRICE CATEGORY

COMPANY: CRYSTAL POOLS PTY LTD ENTRY: VIRGIN ACTIVE SPA, ZETLAND One of many Virgin Active spas that Crystal Pools has built, this hydrotherapy spa in inner-city Sydney relaxes and soothes clients’ aches and pains. The sophisticated spa combines spa jets, hydro seats and a massage showerhead in a full-sized aqua therapy solution. Tiled with mosaics, the 8m-long spa also features four lounges, stair entry and water cave. A top effort from Crystal Pools.

COMPANY: SPLISH SPLASH POOLS ENTRY: DURAL Nestled between the house and outdoor entertaining area, this deluxe glass spa spills over into the pool. The overheard waterfall adjacent to the spa creates a transparent barrier between the spa and the remainder of the pool area.

With mosaic tiling and porcelain surrounds, the spa is an excellent example of modern design and construction integrated with the highest-quality materials and workmanship. An extraordinary result for Splish Splash Pools.

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building software/communication

UNLOCKING HIDDEN CAPACITY BY

CLOSING THE GAPS It is vital to understand all aspects of a construction business and its processes, to track the work being carried out and to close gaps to increase your capacity without increasing your workforce. The gaps include but are not limited to the deep disconnect between the office and onsite activities, consistent execution of policies and procedures, poor communication and separate silos of information.

Offering the same consistent and efficient experience to all clients every single time is extremely important but it is difficult. Each client is unique, and there are many factors

that influence a client’s experience, such as communication, efficiency and consistency.

Successful businesses understand how important it is to identify what those factors are, and develop ways to manage or moderate their impacts. Managing these influences requires consistent policies and procedures and the systems or tools to implement and maintain them.

Due to its intricate nature the building and construction industry operates in a difficult communication environment with a number of stakeholders including your clients, in-office and on-site staff as well as trades/subcontractors

and regulatory bodies. The intricacies of project management creates the challenge for effective and efficient communication that is faced by every construction company big or small.

With all the complexity, challenges and various stakeholders within the construction industry, it is impossible to monitor every aspect of the business fully without the correct systems and processes in place. The construction industry can be disjointed and as a dynamic sector with a project based nature, communication efficiency is essential to the success of each project.

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3 Administration

3 Payroll (Australia only)

3 Powerful Accounting

3 Automatic Invoice Checking

3 Price File Reporting

3 Customer Support

3 Price File Management

1800 800 860 M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F N S W A U G U S T / S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5

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building software/communication

Internal In ternal TTeam eam

Drafting Drafting Software Softwa re

Workflo Wo rkflow rkflo w Managementt Managemen Software Softwa re

Clients

Suppliers

Miscommunication or a lack of effective communication processes can cause expensive mistakes. Well-organized communication results in fewer delays, lower expenses and can increase capacity.

Removing the disconnection between in-office and on-site staff, disjointed client communication and subcontractors results in increased satisfaction about the job process/ experience and the quality of the build. Not knowing exactly where each job is up to, or who is responsible for ensuring that activities are completed on time can result in financial loss, brand damage and unsatisfied clients. There are solutions available to help reduce the challenges the construction industry faces, Workflow Management Software is the solution.

Workflow Management Software (WMS) are fully integrated business management systems, which provide a single location for internal communication, resource and project management information for your business.

Workflow Management Software gives you total control of your construction processes in an easy to use streamlined approach which helps you maximise productivity and supports you to make informed leadership and management decisions. The best systems are customisable to meet the needs across all levels of the construction industry from custom home to production and commercial builders.

Accounting Estimating Software Softwa re

By using Onsite Companion, a workflow management software, Tania Beckton at QA Developments has experienced that “everybody across the company whether it be internal office or guys out on-site, knows exactly where each job is at, at any given time.”

Workflow Management Software provides you the tools to manage the entire process: • Communications – Sharing information between all the departments removes the separate silos of information and provides all staff members a location to communicate with the relevant parties on projects or activities.

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) – from initial enquiries through to the completion of their construction process and ongoing communication with existing customers.

• Preconstruction & Administration Processes – managing all preconstruction and administration tasks and activities to ensure that the correct process and procedures are followed for each and every job.

• Construction Scheduling – during the construction phase the schedule is crucial to keep the build on track. WMS provide the ability to have a clear view of the schedule of each project down to daily activities and tasks.

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• Employees and Contractors – Assign work to employees and contractors with ease reducing the need for constant meetings, reduce confusion and provides accountability across the entire process.

• Document Management – Generate, Store and Track all documents & communications in the office & on site.

With Workflow Management Software you have a one stop shop that helps increase efficiency, reduce complexity, increase capacity, insure effective communication and connect all stakeholders with the process.

“OnSite Companion increases capacity by 30 to 50 percent by closing the gaps” – Matthew Camenzuli Managing Director Companion Systems If you would like to discuss your Workflow Management requirements, contact Companion Systems on (02) 9365 0000 or via email at sales@companionsystems.com.au

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SOFTWARE TO SUIT EVERY BUSINESS BEAMS Software is designed for any business that; • Begins with a customer that asks for a quote for any service or product.

• Accepts your quote and wants to proceed.

• Track and maintain all the income and expenses for the service.

This could be a Builder, Developer, Plumber, Contractor, Sub-contractor or any industry.

Designed by professional people who understand the processes and importance of providing good customer service and need to adopt effective business management through seamless integration. Purchasing software to run your business is not a new concept but the selection process is as important as selecting the best tools for the job.

From the initial contact with the Client to the handover of their new home, BEAMS is there, not only making the process easier but also making sure you keep the expected profits in your account.

Quotations in estimation stage are handled with ease. The contract stage which is more involved and deals with issues of purchase orders, variations and time line scheduling so you can see how things are going. Variations to Client are dealt with easily and update your construction quantities once approved and confirmed by Client. Invoices are processed quickly and without fuss by using the BEAMS generated order number which lets your accounts staff know which job, supplier, how much & if there have already been any draws.

Progress Claims to your Client are easily prepared. Your financial information is at the touch of a button with your taxation requirements processed from already entered data. BAS & PAYG paperwork is completed in 5 minutes not 3 hours!

Financial reports are also available whether for you to keep an eye on how things are going or for your accountant to prepare your returns.

BEAMS is designed as a true network application with user permissions so your staff can only work where they are permitted.

For more information contact: Phone: 08 9454 7760 Website: www.beamsbuild.com.au

Estimating - Provide accurate, cost-effective estimates.

Contracts - Variations, Purchase orders and track all your onsite activities. Add BEAMS Mobile for your Supervisor and you’ll never suffer scheduling nightmares again.

Accounts - Full accounting functions with Taxation processing and Payroll with job allocation to timesheets.

Beams Prospects - Focuses on presales where the relationship between a company and the customer is managed. This includes capturing leads from the website, emails and correspondence.

Beams Administration - Track the job as it progresses to contract or conversion. Customise as many processes as necessary to cover all your requirements.

Beams Customer Portal - Communication between your customer and your company is managed. They are given a username and password so that they can check their job status and request more information.

Ph. (08) 9454 7760 fax. (08) 9454 7782 Web. www.beamsbuild.com.au email. enquiries@beamsbuild.com.au Scott Cam - To do a good job, it is so important to have the right tools. To run a successful business, it is just as important to have the right software. Beams has all of the features and functions in one software package and it just works. Beams has been around for over 20 years and they know what is needed.

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kitchens & bathrooms

Consumer kitchen and bathroom survey focuses on the ‘wish lists’ of Australian consumers

T

he Kitchen and Bathroom Designers Institute of Australia, in conjunction with its Media Sponsor, Kitchens and Bathrooms Quarterly, has recently carried out the largest survey of consumers in the kitchen and bathroom market for a decade. Their purpose was to find out what consumers are looking for when renovating or building these increasingly specialised areas, and the results are encouraging for designers and manufacturers alike.

Whilst other studies in the kitchen and bathroom industries tend to focus on volumes/ economics or trends, this survey sought out a more practical ‘wish list’ of consumers who were planning for an upcoming project, or in the early stages of a build or renovation.

The survey attracted significantly more ‘renovators’ than new home builders, and the participants were mostly undertaking projects for homes they intended to occupy (rather than sell or rent out). Not surprisingly, a new kitchen topped the list for those undertaking

new home builds and whole home renovations, but laundries were very close behind in an unexpected swing, even ousting ensuites from the renovation hit list!

Kitchens Appliance manufacturers and suppliers would be pleased to know that a third of survey participants were planning to invest over $10,000 on appliances for their new kitchen, indicating that high-end appliances are both desired and valued. New rangehoods and cooktops topped the list, closely followed by refrigerators. Permanent hot/cold water dispenses have taken hold too, with 24 percent of consumers looking for this option, while an impressive 39 percent consider a coffee machine to be a must have!

Not surprisingly, 84 percent of the consumers questioned would expect casual dining and/or entertaining areas to be included in their kitchen space. For almost a quarter of participants, a small office/workstation or homework/study nook would need to be factored in as well.

Bathrooms The average number of bathrooms in Australian homes has risen significantly in the last decade, and the list of desired inclusions in ensuites, main bathrooms and ‘boot rooms’ has grown, too. A shower/bath combination is far less desirable than a shower cubicle, with only 14 percent looking for this space saver

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in the main bathrooms, and only 6 percent in ensuites. This is not to discount the desire for a bath; 57 percent of consumers want a stand alone bath in their main bathroom, and 16 percent seek a soak in the ensuite.

And More The study uncovered an overwhelming increase in the desire for an ‘Alfresco Room’ in New South Wales, Victoria and the Northern Territory, along with some very interesting finds regarding consumers’ changing attitude to design fees.

KBDi Members can access the full survey results from the Members area on our website.

Powder Room | Boot Room | Mud Room | What Room?

Australia may be an island, but we’re far from isolated when it comes to interior design, with a plethora of international design blogs streaming to Aussie phones, tablets and PCs every day.

kitchens & bathrooms And when these American and European interiors are ‘pinned’ and filed by your clients, so too is the foreign terminology, adding a few more tweaks to our complex vernacular and more opportunities for confusion.

In this feature, we’ll look at the subtle differences between the terms gaining popularity in Australia today.

has evolved to become a bathroom near an entrance way that houses a bench to sit on while you pull off your muddy boots, along with coat hooks and storage, a basin, toilet and shower or bath. For obvious reasons, the Boot Room is best finished with hard-wearing, easy-to-clean products, but by no means need it look like the ‘man cave’ some would imagine!

Powder Room ‘Powder Room’ has been used by Australians for some time, most often for the small bathroom to be used by guests. The room essentially houses a toilet, basin and mirror, and often adjoins the living/entertaining areas of a home. The Powder Room is by no means losing its favour, but has some growing competition with the incoming Boot Room.

Mud Room The Mud Room is virtually the American equivalent of the Boot Room without the amenities and until the last few years, has most often been found in snowy, damp northern American climates. The sensibility of such a room can be appreciated in any climate, however, and as a place to store outerwear, boots, sports gear and the like, could be considered a practical must have. The location of the Mud Room will generally dictate its contents and finish. By the back door it may contain storage bins and shelving, and a floor finish well suited to muddy ingress and egress. By the front door, a more welcoming arrangement would be required, with decorative hardware and cabinetry.

Boot Room The term ‘Boot Room’ appears to have originated in the UK, defining the room that football teams broke to for their post-game cheers or commiserations. As home-owners looked for a similar room to facilitate muddy boots, wet sporting gear and the necessary ablutions, the Boot Room made its way on to the home design wish list. Over the years it

The Kitchen and Bathroom Designers Institute KBDI is a not for profit industry association representing Australia’s finest kitchen and bathroom designers.

The Institute’s primary goal is to develop, encourage and recognize the highest standards of design and business practice in this specialised field. KBDi is achieving this through: • Facilitating continual professional development for its members • Encouraging participation in recognized and quality training • Co-ordinating a highly esteemed annual awards program • Delivering a comprehensive accreditation program — suitably qualified and experienced designers are approved to use the post nominal letters CKD Au (Certified Kitchen Designer) and/or CBD Au (Certified Bathroom Designer). These Certified Designers must maintain industry currency with Continuing Professional Development, and adhere to a strict code of ethics.

To learn more about KBDi, visit www.kbdi.org.au, on phone 1300 253 223.

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cladding

KEEPING IT REAL: WHY CUSTOMISED REPLICA TIMBER CLADDING

MAKES SENSE

IN HERITAGE RESTORATIONS Introduction Heritage restoration projects can deliver beautiful results in a finished product when undertaken with attention to detail and craftsmanship.

Builders and architects are among the industry specialists who understand that there are many competing requirements to satisfy when working on a heritage property if an authentic result is to be achieved. In part, this can be because of the stringent legal requirements for heritage restorations that the different Australian states have legislated to protect their own unique history and character. But it can also be due to the difficulty in sourcing building materials which closely complement the various materials and designs used in previous historical periods. Working with a reliable provider of quality replications for weatherboards and shingles can improve the ease of completing a heritage restoration project, as well as deliver an authentic-looking and solid building to be enjoyed for years to come.

A Highly Regulated Field Perhaps the most obvious challenge that anyone involved in a heritage restoration project can encounter is the need to comply with the heritage legislation applicable to the particular Australian State in which the property is located.

While each state has different specific requirements, they share in common a legal requirement on behalf of the owner of the property to ensure that any building work undertaken on a heritage-listed property must preserve the historical significance of the building. Similarly, all states mandate significant penalties for failure to comply with heritage legislation. This can range from monetary fines, to having to demolish non-heritage-approved work. In Queensland, for instance, entire areas rather than single properties can be heritage listed. This means that properties neighbouring those of historical significance may be required to ensure that any new building projects complement the period character of the neighbouring property.3 This means that property owners, architects and builders must work in close consultation with the relevant government authority, and pay close attention to the types of building materials used in such projects. The most commonly available building materials today may, in fact, be unsuitable for use on a heritage property. Apart from the heritage compliance objective, some buildings simply require a transformation or upgrade of features to compliment the building era i.e. Restoring to their former glory rather than trying to make something old look new.

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Good Quality Saves Time and Money An inability to successfully match modern building materials to the type and style of the period materials in the property being restored can have enormous impact on a project. In the first place, a failure to obtain a building permit for a heritage building can mean that the project is delayed while the legal situation is rectified. This can, in turn, affect the length of time that the project takes to complete, which will increase the cost. Further cost increases can be caused by fines given for failure to comply with heritage legislation, and in demolition of building work undertaken without permission. A less-obvious, but important, cost in a heritage restoration project can be the loss of value to a property where materials have been used in the construction that are less authentic to the period style of the original building. For instance, the appearance and therefore value of a weatherboard home can be improved when it is restored using genuine weatherboards that have been cut from timber, as the weatherboards in previous historical periods were.

This article was kindly provided by Healy’s Building.

More information is available at: www.healysbuilding.com.au

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flooring

Timber the Natural Flooring Solution

Available in many product types, timber flooring can be laid over a variety of substrates from timber board products to concrete slabs.

This makes timber flooring ideal for renovation work as well as new homes.

However, with all the choice available, the task could seem a little daunting. The Australian Timber Flooring Association (ATFA) is a natural place to start. The ATFA is the industry’s leading body for timber flooring and from their website you can download lots of information, find out the benefits of using an ATFA member to do your floor and easily source an ATFA member in your local area. But before going there, let’s have a look at some of the product types and aspects that need to be considered.

Traditional solid timber flooring is often chosen and is available in many Australian species from different parts of the country. For example Spotted Gum and Blackbutt from the central east coast, Tasmanian Oak and Victorian Ash from the southern eastern states or Jarrah from the west. These species provide some of the best flooring timbers in the world and can be laid on most substrates. Their natural beauty, adding both warmth and elegance, has made them the feature of many an Australian home.

Recycled timber flooring provides yet another option, where perhaps an even more rusticated appearance is desired that accentuates the timbers past use as a bridge girder or the like.

In addition to solid timber flooring engineered pre-finished products play an important role.

Made in either Australia or overseas, they utilise either Australian hardwoods on the exposed surface or some of the many species from around the world. These products are manufactured by bonding a number of timber layers together and this improves stability to seasonal weather changes. These products can be laid over most substrates either as a structural floor, overlay or floating floor and have the benefit of not requiring on-site sanding and finishing after installation.

The character of timber floors is determined by the grade, which can reflect the entire history of the tree containing striking features such as gum veins, knots and burls. In other grades the cleaner natural lines and figure of the timber will dominant, with fewer and smaller features present and with a subdued finish it almost allows you to see inside the wood.

When purchasing a timber floor, you will need to consider the colour, grade, board width and the finish. Photos and samples do not always provide a good representation of colour or

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grade and it is important to realise that floors of the same species can differ markedly in both colour and appearance. Grading rules do not cover either colour or colour variation and therefore this aspect needs to be discussed with your supplier and installer. Timber flooring comes in a wide variety of colours and tones from rich deep reds to lighter straw browns, some have a vibrant range of colours that naturally blend together and in other instances a mix of species of similar tones are available.

It is necessary that floor owners have an understanding of what can be expected during the installation of the floor, its ongoing performance and the care that will preserve its life. You may live in a drier location, the coastal hinterland or in the moist tropics. You may have refrigerated air-conditioning, heating systems or large expanses of glass with a lot of direct sunlight. To accommodate all these variables different methods of installation are going to be appropriate to different homes and therefore practices used in your installation will differ from others. For this reason it is important that you select a qualified contractor to install and finish the floor.

flooring accordingly. All timber flooring products require allowance for seasonal expansion that occurs and in many cases owners will be unaware of the expansion and the expansion gaps that have been provided as these are located under the skirtings along the walls.

The installation and finishing should not be rushed as the condition of the timber, climate and internal environment all need to be assessed, possible building issues rectified before installation and sometimes it is necessary to just wait for the timber to settle to the installation environment. Timber is a not a man made product, it is totally natural, renewable and recyclable and as such, with seasonal changes in weather conditions, it will absorb moisture from the air and swell a little, while during drier conditions it will lose moisture to the air and shrink a little. It is therefore quite normal for timber floors to show small gaps at board edges, particularly during dry periods. This will be less so with an engineered floor. Similarly, where there is intense sunlight on a floor, a wood fired heater or air-conditioning, drier conditions will be experienced and the floor will respond

TIMBER FLOORING AND DECKING SPECIALISTS

There are many simple things that owners can do to maintain the character and beauty of their timber floor. Curtains, tinted glass or similar should be used to protect floor areas from intense sunlight and mats both inside and out are an effective means of trapping grit which can scratch floor surfaces. Heavy items of furniture need to be carefully positioned without dragging them. Similarly, it should be ensured that the feet of chairs and tables etc have felt pads or protectors applied.

A regular cleaning program should also be considered to ensure that your floor remains in pristine condition. Antistatic mops are effective for collecting dust and grit. When it comes to other types of mopping to provide a deep clean, it is best that your ATFA finisher be contacted. There are many finishes on the market and different products are suitable for different finishes.

Each solid timber floor is unique and for this reason these floors are the feature of many homes. If you require more information on timber flooring, whether it be solid tongue and groove or parquetry, engineered, laminate or bamboo, you can visit the ATFA website at www.atfa.com.au.

Kindly provided by: David Hayward ATFA Technical Manager and Timber Flooring Expert

P: (02) 9774 2944 E: andrew@abbeytimber.com.au www.abbeytimber.com.au

Cypress • Hardwood • Treated Pine • WRC • Plywood • Reclaimed Hardwood Panelling • Hardware

• Sydney’s Largest range Decking/Screening • Hardwood Panelling Premium & Rustic • Huge Range of Timber Flooring & Accessories • Custom Milling Services • Large Hardwood Posts, Beams & Framing • Hardware & Accessories • Builders Discounts On All Products We Sell • All External Timbers and Much More…

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM 27 Ashford Avenue, Milperra, NSW, 2214 M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F N S W A U G U S T / S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5

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• Avoid the risks of using Non-Compliant Steels • How to assure product conformance to standards • National & International Speakers on Compliance Risks

ACRS

Steel Compliance Seminars Australia & New Zealand – October 2015 PERTH – Monday October 12th, 5.30pm-8.30pm SYDNEY – Tuesday October 13th, 5.30pm-8.30pm MELBOURNE – Thursday October 15th, 5.30pm-8.30pm CHRISTCHURCH – Monday October 19th, 5.30pm-8.30pm AUCKLAND – Tuesday October 20th, 5.30pm-8.30pm BRISBANE – Thursday October 22nd, 5.30pm-8.30pm SEMINARS ARE FREE TO ATTEND AND CPD POINTS MAY BE APPLICABLE. • Australia and New Zealand are part of a global supply chain and building & construction products are now being sourced from both overseas and local manufacturers and suppliers. Alarmingly, there is increasing evidence that many suppliers of products, regardless of where they are made, are not providing evidence that they meet Australian and New Zealand Standards and building requirements, and hence they may not comply.

• Formed in 2000 by peak construction industry bodies, the Australasian Certification Authority for Reinforcing and Structural Steels, “ACRS”, independently assesses and third party certifies steel manufacturing & processing at over 150 locations in over 15 countries worldwide for construction steel products supplied to Australian and New Zealand standards.

ACRS is your toolkit for steel compliance.

To register for the free ACRS Seminar Series visit: www.steelcertification.com or www.steelcertification.co.nz

Call ACRS on (02) 9965 7216, email info@steelcertification.com or visit www.steelcertification.com ACRS – The Australasian Certification Authority for Reinforcing and Structural Steels Ltd ABN 40 096 692 545

directory CONCRETE PUMPING

Pump more profit.

PumpMaster PG-35 •35 HP Petrol Engine •Compact size for easy placement on the job •4” swing-tube valve delivers smooth flow from fine to coarse grout •Exclusive hydraulic driven, self-propelled manoeuvring

Pump masonry grout, mortar, pea gravel, shotcrete and more to the exact point needed, easily and efficiently, with your own PumpMaster PG-35. Compact and powerful, this 35 HP work-saver fits on the job site and empties a ready-mix truck in an hour, reducing labour and equipment rental costs as it increases efficiency and profitability.

American Owned.

American Built.

SALES LOCATIONS:

Melbourne: 03 9768 3111 Sydney 02 9905 5675 www.brunswicksales.com.au

www.airplaco.com/blockfill

KITCHEN

• Family owned and operated in the local area for 17 years • Specialising in custom made designer kitchen & complete joinery packages • We do not compromise on quality. We work with you and your client to create something really unique for your space

(02) 9972 9300

License 185107C

1014 Pittwater Rd, Collaroy NSW 2097

info@collaroykitchen.com.au

collaroykitchen.com.au M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F N S W A U G U S T / S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5

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directory LABOUR AND EQUIPMENT HIRE

THE INNOVATIVE SOLUTION OF HIRING FOR THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

1300 PERFECT Perfect Hire is the first company that integrates skilled labour with equipment hire services.

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4/8 Lilian Fowler Pl, Marrickville NSW 2204

02 8021 1784

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GENERAL TOOLS HEAVY PLANT CONCRETE CUTTING/CARE TRUCKS/TRANSPORT + MORE!

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www.perfecthire.com.au

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SOLAR

Why Choose Endless Solar?

Endless Solar has been supplying to builders and plumbers in the industry for nearly 10 years.

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Advanced Evacuated Tube technology

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Greater Savings on your hot water bill

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Smarter solar hot water designs

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High quality products backed with genuine warranties

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Endless Solar uses evacuated tube technology for our solar hot water heaters, which are more efficient than flat plate collectors, especially in the winter months. These collectors are covered by a 15 year warranty.

Quality Controlled - Certified to the ISO 9001 Quality Management System

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Proven credibility and expertise

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Expert advice in solar thermal solutions

Our tanks use marine grade stainless steel, are Australian made and are also backed by a 15 year warranty. If you would like your system to have gas boosting Endless Solar provides Bosch instantaneous boosters as a back up for the solar system.

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Simply looks and works better than other systems

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Solid reputation and many years experience

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Personalised service

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Australian Standards® Certified designs, processes and components

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Ready for rebates

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Frost Protected

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Self Cleaning

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Built to Last

Morning after the 2009 Sydney dust storms.

SELF CLEANING

No climbing on your roof to wipe away grime, mould and pollution

Morning after the 2009 Sydney dust storms.

Endless Solar is located in Auburn in Sydney and deliver all over Sydney and surrounding area

Free Quote: 1300-889-585 M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F N S W A U G U S T / S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5

www.endless-solar.com.au

what’s new

THE BAYER PROTECTION PROGRAM OFFERS HOMEOWNERS TOTAL TERMITE PROTECTION A first for the termite industry in Australia, the Bayer Protection Program offers homeowners total termite protection -- a combination of regular termite inspections (e.g. annually) to detect the presence of termites; and a physical barrier (Kordon®) to prevent entry via areas that can’t be inspected.

The Bayer Protection Warranty starts with an inspection of the home by a Bayer Accredited Timber Pest Inspector. If the home is termite-free, and possible conditions which may be conducive to termite attack are addressed, your Bayer Protection Warranty can be renewed. The same inspection takes place each year to give the homeowner total termite protection. This warranty can be renewed annually (fee applies) for the life of the structure.

The Bayer Protection Warranty covers homeowners for up to $1 million worth of termite damage due to product failure or any other means of termite entry.

To activate your Bayer Protection Warranty visit www.kordonwarrantycentre.com.au or for further information contact the Bayer Protection team on 1800 552 802.

SEA CHANGE PENDING WITH BUILDING SUCCESS ON THE MID-NORTH COAST Specialising in home additions this New South Wales business is a premium opportunity to step into an established, growing operation while experiencing the superb lifestyle available on the state’s mid north coast.

As a valued regional distributor for Spacespan/ Stratco - Australia’s leading supplier of outdoor living systems - the business is able to offer clients a range of high quality home addition solutions including:

• Patio Awnings • Glass Enclosures • Screen Enclosures • Carports • Opening Roofs • Decks • Louvres

First established almost 25 years ago and lead by a licensed builder, the business has developed a reputation for exceptional workmanship and reliable service. A key factor in its success and longevity has been its experienced team of installation professionals with the business ‘strong referral and word of mouth network continuing to drive client growth and commercial relationships.

Servicing a wide geographical region, the business is a popular choice for both trade commercial and private clients. As one of the largest operators of its kind in the region it

boasts significant market share and generous income. Based in the thriving coastal city of Port Macquarie it operates from a leased main road premises in the industrial district. A central location with excellent exposure and accessibility to a long-term lease will ensure continuity moving forward.

Having undergone consistent growth since inception the business is well placed to continue its long running success story with work a plenty secured for the future. A new owner with a building industry background will find a host of growth opportunities within its extensive service area.

For those seeking a coastal lifestyle minus the big city congestion the local area will not disappoint. Schools, shopping, health facilities, dining & entertainment – everything is within easy reach. Port Macquarie hosts a laid back lifestyle which is a perfect match for a builder seeking that sea change.

For more information contact Kylie Brown: Phone: (02) 6581 1556 Email: info@portpatios.com.au

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what’s new

WHAT IS YOUR LIFE WORTH? For over 18 years Roof Extenda Pty Ltd has been known for their second to none superior products!

New Product:

ROOF EXTENDA ‘SAFETY ANCHOR’ (PATENT PENDING)

Our fixed single point fall-arrest safety anchor, designed for use on timber roof trusses/rafters, has been tested for static and dynamic load capacity in accordance with the new AS/NZS 5532:2013 standards

For more information: Phone: 03 5978 8755 Fax: 03 5978 8016 Email: sales@roofextenda.com.au Website: www.roofextenda.com.au

QUALITY DRAINAGE BY STORMTECH The selection of quality drainage is crucial not only to the wellbeing and amenity of building occupants, but to the integrity and value of a built project as a whole.

Poor or untimely drainage selection can have costly implications for owners, placing the home or building at undue risk of ruinous inundation Faced with the competing challenges of today’s ultra-modern building designs, aging infrastructure and a litany of Building Code of Australia (BCA) requirements, today’s specifiers and builders must navigate a myriad of planning and regulatory hurdles.

Whilst the importance of meeting mandated compliance measures (such as BCA waterproofing standards AS-3740 & AS-4654) must not be discounted, it is crucial for any implemented solution to accord strictly with the unique built and natural landscaping features of the property. This includes provisions for adequate grading and a thorough understanding of drainage flow rates, particularly in areas prone to excessive downpours.

Moreover, all outdoor drainage projects should aim to incorporate best practice in sustainable design (encapsulated in Australia’s Waster Sensitive Urban Design, or WSUD, principles), to ensure water is discharged cleanly into sensitive catchment areas.

M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F N S W A U G U S T / S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5

As one of Australia’s most respected drainage manufacturers and suppliers, Stormtech is committed to delivering the highest quality drainage solutions for today’s unique building projects.

Stormtech’s skilled specialists work closely with specifiers and builders to offer tailored drainage solutions, including bespoke drawings and plans for customised drainage designs for all Australian environments.

Stormtech works proactively with plumbing advisory services to ensure drainage is not only fit for purpose, but meets stringent Building Code of Australia (BCA) compliance measures.

To learn more about the selection and implementation of superior drainage solutions, visit www.stormtech.com.au and download Stormtech’s guide to expert drainage selection for architects, specifiers and builders.

For more information contact: Phone: 1300 653 403 Website: www.stormtech.com.au

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