Master Plumber March/April 2018

MARCH / APRIL 2018

The NEW World Class Training Facility in Beenleigh

Building for the Future In this edition

8 Ways to be Found by Clients

Get a Life!

Your Time is Valuable

We’re Getting the Band Back Together

YEAR

25 WA R R A

NT Y

Uponor Q&E – your quickest choice in plumbing Save up to 50% in installation time with Uponor’s Q&E System Discover what builders and installers around the world have relied upon since 1972. With more than 4 billion meters of pipe and over 500 million ttings in service worldwide, Uponor Q&E has more than proven its powerful properties: • Easiest and fastest jointing system in the market saving you time and money!

• Requiring only one tool, the Q&E system with its handy and lightweight expansion tool M12 will become your high-speed weapon on site • Most tested, trusted, listed and code-approved PE-Xa pipe for residential and commercial plumbing from the innovation leader Uponor • Flexible and adaptable Pe-Xa pipe requiring less ttings overall • Cost effective full plastic solution • 25 year of warranty • Full-service design and technical support Connect in seconds with Uponor Q&E Fast. Simple. Secure.

Your benefits • • • •

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Enquire now at your nearest Bretts store or call 07 3203 2105

www.uponor.com.au

3 ways Cbus is building super futures for plumbers in Queensland 1.

Investing in property and development projects through our wholly owned subsidiary Cbus Property1, creating jobs and delivering returns

2.

Easy administration for employers, with online options to join Cbus and pay employees’ super

3.

Industry–specific super products for members, including insurance cover, financial advice and free access to the Cbus smartphone app

Contact Glen for your business super needs Glen Halkerston

Business Superannuation Consultant, QLD

0447 113 282

glen.halkerston@cbussuper.com.au

Cbus Property commercial project, 1 William Street, Brisbane

1 Cbus Property Pty Ltd is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cbus and has responsibility for the strategic performance and management of all Cbus direct property developments and investments.

This information is about Cbus. It doesn’t take into account your specific needs, so you should look at your own business needs and objectives before making any financial decisions. Read the Cbus Employer Handbook and other relevant documents to decide whether Cbus is right for you. Call 1300 361 784 or visit www.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.

Model 350 (20-50mm)

Backflow EZSwap™ Designed for installation on potable water lines to protect against both back siphonage and back pressure. Unique, removable EZSwap™ pressure vessel enables easy repair and maintenance without removing the valve itself. Top access test cocks, shut off valves and check assembly for easy testing. Install Zurn valves to keep your systems operating at peak performance.

Contact the experts at Zurn Australia for our full range of backflow prevention devices.

Model 375 (20-50mm)

ZURN.COM.AU 130 0 0 0 Z U R N WAT E R CO N T R O L | D R A I N A G E |

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TA P WA R E

E N G I N E E R E D WAT E R S O LU T I O N S

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MARCH / APRIL 2018

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contents

page 4

Gas Awareness

Public Holidays & Pay Rates

Aussie Thunderbox

contents Editor’s Note

5

Perspective & President’s Message

6

MPAQ Member Benefits

7

Industry News

8

Plumbing & Drainage Bill

8

New Funding Assistance for Backflow Revalidation

8

Technical: Gas Awareness Sessions

11

Contributions: Technical, Legal, HR, Industry Trends

12

Legionella: We’re Getting the Band Back Together!

14

Business: 8 Ways to be Found by Would-Be Clients

16

2018 Easter Weekend Public Holidays and Pay Rates

17

Feature: Building for the Future

18

Safety: Warning for Plumbers – Metal Pipes Can Cause Electric Shock

21

Women’s Plumbing Alliance

22

Are you Going beyond a Customer’s Expectations

22

The importance of Good Support Staff in Your Business

22

Training Calendar

23

Feature: A Tip of the Hat to the Old Backyard Thunderbox

24

Social 26 Lifestyle: The 10 Smartest Tasks to Outsource

27

Health: Too Busy for the Doctor?

28

Feature: Luxury Bathrooms in Celebrity Homes

29

New Products

30

50 Year Flashback

32

Vale: Bruce Soden – Life Member

33

2018 Events Calendar

34

Events: World Plumbing Day

35

Milestone Achievements & New Members

36

Members News: Cambodian Charity Cycle Ride for Parkinson’s Qld

37

MPAQ Corporate Supporters

38

The Supporters of Our Industry

39

contents MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE

MARCH / APRIL 2018

PUBLISHED BY Master Plumbers’ Association of Queensland: 243 Bradman Street, Acacia Ridge Q 4110 P: 07 3273 0800 F: 07 3273 0873 E: info@mpaq.com.au W: www.mpaq.com.au

THE TEAM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Penny Cornah P: 07 3273 0800 E: penny.cornah@mpaq.com.au EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Lisa Hilton P: 07 3273 0800 E: lisa.hilton@mpaq.com.au PRINT & DESIGN Foyer Printing P: 07 5598 1005 E: info@foyerprinting.com.au

MPAQ COUNCIL PRESIDENT Kent Vickers P: 0418 883 999 E: kvickers@qigs.com.au VICE PRESIDENTS Don Nunn P: 0418 717 470 E: donnunn1950@yahoo.com.au Patrick Robertson P: 07 3276 8833 E: info@rpgs.com.au PAST PRESIDENT Kelvin Slade P: 0417 787 284 E: sales@sladebrosplumbing.com.au

Editor’s Note Lisa Hilton Editor

W

elcome to the March/April edition of the Master Plumber Magazine!

MPAQ has been going full steam ahead since the office re-opened from the Christmas and New Year break in early January. Many of the staff have had a refreshing break and are keen to develop more on what MPAQ is delivering to our members in 2018.

With details of the new Trade Training Centre for Excellence coming together and things developing further with our alignment with industry stakeholders, it’s a great opportunity for us to re-look at what other developments MPAQ are undertaking and making sure that our members see the most value from their membership.

We have made some significant changes to the way we communicate to our members about how important they and their ongoing support means to the Association. Changes we’ve made include:

TREASURER John Salmon P: 07 3862 2777 E: john@salmonplumbing.com.au

•

Revamping the benefits section of our website for easy reference and understanding;

COUNCILLORS Dennis Yarrow P: 07 3277 5742 E: admin@yarrowplumbing.com.au Michael Ryan P: 3630 4744 E: mryan@beavisbartels.com.au Rob Brouwers P: 0411 413 400 E: rob@backflow.net.au Sam Hannant P: 0405 647 046 E: sam@yesfire.com.au Harle Gall P: 0437 768 409 E: h.gall@laserplumbing.com.au Ben Crew P: 0400 364 665 E: ben@bcprojectindustries.com

•

Easy access through the website for information about the benefits and how to take advantage of them;

•

Development of a new booklet, which outlines all the benefits available and can be easily referenced in hard copy format; and

•

Quarterly ‘benefit’ emails, which outlines what’s available to you and how you can take advantage of them, as well as regular inclusions in the weekly e-newsletters.

TRUSTEES Bill Watson P: 07 3273 2333 E: bill@connectorsgroup.com.au Bob Kimlin P: 07 4772 6308 / 0419 744 383 E: bobk@live.com.au

LIFE MEMBERS G Cottee, F Huysing, B McGrath OAM, MJ Moor, T Morris, J Porter, GC Richardson, NF Sharman, BD Wallace, WB Watson, R Kimlin

MERITORIOUS SERVICE MEMBERS A Chapman, B McGrath OAM, T Morris, D Powell, B Wallace, R Weaver, M Wilshere DISCLAIMER Opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the MPAQ, nor does the MPAQ guarantee the accuracy of statements made by contributors or advertisers or accepts responsibility for statements they may express in this publication.

The MPAQ does not accept liability to advertisers, which may be held contrary to the Trade Practices Act 1974. The MPAQ reserves the right to refuse, cancel, amend or suspend any advertisements or inserts without reason.

We realised that some of our members are not aware of what is available to them through their membership, and we want to change this so it’s clear how much value it is.

If you have not yet had a chance to take a full look, check out the website under mpaq.com.au/membership/member-benefits or call the MPAQ office on 07 3273 0800 and one of the staff will be able to take you through what’s available.

While speaking with members to find out what they think their biggest needs will be in 2018, many said ‘more time’. We know how limited and precious your time is, and most people cannot seem to get ahead with all the hoops you need to jump through.

So in this edition of the magazine we have included some helpful articles to help you manage your time better.

Check out page 7 for the benefits included in your membership that will help save you time and money, read page 27 for what tasks you can outsource to help you get a life, and take a look at page 28 on how you can never be too busy to see the doctor!

Once again, congratulations to those reaching membership milestones with MPAQ recently and a huge welcome to our new members in this edition. I hope to see you out and about!

Lisa page 5

executive

Perspective

President’s Message

Penny Cornah Executive Director

M

PAQ has been focused on creating a number of new committees and groups in 2018. Each committee/group has a different purpose and I would like to thank those members who have committed to attending meetings and activities arranged so far.

MPAQ Corporate Associate Committee (MCAC) - The purpose of the MCAC is to address current and topical issues facing products and their supply in the plumbing and gas fitting industry. Membership of the committee will be open to all financial MPAQ Corporate Supporters.

With changes to the non-conforming products legislation, it is imperative that all Corporate Supporters are across the new changes and what they mean.

MPAQ Governance and Policy Sub Committee - The purpose of the Committee is to assist the MPAQ Council in the effective undertaking of its responsibilities in the areas of governance and policy. It plays an advisory role and is accountable to the MPAQ Council for its performance.

Large Maintenance and Minor Commercial Group (LMAMC) – This group has been launched to promote, connect and advocate on behalf of large maintenance and minor commercial contracting members.

The group is a collection of members, comprised of the peak professional plumbing and gas companies in Queensland. Belonging under the MPAQ banner, members adhere to an industry code of practice which sets high professional and ethical standards.

MARCH / APRIL 2018

To get involved, you must be a current contracting member of MPAQ, within the 6 – 10 membership category or above. An additional membership fee applies to be part of this group.

Women’s Plumbing Alliance Committee - The Women’s Plumbing Alliance Committee was established for the women working behind the scenes and also on the tools in plumbing and gas businesses. The group is about recognising the efforts of women who are creating opportunities to evolve the plumbing and gas industry, encouraging women to connect and build valuable support networks, and empowering women to grow and prosper their skills, business and the industry as a whole.

If you are interested in being involved in any of the above committees, please call 07 3273 0800 or email me on penny.cornah@mpaq.com.au.

page 6

Kent Vickers

Ready, Set, Go!

M

ost of you would have started 2018 where 2017 left off and by now you are all well and truly ready for a short break at Easter.

The Staff and Council at MPAQ are no different and have hit the ground running again this year, continuing to work hard for every member.

From the MPAQ Council’s perspective, our focus this year will be the refit of the new training facility at Beenleigh. It will be a world class training facility, purpose-built for the plumbing, gas, mechanical services and fire protection trades in Queensland.

In February, the MPAQ Council travelled to Melbourne to inspect and gain a better understanding of the very successful model the Master Plumbers Association in Victoria have been building for the last ten years in partnership with other key stakeholders. I think I speak for every member of the Council when I say that the Plumbing Industry Climate Action Centre (PICAC) in Brunswick is a first-class training facility. The Centre offers training for every facet of the plumbing trade, from gas to fire, and the planning involved in making it into a multipurpose space is amazing.

The stakeholders in this project will be using the knowledge gained from our Victorian cousins to develop an even better facility in Queensland. Our new college will elevate the standard of training for apprentices and post trade courses in Queensland to a new level. The commitment from all sides of the industry, including the Palaszczuk Government has made it possible for this fantastic facility to become a reality. It is pleasing to see that all the stakeholders (including MPAQ, Master Plumbers Victoria (MPMSAA), the Plumbers Union Queensland and Victoria, and the National Fire Industry Association (NFIA)) have provided input into the design and are working together to achieve the best outcome. It is somewhat of a changing of the guard and I look forward to the opportunity to work in parallel with these organisations to achieve a common goal for our trade.

Some of you may ask why we need another training facility, and there’s a simple answer. The plumbing industry Australia-wide needs to be able to change and develop specific packages for the future needs of our workforce. The new facility at Beenleigh is the first step in developing a national training model that is scalable, run by industry, consistent and able to set new standards for our trade.

The first revision of the architectural designs and floor plans are currently being reviewed by each organisation and construction is due to begin later in 2018. The expected completion date for the facility is 2019.

I hope you enjoy your Easter break and make sure you stay safe.

Life’s Good!

member benefits

T

ime is a precious resource. You can always make more money, but you can never make more time; therefore, it’s essential that you make sure you are utilising the tools and services that help you make the most of every moment. Why not leave yourself with more time to do the things you love?

At MPAQ, we know how valuable your time is, so we have put together a suite of benefits that will help you make the most of it!

Don’t waste time chasing up payments.

Doyles is a law firm designed to attend specifically to the requirements of the major players in the development, engineering and construction industries, including major commercial development projects.

Why not offer a buy now, pay later payment option that your customers will love and help make chasing up payments a concern of the past?

MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE

MPAQ Member Benefits

Certegy Ezipay is a no interest ever direct debit retail payment plan that you can offer to your customers. Certegy Ezi-Pay allows your customers to update or renovate today, using your products or services and pay for them over time, while allowing you to quickly convert a lead into a sale.

Access your discounted merchant rates today!

MPAQ members are entitled to unlimited debt recovery. Members can complete details in an online form, which will allow Doyles Construction Lawyers to draft a proforma letter of demand. This letter will be sent back to the member for approval within 1 to 2 business days.

Offer your customers an easy, interest free payment option. They get more time to pay, and you still get paid by the next day. With their mobile app, Openpay is quick, easy and paperless. Access discounted merchant rates of up to 30% today!

McKays is a proactive legal practise focused on the real needs of their clients. Their people are at the cutting edge of their diverse fields and are passionate about what they practise.

MPAQ members can access free solicitor’s letters of demand for debt recovery through McKays for debts over $500.

Optimum Recoveries specialises in commercial debt collection across the full spectrum of the credit cycle. They work with clients across a range of industries to deliver customised and integrated solutions with sustainable results.

MPAQ members can access a discounted debt recovery service rate of 15% and help with management of cash flow, i.e. making follow-up cashflow collection calls, generating and sending invoices.

You can also access a $250 discount on their Credit Document Review Service.

Save your business time by using a job management system that tracks your jobs from start to finish.

Tradify is the app of choice for thousands of tradies, tracking jobs from quote to invoice and everything in between. From online job management to smart scheduling, quick quoting and easy invoicing, Tradify has you covered.

MPAQ members can access the Tradify job management app for three months free.

To find out more about all the member benefits listed above, visit www.mpaq.com.au/membership/memberbenefits or call the MPAQ Office on 07 3273 0800.

page 7

news

Industry News Plumbing and Drainage Bill

New CSQ Funding Assistance for Backflow Revalidation

T

he Plumbing and Drainage Bill 2017 lapsed and all work associated with the plumbing law reforms was placed on hold when the 55th Queensland Parliament was dissolved.

On Thursday 15 February 2018, the Minister for Housing and Public Works, Minister for Digital Technology and Minister for Sport, the Honourable Mick de Brenni MP reintroduced the Plumbing and Drainage Bill 2018 into the house. The Bill is now available for review on the Queensland Government’s Legislative website (www.legislation.qld.gov.au).

The Bill was referred to the Transport and Public Works Committee for detailed consideration.

The explanatory notes provide that the purpose of the bill is to: • Establish a contemporary, streamlined and flexible legislative framework for plumbing and drainage that is clear and simple for the end user; will ensure both public health and the environment are protected; and will meet industry and community expectations over the next decade; • Provide authority for the making of a contemporary plumbing regulation that will be clear and easy for practitioners to use; reduce the regulatory burden on consumers, industry and local government; and include improved regulatory requirements for obtaining approvals for plumbing and drainage work; • Provide authority for the making of a contemporary plumbing code that will include all plumbing standards required to vary and complement national plumbing standards; and • Protect public health and safety through the regulation of mechanical services work, including medical gas work, under the Queensland Building and Construction Commission Act 1991.

The committee is due to table its report on 9 April 2018.

MPAQ will be preparing a submission and will attend the Parliament committee hearing. If you have any feedback, please email Ernie Kretschmer, MPAQ Technical Services Manager at ernie.kretschmer@mpaq.com.au.

M

PAQ recently announced that there is new Construction Skills Queensland funding available for eligible students who undertake Backflow Revalidation.

Revalidation is a requirement under the Plumbing and Drainage Regulation which states: “Successful completion, before the end of each 5 years after the licence was first endorsed, of a test approved by the QBCC commissioner for the relevant competencies.”

The course covers a review of the current relevant legislation relating to backflow procedures and practices, in addition to offering online learning. Specifically, it also covers the competency required to test, commission and maintain backflow prevention devices. Included is the preparation for the work, the identification of testing and commissioning requirements, the physical testing and commissioning of devices, the maintenance of devices and the completion of work finalisation processes.

This subsidy program is a Construction Skills Queensland initiative.

Below is a list of the short course codes and titles and the maximum funding amount available to eligible participants: Short Course Code and Title

Max. Amount Funded

Per Participant

BSBSMB401 - Establish Legal and Risk Management Requirements of Small Business

$360.00

CPCPCM4012A - Estimate and Cost Work

$180.00

CPCPGS4011C - Design and Size Consumer Gas Installations

$480.00

CPCPGS4022A - Service Type A Gas Appliances

$750.00

CPCPWT4022A - Commission and Maintain Backflow Prevention Devices

$150.00

CPCPWT4023A - Commission and Maintain Hot and Heated Water Temperature Control Devices

$150.00

QLD334SWH01A - Course in Evaluating and Planning the Installation of Solar and Heat Pump Water Systems (Non-Accredited)

$180.00

CMBPDRV001 - Revalidation Course Commission and Maintain Backflow Prevention Devices (Non-Accredited)

$80.00

For further information, please contact the MPAQ Training Department on 07 3273 0800 or email training@mpaq.com.au.

Specialised Plumbing Centre Right Product - Right Advice

Albion - 30 Collingwood Street Phone: 3862 1166 Acacia Ridge - 6 Lombank Street Phone: 3255 6644 Member of the Plumbtec Buying Group

page 8

PRADO. LUXURY THAT DOESN’T COMPROMISE ON PERFORMANCE

TFM2032 MPA QLD 02/18 T2018-009163

SEE YOUR MONEY GO FURTHER WITH A GOLD FLEET DISCOUNT

Being a paying member of the Master Plumbers’ Association of QLD has its advantages – like a Gold Fleet Discount across the Toyota range.1 Save thousands on the elegant yet powerful LandCruiser Prado. A 3-tonne towing capacity will get the job done and pack your weekends with adventure.

To get luxury for less, put your Gold Fleet Discount to work today.

To find out more, visit your Toyota Fleet Specialist Dealer or call 1800 444 847 1. Excluding Special Edition models. Photo credit: The Gall Boys

toyota.com.au/fleet

Master Plumbers’ Association of QLD membership details required to redeem Gold Fleet Discounts.

1

1

INSTALL A

technical

T

he Department of Natural Resources, Mines and Energy’s Petroleum and Gas Inspectorate is conducting Gas Awareness Sessions for gasfitters during May and June this year.

2 May 2018

Hervey Bay

5:00 to 8:00 pm

3 May 2018

Maroochydore

5:00 to 8:00 pm

9 May 2018

Toowoomba

5:00 to 8:00 pm

10 May 2018

Chermside

5:00 to 8:00 pm

15 May 2018

Mackay

4:00 to 7:00 pm

The sessions provide important changes that affect the industry and gives gasfitters the opportunity to ask questions and interact with inspectors. All venues will be licensed and finger food will be provided.

16 May 2018

Rockhampton

4:00 to 7:00 pm

23 May 2018

Ipswich (Goodna)

5:00 to 8:00 pm

29 May 2018

Bundaberg

4:00 to 7:00 pm

30 May 2018

Gladstone

4:00 to 7:00 pm

Please block out a date to attend a session in your area.

12 June 2018

Townsville

5:00 to 8:00 pm

13 June 2018

Cairns

5:00 to 8:00 pm

19 June 2018

Gold Coast (Nerang)

4:00 to 7:00 pm

21 June 2018

Calamvale

4:00 to 7:00 pm

26 June 2018

Capalaba

4:00 to 7:00 pm

The Inspectorate will send invitations in March for RSVPs. Please ensure your email address is current. To update your contact information, email gaslicence@dnrm.qld.gov.au.

MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE

Gas Awareness Sessions

contributions

TECHNICAL

LEGAL

Stormwater for Domestic Buildings

How does Security of Payments Impact Plumbing Businesses?

Written by Ernie Kretschmer Technical Services Manager, MPAQ

W

hilst stormwater is not considered “regulated plumbing work”, it is installed by plumbers as part of their day to day work.

The AS/NZS3500.0 defines stormwater as: The runoff due to rainfall from roofed areas, termed roof water, from paved and unpaved areas, termed surface water and from water bearing ground, termed subsoil water.

The National Construction Code (NCC) Vol 2 denotes: 3.1.2.5 Stormwater drainage - Where a stormwater drainage system is installed, it must comply with the following: (a) The position and manner of discharge of the stormwater drainage system must be to the satisfaction of the appropriate authority. (b) The stormwater drainage system must be designed so that any overflow during heavy rain periods is prevented from flowing back into the building.

Basically, as soon as you capture water (roof, awnings or gutters) or landscaping (gardens, concrete, courtyards, etc.), it becomes stormwater and must be disposed/discharged appropriately so as not to cause nuisance or damage to properties.

Unfortunately, this is easier said than done as the various Local Government areas may have different requirements or determinations as to what a “legal point of discharge” (LPD) is.

There are three most commonly used LPDs, stormwater mains, curb and channel, and rubble pits.

Stormwater Main Connection to a Local Government or service provider owned stormwater main.

Curb and Channel Connection to the street with a minimum fall of 1:100. Where minimum fall cannot be achieved, it may be possible to install an appropriate pit and pump the stormwater to curb and channel.

MARCH / APRIL 2018

It may be required to cross a neighbouring property to reach the adjacent curb and channel/stormwater main. In these instances permission must be sought from the neighbouring properties owners and agreements reached (preferably in writing).

Rubble Pit This used to be a popular LPD where other options were not available. Unfortunately rubble pits are only a hole in the ground loosely filled with rubble, so during a rain event there is only so much water these can accommodate and therefore fill and fail.

Due to this, some Local Governments no longer accept these as an LPD. Rubble pits should only be considered when all other options are exhausted. Installers should check with the Local Government prior to proceeding down this route.

For more information, contact the MPAQ Technical Services Team on 07 3273 0800.

page 12

Written by Ian Heathwood Principal, McKays Solicitors

T

op of the legal enquiries list recently is how the new Building Industry Fairness (Security of Payments) Act impacts plumbers’ businesses.

The answer is, very beneficially. But the hottest issue is that the majority of invoices from subcontractors, suppliers and others, are likely to be Payment Claims and they do not need the “magic words” identifying them as a Payment Client. So unless you pay an invoice in full when it should be or a Payment Schedule is given to the person who gave the bill, you will have to pay the full amount claimed even if you don’t think you owe the money. And, you could be fined and face QBCC disciplinary proceedings.

The lesson is to make sure your office procedures are up to scratch and your staff who deal with invoices know and understand how the new system operates.

If you have not already attended the McKays/MPAQ Workshops on the new Act, enrol for the next one (email events@mpaq.com.au). Otherwise you will be at risk of missing out on the benefits of the new Act and could end up being forced to pay money you should not have to. What could be worse?

contributions

INDUSTRY TRENDS

Employing Workers as a Sole Trader

What’s Happening in Construction in Queensland?

Written by Kym Campbell Senior Human Resources Advisor, MPAQ

O

ne of the most frequently asked questions to the HR Team so far this year has been:

I am a Sole Trader and I want to employ an employee. What do I need to do?

When asked this question, I first determine whether you have registered as a PAYG employer with the Australian Taxation Office (you can search the PAYG website on www.ato.gov.au) and whether you have registered for WorkCover (visit worksafe. qld.gov.au/insurance/apply-for-workcover-policyonline).

I would then look at the details of the employee you are looking to employ, and ask you to carefully consider what position you are looking for, and what qualifications are needed to fulfil this role.

I then provide assistance on how you can draft a job advertisement that is both appealing and informational for any potential candidates. Please note, MPAQ also offer a service where your job advertisement can be made available on the MPAQ website.

Written by Robert Sobyra Director of Evidence and Data, Construction Skills Queensland

R

esidential construction in Queensland surged 75% between 2014 and 2017.

We’ve been building around 38,000 new dwellings a year, compared to about 25,000 before 2014.

MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE

HR

Now is the time to focus on new sources of growth.

There’s a lot of talk about ‘oversupply.’ That’s an over-generalisation. Certainly, we have built more than enough apartments in inner Brisbane.

But other types of dwellings – especially houses and semi-attached product – remain balanced or underdone. Also, regions outside of SEQ did not share in this latest residential boom.

We are also overdue for some serious infrastructure spending which is now starting to come through from government, and we expect it to lift further over the next few years.

So we’re coming into a period of rebalancing.

While Brisbane apartment builders will be competing for a much thinner pipeline of work over the coming years, builders of lower density product, those outside the south-east corner, and those in the engineering sector will all maintain healthy, even growing, books of work.

Contact Construction Skills Queensland on 07 3846 8700 for further information.

Once you have decided on contracting a new employee, your membership with MPAQ will change so you have access to the below assistance from our HR Department: • Access to current Wage Sheets • Templates for Employment Contracts - Full-time, Part-time, Fixed Term or Casual • Templates for Position Descriptions • Assistance with Confidentiality Agreements • Assistance with Code of Conduct Documentation • Access to the Fair Work Information Statement – all employees must be given this information statement under the Fair Work legislation • Assistance with filling in Tax File Number Declaration forms and Superannuation Guarantee Choice of Fund forms • Employee Induction Programs For further information please contact the MPAQ Workplace Relations Team on 07 3273 0800.

page 13

legionella

We’re Getting the

Band Back Together!

T

he National enHealth Guidelines for Legionella control are now 2 years old – so I guess we can stop calling them ‘new’!

The guidelines recommend establishing a multi-disciplinary team to manage Legionella risks. This is consistent with global best practice.

But is it as easy as it looks?

A multidisciplinary team means getting infection control, microbiologists, clinical people, health and safety people, plumbers, and facility managers (and possibly a consultant) in one room. In my experience, this is a challenge similar to herding cats. Once you finally have all the cats in one room, the even more daunting challenge is to get them all on the same page! So what does that mean for best practice?

Legionella is a very topical issue that has presented us with a multi-disciplinary challenge in healthcare buildings. The nature and environmental ecology of the organism and disease is too complex for a single discipline to effectively address.

That being said, we all come at the problem from different angles and bring different perspectives. All of these angles are worth considering and useful. The gap between what we might like and what is practical may be quite different for different disciplines. The big challenge is to listen.

As a person with specialist skills, it is relatively easy to keep a narrow perspective on what you should deliver. What is more difficult is to consider the perspectives of others who are focused on a different outcome. What is worth considering is that all those perspectives are focused on the same goal.

Locate a Locator

To put it simply, each member of the band plays a different instrument. Each instrument is important to the overall sound, and the band is likely to flop if players aren’t listening to each other and fitting in with each other’s skills. Another point is that your instrument needs to be in tune!

Before digging starts, understanding what’s underground on your job site is essential. And locating that infrastructure isn’t easy.

MARCH / APRIL 2018

Plumbing is an essential part of the Legionella control band (perhaps the rhythm section?). For the band to complete its mission, plumbers need to be in tune, heard, and to listen. It is important that ‘we’re all singing from the same song sheet’.

Good communication (hearing and being heard) is the glue that joins the Legionella control team together.

But nding the right Certied Locator has now become a whole lot easier.

Dial Before You Dig is encouraging all civil contractors to ensure when you are planning to carry out earthworks you seek the services of a Dial Before You Dig Certied Locator.

The challenge for plumbers and hydraulic engineers is to join the band and play their part. System design, operation, and maintenance is the backbone of Legionella control. It is also a large part of the plumbers’ domain. As a result, plumbers need to understand some of the environmental and ecological factors that contribute to Legionella problems in buildings. Gaining this knowledge is an ongoing process that will draw you out of familiar territory. In the end it will improve your understanding of your role and the roles of others in controlling Legionella.

Dial Before You Dig Certied Locators have successfully passed a rigorous assessment surrounding all facets associated with electromagnetic eld locating.

Don’t take the risk of hiring the services of a locator who is not a Dial Before You Dig Certied Locator.

So nd the right Certied Locator by visiting www.dbydlocator.com/certied-locators.

If you are interested in more information, please contact Hindmarsh Water Treatment on 08 8403 8300 or email legionella@hindmarshplumbing.com.au.

Written by Dr Richard Bentham, Hindmarsh Water Treatment on behalf of

www.dbydlocator.com QUEENSLAND · NEW SOUTH WALES · VICTORIA · NORTHERN TERRITORY · TASMANIA · SOUTH AUSTRALIA · WESTERN AUSTRALIA

the Association of Hydraulic Services Consultants Australia (AHSCA)

CSG160826

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page 14

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Phone 1300 659 639

Email enquiries@zetco.com.au

www.zetco.com.au

business

8

Ways to be Found by Would-be Clients

N

ow that those big old Yellow Pages books have followed the fax machine to nearoblivion, you’ve got to keep up with other ways to be found. Some of the following are recommended for small, sole-trader businesses and some will be effective for all enterprises, including large commercial plumbing organisations. Your competitors are probably already across these so don’t get left behind!

1 2 3

Company Website – For as little as a thousand bucks, you can get a decent, effective online presence. Stick your web address on all correspondence, signage and business cards. Remember, your website is your online first impression so have it done professionally and keep the information up to date.

4

Social Media – For plumbers, Facebook and LinkedIn are the obvious choices. If you don’t feel comfortable running your social media account, you may enlist your partner, your son or daughter, your admin assistant or an external social media firm to do it for you.

Review Sites – When looking for a service provider, people often cruise sites such as womo.com.au, productreview.com.au, Google reviews and yelp.com. au to find out what others are saying. There’s usually a facility that enables you to respond to reviews. You can also encourage existing clients to post a review once you’ve finished a job.

Directories – Make sure your business can be found in trade directories, both print and online. A good way to find the online directories is to Google “plumber Brisbane” (or other local area) and see what sites pop up. You may find you’re already listed for free, but you can pay extra to increase your visibility.

5 6 7 8

Visual Branding – Your vehicle and premises signage, uniforms, business cards and website all advertise for you. Keep everything looking clean, fresh, consistent, up to date and professional.

Word of Mouth – When you receive enquiries, ask how the person heard about your company. If it’s a word of mouth referral, don’t let the referee down. Thank them, verbally or with a bottle of good cheer, and follow up on enquiries promptly, even if only to say you can’t do the job.

Advertising – Old-school advertising such as newspapers, networking events, event sponsorship and billboards still work. There’s also Gumtree, Google Ads, Facebook Ads, TV and radio.

Home Shows – A stand at the Home Show can put your business in front of tens of thousands of wouldbe clients. Make sure you have a system in place for harvesting contact details. The week after the show, follow up on every enquiry, either through a targeted campaign with a Home Show special offer or, for hot leads, individually.

Pick one of the above at a time and determine how you can use it to increase your business’s visibility.

Did You Know?

MPAQ Members have access to providers that can assist in these areas. Browse the MPAQ website www.mpaq.com.au to find out more!

Written by Gina Lofaro,The Word Mistress

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The whole kitchen looks so stylish when finished off with the MultitapTM. The form and finish is well considered from every aspect. – Guy Grossi

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human resources

Easter is fast approaching and here in Queensland we now have four (4) public holidays over the long weekend.

Friday 30 March 2018

Good Friday

Saturday 31 March 2018

Easter Saturday

Sunday 1 April 2018

Easter Sunday

Monday 2 April 2018

Monday after Easter Sunday

MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE

2018 Easter Weekend Public Holidays and Pay Rates

theBackFlowA

FINALLY ‌. an efficient, faster way to schedule & report Backflow, Thermostatic Mixing Valve & Eye Wash Tests

With regards to payroll, all permanent full-time employees are entitled to be paid for the Public Holidays that fall on Friday 30 March 2018 and Monday 2 April 2018.

However, if any of your employees are required to work on Friday 30 March, Saturday 31 March, Sunday 1 April or Monday 2 April, under the Plumbing and Fire Sprinklers Award, they are entitled to penalty rates of 250% (double time and a half) for a minimum of four (4) hours.

The next round of Public Holidays will be:

Wednesday 25 April 2018

ANZAC Day

Monday 7 May 2018

Labour Day

MPAQ advises its members that they should remind their employees who call in sick the day before or the day after a Public Holiday that employers are entitled, under the Fair Work Act, to request a medical certificate.

Be aware that medical certificates must be obtained on the day the employee is sick, as medical practitioners cannot legally backdate medical certificates. MPAQ also advises members to be wary of medical certificates from online sources and pharmacies, if you are in any doubt as to the validity of the medical certificate, please question it.

If you have any questions about this information, or would like some more specific advice, please contact the MPAQ Workplace Relations team on 07 3273 0800.

Save Time & Stay Organised Conveniently record, save and email test results from your smart phone or tablet on site without returning to the office.

Stay in Control Manage test results from users across your business.

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Keep Your Gauges up to Date Set automatic reminders for test gauge recalibration.

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The Apple logo, iPhone, iPod touch, and iTunes are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. Google Play and the Google Play logo are trademarks of Google Inc.

page 17

feature

Building

for the Future

MARCH / APRIL 2018

The New Training Centre of Excellence Master Plumbers’ Association of Queensland (MPAQ) has committed itself to advancing the industry and providing a world class training facility for future apprentices.

The facility will also provide post-trade training to upskill and reskill workers within the construction industry.

page 18

I

n conjunction with The Services Trades College Australia, the Plumbing and Pipe Trades Employees Union of QLD, the Plumbing and Pipe Trades Employees Union Victoria, the National Fire Industry Association and the Plumbing Industry Climate Action Centre (PICAC), a building has been purchased in Beenleigh, Brisbane, which will be the new Centre of Excellence.

The development of the building at Beenleigh will deliver a significant social economic return on investment for the local Logan community and Queensland more broadly. As a collective, we are bringing world class training to where people live; and where the jobs of tomorrow will require new or more advanced skill sets.

We have strategically located our new facility within a high population growth region, where economic transition away from traditional manufacturing is impacting the local regional employment outlook.

The proposed new training facility is vital to ensuring that the economy of South East Queensland has the skilled workforce available to take advantage of forecast economic growth, keep its growing population safe and maintain the amenity and integrity of the built environment.

The Beenleigh development will enable us to deliver high-quality training and set the benchmark of excellence in training providers for the trades and services sector.

feature MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE

The Government is partnering with industry through a $4 million investment to fit-out the training facility

Building on the Excellence of The Services Trades College Australia

New Training Centre to Lead the Way for Industry

I

F

n 2016, MPAQ formed a partnership with The Services Trades College Australia (TSTCA). TSTCA are a Services Trades Training College, born from industry, owned by industry and run for industry.

The trade training college is currently located in Salisbury with a smaller facility at Brendale. The college has proudly achieved over a 90% apprenticeship completion rate, which is well above the national average completion rate of 55%. They take pride in the reliability and level of service offered to apprentices in the trades sector. The modern classrooms have computer integrated audio visual equipment, and their workshops are fully equipped with modern and quality tools.

Penny Cornah, MPAQ’s Executive Director holds a position on the TSTCA Board, to help drive the strategic direction for the college. The college runs regular consultation sessions across the services trades, welcoming direct feedback from employers. If something is working well, the college does more of it. If something can be done better, the college adjusts to address it.

Genuine consultation leads to improved training and service delivery outcomes for employers, apprentices and industry. For this reason the college welcomes the development of strong working relationships with their students, employers and industry. The college also facilitates tours of the college for host employers or apprentices.

or over 12 years TSTCA has been producing job-ready graduates who go on to enjoy long and successful careers in the major construction sector. Developing the new facility will mean more apprentices will be trained in fire protection, plumbing and HVAC to the standard that industry expects, and that our economy and community demand.

Once fully operational, the new facility will be able to accommodate 400 - 500 fire and plumbing apprentices, 100 mechanical services or HVAC apprentices and 100 pre-apprenticeship trainees – about 700 places in total.

If you would like to enrol an apprentice with The Service Trades College, please call 07 3255 5698.

For further information about the new building in Beenleigh, please contact MPAQ on 07 3273 0800.

page 19

www.hilti.com.au

AVOID HIDDEN COSTS

How many tools don’t come back after a job?

How many power tools do you have and where are they?

Hilti Fleet Management Most contractors only think of tools in terms of purchase price. But have you considered the hidden costs associated with owning power tools?

How expensive is it to upgrade your tools to the latest technology?

How often do you repair tools?

How much does that cost you?

With Hilti Fleet Management you pay a fixed monthly charge that covers all tool, service and repair costs. This greatly simplifies your financial planning and takes a load of administrative work off your shoulders.

All inclusive repairs • No repair costs - ever • Unlimited battery replacements Fixed monthly cost • A low monthly usage fee replaces a large upfront cash investment • Predictable costs, every month Theft coverage • 80% of losses covered in the event of a theft • Simply report the tool stolen with a police report.

We take care of the rest Streamlined processes • No more repair quotes – high quality tool repairs returned fast • Quick and easy order process to add tools to your fleet • 1 monthly invoice

Tool upgrades • Use our tools to get the job done, then trade up to the latest technology at the end of the term • Minimise downtime with a constant fleet of peak performing tools Loan tools • In the event of a tool repair we can arrange a loan tool from a designated Kennards Hire branch.

Call 131 292 and we’ll do the rest.

Tool inventory and labelling • Use Fleet Management Online to track and assign your tools to a specific job, team or worker • A full tool fleet list helps avoid redundant purchases • Customised labels makes tracking tools easier

“Fleet Management gave me more time on site and less worrying about tools” Norm Touma, Director Dux Plumbing Services

Watch the video to see why professional tradies choose Fleet Management.

Call 131 292 for a free consultation to help you optimise your tool fleet and save your business money.

safety MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE

Warning for Plumbers Metal Water Pipes Can Cause Electric Shock

I

f you are working on metal water pipes you must be aware of the risk of electric shock. Under normal conditions, electricity supplied to a building will return to the local substation transformer via the neutral conductor. However, under certain fault conditions, metal water pipes may provide the return electrical path instead of the neutral conductor.

Any work involving metal pipes could be a risk – this includes repairing or replacing metal pipes and installing water meters. Before you start this kind of work, plan and follow a safe system of work to prevent or minimise the risk of electric shock.

The safe system of work you use should suit the particular situation and should include the following procedures: •

Plan the job by assessing electrical and other risks and taking suitable steps to stay safe.

•

Where possible, switch off the electrical main switch, or switches, at the premises and attach a tag reading ‘DANGER DO NOT SWITCH ON’.

•

Wear gloves and long trousers to avoid skin contact with metallic water pipes being worked on.

•

Thoroughly clean the section of metal pipe on each side of the length being repaired.

•

If a metallic service pipe is to be replaced by non-metallic pipe or fittings, have the electrical installation checked by a licensed electrical contractor and modified if necessary to ensure the electrical earthing system for the premises remains effective.

•

Notify the local electricity distributor and the householder immediately if you see anything abnormal such as electric sparks or you feel an electric shock.

For more information visit electricalsafety.qld.gov.au or phone 1300 362 128.

Article written by the Electrical Safety Office

page 21

women’s plumbing alliance

Are you Going beyond a Customer’s Expectations?

A

round a month before Christmas 2017, my three-year-old daughter vomited in the backseat of our car. It’s a sound (and mess) that parents are never warned about in the baby books.

When I drove home to inspect the damage, my poor sweetie was covered in vomit. As was the car seat.

My daughter was chucked into the bath. I then had to wrangle the vomit-smeared car seat out of the car. It took a bit of cursing (because those seats are damn hard to get out!); I hosed it down and then took the cover off and washed it in my washing machine. What I didn’t realise was the warranty booklet was still on the inside pocket of the car seat cover. When I opened my washing machine, I was met with an explosion of paper confetti EVERYWHERE. A week later, the spin cycle stopped working on my washing machine, so I called Fallon Services to get it fixed.

Unfortunately, the repair person couldn’t come out until after the weekend, (horror of horrors when you have kids and do washing everyday), but I was assured that if there was a cancellation, I’d be next in line. My appointment was booked promptly for Monday morning between 8:00am and 12:00pm. It wasn’t until Saturday that I remembered I’d booked Phoebe for a make-up swimming lesson for 9:30am, which I couldn’t reschedule. I put a note in my diary to call Fallon Services first thing Monday morning to request a more accurate time of arrival.

Turned out I didn’t have to ring, because Fallon Services rang ME first thing Monday morning to say their repair person would be over in half an hour. It saved me a phone call, and thus allowed me to not have to change my day.

I share this experience with you because I was impressed with the communication between Fallon Services and myself. I’ve organised tradies who have never shown up, never called back or have shown up late, without calling to advise of their new time of arrival.

MARCH / APRIL 2018

Communication between a tradie and a customer is super important. It could be the one thing that keeps a customer for life. No one wants their time wasted, and going above and beyond with communication tells a customer they are valued.

The communication Fallon Services showed to me that day made me a client for life – well at least for their appliance services. And it’s a simple customer service strategy all plumbers can benefit from when dealing with clients.

Written by Rebecca Senyard, The Plumbette

page 22

The Importance of Good Support Staff in Your Business

N

ever discount the value of a good secretary/ wife/receptionist in a plumbing business and a decent answering service for after-hours calls.

My husband and I have been in business together for 20 years, and had someone told me just how complex and demanding the plumbing industry could be, I would have thought they were exaggerating.

Fortunately for me I had done my trade cabinetmaking and had some minor understanding of the plumbing trade. I found out pretty quickly how minor my understanding was.

It was never my plan to become a plumber’s secretary, but after we waited over six months for three phase power to be installed into my shed, I was well and truly entrenched in the office. Over the next 10 years, we grew the plumbing business from operating in a bedroom of our house to purchasing a commercial property. I believe that this was possible because having someone in the office and available to answer the phone was the difference a lot of people were looking for.

Advising clients that we had been caught up on a job and being able to reschedule their job gained us more work and flexibility. Being able to send out letters of introduction when carrying out work for a new client in case they required our services in the future also gained us more work.

Unfortunately, we have become a society that is incredibly time poor, even though we have so much more technology available to make our life easier. Clients can be very demanding, and what was once an inconvenience (i.e. no hot water for a night), is now regarded as a disaster. There is a perception that everyone should be on hand at the drop of a hat. Luckily for us, this is what we excel at (apparently we charge accordingly - according to some clients). My favourite response to a client ringing up in a state of panic, yelling on the phone to me that they have a major problem is, “I have a solution”. I then panic and work out the best way to resolve the problem and get a plumber to them.

The best thing that we implemented in our business was an afterhours answering service, requesting that clients only call the afterhours number if it is an emergency. This eliminated a great deal of the calls that we had previously been receiving, such as the 8pm on a Saturday night call where someone (not our client) was looking over the plans of his proposed new house and wanted some advice; or the gentleman who kept me on the phone for over an hour at 6pm one night because he was curious as to whether the galvanised pipe he had dug up in his yard ever belonged to an old gas system in Bundaberg (we did not have any natural gas in Bundaberg at the time).

The value of having a partner work in the business cannot be understated. Not only do you gain a thorough knowledge of the difficulties your partner is experiencing on the job, but you are hands on with the customer service and profit of the business. A bad day on the job for my husband, usually amounts to a great steak dinner that night and an understanding that work is the last thing he will want to discuss.

Written by Helen Robinson, Gainsite Pty Ltd

MPAQ Training Calendar 2018

ACCREDITED Face to Face COURSES

RTO: 30473

TMV*

CPCPWT4023A - Commission and Maintain Hot and Heated Water Temperature Control Devices^

Date 23 April 4 June 28 June

Location Brisbane Brisbane Cairns

Carry out Work-Based Risk Control

BACKFLOW

CPCPWT4022A - Commission and Maintain Backflow Prevention Devices^

Date 30 April - 2 May 14 May - 16 May 28 May - 30 May 13 June - 15 June 25 June - 27 June

Location Bundaberg Rockhampton Mackay Brisbane Cairns

CPCPCM4011A - Carry out Work-Based Risk Control Processes

Date 5 June - 6 June

Location Brisbane

Legal and Risk Management Requirements

BSBSMB401 - Establish Legal and Risk Management Requirements of Small Business^

Date 24 May - 25 May

Location Brisbane

Non-Accredited Face to Face COURSES Plumbing Legislation

Non-Accredited - Plumbing Legislation Course

Date 21 May

Disclaimer: ^ Funding Assistance may be available * This course includes an online component that must be completed at least 2 days prior to the commencement of your course ** TMV Night Course will be run from 4pm - 8pm over 2 nights, if enrolling in this course all nights must be attended Dates are subject to change at MPAQ’s discretion.

Location Brisbane

More 2018 Dates coming soon!

CONTACT MPAQ FOR MORE INFORMATION: WEB www.mpaq.com.au/training EMAIL training@mpaq.com.au PHONE 07 3273 0800 page 23

feature

A Tip of the Hat to the Old Backyard

Thunderbox

Fast Fact!

As at 1965, 45 per cent of Australian homes were not connected to sewerage systems.3

In 2018, it seems incredible that thunderboxes – the old ‘backyard dunny’ – were the only option for many Queenslanders who are still around to talk about them today. The olden day outhouse was a common fixture of Queensland homes for generations. The main picture (circa 1950) shows a new Housing Commission development in Brisbane’s Norman Park, created to accommodate returned soldiers after World War II. The little structures were positioned close enough to the house to be manageable but far enough to afford privacy.

In those days, there were no dual-flush toilets with soft-close seats. There was no 4-ply, embossed toilet paper and there wasn’t even a light! Most families would be pretty content with a bucket of sawdust and some repurposed newspaper. Often, to appease the sensibilities of the females of the household, dear old Dad would erect a wooden trellis in front of the door and plant some climbing vines like choko, roses or passionfruit on it for good looks and privacy.

MARCH / APRIL 2018

The odd squeal coming from a thunderbox was not due to evil human intruders lurking in the dark confines but from a dreaded encounter with a cane toad or huntsman spider. Some families elected to use an indoor potty overnight, which Mum would dutifully empty into the dunny in the morning.

Sources for article: 1. http://boggoroad.blogspot.com.au/2012/09/you-reeker-eureka.html 2. http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/nostalgic-brisbane-how-clem-jones-built-brisbane/news-story/06269d358e5cb46602ac14e00cc8b20b 3. http://www.news.com.au/national/gough-whitlams-first-major-achievement-was-indoor-plumbing/news-story/3fdbb9a5256c665d26ce8d5dc5156748 4. http://www.swcs.com.au/brisbanehistory.htm#water

page 24

feature MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE Thunderbox (State Library of Queensland) Night Soil Collection Lyle Barlow 1970s (Brisbane City Council)

Brisbane’s Nightsoil Contractors

Hunter Brothers held Brisbane’s sanitary contract from 1949. Before that, it was the job of the Eureka Sanitary Company, who were charged with the collection and disposal of the ‘night soil’. Their depot was located near Boggo Road Jail and the waste was incinerated, much to the disgust of inmates, jail staff, and residents of the local area. Compared to 1840s Melbourne, however, it was state of the art.

The southern city was reported to be littered with “deep bogs and stinking cesspools”. 1 Council actually prosecuted Eureka for “causing a nuisance”, which led to a necessary upgrade of their works.

The Nightsoil Man: Neighbourhood Hero

The unenviable task of keeping these systems hygienic and safe fell to the ‘Nightsoil Man’. This cheerful character would make his way weekly along the street, enter every single property, traipse to the outhouse, replace the used tin bucket with a clean, empty one and some sawdust and move along to the next house. You can forget about Workplace Health & Safety. The Nightsoil Man diligently carried the buckets on their shoulders; no gloves, no masks and no overalls. Today, you’d expect a full Haz-Mat suit, a gas mask and helmet!

It was a seven days a week task to keep up with the city’s effluent, and many residents got to know their ‘dunnycart man’ by name. At Christmas, he would collect a ‘tallie’ of beer with the bucket, courtesy of the grateful family who knew that without him life would be a whole lot stinkier, especially during that summer heat.

In 1902, the General Contracting Company took over the task, and eventually Hunter Brothers became the last firm to service the city’s outhouses, with their big red trucks coming to a halt when Lord Mayor Clem Jones (1961 – 1975) ordered the installation of Brisbane’s sewerage system. Jones had thousands of residential outhouses demolished as part of his vision for the city to rival some of the world’s most sophisticated capitals.

“We were so far behind and we had no amenities,” the Churchie Old Boy explained. “The basic amenities for living just weren’t here. It had to happen.” 2 Today, Brisbane is an increasingly world-class city, due, in no small part, to the dedication of former Lord Mayor Clem Jones (1918-2007).

Written by Gina Lofaro, The Word Mistress

page 25

social

Toowoomba Industry Golf Day Total Players: 100 Charity of the Day: METRO Care Toowoomba Amount Raised: $1,032

m b in g K & R P lu T e a m s S u p p lie

Best scoring team (55) Shane Hamilton, Lee Greenaway, Tim Hammel and Mick Jannusch

Jackrhon Plumbing Team

Thank You to our Sponsors!

Expressions of Interest – ISH 2019

MPAQ is taking expressions of interest for a contingent of members to attend ISH in 2019.

ISH is a trade fair whose main focus is on the water and energy industries.

ISH 2019 will held from 11 - 15 March 2019 at Messe Frankfurt.

For further information or if you are interested in attending, please email info@mpaq.com.au.

Women’s Plumbing Alliance – Evolving Your Business Workshop Friday 16 February The Calamvale Hotel

Fi o n a V ic ke rs & S ta ce y P a rk e r

Total Attendees: 34 Thank You to our Sponsor

Attendees interacted with the speaker on their phones

Toowoomba Plumbing & Gas Trade Expo

Anton Seng & Penny Cornah

T yl e r G a rd n e r & K ie re n D o u g la s s

The Billi Stand Thank you to everyone who exhibited and supported this event! To view all the exhibitors, visit www.mpaq.com.au/event/toowoomba-expo-2018.

BIG or small... We’ve got you covered.

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Depend on Davey For more information about Davey’s Commercial Water Management capabilities contact: Hem Prakash | hprakash@davey.com.au | 0408 374 056 | 1300 369 100

lifestyle

Get a Life!

The 10 Smartest Tasks to Outsource

1. Bookkeeping 2. Car cleaning 3. Lawnmowing 4. Gardening 5. Laundry/ironing 6. Pool cleaning 7. House cleaning 8. Driveway pressure cleaning 9. Window cleaning

MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE

Top 10 Tasks You Should Outsource to Get Your Life Back

What’s your time worth to you and your family?

For a lot of tradies, time is a precious commodity and there’s never enough of it.

Quite often, the whole family is roped in to lending a hand, from helping with the bookwork and paying bills to washing the ute and cleaning out the garage. Partners and kids often crave proper downtime when everyone can relax and enjoy being a family. When was the last time you all got to have a barbie together? How many soccer games or school musicals have been attended by only one parent because they simply couldn’t be squeezed in among work commitments?

Tons of tasks can be outsourced so you can all reclaim time for the things that matter. You all stand to benefit from an improved state of mind, and when family comes first, the pressure and guilt that came from not being there start to evaporate. Even the business can benefit from being attended to by specialist professionals.

ING GARDEN

CARWA

SH

10. Dog washing

But outsourcing costs money…

…so does poor health! A bad back, constant headaches and nagging depression can cost big bucks. Not to mention the time off work for appointments. Anyone who works themselves to the bone is simply achieving false economy.

Compare your hourly rate with what it costs to get the car washed and detailed.

Is it seriously worth spending a couple of hours doing it yourself when you could be throwing a line in or rewarding the crew with Friday arvo drinks at the local?

Housework is obviously important for keeping the family organised and maintaining a sense of order. However, if huge piles of ironing are getting in the way of spending time together or the house being dirty is causing tension, then it’s time for a reality check.

There is no shame in prioritising what really matters: people.

Benefits of outsourcing business tasks •

They’re tax deductible.

•

They’re scheduled, so they get done!

•

Third party eyes can often find ways to improve business processes.

•

Less stress for you.

•

Experts take less time because they’re doing what they do on a daily basis.

Plumbing is a specialist trade. Average Joe should not be grabbing a spanner and tackling his own plumbing problems— you’ve seen the fall-out from that. So take your own advice and hire someone capable and professional to do the jobs that amount to nothing more than unnecessary extra slog for you.

Written by Gina Lofaro, The Word Mistress

page 27

health

Too Busy for the Doctor?

I can't get to the doctor in the middle of a work day!

L

ife is busy, especially when you have kids, run your own business and have a dozen things on the go all the time. So how do you find time for a doctor’s visit when you’re sick or hurt? Unless it’s an emergency, you might want to avoid public hospital Emergency Rooms. Here are some other ports of call you may not have tried.

Doctors on Demand

The future is here! www.doctorsondemand.com.au is a telehealth videoconferencing service. You can book a consultation to discuss a migraine, hay fever or allergy, diabetes, blood pressure, asthma and many other conditions and your examination will be conducted via video link. You can also request prescriptions for medications you have used before.

Now there’s no excuse to soldier on or ignore worsening symptoms. It’s never been easier to take care of yourself and your family around the clock.

Written by Gina Lofaro, The Word Mistress

After Hours House Calls

You can have a doctor visit you at home when your usual GP clinic is closed. It’s bulk-billed (no out-of-pocket payment) and the doctor sends a report to your GP. For colds and flu, acute pain, vomiting/diarrhoea, fevers and similar ailments, you can avoid trudging to your GP and request a house call. National Home Doctor Service Ph: 13SICK; House Call Doctor (Brisbane) Ph: 13 55 66.

Private Hospital ERs

MARCH / APRIL 2018

Sure, you pay a few hundred bucks for the privilege but private hospital ERs roll out the proverbial red carpet once you’ve signed on the dotted line. Get ready to be whisked off, gowned up and seen to promptly. If you’re short on time, then you will fully appreciate the quick and thorough care provided.

Out of Hours General Practice Clinics

More practices are opening that offer consultations outside of usual hours. At Redcliffe in Brisbane, the GP Super Clinic at 106 Anzac Avenue is open until 11:00pm seven days a week, as are some Brisbane SmartClinics. Cairns boasts a 24-hour medical centre on Florence Street, the After Hours Doctors practice is open at Southport and Palm Beach on the Gold Coast and the Toowoomba Medical & Dental Centre on James Street is open until 10pm every night. Simply Google “out of hours GP clinics”, adding your area for results close to you.

page 28

BUSSQ delivers top performance, low fees and profits go to members, not shareholders. It’s no nonsense, straight talking super for you, your employees and your family.

CALL YOUR BUSSQ REPRESENTATIVE TODAY

1800 MY BUSSQ 1 8 0 0

6 9

2 8 7 7

BUSSQ.COM.AU The information supplied in this advertisement is general advice only and does not take into account or consider your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting, you should consider the appropriateness of the information to your needs or seek independent advice from a properly qualified professional. At BUSSQ, we take your privacy seriously. You can read our Privacy Statement on our website. Any personal statements that are used in this document are with the consent of the individual. Prepared

by BUSS (Queensland) Pty Ltd (ABN 15 065 081 281, AFSL 237860) as Trustee for BUSSQ (BUSSQ Fund, ABN 85 571 332 201).

BUSSQ SPIN/USI: BUS0002AU.

feature

itchens may be the heart of the home, but bathrooms can be a timeless statement piece and are one of the most commonly used areas aside from the kitchen.

Some of the most luxurious bathrooms in the world feature in the homes of celebrities. From celebrities like Ellen DeGeneres, the Kardashians and Naomi Watts who favour glamorous modern décor to Diane Von Furstenberg and Jennifer Anniston who opt for unique soaking tubs and natural materials like stone and wood. Architectural Digest compiled a list of just some of the most amazing baths in the homes of our favourite stars. One thing we know for sure, the designers and the plumbers are the real stars of these bathroom masterpieces.

Fixtures by Remains Lighting crown Barbara Barry mirrors for Kallista in the master bath of Will Ferrell’s Manhattan apartment, which was decorated by Shawn Henderson Interior Design; the sink and shower fittings are by Hansgrohe.

Ellen Degeneres At Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi’s Beverly Hills home, which was decorated by Melinda Ritz, tile lines a shower positioned beneath a skylight.

John Legend and Chrissy Teigen The master bath in John Legend and Chrissy Teigen’s Los Angeles home, decorated

by Don Stewart, features Laurameroni cabinetry of riftcut teak, an antique stone-top bench, and a Waterworks hamper.

MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE

Luxury Bathrooms in Celebrity Homes

K

Will Ferrell

Tom Brady

Naomi Watts

Installed in the master bath of Gisele Bündchen and Tom Brady’s Los Angeles home, which was decorated by Joan Behnke, are lanterns by Dennis & Leen, Kallista sinks, and turquin-blue-marble counters from Compas Architectural Stone; the artwork above the fireplace is a photograph of Gillette Stadium (where the Patriots play) by Jon Coulthard.

A Ralph Lauren Home light fixture illuminates a Victoria + Albert tub in the master bath of Naomi Watts and Liev Shreiber’s New York City apartment, which was designed by Ashe + Leandro.

Article Source: Architectural Digest - www.architecturaldigest.com

page 29

new products

POWER SPIN+ with AUTOFEED® RIDGID Australia is pleased to announce an upgrade to the Power Spin drain cleaner, the Power Spin+.

Pull the trigger and turn the drum for a clean drain without the mess.

Features include: •

Cleans drain lines from up ½” to 1 ½” in diameter.

•

Kink-resistant MAXCORE® cable is designed for drill powered operation of up to 500 RPMs.

•

AUTOFEED® Trigger Technology allows cable to self-feed down the drain.

•

Cable is positively retained in the drum to prevent cable pull-out.

•

Pull the trigger and turn the drum for a clean drain without the mess.

•

25ft of ¼” MAXICORE® cable.

For more information contact Ridge Tool Australia on 1800 743 443 or email ridgid.australia@emerson.com.

Grinder Pump Torques the Talk Aussie Pump’s launch of a new range of Tsurumi three phase MG series grinder pumps has met huge success. Tsurumi spent a long time developing the product range to ensure the motors would deliver sufficient torque to achieve the required result.

“Tsurumi won’t make a single phase grinder pump because they know that in this tough application, a degree of torque is required that single phase motors have real trouble with,” said Aussie Pumps’ Neil Bennet.

Tsurumi solves this problem by putting upsized motors with really high torque capability into the MG grinder range. They match that with cast iron impellers and high chrome grinder mechanisms, with a hardness BN rating of 600 that will outlast many grades of grey cast iron.

“Tsurumi’s breakthrough grinder design enables effluent to be transferred through cost effective 1 ½” and 2” pipes, and at high pressures. This means the pumps deliver higher heads for moving wastewater further distances,” said Bennett.

“Grinding the solids smaller also means the waste breaks down faster and more efficiently which helps prevent blockages,” he said.

MARCH / APRIL 2018

Further information, including a detailed Aussie Tsurumi grinder information pack is available by contacting Australian Pump Industries on 02 8865 3500 or visiting their website www.aussiepumps.com.au.

page 30

Handy LPG information at your fingertips!

•

LPG pipe size indicator

•

Vapourisation charts

•

LPG conversion tables

•

Elgas LPG cylinder dimensions and much, much more For further information, visit elgas.com.au.

D

esigned to eliminate the ‘trip-and-slip’ hazards of stepdown partitions, Stormtech’s threshold drain delivers uninterrupted access between indoor and outdoor living areas and is access and mobility compliant according to AS1428.

The low-profile design features a linear stainless steel drainage system with a concealed channel section for door tracks and thresholds. The external linear grate sits flush beside the doortrack, in precise alignment with the ground surface. An integrated, concealed, subsill collects water flows and condensation around the doorway, conveying it to the external drainage system.

MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE

Zero Threshold Drains for Seamless Continuity Between Indoor and Outdoor Areas

The Threshold drain integrates elegantly into sliding door tracks, bi-folds or hinged doors, is compatible with major door manufacturers and available in five different styles of grate designs, including the Marc Newson tessellated pattern.

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, architects 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.

Visit stormtech.com.au or call 1300 653 403 for further information.

ArchitecturAl GRateS + DRainS

Master Drainage

By Stormtech

Smart design and easy installation from the inventors of linear drainage.

High grade stainless steel drainage made in australia Fully compliant with plumbing standards and codes

Professional Online Resources

Range of choices for endless drainage possibilities

Our website includes full product details, installation guides and technical drawings.

Rapid custom fabrication Responsive customer service

Visit stormtech.com.au call 1300 653 403

page 31

contents

50

YEAR

K C A B H FLAS

MARCH / APRIL 2018

/apr 1968 r a M r e b m u l Master P

page 32

Previous editions of Master Plumber Magazine from 1990 onwards One of MPAQ’s long-term members in Far North Queensland has a collection of MPAQ Master Plumber magazines from the last 20 or so years. If you are interested in obtaining any copies, please contact the MPAQ Office on 07 3273 0800.

vale

4 November 1933 – 23 December 2017 Written by Mr Bruce Wallace, Resident Historian

T

he Association lost one of its most willing workers on 23 December 2017.

Bruce Stuart Soden was born on 4 November 1933, as the only son of Stuart and Dorothy.

Educated at Yeronga State School and Industrial High School, he served his plumbing apprenticeship with his father who served on the MPAQ State Council.

Bruce took over the plumbing business after his father’s sudden passing and joined the Association in his own right on 27 May 1960.

He was elected to MPAQ’s State Council in 1963 and remained till 1986. During that period he served on the Social Committee for an extensive time and was the Convenor of the Journal Committee.

In 1966, he was elected as Junior Vice President and rose through the ranks to serve as State President in 1968.

He would serve again in 1975 and then with the tragic passing of the Senior Vice President, Lyle Connell, would continue with another term in 1976.

Bruce represented the Association on the Plumbers and Drainers Examination and Licensing Board from 1973 to 1985. This was, and still is regarded as our most important representative role, as threats to our licencing laws never cease.

Bruce attended the first State Conference in 1964 at Mackay and continuously attended MPAQ conferences until 1986. He attended innumerable Federal Conferences and was a co-delegate for many years. He also attended, with my parents, over twenty Conferences hosted by the New Zealand Master Plumbers.

In July 1980, Bruce was honoured with a Life Membership of the Association, which was a well-deserved recognition of his long standing commitment. He was also a Life Member of the MPAQ Social Bowls Club.

MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE

VALE: BRUCE SODEN – Life Member

Bruce’s Mother, Dorothy accompanied Bruce on all MPAQ social occasions, until her passing.

After his retirement, Bruce still attended the MPAQ Annual General Meetings when in Brisbane, and also enjoyed attending the annual Stalwarts Functions.

The Association extends its deepest sympathy to Bruce’s extended family.

Supporting healthier, brighter, futures for the next generation, here and abroad. www.reecegrant.com.au page 33

In 2018 the MPAQ events calendar is bursting with great South East Queensland and regional based events. Check out our full list of events* below and make sure to add your local events into your calendars early to avoid missing out!

Information on event tickets registration will be available at www.mpaq.com.au/events.

March Friday 9 March

World Plumbing Day Breakfast

Monday 26 March

Service Trades Council Info Forum

July Brisbane Ipswich

April

Friday 20 July

Plumbing & Gas Industry Awards

Wed 25 - Fri 27 July

Regional Road Trip

Thursday 26 July

Service Trades Council Info Forum

Brisbane Mackay - Gladstone Gladstone

August

No Events

May Thursday 3 May

Plumbing & Gas Trade Expo

Brisbane South

Wed 9 - Thurs 10 May

Regional Road Trip

Wednesday 9 May

Regional Dinner

Cairns

Thursday 10 May

Regional Dinner

Townsville

Thursday 17 May

Plumbing & Gas Trade Expo

Gold Coast

Friday 18 May

Plumbing & Gas Industry Golf Day

Gold Coast

Thurs 24 - Fri 25 May

Regional Road Trip

Thursday 24 May

Service Trades Council Info Forum

Tuesday 29 May

Small Business Week Ladies Luncheon

Cairns - Townsville

Gympie - Hervey Bay Hervey Bay Brisbane

June Tuesday 19 June

Plumbing & Gas Trade Expo

Brisbane North

Friday 22 June

Plumbing & Gas Industry Golf Day

Tuesday 26 June

Plumbing & Gas Trade Expo

Townsville

Thursday 28 June

Plumbing & Gas Trade Expo

Cairns

Wed 8 - Fri 10 August

Regional Road Trip

Townsville - Mackay

Thursday 9 August

Regional Dinner

Mackay

Tuesday 14 August

Plumbing & Gas Trade Expo

Mackay

Thursday 16 August

Plumbing & Gas Trade Expo

Rockhampton

Friday 17 August

Plumbing & Gas Industry Golf Day

Rockhampton

Friday 24 August

Women’s Plumbing Alliance Wine & Cheese

Brisbane

September Wed 5 - Fri 7 September Industry Conference Wed 12 - Fri 14 Sept.

Regional Road Trip

Thursday 13 September Service Trades Council Info Forum

TBC Toowoomba - Warwick Warwick

Thursday 13 September Plumbing & Gas Trade Expo

Sunshine Coast

Thursday 20 September Plumbing & Gas Trade Expo

Hervey Bay

Brisbane

October Friday 12 October

Women’s Plumbing Alliance Business Brekky

Brisbane

November Tuesday 6 November

* Dates are subject to change , please check the MPAQ website for the most up-to-date event information.

page 34

Melbourne Cup Celebration

Thursday 22 November Service Trades Council Info Forum

Brisbane Brisbane North

events

MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE

World Plumbing Day 11 March Every Year, Everywhere

W

orld Plumbing Day is an opportunity to recognise the importance of the role that our industry plays in maintaining and developing the health and safety of the community.

“The society which scorns excellence in plumbing as a humble activity and tolerates shoddiness in philosophy because it is an exalted activity will have neither good plumbing nor good philosophy: neither its pipes nor its theories will hold water” – John W.

Gardner, a Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare under US President Lyndon Johnson

According to the World Health Organisation, 650,000,000 people do not have access to safe water; 2.3 billion people do not have access to an adequate bathroom; and 315,000 children die every year from diseases caused by dirty water and poor sanitation.

Simple plumbing solutions can make a huge difference to billions of lives, which make acknowledging the work of plumbers all over the world so important. World Plumbing Day is about celebrating how far the industry has come and planning how we can continue to make a difference to many lives moving forward.

While there is still a long way to go and a lot more work to be done, let’s take a look at a few ways plumbing has changed the world (so far): •

Hot water on demand – All we have to do is turn a tap and we have hot water in the palm of our hands, but if you lived before the 1870s, before the invention of water heaters, you were forced to either heat it over a fire or allow the sun to heat it naturally and very slowly.

•

The water closet – While versions of the water closet have been around for hundreds of years, it wasn’t until the 1900s that it became a household staple. Before this time, you would be forced to use an outdoor facility (read more about this on pg. 24 and 25).

•

The flushing toilet – Thomas Crapper may not have invented the flushing toilet, but he is credited for spreading its popularity. So next time you’re flushing, send a little thanks to Mr Crapper because we could still be using a much more hands on approach.

•

Sewer lines - It may be difficult to believe, but it was 1728 before the first underground sewer line was installed. Before this, you had to really watch where you were walking in towns and cities as sewage was simply thrown into the street.

For information about events and activities throughout Queensland being run in the month of March in celebration of World Plumbing Day, visit www.mpaq.com.au.

page 35

membership

Congratulations to our Milestone

Achievements & New Members!

New Members

Milestone Achievements Name

Company

Division

Milestone

Barry Westbury

EH Westbury & Co

Far North Qld

Glen Rosenlund

Rosenlund Plumbing Pty Ltd

Brisbane North

Paul Agnola

Agnola Plumbing Pty Ltd

Warren Hilliard

Name

Company

Division

60

Richard Linforth

Primate Plumbing Pty Ltd

Brisbane North

25

Benjamin Grant

BG Plumbing & Gas

Brisbane North

Brisbane South

25

Warren Hilliard Plumbing

Fraser Coast

25

Leigh Hemming

Hemming Plumbing Services

Brisbane North

Doug Kelly

Kellgin Pty Ltd atf Mango Family Trust trading as

Fraser Coast

25

Lewis Banaghan

Brisbane City Plumbing & Gas

Brisbane North

Daniel Reeves

Reeves Plumbing & Drainage

Brisbane South

Ronald Wood

RC & JL Wood

North Queensland

25

Brisbane South

PM & SJ Clear Plumbing

Gold Coast

20

Michael O'Donoghue

Centrepoint Plumbing Pty Ltd

Peter Clear Daniel Stephens

Daniel Stephens Plumbing P/L

Brisbane North

15

Shannon McKnight

Blackwater Plumbing Services

Central

Danny Platt

SkillsTech Australia

Brisbane South

15

Mischa Tunevitsch

Platinum Plumbing NQ

Peter Smith

Tayside Commercial Plumbing Gold Coast

15

Far North Queensland

Jason Ede

Ede's Plumbing

North Queensland

15

Marc Telford

Aim Drain Clearing Pty Ltd

Gold Coast

Michael O'Rourke

Pat's Plumbing Pty Ltd

Brisbane North

10

Ryan Bond

Bond Plumbing QLD

Gold Coast

10

Cameron Horchner

Horchner Pty Ltd

Ipswich

Trevor Richards

Plumbcraft Qld Pty Ltd

Brisbane South

Ash Parrott

simPRO Software Pty Ltd

Brisbane South

10

Ben Hughes

Hughes Plumbing Contractors

North Brisbane

Jake Sullivan

Sullivan Plumbing

Country

10

Chett Hubbard

Maroochydore Plumbing

Sunshine Coast

Outside Qld

10

Brisbane North

5

Brett Fairbanks

Gaswise Plumbing Services Pty Ltd

Sunshine Coast

Greg MacMahon Vivax-Metrotech AUS Keith Dyer Plumbing Pty Ltd

Sarah Nutley Lance Hurt

Lance Hurt

Mackay

5

James Bruce

J & L Bruce Plumbing

Toowoomba

Bree McIntyre

Viega Pty Ltd

Outside Qld

5

Darcy Knauth

Rams Plumbing and Gas

Toowoomba

5

DAK's Plumbing & Gas Pittsworth Pty Ltd

Toowoomba

Jazneel Ram

Spratt Plumbing

MARCH / APRIL 2018

McCoy Plumb

25 years Membership

Col Baldock

SERVICES BALDOCKS PLUMBING , MPAQ penny cornah with

page 36

e or Guinan Trev , WITH ROB WEAVER

David Fraser andSer vices

oy Joseph McC ing

25 years Membership

25 years Membership

25 years Membership

RESENTATIVE

ROCKY DIVISION REP

5 years Membership

David SantNamaria ZUR

5 years Membership

Glen HalkSerston CBU

member news

MPAQ Members Complete Cambodian Charity Cycle Ride for Parkinson’s Qld M

ore than 70,000 Australians, including over 17,000 Queenslanders, are living with Parkinson’s.

On Thursday 16 November 2017, Alex and Angela Arkadieff, owners of AK Plumbing and Drainage Pty Ltd, embarked on an eye-opening and inspiring 10 day trip to Cambodia for Parkinson’s Queensland. Their trip included a mammoth six days of riding, 360km of Cambodian road to travel (and traffic to dodge), ten Australian cyclists, and a local tour guide to lead the way.

Beginning their cycling in Siem Reap, Alex, Angela and the rest of Team PQI 2017 completed their ride in Phnom Penh seven days later. The team rode in temperatures upwards of 30 degrees Celsius and humidity of approximately 80%.

Despite the physical and mental challenge of the ride, the tour leader described how the team’s “vibe and attitude never dropped a beat, committed to the task and open to and accepting of any challenge thrown at [them]”. As well as the kilometres to be travelled, there was lots to learn at stops along the way, plenty of amazing views and local sites to see, and local temples to appreciate and enjoy.

Alex Arkadieff told us that despite not being riders before, he and Angela will definitely be doing more bike tours in the future in other countries.

Congratulation to Alex, Angela and Team PQI 2017 on your amazing achievement!

Team PQI 2017 raised a total of $55,693!

How will the funds help?

•

$50: Distributes 15 Hospital Kits to the community

•

$100: Provides 20 Newly Diagnosed packs to people living with Parkinson’s, Support Groups, Health professionals and Local Allied Health Organisations

•

$200: Allows Parkinson’s Queensland to continue providing support through the Free Call information line at 1800 644 189 for a month

•

$500: Contributes to providing education sessions to Health Professionals and the Parkinson’s community throughout Queensland

Parkinson’s Queensland relies on fundraising for ongoing research, support and publications, just to name a few. You never know how many lives you can change by supporting a cause that affects so many Queenslanders.

What is Parkinson’s?

Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological condition that affects people from all walks of life. It is quite common, with more than 70,000 Australians living with Parkinson’s.

The average age of diagnosis is 65 years, with 82% of those diagnosed being age 65 and over; however, younger people can be diagnosed with Parkinson’s too. This is referred to as Young Onset Parkinson’s.

It is not easy to diagnose Parkinson’s. There are no laboratory tests (such as a blood test or brain scan), so it is important that the diagnosis is made by a specialist, such as a neurologist. The specialist will examine for any physical signs of Parkinson’s and take a detailed history of symptoms.

For more information about Parkinson’s or how you can help, visit their website www.parkinsons-qld.org.au.

page 37

corporate supporters

Meet Our New

Corporate Supporters A Day in the Life of a Master Plumber

Specialised Plumbing Centre

S

pecialised Plumbing Centre was incorporated in Queensland in 2007 from a vision to provide quality personalised service, as well as a diverse product range to the plumbing industry.

MPAQ staff would like to spend a day walking in your shoes! We are looking for businesses (of all shapes and sizes) to volunteer to host an MPAQ staff member for a few hours, or a day if you’ll have us, so that we can learn a little bit about what you do!

They are a privately owned, independent family company, centrally based with a south Brisbane warehouse at Acacia Ridge.

Their Albion location is a convenient pick up point for commercial maintenance plumbers within the CBD, while their Acacia Ridge branch is ideally located within the commercial precinct on the south side of the river.

Their delivery fleet services not only the inner city of Brisbane but extends as far as Noosa in the north, Gold Coast in the south, and Toowoomba in the west.

Contact MPAQ on 07 3273 0800 to register your interest!

As a member of the Plumbtec buying group, their motivated, experienced team not only provide the right product and the right advice, but also a competitive price.

Visit www.specplumb.com.au or call 07 3862 1166 (Albion) or 07 3255 6644 (Acacia Ridge) for further info.

The relationship with Master Plumbers’ Association of Queensland offers every member of MPAQ the unique opportunity to participate in the Openpay platform.

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2018

A

page 38

s a pioneer in the “Buy Now, Pay Later” category, Openpay provides over 200,000 customers with flexible, interestfree payment plans through over 4,000 merchant locations across a variety of industries. Businesses are able to utilise Openpay as a powerful sales tool – making it easier for customers to afford the little things they want and the big things they need.

Today, customers expect unique, tech driven offerings and Openpay allows these tools to move outside of the retail world and into other industries, such as trade services. You can provide your customers with a convenient, paperless, interest-free payment plan to help them pay off their bill over time, while you still get paid in full the next day.

The Openpay offering for MPAQ members provides many advantages for both business and consumer: •

Access to discounted Merchant rates via the MPAQ master arrangement

•

Better cash flow management – you get paid in full the next day

•

Paperless, real time, credit approval process in less than 3 minutes

•

No claw backs. Zero risk.

•

No ongoing monthly fees or sign-up fee to MPAQ members

If you are open to exploring more, sign up today and join the growing Openpay family.

To find out more call OpenPay on 1300 168 359 or email info@openpay.com.au, quoting your MPAQ member number.

The Supporters of Our Industry Trading Contact

Platinum Corporate Supporters Australian Valve Group CBUS Emerson Backflow Reece Reliance Worldwide Corporation Tradelink WFI Insurance

Gold Corporate Supporters

03 9462 2666 1300 361 784 07 3260 2555 03 9274 0000 07 3018 3440 1800 758 624 1300 934 934

Bretts Trade Plumbing Supplies BUSSQ Building Super Decina Bathroomware Pty Ltd Dial Before You Dig (Qld) Ltd GWA Group Hilti Australia InSinkErator Iplex Kembla Queensland Building and Construction Commission simPRO Software Pty Ltd Uponor Zip Heaters (Aust) Pty Ltd Zurn Australia

07 07 07 07 07

Global Roto-Moulding Pty Ltd PROTRADE United Rheem Australia Pty Ltd Saniflo Stiebel Eltron (Aust) Pty Ltd

07 4697 7099 1300 767 774 07 3412 9200 1300 557 779 07 3399 3711

Advanced Enviro-Septic AHG Qld Aitchison Reid Building & Construction Lawyers ALS Environmental Ancra Australia Pty Ltd Apollo Valves Apprenticeship Support Australia Apricus Australia Pty Ltd APT Management Services Pty Ltd Aquacure Water Treatment Pty Ltd Aquatech Solar Technologies Pty Ltd Astivita Limited Australian Industry Trade College Gold Coast AustWorld AutoTender Avis Australia & Budget Rent A Car Australia Backflow Central & Hydromet Bermad Water Technologies Biz Dynamics Pty Ltd Blucher (Australia) Pty Ltd Brasshards (Holdings) Pty Ltd Busy At Work Clayton Engineering Con-Serv Corporation Australia Pty Ltd Construction Skills Queensland Contractors and Industrial Sales CoverCard Davey Water Products Pty Ltd DFK Hirn Newey Downtown Toyota Doyles Construction Lawyers EJ Electro-Training Institute Pty Ltd Elgas Ltd Enware Australia Pty Ltd Ergon Energy Everhard Industries Pty Ltd Finlease Fleetmatics Pty Ltd Flowpex Piping Systems Halgan Pty Ltd Handford Virtual Services

07 5474 4055 07 3877 0095 07 3128 0120 07 3243 7222 1800 426 272 0477 223 110 1300 363 831 1300 277 428 07 3215 6600 07 3277 6696 07 5520 6701 07 3726 2000 07 5635 0400 1300 780 430 1300 882 578 02 9353 9076 1300 734 295 03 9464 2374 0400 299 424 08 8374 3426 07 3326 5900 13 28 79 1300 798 022 07 3630 5744 1800 798 488 1300 112 010 1300 657 688 07 3370 3700 07 3266 1488 07 3896 0100 1800 888 783 07 3216 5000 07 4724 4543 07 3396 2769 02 8556 4000 07 3851 6218 13 19 26 07 3324 2655 1800 835 117 02 9986 0605 07 3208 8339 0487 000 557

Silver Corporate Supporters

Corporate Supporters

3203 2105 3369 1111 3271 1944 3360 7950 3131 5999 131 292 0447 886 648 1300 047 539 07 3868 7888 139 333 1300 139 467 07 3157 5297 02 9796 3100 1300 009 876

Hays Recruitment Hydroflow Distributors Kennards Test and Measure Qld Kingspan Environmental Pty Ltd Mascot Engineering Group Master Hire Maximise Capital Mazda Australia Pty Limited McKays Solicitors MM Kembla Mt Gravatt Volkswagen Openpay Pty Ltd Optimum Recoveries Pty Ltd Pacific Hoseflex Plastec Australia Pty Ltd Plumbcall Franchise Systems Pty Ltd Plus Passive Fire Quantum Energy Technologies Pty Ltd Queensland Brassware Association Queensland Gas Association QUT Facilities Management Rain Harvesting Rainware Outdoor Showers Rebel FM Rehau Pty Ltd Ridge Tool (Aust) Pty Ltd Rinnai Robert Bosch (Australia) Pty Ltd Safe Asbestos Samios Select Water Tanks Pty Ltd Sensis Shower Sealed Pty Ltd Site Safety Solutions SkillsTech Australia Snap Fire Systems Pty Ltd SolarEast Australasia Pty Ltd Specialised Plumbing Centre Stoddart Stormtech Pty Ltd Stratco (Qld) Pty Ltd Studor Australia Pty Ltd Supakwik Water Heaters Pty Ltd Taylex Industries Pty Ltd The Couta Group The Wondercap Company Pty Ltd Top4 Internet Marketing Total Eden Totally Workwear Toyota Tradie Bookkeeping Solutions Tradify Valves R Us Viega Pty Ltd Vinidex Pty Ltd Vivax-Metrotech AUS WPC Group Ltd Xylem Water Solutions Zetco Valves Pty Ltd

07 3231 2601 1300 493 359 07 3823 0055 02 8889 5408 1300 885 295 07 3375 5555 07 3601 0196 02 9554 1020 07 3223 5900 07 3868 7888 07 3421 0999 03 9009 7211 07 3166 8888 07 5593 4292 07 5413 4444 07 4922 5697 07 3861 1021 02 9699 7444 07 3630 5744 1300 792 239 07 3188 2331 07 3248 9600 0411 660 933 07 5665 6600 07 5527 1833 03 9930 7000 07 3137 6600 0417 606 635 1300 425 433 07 3907 8399 07 5546 8571 07 3865 3000 1300 519 133 0438 589 474 07 3244 0209 07 3390 5420 1300 668 886 07 3862 1166 07 3440 7600 02 4423 1989 07 3451 4444 1300 551 519 07 3255 6389 07 3441 5200 03 8405 3386 07 5539 3665 1300 520 115 07 3272 7077 07 3249 4000 02 9710 3831 0468 944 130 02 8310 7606 07 3865 1488 02 8858 2600 07 3277 2822 07 3103 2844 1300 311 272 07 3908 4000 02 9516 1336

Brisbane City Council Bundaberg Regional Council Gympie Regional Council Isaac Regional Council Livingstone Shire Council Logan City Council Mackay Regional Council Mareeba Shire Council Moreton Bay Regional Council Mount Isa City Council Quilpie Shire Council Rockhampton Regional Council Sunshine Coast Regional Council Townsville City Council

07 3403 8888 07 4130 4814 1300 307 800 07 4964 5400 07 4939 9814 07 3412 4465 07 4961 9011 07 4086 4720 07 3205 0555 07 4747 3200 07 4656 0500 07 4936 8345 07 5420 8618 07 4417 5299

Associate Councils

page 39

contents

page 40