Australian Plumbing - Winter 2022

AUSTR ALIAN

Call for government to back plumbing priorities Follow her footsteps // Cistern collection revealed

WINTER | 2022

Australia’s industry and member news

Dedicated to the trade. plumbingplus.com.au

Because service is more important than ever before.

Here to help you get the job done.

Plumbing Plus has a long history of superior service and helping customers get the job done. Now, in our post pandemic ‘covid-normal’ reality, good old fashioned customer service is more important than ever.

As Australia powers forward, here at Plumbing Plus we’re committed to our customers more than ever.

‘Above-and-beyond’ customer service has always been in our blood. It’s just who we are and our reason for being.

The pandemic has only reaffirmed and strengthened our duty to our trade customers.

We’ll always prioritise coming together and finding the best solution.

Expert advice is part of our DNA.

Turning our customers into mates isn’t just a nice tagline, it’s what we aspire to do every day.

Plumbing Plus was established to service the trade community. We do that with our $2 billion buying power – giving you the best brands at competitive prices. What’s more important, however, is the expert advice that comes along with it.

Plumbing Plus is a network of knowledge and expertise as much as it is a network of members. It’s a group of independents that are united in their unwavering dedication to the trade community.

2022 is set to be a year of growth for the trade industry and trade businesses need partners they can rely on.

Plumbing Plus members are here to help you get the job done.

, Now thats a If you want to experience The Better Way to Trade™ you can find your local Plumbing Plus member at plumbingplus.com.au

plumbingplus.com.au

NEW ABEY SPACE SAVER UNDER VANITY WASTE

SAVE SPACE IN YOUR BATHROOM Self-Closing Space Saver Waste Valve

WV-1-A Horizontal Waterless Trap

NO MORE OF THIS

Unlike traditional traps that uses a water trap within a bulky ‘U’ bend pipe, Abey’s Space Save has an internal membrane which opens under water pressure to allow discharge to flow freely and then closes to form a seal to prevent foul odour or sewer gas entering the building.

THE TRADESMAN’S CHOICE

ABEY FANTASTIC PLASTIC PLUMBING PRODUCTS

abeytrade.com.au

TCC 20417

Abey’s new Space Saver with Self Closing Waste Valve has been designed for bathroom basins to give you back your valuable vanity space. Bulky ugly waste traps are a thing of the past. Low profile in design the Space Saver Waste valve brings the pipe plumbing straight to the back of your vanity giving you more storage space below the basin cabinet.

Install it with confidence, as it’s backed by Australia’s number 1.

You can confidently recommend the new Rheem AMBIHEAT® HDc-270 heat pump, backed by extensive R&D and our expert technical support helpline, plus: • • • •

Fitting locations make it an ideal replacement for an electric water heater Saves clients up to 68%1 on energy year round Suitable for all weather conditions from -5°C to 43°C Eligible for Rheem Rewards2 and STCs3

To learn more, or for technical support call 13 10 31 or visit rheem.com.au COMES ON STEADY, HOT AND STRONG.

INSTALL A AUSTRALIA’S NO. 1

Energy savings of up to 68% are based on Australian Government approved TRNSYS simulation modelling using a medium load in Zone 3 and apply when replacing an electric water heater of similar size with a Rheem 551270 Heat Pump water heater. Energy savings of up to and between 64% to 71% in Zone 1 to 5 on hot water energy consumption when replacing an electric water heater (min. 16 hours/day). Any savings will vary depending upon your location, type of water heater being replaced, hot water consumption and fuel tariff. The impact on an electricity account will depend on the tariff arrangement of the water heater being replaced and where you live. This Heat Pump water heater (climate dependent) is recommended for connection to either a 24 hour continuous tariff or an extended off-peak (min. 16 hours/day). If replacing an electric water heater greater than 250 litres, Heat Pump connection to a 24 hour continuous tariff is recommended. Before purchase consult your energy provider for more information on cost comparisons. 2 Eligibility, terms and conditions apply - please visit www.rheemrewards.com.au.

3 Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) are a financial benefit to encourage the installation of solar water heaters provided under a Federal Government legislated scheme.

1

Contents

What issues matter most to Master Plumbers and its members, and why?

See page 10

Advocacy is a key reason industry associations like Master Plumbers exist

Welcome

9

From the President and CEO

Industry news

10

What does our industry need to thrive in the next four years?

Tech’s most wanted

16

Find the answers to some of the most asked questions

Industry priorities

Regulations

18

Compliance requirements for drain-bedding material

Around the nation

20

What’s happening in plumbing,

Taking initiative

15/306 Albert Street Brunswick VIC 3056 australianplumbingindustry.com.au

Subscription changes To change your details or to unsubscribe, call 1800 133 871 or email info@plumber.com.au

locally and nationally

Women in plumbing

Australian Plumbing Industry magazine

32

Print post number: PP100019076

A gradual gender shift in

Contacts

plumbing is happening

Publisher

Member profile

34

Meet the travelling plumber

Health and wellbeing

The Master Plumbers and Mechanical Services Association of Australia (MPMSAA) E australianplumbing@plumber.com.au

Advertising

36

Managing your mental health

Marc Wilson T 0419 107 143 E advertising@plumber.com.au

Suppliers

Next generation

Member news

38

Heritage collection

40

Product news

42

Disclaimer API is published for the plumbing industry and Master Plumbers Members by the Master Plumbers’ and Mechanical Services Association of Australia (MPMSAA) ABN: 56 296 473 997. Responsibility for comment in respect of elections in Master Plumbers is taken by Peter Daly of 15/306 Albert Street, Brunswick, VIC, 3056. Advertising: No responsibility is accepted by the publisher for accuracy of information contained in advertisements in API. Publication of any advertisements does not constitute endorsement by the publisher of any product, nor warrant its suitability. Advertisements are published as submitted by advertisers. Copyright: No part of this magazine may be produced without the publisher’s written permission Contributors: The views of external contributors and advertisers are not necessarily the views of Master Plumbers. Master Plumbers supports green printing initiatives. This magazine has been printed on FSC® certified paper using vegetable based inks by Southern Colour under ISO 14001 environmental certification.

6 | Australian Plumbing Industry Magazine | Winter 2022

saltcreative.com.au southerncolour.com.au ddmail.com.au

30

YEARS

Go with the brand Australian Plumbers trust. t t t t t

Built to last No power required No battery replacement required No flow restrictor required Pilot and Hydro models available

www.bosch-climate.com.au

Scan QR code to check out our Bosch mechanical commissioning videos

Experience German quality, reliability and comfort with Bosch Hydronic Heating.

Scan QR code to check out our Bosch boiler commissioning videos www.boschhydronicheating.com.au

Across the country the industry is facing increasing challenges

Welcome from the President and CEO

Advocacy is one of the key reasons that industry associations like Master Plumbers exist. Representing the interests, concerns and priorities of members has long been at the core of what we do. Without these efforts the industry would be worse off and governments would not be held to account.

In Victoria, Master Plumbers’ recent publication, Plumbing Industry Priorities, clearly sets out what matter most to members and why. It seeks to give stakeholders, policy makers and legislators an insight into the critical role the plumbing industry plays in the key areas of economic, health, community and environmental policy.

Compounding this, the stark reality is that the supply of goods and materials is uncertain, so selections of materials by consumers, engineers, plumbing practitioner, architects and/or developers cannot be guaranteed, and completion is dependent on materials available at the time, regardless of initial choice and cost.

It shines a light on the important issues facing our industry, challenges current approaches and identifies workable solutions outlining significant opportunities ahead for the industry, particularly around hydrogen energy.

All levels of government need to provide greater leadership in helping the industry look at alternative options and mitigate these risks but unfortunately, they appear to be doing quite the opposite in practice.

Master Plumbers will put Plumbing Industry Priorities to all political parties in Victoria ahead of the State election later this year and, in this edition we summarise those priorities for you.

Across the country the industry is facing increasing challenges with rising costs and uncertainty, and what looks like an accelerated trend to push risk onto plumbing businesses.

It is not uncommon for businesses to have seen increases of nearly 50 per cent for products over the past few months, with supply costs of common materials going up dramatically, including: UPVC (46%), PE pipe & fittings (8%), ductile iron (10%), copper (23%), plant hire (18%), quarry products (25%), fixtures, tapware and silicones – the list goes on.

For a majority of members who utilise lump-sum, fixed quotations or contracts, these increases are not sustainable. Being notified and aware of price increases are a challenge at the best of times, but we are now witnessing suppliers refusing to hold their prices for any longer than 30 days and not willing to hold stock or orders on their customer’s behalf unless the goods are invoiced and paid for.

On even small government projects there is extremely limited (if any) scope to include cost escalation and sensible risk-sharing measures such as rise-and-fall contracts, open-book arrangements and deletion of liquated damages due to material delays outside a contractor’s control.

These onerous and one-sided contracts for the head contractor and sub-contractors continue a detrimental shift for our industry from building and maintaining critical infrastructure to simply administering contracts.

Master Plumbers will continue to advocate that all levels of government must shoulder an equitable part of construction risk.

We accept the need for high scrutiny where public expenditure is concerned, but a more sensible and fairer sharing of risk by governments is needed if this ‘profitless boom’ is not to turn into a ‘profitless bust’ for many businesses.

Scott Dowsett President , Master Plumbers Peter Daly Chief Executive Officer, Master Plumbers www.plumber.com.au | 9

Industry news

Plumbing industry priorities 10 | Australian Plumbing Industry Magazine | Winter 2022

Following the Federal election, eyes will now turn to the Victorian election in November. To ensure the voice of the industry is heard, Master Plumbers has developed a policy statement on the increasing need to protect our public health, economic prosperity and energy future.

Millions of Victorians are set to cast their votes in the State election scheduled for 28 November. So, what does our industry need to thrive in the next four years?

Master Plumbers has set out a comprehensive policy statement on what issues matter most to Master Plumbers and its members, and why.

CEO Peter Daly says the statement seeks to give stakeholders, policy makers and legislators an insight into how the plumbing industry underpins the key areas of economic, health, community and environmental policies.

“Plumbing often takes a back seat in policy-makers minds and yet it is a catalytic function in terms of good public health and a strong construction sector, and a thriving economy,” Peter says.

The statement asks and answers the questions: • What is holding us back from being the best industry we can be?

• What needs to happen to reduce or remove those limiting factors?

Why is plumbing so important?

A well-functioning plumbing industry is vital to Victoria – now more than at any time in Victoria’s history.

“The Victorian economy is experiencing a series of unprecedented shocks and impacts relating to the COVID pandemic and associated restrictions,” Peter says.

In the 21 months to November 2021, the Victorian economy was shut down for a world record of 262 days.

There is significant demand being pent up in the economy, which, we expect, will drive a strong bounce back in construction and related economic activity as we head into a recovery period this year.

“Plumbing skills are going to be key to the economic recovery and will be in increasingly high demand,” Peter says.

The Victorian economy is also about to embark on one of the most ambitious structural adjustment projects ever undertaken in Australia. Victoria has set ambitious targets to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 28 to 33 per cent by 2025 and 45 to 50 per cent by 2030. More than 15 per cent of Victoria’s carbon emissions come from natural gas, which is extensively used in Victoria for cooking, hot water and heating.

To achieve its targets the government has made a policy decision to transition away from natural gas. This is a big

challenge as the Victorian economy is extremely gas reliant including for our current power generation. There are over two million domestic gas connections in Victoria and hundreds more commercial and industrial users.

“The scale of the planned transition is enormous, and it will be plumbers and gasfitters who will be the key to making it happen successfully,” Peter says.

Plumbing is a key mitigator of community risk.

“Well-functioning and effective plumbing systems are the community’s first, and often only, line of defence against a range of hazards, toxins, substances, diseases, disasters and other risks,” Peter says.

“Professionally installed and maintained systems keep the public safe from a range of diseases, such as legionella, and toxic and volatile substances like gas and carbon monoxide.”

The role of ventilation in the transmission or containment of COVID is in the spotlight, providing an all-too real example of the extent the community relies on the skills of plumbers and related trades to keep us safe.

As we move to retain and re-use wastewater onsite and we increase the potential risk of cross contamination, the plumbers’ role becomes even more vital.

The building industry cannot exist without plumbing, nor can the Victorian economy progress through to a post-COVID recovery

Plumbing is an enabler of growth, and the primary catalyst for new energy adaptation. The community cannot be healthy and thrive without safe water, sanitation and ventilation. The building industry cannot exist without plumbing, nor can the Victorian economy progress through to a period of post-COVID recovery. The community cannot embrace, adapt to and maximise the opportunities from the ‘new energy’ economy (hydrogen) without the plumbing industry, and the skills of all the people who comprise it.

www.plumber.com.au | 11

What is holding us back?

The plumbing industry in Victoria is not well-functioning.

Persistent regulatory challenges plague the sector.

Insurance, which is mandatory in Victoria, is proving more expensive and more difficult to obtain than it ever has been before.

Victoria is unique in the way it conducts its regulatory oversight. The Victorian definition of ‘regulated work’ encompasses a broader range of plumbing activities than any other jurisdiction. Combined with our unique self-certification scheme, this requires the Victorian regulator to work with industry to successfully roll out nationally developed regulations, such as the National Construction Code. At times this may mean that we seek a state-based outcome where it is relevant to our compliance regime.

The economic crisis spurred on by the coronavirus pandemic has caused uncertainty for the industry’s future.

Australia is moving into unknown economic territory for many businesses, with inflation hitting highs not seen for decades. Coupled with continued uncertainty in supply chains this is resulting in unprecedented cost increases in everything from PE pipes to quarry products.

To date, the industry has proven resilient, but cracks are emerging as businesses struggle to tackle all of these challenges. All levels of government must play a stronger leadership role by recognising these cost pressures on business and structuring public contracts to enable a more equitable share of these risks.

If Victoria is to emerge from this crisis successfully, a strong building, civil and construction industry, of which plumbing is a core element, is critical.

Plumbing skills are going to be key to our economic recovery and will be in increasingly high demand

12 | Australian Plumbing Industry Magazine | Winter 2022

The risks We are strong but for how long? More needs to be done to ensure consumers and practitioners are better protected, innovation thrives and drives industry and economic growth, and skills and training of current and future practitioners is high-quality and accessible to all.

In short, via industry research, surveys and interviews, Master Plumbers has identified the risks. As an industry, here is how things are tracking: • Public health and practitioner safety is good; it should be better.

• The regulatory framework is fine, but not as effective as it could be.

• The compulsory insurance system is working but is under enormous pressure.

• Audit rates are too low.

• Responsibility and risk allocation settings are misaligned.

• Uncertainty and insurance are putting pressure on operational sustainability.

• The integrity of the trade is under continuous challenge.

• Consumers and practitioners could be better protected.

• Industry is equipped to be a new energy and climate change adaptation enabler.

• The industry is training current and future practitioners to be future ready.

• The industry requires more people to choose plumbing; we need great diversity.

The full statement, in some detail, describes the issues Master Plumbers have identified as being important, even business critical.

“These issues have been identified, discussed and evaluated over several years and through a range of processes,” Peter says. “The issues and their effect on our members and our industry are outlined in the document, and, most importantly, suggested treatment plans for the identified issues are proposed.

Read the full report at www.plumber.com.au/2022election

Victoria’s plumbing industry

fast facts

The Master Plumbers and Mechanical Services Association of Australia (Master Plumbers) is the peak industry body for Victoria’s plumbing, gasfitting, roofing and mechanical services industry.

1,000+

Plumbing contractors represented by the Association.

6,500+

Plumbing professionals represented in Victoria.

Master Plumbers is part of the Victorian building, civil and construction industry.

Total cost of building works in 2020/21 financial year:

$41.9 billion

The significance of the plumbing industry to the overall building sector is also reflected in practitioner and lodgment data.

25,489

registered building practitioners.

29,674

registered or licensed plumbers.

435,379

Compliance Certificates reported by registered or licensed plumbers.

123,330

Over the page…

Master Plumbers Action Plan

Building permits lodged for the same period.

VBA Annual Report – snapshot at 30 June 2021

www.plumber.com.au | 13

Highlights of the

Master Plumbers Action Plan Action 1 Federal and State governments must ensure expert, knowledgeable and well-resourced regulators which engage closely with industry to ensure oversight is relevant, up to date and practical to implement.

Action 2 Governments at all levels need to work together to ensure consistency across jurisdictions and target best practice national regulations rather than a lowest common denominator approach.

Action 3 Government must work to agree, set and achieve a minimum 5 per cent audit rate for plumbing work and consult with industry to develop a stronger risk-based audit program.

Action 4 Government must work with industry to develop regulatory treatments which meet the needs of complex plumbing work.

Action 5 Government must commit to establishing a process to revise and update the Ministerial Order(s) regarding compulsory plumbing insurance as well as addressing the inconsistency between the period of insurance coverage in the Ministerial Order and that required by the Domestic Building Contracts Act 1995 and the Building Act 1993.

Action 6 Government must commit to addressing the misalignment between plumbers and designers and recognise the qualification of plumbers to perform design work.

14 | Australian Plumbing Industry Magazine | Winter 2022

Action 7 All governments must secure payments from misuse and the risk of head contractor insolvency by mandating job-specific trust accounts. Money paid by a developer for a job should be allocated and spent only on that job and payment dates specified in works contracts must be adhered to by the principal contractor.

Action 8 Government must recognise the integral part plumbing will play in the clean economy using hydrogen as a fuel gas for industrial and domestic applications.

Action 9 The Australian Government should fund apprenticeship wage subsidies for at least the next two years at 30 per cent for the first 12 months and 15 per cent for 2nd year apprenticeships.

Action 10 Federal and State governments should provide increased resources for schools to provide quality, unbiased and up-to-date careers education, including a significant rebalance towards vocational education options.

Action 11 The Victorian Government must introduce mandatory CPD for registered and licensed plumbers in Victoria in line with the Master Plumbers CPD model.

Action 12 Government must continue their commitment and funding of programs which provide for greater diversity in the industry.

Keep everything flowing in life.

Study Plumbing.

At TAFE NSW our goal is to help change lives. Whether you want to help in commercial projects or be the one homeowners turn to in an emergency, TAFE NSW has the plumbing course you need to turn your pipe dreams into reality. Taught by industry-expert teachers, our nationally recognised plumbing courses will give you the hands-on skills you need for a fulfilling career.

+ Certificate III in Plumbing CPC32420

Ready to change your life? Enrol now for Semester 2 with TAFE NSW, a leading provider of lifelong learning.

+ Certificate IV in Plumbing & Services CPC40920

+ Certificate III in Roof Plumbing CPC32620

tafensw.edu.au 131 601

RTO 90003 | CRICOS 00591E | HEP PRV12049

Tech’s most wanted

Know the hot topics In this new Master Plumbers’ Series, our technical advice team share the answers to some of the most asked questions. For our Winter Edition, Aaron Bridger takes on the questions that send chills down the spine of Victorian plumbers and are a risk for consumers.

Residential tenancy gas safety checks are continuing with high call volumes this quarter, some of the more frequently questions are:

The heater has cracks present on the heat exchange, is this a non-compliance?

During service work, you should check the integrity of the heat exchanger. These can sometimes exist as splits in the seam of the heat exchanger or in some cases holes in the body of the exchanger.

This is not viewed as a noncompliance however it does pose a question of safety. The size, frequency and age of the unit should be taken into consideration, 16 | Australian Plumbing Industry Magazine | Winter 2022

as should the nature of the crack.

Obviously, a check for spillage should be conducted and any appliance that is spilling products of combustion because of a fault with the heat exchanger is unsafe and the consumer needs to make an informed decision as to whether the unit is to be repaired or replaced.

The unit is however unsafe for any further use in its current condition and should be isolated in lieu of other action. If, however, the appliance is not spilling then the consumer should be informed that the existing heat exchanger is impaired and should be monitored more frequently, repaired or replaced in the future, these

decisions will be based again on the age and condition of the appliance and the nature of the crack or hole.

What is a definition of a safety-critical, non-compliance?

Recently Energy Safe Victoria (ESV) introduced information on how gasfitters might determine noncompliance as opposed to a safety-related issue. For this purpose, they have introduced a term “safety-critical noncompliance”. See below: A safety-critical non-compliance issue has the potential for a gas incident. A gas incident means, any incident or event relating to the conveyance, supply or use of

gas which causes or has the potential to cause

does not agree to have you perform the work).

to the use of existing sanitary drains up to the point of connection:

A the death of or injury to a person B significant damage to property C an explosion

Do you have to be qualified in Type A appliance servicing to perform Carbon Monoxide spillage and Negative Pressure testing?

• Mortar-jointed vitrified clay, mortar-jointed concrete, asbestos cement and fibre-reinforced cement pipes shall not be re-used unless they have been renovated using a structural plastics liner in accordance with Clause 3.16.3

If I identify a safety-critical, non-compliance issue, do I isolate the appliance or installation?

If you have identified a “safety critical non-compliance” that cannot be rectified while on site or the owner/ rental provider won’t allow you to rectify it, then you have an obligation to make sure the appliance/ installation is safe.

Should the owner/rental provider not agree to have the appliance/ installation isolation performed you must notify ESV and allow them to have the gas supply removed (Note: You have no right to remove gas supply or isolate an appliance, if the owner or rental provider

If you hold the main class of gasfitting you are qualified to perform these tests. Furthermore, you should be performing these tests as part of the appliance commissioning, in accordance with Clause 6.11.4 and outlined in Appendix R of the AS/NZS5601.1:2013.

When a property is being demolished or removed, do sanitary drains need to be removed and replaced in PVC if they have previously been relined?

According to AS/NZS3500.2:2021, Clause 3.16.1, the following applies

• Drains constructed of other materials shall not be re-used unless they have been verified for conformance in accordance with the relevant clauses of the standard and tested in accordance with Section 15 (testing of sanitary plumbing and drainage installations) and found to be satisfactory.

Email your question to membership@plumber.com.au, and we will publish the answer in our upcoming editions. www.plumber.com.au | 17

Regulations

Know how to meet bedding regulations Sifting through the compliance requirements is not easy when it comes to drain-bedding material. Here, Master Plumbers’ Senior Technical Advisor Gary Bath guides you through.

Recently, the Victorian regulator has had a strong focus on ensuring that the material used for bedding of the sanitary drain satisfies AS/NZS3500.2 requirements.

In general, external bedding material is required when the trench is over excavated or when the ground contains clay, rock, shale, gravel or hard objects that may damage the installed pipe. In stable ground, the drain can be put directly on the undisturbed base of the trench provided the base is free from rocks or tree roots.

Approved bedding materials are: • Crushed rock, gravel screenings or similar recycled materials (eg roof tiles or bricks) of a nominal size of 7-10mm.

• Cement mortar containing 1 part Portland cement to 4 parts sand by volume, thoroughly mixed with clean water to a workable consistency.

• Cement mortar bedding where the base of the trench is rock or shale where the grade is greater than 20% (1 in 5), the cement mortar shall be: – Of a minimum depth of 50mm, measured below the barrel of the pipe.

– Not less than 75mm wide.

18 | Australian Plumbing Industry Magazine | Winter 2022

– Not closer than 20mm to flexible joints.

– Have pipes supported at not greater than 1500mm from the centres, prior to placing the mortar bedding.

• Free running sand capable of passing through a 2mm mesh sieve, which does not contain clay, organic or any other deleterious materials.

So, what is the issue?

Historically, plumbers have used a bedding material that the industry knows as ¼ minus. In fact, pre-dating the current regulator when individual water or sewage authorities had responsibility for inspecting sanitary drains, there were some authorities that would insist on crusher dust or stone dust, which was a product that consisted of blue metal (4mm and less) sometimes described as fines.

The ¼ minus is a product that was generally blue metal or similar gravel that would pass through a ¼ inch sieve (6.35 mm) meaning that the product was 6.35mm down to fines in most cases.

The issue from the regulator’s perspective is that ¼ minus does not meet the DTS requirements of the AS/NZS3500.2 in that it is not 7-10mm gravel or similar neither is it “free-running sand” that could pass through a 2mm sieve.

On the subject of sand, being an acceptable bedding material, Victoria has a variation in the Plumbing Code of Australia, (NCC Vol 3) stating that sand may only be used as a bedding material if it is excavated from the trench.

Access to material that meets these specifications is another issue, locally sourced material and the quality of that material is a financial consideration, material is ordered and delivered to site by suppliers where quality control is the responsibility of the certifying drainer in most cases.

Where to from here?

There are current discussions with the Victorian regulator to achieve an outcome that will hopefully provide plumbers with sufficient information and technical guidance to ensure compliance with their interpretation of the Standard. Whether that is in the form of certification from the supplier of this material, technical direction from the VBA or whether it will be left to the installing plumber to cast a quality assurance eye over the material supplied is yet to be seen. Our historical use of ¼ minus screenings makes this focus on bedding material all the more baffling given we don’t have any evidence where these drains, laid in ¼ minus have failed as a result of this material choice.

Existing surface

Legend

Backfill

Ground level

Backfill

See Clause 3.7

Pipe overlay Pipe side support Bed zone

B min = D + 200 Dimensions in millimetres

Compacted pipe overlay

100 min

D

100 min

75 min

Compacted pipe side support

D

Compacted pipe bedding

75 min B min www.plumber.com.au | 19

Tasmanian news

I’d like to give a big welcome to all our members across Tasmania – I’ve been a Master Plumbers member for about 30 years but I’m new to the role of Vice President.

I see my role in the north of the island, where I run Grant Chugg Plumbing (GCP) in Launceston, as bridging the gap between the majority of our members who are based in Hobart and the rest of Tasmania.

We are always keen to encourage our members to access the great range of benefits we provide, but ultimately, they are an add on to Master Plumbers’ main purpose.

We are a community that aims to bring people together – whether you’re a sole operator or you run a big business. My mission as Vice President is to let our members know that we have their backs and that Master Plumbers is always there with guidance and advice.

Whether you need information about updated apprentice rates or training opportunities, it is all aimed at assisting people to become better at what they do.

20 | Australian Plumbing Industry Magazine | Winter 2022

It’s important, whether someone is new to the industry or has been around for 50 years, to stay abreast of changes whether in terms of products or your responsibilities as an employer. The industry is constantly changing and there’s always something new to learn.

The construction industry in Tasmania is booming and it seems that the state has three or four years of good economic prospects ahead of it. That means that we are seeing many new people take up the opportunity to start a new business because the economy supports it in the here and now.

It’s important that we remember things move in cycles and what is strong now may not be one day.

That’s why I really encourage our members to skill themselves in money management and future proofing their businesses.

The Certificate IV in Business Management is very valuable and we promote it in our own business – it gives people the skills and confidence to go out on their own.

It is much easier to succeed when you understand how to effectively run a business!

Grant Chugg Vice President, Master Plumbers Association of Tasmania

Plumbing, a career chosen early Not everyone can pinpoint the precise moment from their childhood when they realised the career path that they would still be on decades later. Grant Chugg remembers his well.

One afternoon at his childhood best friend’s home had a big impact on a young Grant Chugg.

“I was about 12 or 13 years old, and

Find your local association Master Plumbers and Mechanical Services Association of Australia (Victoria) T (03) 9329 9622

Master Plumbers & Gasfitters Association of Western Australia T (08) 9471 6661 Master Plumbers Association ACT Inc T (02) 6112 8630

Master Plumbers Association of Tasmania T (03) 6272 2199 Master Plumbers Association of Queensland T (07) 3273 0800

Master Plumbers Association of South Australia T (08) 8292 4000 Master Plumbers & Mechanical Contractors Association of New South Wales T (02) 8789 7000

dealing with their emotions, and their stress when something goes wrong at home.

I’d already thought that I wanted to do plumbing when I was older, but I remember that my best friend’s parents were building their house.

Their plumber said I could help him with putting some sewer drainage in the ground, and from then on, I never wanted to do anything different,” he recalls.

“My parents always encouraged me to do a trade and they thought plumbing was a good choice – as it was future proof. I never wavered on any other trades and always knew this was for me.”

Grant went on to complete a pre-vocational course and an apprenticeship in his hometown Launceston, where he would establish Grant Chugg Plumbing (GCP) in 1994.

These days, the business has 34 employees across commercial and maintenance divisions, providing 24-hour emergency services as well as a team focused on bathroom renovations.

Grant says his commitment to quality customer service and fostering a positive workplace culture hasn’t changed across his decades in the industry.

“It’s all about providing satisfaction to customers, whether you’re fixing a dripping tap or blocked drain, or renovating their bathroom. Across my entire career, I’ve been really focused on good service and making it a good experience for customers.

We must remember that we’re

“I also think it’s important to hire people who add to your workplace culture and don’t take away from it.

Over my time I’ve hired some great people and some who haven’t been the right fit – they may be the right fit for another business but not mine.

I think you get better at hiring with time and maturity.”

Two decades ago, the business opened the Smart Living Centre, also in Launceston. The centre’s purposebuilt showroom displays a range of energy-efficient products and initiatives including wood heaters, hydronic heating, water filtration and skylights. The Smart Living Centre also offers installation services, making it a one-stop-shop for people renovating or building a home.

“I’ve been interested in solar and renewable energy for a long time, ultimately because it’s a way people can save money. If you can use a resource like the sun to cut your heating and power bills, why wouldn’t you? Energy efficient products come with a price tag, but you’re investing in high quality products that last longer and deliver savings year on year.”

One of the things Smart Living Centre specialises in is the installation of skylights to allow more natural light into a hallway or room.

“In older homes, the kitchen would be positioned so if you stood at the sink, you’d be looking out the window into the back garden. But now, with modern home designs, the kitchen is basically in the middle of the house with no natural light, and you must have the lights on

24/7 when you’re in there,” explains Grant.

“Installing a skylight is like giving a room back – you can make a room with natural light somewhere where you want to sit and have your cup of coffee in the morning.”

Grant has hung up his own tool belt and spent recent years further developing his business skills. I guess you could call it a different tool belt.

“We have a lot of fun, I’ve never enjoyed the business side of things as much as I am right now, and overall, we’ve gone from strength to strength,” he says.

“When you focus on anything, you aim to continually get better at it, and I’ve been able to embark on some fantastic training over the past few years.”

Something else Grant has established in his business is a commitment to give back. Grant Chugg Plumbing supports the Villages of Life organisation, which is dedicated to supporting local communities in remote places like Burundi & Rwanda in central Africa.

“I got to go on a trip through Villages of Life to Africa and it changed my life, it really made me understand how lucky we are in Australia.

The thing I love about Villages of Life is that they give a hand up, not a handout. They’re all about building schools so that people can be educated to support themselves, make money, start businesses and realise their dreams.

“For our team, they know that their work every day helps us achieve those goals. They’re not just turning up for work every day to earn a pay packet – they are part of something bigger.” www.plumber.com.au | 21

Tasmanian news A portal for planning A new online portal, which allows users to see what planning zones and codes apply to properties across Tasmania, streamlines the planning process for people looking to build and provides a range of benefits to the construction industry, including plumbers.

The first phase of the PlanBuild Tasmania portal allows users to search for any property using the street address, property identification number (PID) or the Certificate of Title number.

PlanBuild Tasmania then provides a colour-coded map, with each colour relating to a different planning code or zone that applies to the area, as well as information such as the planning scheme that is in effect.

For plumbers and others in the construction sector, PlanBuild Tasmania also offers a way to determine what approvals may be required before commencing a job by answering questions about the type of plumbing work that is planned. The website also outlines which planning, building, plumbing or environmental/public health rules may apply.

The ‘enquiry’ functionality also provides maps of TasWater infrastructure for a selected property including water and sewer connections and main lines.

The second phase of PlanBuild Tasmania is expected to be live later in 2022. This will allow licensed plumbers to access and view projects they are associated with, submit documentation and view relevant plans. Phase two will deliver application lodgement and tracking functionality.

Visit www.planbuild.tas.gov.au

Tasmania’s boom continues As Tasmania’s construction sector continues to go from strength to strength, Keystone Tasmania is well placed to promote training and training pathways among the industry and offer generous subsidies on a range of courses and programs.

New Australian Bureau of Statistics figures show Tasmania has the highest growth rate of engineering construction activity in the country.

That is where Keystone Tasmania comes in. The go-to organisation for facilitating building and construction industry workforce development in Tasmania.

“Investing in professional and skill development is an investment in a business’ future. In the same way that a plumber might invest in new technology or equipment to expand the business or give it a competitive edge, investment in the people in a business will drive that business forward,” explains Keystone Tasmania CEO Karin Mathison.

“There are strong links between training and development and employee satisfaction, morale, customer satisfaction and productivity. Even a sole operator who invests just a little time each year in personal or professional development will see their business outcomes improve.”

Keystone Tasmania is funded by a levy on building and construction projects over the value of $20,000.

The organisation in turn provides funding in two ways – through a

22 | Australian Plumbing Industry Magazine | Winter 2022

Tasmania’s construction sector continues to go from strength to strength

We hope to… inspire people to consider a career in construction

subsidy payment for training to employing companies including sole traders, and project funding ranging from $40,000 to $250,000 to organisations delivering workforce development and training activities.

The organisation’s updated website – www.keystone.com.au – is a central point of training information with everything people need to get started.

“Depending on the course selected, Keystone will fund from 50% to 100% of the advertised cost, for eligible companies [which] conduct 90% or more of their work on-site in the building and construction industry. Payments are made upon successful completion of the approved activity, and evidence is successful completion is required,” says Karin.

“Current training areas in which Keystone Tasmania is providing 100% off the advertised course cost in important areas include Work Health and Safety (WHS), Business, Project Management and Leadership and Management.

“We’ve also overhauled our application and claims system to

fast facts from around the nation

make it simpler to apply for and claim funding... Reducing administrative burden for businesses, particularly small and medium enterprises, is a good thing!”

Karin says Keystone Tasmania has seen a marked increase in demand for business skills, mental health support and WHS over the past two years, in large part due to the impact of COVID-19.

“We assisted many small and medium-sized operators with workforce development plans to help them navigate the uncertainty around the start of the pandemic, and now we are providing additional support for those businesses to plan to succeed through the industry boom.

“In some cases that means training in new systems, project management, HR, finance and so on.

In other cases, it means accessing mentors and networks who can offer support and guidance when everything looks hectic.

better meet the needs of businesses with limited time for training.”

Keystone Tasmania also recently developed the Build Something Big campaign to celebrate the building and construction industry’s achievements and promote it as a career option.

“The building and construction industry in Tasmania is busier than ever, and while this period of growth presents exciting opportunities for individuals, businesses and local communities, there’s also a looming challenge,” says Karin.

“To realise these amazing opportunities, we will need to see a significant increase in labour across all industry sectors and we will need to see that soon. So, we hope to start conversations, prompt enquiries and inspire people to consider a career in construction.”

For more information, visit www.keystone.com.au or call 1800-KSTONE.

“We’re also responding to an increase in requests for support for flexible training, including online courses and short courses that can

$736 million The total amount of workers’ compensation paid for serious claims for work related mental health conditions

120,355 Serious workers’ compensation claims including in the plumbing industry

65 The preliminary number of Australians killed at work in 2022

www.plumber.com.au | 23

Victorian news Know the rules AS 4575 mandated for Type A gas appliance servicing Since 2010, there have been three confirmed fatalities and several incidents of non-fatal carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning caused

by Open-Flued Gas Space Heaters (OFGSHs) in Victoria. In 2018, a coronial inquest into the death of Sonia Sofianopoulos provided eight recommendations, including the phase out of all OFGSHs in Victoria. Further consultation with industry stakeholders reinforced that mandating AS 4575 for gas-servicing work would also improve the safety of residents.

On 1 June, amendments came into place for the Gas Safety (Gas Installation) Regulations 2018, to mandate AS 4575 – Servicing Type A gas appliances as the standard for carrying out servicing work on Type A gas appliances and to require gasfitters to create and lodge records of this servicing work.

What do these changes mean?

From 1 June, gasfitters will be required to: • Comply with the requirements of AS 4575 in conducting servicing work on Type A gas appliances.

• Lodge a record of this work with the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) through its new online portal) within five days of completing the work.

• Provide a copy of the record to the consumer.

Only gasfitters currently holding the specialised Type A appliance servicing class are authorised to carry out this work.

24 | Australian Plumbing Industry Magazine | Winter 2022

New online portal

Owner-occupied premises

The (VBA) has created a new online portal for licensed gasfitters to submit a gas-appliance service report via its website, which automatically generates a copy of the submitted record to be sent to the consumer directly by email.

More information is available at www.vba.vic.gov.au/plumbing/as4575.

Where a gasfitter is carrying out servicing work in an owneroccupied premises, they are not required to complete a gas safety check. However, they are required to lodge a gas servicing record with the VBA (via the portal) and provide a copy to the customer.

Master Plumbers remains in discussions with the VBA and Victorian Government to ensure the reporting obligations for plumbers are appropriate and workable, and to create more navigable registration/ licensing pathways for those working competently in the industry already.

Have there been changes made to the requirements of gas safety checks for rental premises?

Rental premises As a result of the amendments, where a gasfitter is engagedby a rental provider (landlord) to carry out a gas safety check in a rental property, the new gas servicing record will only satisfy the gas servicing component of the gas safety check, but will not satisfy all of the gas safety check requirements – additional requirements of the gas safety check will also need to be completed. The gas servicing record must be lodged with the VBA (via the portal outlined above), and a copy of this record included in the documentation for the gas safety check.

For further information about gas safety checks, see Rental providers: gas and electrical safety (CAV website).

Gas safety webinars The VBA, Energy Safe Victoria (ESV) and Master Plumbers are hosting a series of free Gas Safety webinars.

These events will provide all gasfitters (including Type A servicing plumbers) with all the latest on the AS/NZS 5601 series, AS 4575, the new requirements for Type A gas appliance servicing work, and rental property gas safety checks. The webinars will run weekly for six weeks, kicking off in mid June.

Contact Master Plumbers on 9329 9622 for more information on the webinars.

Packaged Pump Stations for Wastewater & Surface Water Kingspan's pump station range has been built using more than 65 years of global experience and knowledge, so you can benefit from proven and trusted engineering and design. The range is available Australia wide and is suitable for domestic and commercial projects.

Let Kingspan help you with your next project.

Speak to an expert today.

1300 736 562

wastewater.au@kingspan.com kingspan.com.au/wastewater

www.plumber.com.au | 25

Victorian news Get it in writing The High Court of Australia has recently handed down an important decision on the question of whether a person is properly characterised as an employee or as an independent contractor or sub-contractor.

The first of those decisions was Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union v Personnel Contracting Pty Ltd and the second was ZG Operations Australia Pty Ltd v Jamsek.

In summary, the High Court determined that the character of the relationship (whether that relationship be a contract of employment between an employer and an employee or a contract of service between a company and an independent contractor/ sub-contractor) is determined only by reference to the matters that concern the parties’ legal rights and duties.

Be careful, follow the rules The Victorian Building Authority has penalised a plumber more than $9000 for breaches of the Building Act 1993, including for failure to have pipework inspected, increasing the risk of flooding and property damage.

A plumber faced the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) Plumbing Inquiry and was penalised for covering installed pipe work on a below ground sanitary drain at a Kew property, prior to the pipework being offered for inspection by the VBA. Incorrectly installed drains pose a real risk to properties, with the potential 26 | Australian Plumbing Industry Magazine | Winter 2022

Characterising the relationship in such a way has highlighted the importance of clearly expressing, in writing, whether a person is to be offered employment on a full-time, part-time, casual or fixed-term basis (and thereby establishing the contract of employment) or whether that person is to be engaged as an independent contractor/ sub-contractor (and thereby establishing the contract of service).

Failure to clearly express the contract-of-service relationship in writing could result in the independent contractor/ sub-contractor being able

for water not flowing correctly and flooding a home, causing extensive damage and costing thousands of dollars in repairs.

The Inquiry found that the plumber also lodged a compliance certificate with incorrect information, leaving the homeowners exposed.

to argue that the relationship was an employment relationship rather than a contracting relationship.

In all likelihood that argument would then be determined by the conduct of the parties.

In other situations, there may be times where a Court will consider that what the parties have entered is a sham. In such a situation it would be appropriate to consider the totality of the relationship between the parties by reference to the multi-factor test.

The establishment of a written agreement removes that risk.

“Not only does it pose serious health risks, but if there is a leak, the drain will need to be dug back up, resulting in added stress and substantial cost,” he said.

“Most plumbers do the right thing, but individuals who break the rules erode the public’s trust.”

The VBA’s Executive Director of Regulatory Operations David Brockman said it was important that drainage is looked at during the building process, because failure to do so could result in leaks and sewage flowing into homes, creeks and waterways.

The plumber was also suspended for a year, which has been deferred on the condition that he does not breach any provision of the Act for the next 12 months.

“Leaking sewage is a significant danger and poses a serious risk to people’s health and can cause illnesses like gastroenteritis.

Master Plumbers encourages all Victorians to visit vba.vic.gov.au and check to make sure their plumber is registered or licensed.

He can apply to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) for a review of the decision.

help keep your clients SAFE this winter Perform AS5601.1 gas appliance natural ventilation calculations with ease Vent sizing for air supplied direct from outside and via adjacent rooms Spaces containing any combination of room sealed, flued and flueless gas appliances Rooms, plant rooms, enclosures and residential garages

Sign up for a FREE 14 day trial now standardise.com.au

Allproof commercial channel, domestic channel and drainage pits are made from 100% recycled plastic using renewable energy generated on-site

Utilising solar energy and post consumer recycled materials, our high-performing products are made with the environment in mind. We proudly do our part towards a more sustainable future.

MADE FROM

RECYCLED PLASTIC

allproof.com

www.plumber.com.au | 27

Victorian news

Greening the Pipeline and growing communities The Andrews Labor Government is building a thriving network of parklands in Melbourne’s west, with works on the first major section of the Greening the Pipeline project now underway.

The $9 million project runs from Truganina to Laverton and includes a 22-megalitre stormwater harvesting and irrigation system, that will keep the park green all year round.

The project will transform the decommissioned heritage-listed sewer pipeline that extends for 27-kilometres along Federation Trail into parks, better connecting communities and creating a string of

fast facts from around the nation

open spaces from Werribee to the city.

Greening the Pipeline is part of the Labor Government’s $174 million investment to deliver the Suburban Parks Program, reinforcing Melbourne’s status as the parks capital of Australia.

The project is being delivered in partnership with Wyndham City Council and the Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation to

ensure Traditional Owner interests and values are embedded into park design and creation.

The first section of new parkland between Skeleton Creek and Lawrie Emmins Reserve is due to open mid-year.

“Stormwater harvesting projects like this create a more natural water cycle, they help save our drinking water supplies while maximising liveability and resilience in urban areas,” Parliamentary Secretary for Water Harriet Shing said.

For more detail, visit greeningthepipeline.com.au

$17.6 billion The estimated value of the plumbing industry in Australia for 2021/22 financial year (IBIS)

28,355 Number of plumbing businesses (IBIS)

90,000 Number of plumbers in Australia (Joboutlook.gov.au) 28 | Australian Plumbing Industry Magazine | Winter 2022

plumber.com.au/paq

FLEXIBLE AND COST EFFECTIVE APPRENTICE SOLUTIONS Job-ready apprentices available on short and long-term agreements.

You put in the request, we do the rest.

plumber.com.au/pav

National news Award-winners pick up cash

This year’s grant recipients are:

Investing in the future of plumbing is vital, which is why Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants provides grants to talented apprentices across Australia.

Tao Liu from Master Plumbers, Plumbing Apprentices Victoria (PAV) who is current placed with host plumbing company Gallant Plumbing – VIC

Following rigorous, independent judging of 193 impressive applications, judges awarded 10 apprentice plumbers a $3,000 grant to support their careers and studies.

This year’s applicants showcased a diverse, passionate pipeline of talent in the plumbing industry with more women and mature-age apprentices applying from across the country.

included Scott Dowsett, President of Master Plumbers; Scott Robinson, plumber and former TAFE teacher of the year; Kevin Price, National Service Training and Systems Manager at Rheem Australia; and Aimee Stanton, plumber turned DIY and Tiny House creator.

Luke Monie from Dave’s H2O Plumbing Solutions – VIC Amber Granzien from Clayton Granzien Plumbing Pty Ltd – QLD

After a challenging few years and uncertain times due to COVID-19, the National Centre for Vocational Education Research reports that the number of apprentices and trainees in-training increased 33.2% in the 12 months from September 2020 to September 2021.

Samuel Hodges from Plumbnorth – QLD

Tao Liu

“This year saw a large number of applications from across Australia.

Our independent judging panel was extremely impressed with the high calibre and diversity of applicants, with many displaying a strong entrepreneurial spirit to own their own plumbing business in the future.

Joseph Tago from Axis Maintenance Services – QLD Jake McNamara from Scott’s Plumbing and Gas Pty Ltd – QLD Jessica Grimwood from JF Plumbers Pty Ltd – NSW

“The applicants show a level of passion and commitment for this industry that gives us confidence in its future,” says Taylor.

30 | Australian Plumbing Industry Magazine | Winter 2022

Jacquetta Jackson from PlumbFirst Pty Ltd – VIC Timothy White from Specialised Plumbing and Drainage – VIC

Rheem Australia’s Managing Director, Chris Taylor, said that “The grants have always been a way to welcome those entering the plumbing industry.”

An independent panel of industry experts carefully reviewed the applications, selecting the 10 most deserving applicants from across the country. This year’s judging panel

Michael Macdonald from Master Plumbers, Plumbing Apprenticeships Victoria (PAV) – VIC

Due to the high volume and standard of applicants this year, Rheem also granted two apprentice plumbers with a special $500 Recognition Award: Michael M

acdonald

Jordan McFadyen from Midas Plumbing – WA Trinity Ellacott from TAPS – SA

Cbus Promotion

Super and the gender gap You can also

Research shows that women tend to retire with less super than men. In fact, 1 in 4 women retire with no super* There are several factors that contribute to this. Women are more likely to take more time out of paid work to have families, they’re more likely to work part-time and, generally, they’re paid less.

young women who’ve accessed their super early and as a result, miss out on decades of compound interest on their retirement savings.

Women also live longer than men^, which means it’s even more important that they have enough super to last their retirement.

What can you do to reduce the gap?

The events of the pandemic will further accelerate this inequality, especially for *Workplace Gender Equality Agency, Women’s economic security in retirement Insight Paper, February 2020, www.wgea.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/ Women%27s_economic_security_in_retirement.pdf ^Australian Bureau of Statistics, Life expectancy hits a new high, 4 November 2021, www.abs.gov.au/media-centre/ media-releases/life-expectancy-hits-new-high

First and foremost, make sure your employer is paying your super. The amount your employer pays is usually at least 10% of your regular pay.

Combine all your super together into one account

4

Find your lost super

4

Top up your super by putting in extra yourself

4

Check your insurance

4

Ask your partner or spouse to make a spouse contribution

4

There’s a lot you can do to boost your super and improve the quality of your retirement. And if you need help, just give us a call on 1300 361 784.

This information is about Cbus. It doesn’t take into account your specific needs, so you should look at your own financial position, objectives and requirements before making any financial decisions. Read the relevant Cbus Product Disclosure Statement to decide whether Cbus is right for you. Also read the Target Market Determination at cbussuper.com.au/tmd. Call 1300 361 784 or visit cbussuper.com.au for a copy. Cbus’ Trustee: United Super Pty Ltd ABN 46 006 261 623 AFSL 233792 Cbus ABN 75 493 363 262

www.plumber.com.au | 31

Women in plumbing

Follow in her

footsteps A gradual gender shift in plumbing is happening thanks to the Women in Plumbing initiative and to many individual plumbers and plumbing businesses who have taken intentional action over the years. Kate Jones meets three pre-apprentice plumbers assisted by the initiative.

Master Plumbers and Plumbing Apprenticeships Victoria’s $1.2 million, Women in Plumbing initiative launched in November 2021. Backed by the Victorian Government’s Apprenticeship Victoria program, the initiative aims to increase gender diversity in the trade by supporting more women to become plumbers.

32 | Australian Plumbing Industry Magazine | Winter 2022

Already, a wave of women of all ages and from a range of backgrounds have taken up the opportunity to do a paid Certificate II in Plumbing (pre-apprenticeship). These ‘pre-apps’ are a hands-on way for those interested in plumbing to discover for themselves what is involved in

the trade. Pre-app students receive ongoing mentoring support and weekly work experience.

Three of them – Liv Torre, Alexis Ballad and Hayley Bransden – have explained why they chose to give plumbing a go and how their experience has been so far.

It’s shown me how many different options I can take

“They told me to look into an apprenticeship, like a trade. And that was the first time anyone had suggested that to me.”

Liv narrowed her trade options to plumbing and started her pre-app at Swinburne Croydon in late 2021, doing one day a week of work experience at Cooke and Dowsett.

“When I first started, I was really nervous,” she said. “I was a girl going into a male-dominated industry.

I wasn’t sure how people were going to react or how I would be treated.

“But I’m pretty confident… I found my groove; I loved it and still do.”

The variety of work proved to be the biggest attraction for Liv, who started her apprenticeship in May. “Plumbing is not one repetitive thing; there are so many specialisations,” she said.

Hayley Br

ansden

“I’m very excited and very happy I found something I enjoy.”

Plans to build an empire

Alexis Ballad

Liv Torre

Finally, a career that’s just right High-school careers advisors told Liv Torre she would be perfect for a career in sciences or law. After graduating, she studied nursing at university, but realised it wasn’t for her. Liv switched to a teaching degree, but it wasn’t the right fit.

She felt at a loss.

When Alexis Ballad started plumbing, it wasn’t at all what she expected. Plumbing

wasn’t her first choice; she initially had her eye on construction. But when it got down to it, she found construction work wasn’t nearly as fun as plumbing.

“I thought I’d give plumbing a go and the next thing I know I’m starting my Cert III,” she said.

“I thought it was just like fixing toilets and stuff. But when I did my Cert II, it was so much more than that.”

“I got to a point where I didn’t know what I wanted to do,” Liv said.

Alexis studied at Victoria University Polytechnic and did work experience with Axis Maintenance Services. She said watching other plumbers at work – mainly men – had inspired her to one day set up a plumbing business of her own.

“My partner, who is an apprentice, and my dad… were both saying, ‘You love hands-on’.

“I’m actually very proud because I can do things that guys can do, maybe even better,” Alexis said.

“One day I want to start my own business. I want to start my own empire!”

Alexis urged other women interested in the trade to try it out, because like her, they might find plumbing proves to be “a life-changer”.

When everything falls into place Mother-of-four Hayley Bransden has successfully tackled numerous careers – hospitality, property management and even a stint as a butcher. However, none of them gave her scope to truly advance.

“I thought, ‘I need a career because the kids will get older and I need something I can grow into, not to be doing the same thing, earning the same wage’. And that is why Hayley chose plumbing.

Juggling childcare requirements meant Hayley waited six months to begin her pre-app. Finally, when everything fell into place, she started studying at Holmesglen TAFE and doing work experience at Mitchell Plumbing, based at Monash University.

“I actually thought a lot of boys had a lot more skills with tools simply because they were boys, that it was naturally their thing,” she said.

“But once I got in there, I realised I was kicking arse!”

The diversity of plumbing work at a university has showed Hayley just how variable daily plumbing tasks can be.

“They do residential properties on and off campus, big commercial buildings, plant rooms and roofing.

“It’s shown me how many different options I can take, which is really good because I’m not sure where I want to go yet. There are so many streams of plumbing, so there are opportunities everywhere.”

For information on applications, visit womeninplumbing.com.au www.plumber.com.au | 33

Member profile

Travelling plumber

34 | Australian Plumbing Industry Magazine | Winter 2022

I spent a week working at a bakery, replacing the heating exchange in their oven. They had been looking for someone to fix it for years, and because I could come in and invest the time into rebuilding their oven, they were really grateful.

As winter closes in, some plumbers might want to take a leaf out of Richard Burrows’ book and head to the top end. Kathryn Kernohan writes about his decision to move from the cold climate of Ballarat to hot and humid Darwin.

Plumbing has always been a profession that makes it easy to travel – wherever a skilled plumber goes, chances are there will be demand for their skills. That was what Richard Burrows reasoned as he made the decision of a lifetime, to temporarily relocate his family from Ballarat in Victoria’s Central Highlands to Darwin.

“I said to my partner that if we didn’t do it now, while our kids are young, we wouldn’t get the opportunity to do it again,” Richard remembers.

“When the kids are a bit older, we’ll be focusing on their activities. It was something we wanted to do, and despite COVID-19, the timing was right, so we went for it.”

So, Richard and his family bought a caravan, drove to Darwin and he found some certification work in local shops and food courts. From there, word of mouth spread and requests started coming in.

“I spent a week working at a bakery, replacing the heating exchange in their oven. They had been looking for someone to fix it for years, and because I could come in and invest the time into rebuilding their oven, they were really grateful. At home in Ballarat, I am so involved in the day-to-day work that I don’t get to invest time in those bigger jobs, which I really enjoy.”

Richard, who had built up a strong clientele based in Ballarat primarily in gas fitting and maintenance work, says the quality of his two long-term

employees in keeping the business running at home was a huge factor in allowing him to relocate.

“Having such great employees, where I feel we bring out the best in each other, was really important in me being able to move. I’ve invested the time into these guys, trained them up and they have really repaid me,” he says.

“We have a lot of regular clients, do a lot of gas fitting work, and they were all on board with me going away. We made sure things were simplified for the employees before I went away.

We went back to mainly breakdowns and maintenance work. Both of my employees have worked for me for more than eight years, and we do a lot of hospitality work around Ballarat, so clients already know them and know how good they are.”

Richard’s travels took him all the way to Lorella Springs, a working cattle station surrounded by the Limmen National Park and the Gulf of Carpentaria coastline, about a 12-hour drive from Darwin.

“Basically, I found and emailed all the truck stops and camps that I was going to be going through and asked if they needed any work done. I found myself in truck stops repairing hot plates and things like that, not for money, but in exchange for filling the car up with petrol,” he says.

“I also went to the very remote and famous Heartbreak Hotel,

where I was able to repair some kitchen equipment that had been out of action for years. There are capable tradespeople around, but I have a lot of experience doing maintenance on kitchen equipment, so I was able to fix those really tricky issues that are not always an easy fix when you live remote.”

More recently, Richard travelled to the Tiwi Islands and the resort owned by Matt Wright from National Geographic’s hit TV show Outback Wrangler.

“I spent some time there servicing his appliances and gas equipment, and the manager and staff took me fishing. It was great fun and something I really enjoyed.”

The Darwin experience was so positive that Richard and his family bought a house – “the worst house in a good street” as he puts it – and is currently renovating it on his own.

“I don’t know what the future holds, but I basically thought that because my employees are on board, why do I need to come home after a year?

They are happy continuing to work at home and I’m really enjoying this experience I have been on.

“Travelling has been really cool, and in my field it’s not too difficult at all. What I’m doing is something that anyone can do, there’s so much work around. I feel like anyone with plumbing skills can do it if they want to travel, we are all very lucky in that regard. www.plumber.com.au | 35

Health & wellbeing

Are you managing your mental health?

In the wake of the pandemic, workloads have increased as plumbers play catch up and supply shortages and increased costs have compounded the issue. In a recent episode of Master Plumbers Radio, Dr Izzy Smith, an endocrinology doctor, spoke about the importance of looking after your mental health. Kate Jones reports.

Mental health awareness Our mental health is not linear and while you can’t prevent incidents that impact your mental health, Izzy says, the first step in managing it is self-awareness.

“Thinking about mental health and wellbeing sitting on a spectrum from green, which is where we’re really mentally healthy and well, versus it sliding down to orange where there might be some warning signs – maybe our sleep isn’t very good, we’re anxious, we’re being a bit irritable and snappy, (or) not getting on as well at work,” she says.

“And then you can slide down further to red, which is crisis.

“I’m really passionate about talking 36 | Australian Plumbing Industry Magazine | Winter 2022

about self-awareness and recognising those orange signs. So, we can take actionable steps to try and get ourselves back to the green before we end up hitting crisis point.”

Recognising the warning signs and acting on them early is a crucial step in preventing your mental health from deteriorating.

“We need to learn how to check in with ourselves – ‘What is my body and mind telling me right now?’– and act on that,” Izzy says.

“Because if we just keep pushing those things to the side, we still feel (terrible), but we haven’t actually addressed why and (haven’t) taken actionable steps to make ourselves feel better.”

Building resilience Resilience is an important skill to develop. Unlike previous generations, learning how to be resilient is now prioritised in primary schools. Why? Because it helps protects us from the tough times we inevitably face, says Izzy.

“Resilience, like other skills…is like a muscle that gets strengthened,” she says.

There are many different theories on how to develop resilience and it depends on the individual, but Izzy says there are some broad techniques that can be applied in most circumstances.

“When we talk about building resilience… (it’s about) accepting

that life does have challenges and problems and that is a consequence of being human and living in today’s life,” she says.

“Being able to break things down into, what can I control and what do I have no control over? I think that’s a really important skill.”

Izzy says you must look at a situation and know not to continually throw energy at the things you can’t control.

Measuring stress Managing your stress hinges on knowing what to do when it becomes too much. Izzy’s theory on ‘stress cups’ points to knowing how much pressure we can handle.

“We have a cup and that’s how much stress we can deal with,” she explained.

“As we get older and more experienced, that cup gets bigger, but we still have limits. So, if you have a really big stressor in that cup, whether it’s maybe a relationship breakdown or you’ve lost your job,

you want to make sure there’s no other stressors filling up that cup.”

Simple measures to reduce stress include getting enough sleep, eating well, being active and avoiding alcohol and drugs. Doing more of the things you enjoy is the next step and this could be spending time with family and friends, or indulging in hobbies.

There is a myriad of theories on managing mental health. There is no one size fits all. The best approach is the one that works for you.

If you are experiencing crisis and need immediate mental health support, Incolink has a free 24/7 counselling support service for its members available on 1300 000 129 or you can call Lifeline on 13 11 44.

Listen to the full interview by scanning the QR code below with your phone camera.

If you would like to hear from other experts in future episodes of Master Plumbers Radio, email podcast@plumber.com.au

Izzy Smith is an Australian endocrinology doctor, an ambassador and keynote speaker for Movember and Puka Up, and the co-host of the mental health podcast, Behind the Uniform. www.plumber.com.au | 37

Member news

Celebrating great plumbers

30 year annual Bendigo Golf Day

More than 500 guests came together for the sixth annual Plumbing and Fire Industry Awards (PFIAs) held in March at Crown Palladium.

The annual Bendigo Master Plumbers Charity Golf Day returned to Neangar Park in Eaglehawk, Victoria for the 30th and final year of the charity golf day on Friday 18th March 2022.

The awards celebrate the achievements of committed professionals who excel in their trade or whose work has made a great impact on their company or the industry.

The PFIAs is a joint initiative driven by Master Plumbers and Mechanical Services Association of Australia, the Plumbing and Pipe Trades Employees Union, the National Fire Industry Association, the Association of Hydraulic Service Consultants Australia and the Plumbing Industry Climate Action Centre.

Event MC, Lehmo, kicked off the entertainment with a few laughs and reminded us all how great it was to be back at events…in person, while Kate Ceberano and band belted out a collection of original songs and covers that got the crowd up on the dancefloor.

Congratulations to all the nominees and winners on the night. A special mention to our Major Award winners, Russell Menzies winner of the William P. Hite Leadership Excellence Award and Khayne Horman, winner of the Andrew Letten Gold Medal Award (see story on ????).

This PFIAs raised $50,000 for the Indigenous Plumbing and Sanitation Foundation (IPSF story on page ???). The donation will go towards funding projects, which provide apprenticeship opportunities for Indigenous people from rural and remote communities, as well as fund projects where Indigenous tradespeople provide plumbing and sanitation services to remote communities.

Many thanks to all the sponsors on the night, including the Major Event Sponsor, Incolink.

38 | Australian Plumbing Industry Magazine | Winter 2022

This year’s event was also held in memory of Geoff Moroney. A founding member of the Bendigo Golf Day and active Committee Member, Geoff enjoyed a long and successful career in plumbing that spanned five decades. Geoff is well known throughout the Central Victoria region where he was the local Chairman of Master Plumbers.

Master Plumbers Board bestowed Geoff with life membership, and Geoff’s family was presented with a certificate honouring Geoff’s commitment to the association on the day.

This year, over $35,000 was raised from donations and sponsorship of the event. All the proceeds from the Golf Day will be donated to Camp Quality, who support and make a difference to kids facing cancer and their families.

A special thanks to Phil Kelly, and the Golf Day committee for their efforts in putting together a fantastic event, and raising much needed to donations to a great cause.

Over the last 30 years this event has raised over $377,000 for Camp Quality.

Further donations can be made directly to Camp Quality at www.campquality.org.au

The Andrew Letten Gold Medal Award is the ‘Brownlow of plumbing’

Join us to celebrate the

Andrew Letten Gold Medal Award for 2021 The recognition of achievement and identification of future leaders in the industry has always been a top priority for Master Plumbers but perhaps now more than ever.

Australia’s post-pandemic job market is experiencing drastic skills shortages, including in the plumbing industry. Awarding young and committed plumbers for their outstanding work rewards them and keeps the next generation inspired and motivated.

I’m very proud. I’m always going to be a plumber, so it’s… a feather in my cap and it looks good on the resume.”

Master Plumbers awards apprentice plumbers every year with the top gong, the Andrew Letten Gold Medal Award. The historic award has been handed to exceptional apprentices since 1908 and was named after the late Andrew Letten, who was for many years charged with examining apprentices throughout Victoria.

“My first job was at Melbourne Airport doing a private jet base, so that was interesting,” he said.

Last year the medal was bestowed upon Khayne Horman (pictured second from the left), a plumber with Cooke and Dowsett, but because of COVID-19 delays the award was not presented to him until this year. Recipients of the prestigious award, often referred to as “the Brownlow of plumbing”, are chosen from the winners of the Mechanical Services Award, the Frank Maskell General Plumbing Award and the NA Smith Gas Award. All were presented at the Plumbing and Fire Industry Awards and Khayne won the Frank Maskell General Plumbing Award.

“You have your good days and your bad days, but they’re pretty helpful at my company. If you need a hand, you put your hand up and ask. I just always try and do my best.”

The young plumber said he was honoured. “I wasn’t expecting it at all,” he said. “It was just very humbling.

Khayne started his apprenticeship with Cooke and Dowsett in 2016, after his dad and a family friend, Mick Berry, urged him to consider a career in plumbing.

“We do a lot of cool jobs like that, but (what’s really great is) you do something different every day and you’ve got to think and work stuff out.

Matthew Quick, general manager at Cooke and Dowsett, said Khayne was a model apprentice who was always ready to learn and help others.

“Khayne is an enthusiastic employee,” he said. He has demonstrated leadership qualities throughout his apprenticeship. Khayne’s leadership is shown by supporting other apprentices around him. He also shows leadership on site by taking on additional responsibilities.” www.plumber.com.au | 39

Heritage collection

See value in vintage Peter Jensen took a road trip to the south-west region of Victoria for the Cobden Vintage Rally where the Cistern Chapel was revealed.

After seeing one of my recent Australian Plumbing articles, a plumber, Brian, and his mate, Tony, from Warrnambool contacted me about their own special collection, which is housed in a shed in Cobden. The site, at the old horse racetrack, is run by the South-Western District Restoration Group (SWDRG).

Originally started in the late 1970’s in Bookar, just north of Camperdown, the group moved to Cobden in 2010 where they bought the old racetrack site for their operations.

The site is flanked by the Cobden Airport on one side and a modern Go-Kart track on the other, and just down from the Cobden Pioneer Village and popular Miniature Railway.

individual men and women who specialise in their own pieces that they have collected, restored and now display.

Apart from the permanent displays in the sheds, there are many guest groups who share their collections for the weekend. Some of which include, static engines, a tractor pull, vintage cars and trucks.

So, we loaded up the caravan and arrived Saturday morning (Labour Day weekend), meeting friends from Portland to camp in a large paddock area (with all the presenters and visitors) behind the sheds.

To coin a phrase from the film Apocalypse Now: I love the smell of steam and diesel in the morning!

The group preserves, restores and displays an eclectic range of antique and vintage collections including machinery, old tractors, agricultural equipment, old tools, vintage cars, steam engines and much more.

That afternoon we caught up with Brian and Tony in shed 18, aptly named the Cistern Chapel. Over the years the pair have collected many items and have them neatly displayed around the building.

Each year the group holds the Cobden Vintage Rally. The Rally shows off some 25 sheds run by

Their main display of course is a great collection of cast iron, brass, copper, china and plastic cisterns

40 | Australian Plumbing Industry Magazine | Winter 2022

along with a mix of pans. Other items included gas, wood and electric water heaters, lead, brass and copper traps, taps and many old and great tools.

One tool that grabbed my attention was a Rigid ½, 3/4 and 1 inch single head (all in one) thread cutter.

Brian’s current project is the restoration of a 1948, early form of a composting toilet called the “Hygeia Dissolvenator”. Hygeia, a mythical Greek Goddess; the goddess of health was once used on letterheads and stationery of the Master Plumbers Association to promote and instil the importance of sanitation for good health.

We also took the time to catch up with long-time Master Plumbers member Greg McQuinn, from T.S. McQuinn plumbing. Greg is 3rd generation and his son Stephen is a 4th generation plumber.

The next big Rally is in October 2022.

For more information, visit www.cobdenvintagerally.com.au

VIPER STACKER 4000 KIT DOUBLE

CLASS

A

LIMITED EDITION

Get setup with a quality jetting package deal this year.

VIPER 4000 SEWER JETTER WIFI CAMERA TROGEN LOCATOR PLUS JETTER

20LPM @ 4000 PSI

ACCESSORIES PACK

Package Price $28,978+GST Finance available $137+GST / week (approx.)*

Call us on 1800 816 830 to find out more. enviroline.net.au * Based on 10% deposit

» Rebuilt, tested & guaranteed » Obsolete or NLA our specialty Your source for independant supply & repair of electronic controls

» Large range of exchange stock » Most major industries including heating & air conditioning

yes we can!

VULCAN LENNOX

BRAEMAR TECHRITE

FENWAL BRAHMA

HONEYWELL OMEGA SIT

BRIVIS STADT

BONAIRE CANNON

03 9879 3400 | www.modulerepair.com.au | 18 Elliot Place, Ringwood VIC 3134 www.plumber.com.au | 41

Product news

The new stainless-steel reel looks smarter and never looks tired…

Made from recycled plastic and renewable clean solar energy…

Allproof

Australian Pump

Allproof’s 200mm clear-opening Commercial Channel is made from recycled plastic using post-consumer (kerbside) sources and renewable clean solar energy.

The design has been developed to utilise the strength of the surrounding concrete to create a strong durable solution for commercial-drainage applications. The grates have been load-test rated in accordance with AS3996 from pedestrian (A) to heavy commercial (D), giving this system excellent versatility in its application.

Additionally, the stainless-steel wedge wire grate is slip resistant classified as R11/P2 providing an exceptional option for high traffic, fast paced pedestrianised areas.

Heelproof cast iron grates available for loading bays and heavy-vehicle traffic. An economic, versatile and sustainable strip drain solution.

Australian Pump’s launch of their “Aussie Jetter Revolution,” the use of high-pressure water equipment to clear blocked drains has been a huge success.

Australian Pumps unique Cube Cobra design 5,000 psi rated stainless steel reel adds a new dimension to Aussie’s existing stainless steel Cobra design. “We have been using conventional high-pressure reels for the last 20 years that are black powder coated steel” said Aussie Pump’s Production Manager, Mal Patel. “The new stainless-steel reel carries the same load in terms of high-pressure hose, between 60 and 100 metres of ¼” or 5/16” Jetter hose but has the advantage of not only looking smarter but never looking tired, with paint chipped and rust marks” he said. They will certainly be on the market weeks before the 30th June” said Patel.

For more information visit, allproof.com.au or call (03) 9394 1883.

For more information visit, aussiepumps.com.au/aussie-cobra-jetters

42 | Australian Plumbing Industry Magazine | Winter 2022

fast facts from around the globe

3,000 billion The number of people worldwide who don’t have toilets

92 Average number of days a person spends on the toilet during their lifetime

Module Repair Service

Ridgid Australia

Module Repair Service specialises in repair and servicing of electronic controls for a wide range of industries including heating, air conditioning, irrigation, pool and spa and many others. Where a manufacturer can’t support replacement of an electronic control, we can often rebuild the existing control at a fraction of the cost of replacement. Proprietary automated testing systems ensure high reliability, and most repairs are covered by a 12-month warranty. We can also offer custom design of small electronic controls to suit a variety of applications. Our website has a comprehensive product catalogue but if you don’t see your control listed just give us a call.

Ridgid Australia announces a new KJ-5000 GEN IV water Jetter as part of RIDGID’s commitment to continual development of technological precision products. The RIDGID KJ5000 GEN IV is built to handle commercial and industrial pipe clearing applications for 2” to 10” (50mm to 250mm) Drain and Sewer Lines.

It provides 5075 psi actual pump working pressure with a water flow rate of 23 litres per min powered by an Italian pump and Honda GX690 electric start petrol engine. A large 25L fuel tank with level gauge is integrated under the chassis mount. Job site access is provided with a 60m quality 3/8” primary hose and a 60m ¼” remote hose.

For more information visit, modulerepair.com.au or call (03) 9879 3400.

For more information visit, ridgid.com/au/en/request-demonstration

PAID

AUSTRALIA

PP100019076

POSTAGE

PRINT POST

Prefer digital?

If you’d prefer a feature-packed digital version of Australian Plumbing Magazine delivered straight to your inbox, just let us know...

For subscription changes, call 1800 133 871 or email info@plumber.com.au

PO Box 214 Brunswick VIC 3056

If undeliverable, return to

go to plumber.com.au/godigital or email communications@plumber.com.au

Or scan this QR code with your phone camera and we’ll take you straight there!