Master Plumber Magazine - July/August 2019

J U LY / A U G U S T 2 0 1 9

MPAQ Releases Guide to Calculating Charge Out Rates IN THIS EDITION

Plumbing: A Family Trade

Restructure of Clauses of Notifiable Work

Stalwart Appointed with Honours

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CONTENTS

July/August 2019 14 Business

Important Advice About Non-Conforming Liability Insurance Single Touch Payroll Reporting Now Available

17 Safety

How to Choose, Tether and Anchor Tool Lanyards

7 6 Executive 7 Industry News

Ministerial Construction Council Communique Changes for White Card Induction Training MPAQ Golf Day Raises Funds for Rotary Club Toowoomba

PPE Vending Machines and the New ProChoice Safety Gear Vend-Ready Range

24

18 Feature

Have Your Say About Our Industry – Key Findings

24 Member Appreciation

20 Cashflow

25 Women’s Plumbing Alliance

22 Member Spotlight

26 Calendar of Events and Training

What to do When You’re Seriously Over Chasing Payment

Plumbing: A Family Trade

28 Legal

8 Technical

Election Over – Will the Parties Keep Their Promises to Fix Australia’s Construction Industry Insolvency and Non-Payment Crisis?

Queensland’s Infrastructure Pivot is Here Uncontrolled Release of LPG at Mine Camp

29 Workplace Relations

Annual Wage Increase 2019-2020

11 Technical

Understanding QLeave

Restructure of the Classes of Notifiable Work

30 Product News

12 Feature

MPAQ Releases a Guide to Calculating Charge Out Rates for Your Plumbing Business

Subscribe Want to receive your own copy of the Master Plumber publication?

Email events@mpaq.com.au with your name and postal address to receive future issues of the Master Plumber magazine.

14

States Give the Green Light for New Standard in Domestic Wastewater Treatment Plants Ridgid Flexshaft Machines

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 Ross P: 07 3273 0800 E: lisa.ross@mpaq.com.au Ashleigh Stonehewer P: 07 3273 0800 E: ashleigh.stonehewer@mpaq.com.au DESIGN PrintPublish P: 1300 98 94 91 E: info@printpublish.com.au PRINT Printcraft P: 07 3291 2444 E: marketing@printcraft.com.au

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| MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE July/August 2019

Editor’s Note LISA ROSS – Editor Welcome to the July/August edition of the Master Plumber Magazine In this edition we are excited to launch MPAQ’s Charge Out Rate Calculator. This document is free for anyone in the industry to use and is designed to help you understand how you can work towards making your business more profitable. Many businesses go under because they are charging less than what is required to cover the costs of their business and a wage for themselves and/or their employees. With the right formulas and guidance to set your charge out rates, every business in Queensland should be profitable. A unified approach to charge out rates for our industry also means the expectations of customers are more reasonable.

We’re also excited to be featuring more of our members in this edition, including the

story of Highland’s Plumbing Drainage & Gas in Central Queensland, an acknowledgement to our Life Member and Trustee, Bill Watson, for his recognition in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List, and others on pages 24 and 33.

As the new financial year begins, I hope everyone is ready for a profitable 12 months and lots of great memories along the way!

Congratulations to our members reaching membership milestones recently and welcome to our new members in this edition. I’m looking forward to seeing you out and about throughout the year.

Lisa

P.S. I feel it’s time to bring back some of my favourite dad jokes to the magazine for a bit of humour...

Lisa’s Favourite Dad Jokes Did you know the first french fries weren’t actually cooked in France? They were cooked in Greece.

Also, if a child refuses to sleep during nap time, are they guilty of resisting a rest?

34 Vale

Bryan Douglas McGill Geoff Clifford Richardson

36 Member News

36 25 32 Social 33 MPAQ Out & About

37 New Members

33

38 Milestone Members 39 Supporters

MPAQ COUNCIL PRESIDENT Kent Vickers P: 0418 883 999 E: kvickers@qigs.com.au

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

VICE PRESIDENTS Don Nunn P: 0418 717 470 E: dgnunn1950@gmail.com Patrick Robertson P: 07 3276 8833 E: info@rpgs.com.au

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

PAST PRESIDENT Kelvin Slade P: 0417 787 284 E: sales@sladebrosplumbing.com.au TREASURER John Salmon P: 07 3862 2777 E: john@salmonplumbing.com.au 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

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.

MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE July/August 2019 |

5

EXECUTIVE

PERSPECTIVE Beenleigh Training Facility Update 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.

In 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 Penny Cornah, Executive Director 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 new Beenleigh Training Facility project is underway with the fit-out currently taking place. Hutchinson Builders commenced onsite in late February 2019 and works have since progressed steadily.

The Beenleigh facility is being constructed on an existing warehouse area.

The work that has been completed so far includes the demolition of the old existing offices/administration areas, pressure wash and cleaning down of the shed, detailed excavation and pouring of all footings/slab thickenings, and the installation of plumbing drainage. There has also been excavation for the training sandpit and boring of piers for the training tower has commenced.

Upcoming work for the site includes steel fixing and pouring of concrete piers for the training tower, concreting over floor cuts for plumbing drainage services and fit out of functional workshop training areas.

Detailed planning has been undertaken to relocate training from the Service Trades College (STC) Salisbury to Beenleigh. Work on relocation scope identification is underway with alignment of the training and relocation programs.

The 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.

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 me on 07 3273 0800.

Amenities slab preparation

Boring piers for training tower

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| MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE July/August 2019

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Australian Plumbers on Centre Stage Rather than write an article that centers around an issue or a deficiency in our trade, this edition I wanted to bring your attention to an event that Australia will be hosting on 11 – 13 September 2019.

This year, Australia will be hosting the World Plumbing Conference in Melbourne at the magnificent Melbourne Kent Vickers, President Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Hosting this event close to home gives us the opportunity to jump on a flight and head south to experience one of the best conferences available to our trade. The conference program is based around the four pillars of our industry: • Participation; • Practices; • Products; and • Protection.

The speakers at the event will include experts in their field from all over the world, who will speak about topics from the digital revolution to intelligent plumbing, right through to presentations on the differing standards of education for apprentices and wastewater management.

The key focus of the conference will be to identify and implement strategies that foster industry participation. The World Plumbing Council will present case studies from around the globe to identify the best way to attract, train, and retain plumbing professionals for the future.

Ensuring that only qualified people enter the plumbing industry is the key to our ongoing success and setting, enforcing, and continually developing the knowledge within our industry is equally important. If plumbing is going to be at the forefront of humanity’s capacity to adapt to climate change, then we need more plumbers. Plumbing will be the liberating catalyst for millions of people by ensuring that the quality and supply of fresh drinking water and waste management is maintained for all. This can only be achieved by training more plumbers in the latest techniques and products available. If we are going to maintain the health of the population’s water supply and keep their buildings, hospitals, and schools free of diseases, like Legionella, we simply need more qualified professionals.

I urge you all to book a flight and head down to Melbourne for the conference in September. It is rare that the event is staged so close to home, and it is a great opportunity to network with other plumbing professionals from around the world. Visit www.worldplumbingconference.com to register.

I’ll see you there.

Life’s good!

INDUSTRY NEWS

MINISTERIAL CONSTRUCTION COUNCIL COMMUNIQUE The Ministerial Construction Council (MCC) met in Brisbane on 8 May 2019 to further industry consultation on building and construction industry reforms and discuss the emerging challenge of professional indemnity insurance.

The Council agreed to establish a new fire protection licensing and compliance subcommittee to provide input to the proposed new fire protection licensing framework, technical qualifications, and units of competency that will underpin the framework and strengthen compliance for fire protection generally. Terms of Reference for the subcommittee were noted by the Council.

The Council noted an update on the review into restricted builder licences concerning preparations of new Terms of Reference to guide the subcommittee’s work. The Terms of Reference will include increased support from the Department of Housing and Public Works, as well as broader stakeholder consultation concerning any suggested changes prior to the subcommittee making further recommendations to the Council.

The Council agreed to defer the work of the Fairness in Contracting subcommittee in developing a legal definition of ‘unfair’ contract terms for the building and construction industry until after the federal election, as both major parties have committed to strengthen federal legislation in response to the Unfair Terms in Contracts Review. In the meantime, the subcommittee, supported by a construction law specialist, will continue its work on identifying examples of unfair terms and conditions.

The Minister for Housing and Public Works, the Hon. Mick de Brenni MP, will raise

unfair contract terms at the next Building Ministers’ Forum.

In other business, the Council received an update from the Commissioner of the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) on the implementation of the Minimum Financial Requirement (MFR) reforms following the commencement of Phase 2 of the reforms on 2 April 2019.

The QBCC Commissioner also updated the Council on the progress of the Queensland Government’s Safer Buildings Program that comprises a three-part audit of potentially at risk buildings. The program was introduced in response to combustible cladding issues.

The Council endorsed a recommendation from the QBCC that the compliance period for Parts 2 and 3a of the program be extended for two months, to 31 July and 31 October respectively, to assist property owners to assess their buildings.

The Minister welcomed to the meeting representatives from the Insurance Council of Australia, the Australian Institute of Building Surveyors and the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors. Together there was a discussion about the current issues impacting the availability and cost of professional indemnity insurance for building industry professionals including architects, engineers and building certifiers. The MCC agreed to support further consultation on short, medium, and long term approaches to fair and appropriate professional indemnity insurance for building industry professionals.

The MCC also agreed to provide information about Safer Buildings clearance information to support risk-based decision making.

For more information, contact MPAQ on 07 3273 0800.

CHANGES FOR WHITE CARD INDUCTION TRAINING Training for a Queensland White Card must now be face to face with a Registered Training Organisation (RTO).

A Queensland White Card is recognised in all Australian states and territories.

Concerns about the effectiveness and quality of online training were raised by various stakeholders during the Best Practice Review of Workplace Health and Safety Queensland in 2017.

In response to these ongoing concerns, last year Workplace Health and Safety Queensland advised all registered training organisations that construction induction training would need to be delivered face-to-face from 1 February 2019, with an exception if a Queensland resident lives in a rural area greater than 100 km from an RTO approved to deliver this course.

This arrangement aligns with those in Northern Territory, South Australia, Victoria and New South Wales, where online delivery of construction induction training is not permitted.

For more information regarding these changes for White Card construction induction training, please visit worksafe.qld.gov.au or call 1300 362 128.

Plumbing and Drainage Act 2019 Commenced on 1 July In April the Plumbing and Drainage Regulation 2019 was approved by the Governor in Council (GIC), and it commenced on 1 July alongside all new plumbing laws, including the revised Queensland Plumbing and Wastewater Code (Version 1:2019).

To access this, MPAQ members can log into www.mpaq.com.au and visit the legislation page.

MPAQ GOLF DAY RAISES FUNDS FOR ROTARY CLUB TOOWOOMBA

Andy Burke, representing Rotary Club Toowoomba, with Don Nunn, MPAQ Vice President

On Friday 8 February 2019, Master Plumbers’ Association of Queensland held the annual Toowoomba Plumbing and Gas Industry Golf Day. Every year, the Toowoomba region and the MPAQ division representatives partner with a selected charity or club to raise funds throughout the day.

This year the Rotary Club Toowoomba was selected and with the help of the attendees and sponsors we raised a total of $1,080. These funds will go towards the Rotary Club’s Drought Relief Program, where they will continue to help farmers through these tough times.

At the latest Toowoomba Divisional meeting Don Nunn, Secretary of the Toowoomba Division and Vice President of MPAQ, presented Andy Burke with the cheque for the funds that were raised at the golf day.

Burke attended in place of Phillip Charles, District Drought Committee Chair.

The 2020 Toowoomba Plumbing and Gas Industry Golf Day will be announced later this year. For more information, contact the MPAQ Events team on 07 3273 0800.

MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE July/August 2019 |

7

TECHNICAL

QUEENSLAND’S INFRASTRUCTURE PIVOT IS HERE Not since the Global Financial Crisis (GFC) has Queensland’s construction industry faced so much uncertainty.

In 2008, the industry began its pivot away from a rock-steady period of residential and commercial activity toward an unprecedented ramp-up in engineering construction driven by massive mining investments. Within five years, residential and commercial building Robert Sobyra, Director work had fallen by as much as 40% as the of Evidence and Data, heavy and civil sector crowded-out the builders Construction Skills and tradies.

Queensland (CSQ) No slump lasts forever.

By 2014, Queensland had launched itself into a residential building boom – albeit one that was concentrated on apartments in the south-east corner.

That boom ran unabated until 2016, at which point a definite ‘pop’ could be heard among apartment investors.

Now, we change tack once again. The slide backward from the heights of the apartment boom was gradual at first and then rapid. We have not found the bottom yet, and it’s likely to take another year before we do.

The construction industry in Queensland will continue to grow. It always does. But the money driving the growth now will not be residential developers; it will be governments spending-up big on public infrastructure.

In short, it’s a good time to be in the heavy and civil construction game.

But as building activity continues to fall from the boom years of 2014-2017, many are getting nervous about the implications for jobs in the trades.

We are already seeing Queensland’s trade industry reducing its headcount. Over the course of 2018, employment in construction services businesses fell by some 40,000, or nearly a quarter of the workforce.

It’s important to note that not all of these workers were laid-off. Many businesses seeking to reduce headcount simply do not refill positions when workers leave voluntarily.

Another common strategy is to reduce hours rather than employees.

The building boom meant long hours for many tradies, with nearly a third of them putting in 45 or more hours per week. Those long-working tradies now number substantially fewer.

While the downturn in building activity may soon find its bottom thanks to looser lending restrictions, a re-elected Coalition government and probable rate cuts, a return to the boom years is very unlikely. A halt to the falls followed by low-and-slow conditions is the likely outcome.

The bottom line is that the next few years will see more utes chasing less work. This will not mean unemployment for most, but many will be facing fewer hours and lower rates.

Now is the time to look at upskilling. Get over to www.csq.org.au to future proof your career.

UNCONTROLLED RELEASE OF LPG AT MINE CAMP While conducting civil works at the camp, an excavator contacted a 140 kPa, 63 mm polyethylene (PE) LPG reticulation main (the gas system). The gas system is reticulated around the camp to provide gas for hot water and cooking facilities. The gas system was isolated at the LPG tank and the damaged sections repaired.

Initial investigations have identified that the gas system was re-energised; however, it may have not been purged, tested for gas tightness and/or commissioned in accordance with the preferred safety requirement i.e. AS/NZS 5601.1 Gas Installations.

Key Issues An investigation is being undertaken; however, preliminary enquiries indicate: • Underground services may not have been adequately identified using either site drawings or other survey techniques.

• A person who is unfamiliar with high risk environments or large reticulated LPG gas pipework repairs, may have performed the repair work.

• The gas system did not have adequate localised isolation points fitted to facilitate the safe isolation of the gas supply to the damaged section/s in the event of an incident or emergency.

• It is possible that the gas system was re-energised, e.g. pressurised with fuel gas and put back into service without being purged, tested for gas tightness, and commissioned, without procedures developed and implemented in accordance with the preferred safety requirements.

To learn more about the recommendations made and legislative obligations, visit the Safety and Health page on the Department of Natural Resources, Mines and Energy website, www.dnrme.qld.gov.au.

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| MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE July/August 2019

Problem Designers and Architects endeavour to provide their clients with the cleanest lines available in today’s modern bathrooms...

Currently to achieve this clean look a Cistern has to be mounted into the wall.

Although this system is fine on new construction when it comes to renovation it becomes a costly exercise.

The Solution - Tankless

The Throne is a fully automated toilet that does not use a tank or cistern on or in the wall.

It connects to the main water supply directly, thus allowing Designers and Architects the freedom to place the toilet even under a window.

Comes as a P-trap (set out 180mm) or S-trap (set out between 100mm – 350mm) Approximately 45 minutes installation time to replace existing toilet The Throne toilet system will revolutionise modern bathroom design forever.

Bidet Functions stainless nozzle

Automatic open/close of toilet seat and lid

MPAQ906

Upgradable Features

Auto-flushing Heated Seat Soft Close Night Light Tankless & More Options Available

Web: thronetoilets.com.au Tel: 02 8039 3133

TECHNICAL

RESTRUCTURE OF THE CLASSES OF NOTIFIABLE WORK

7. Backflow prevention devices Work necessary for installing, replacing or removing a testable backflow prevention device or a dual check valve with atmospheric port, if the work is for— • an existing building; or • an extension to an existing class 1 building; or • a structure for an existing class 1 building.

With the release of the Plumbing and Drainage Regulation 2019 on 1 July 2019, there has been a restructuring of the classes of Notifiable Work.

All other aspects remain the same, notification (form four) is still required to be sent to QBCC within 10 business days along with the required fee ($31.45 electronic - $42.45 hard copy) when the work is finished.

When notifiable work is finished 1. Notifiable work is finished when— a. if payment is to be made for the work— an invoice for the work is given to the person who asked for the work to be carried out; or b. otherwise—the work becomes operational

NOTIFIABLE WORK Excluded work 1. Particular work not included as notifiable work plumbing or drainage work of the type stated in part 2 is not notifiable work if the work is— a. installing an appliance or fixture in a building that is connected to— i. a combined sanitary drain; or ii. a dual reticulated water supply provided by a water service provider; or b. work for, or connected to, trade waste; or c. work that uses a performance solution.

Included work 1. Extending etc. supply pipes Work necessary for extending, altering, replacing or removing supply pipes, other than supply pipes for a fire service, if the work is for— • an existing building; or • an extension to an existing class 1 building; or • a structure for an existing class 1 building.

2. Fire services Work necessary for extending or removing a fire service, if the work is— • associated with a building development approval under the Building Act 1975, schedule 2; and • for an existing class 2 to 9 building.

8. Greywater treatment plants Work necessary for— • installing a greywater use facility that includes a greywater treatment plant in a sewered area, if the premises where the facility is proposed to be installed generates no more than 3kL of greywater a day; or • replacing a greywater treatment plant.

3. Existing sanitary plumbing Work necessary for extending, altering, replacing or removing sanitary plumbing, if the work is for an existing building.

4. Existing sanitary drainage Work necessary for extending, altering, replacing or removing sanitary drainage, other than a combined sanitary drain, if the work is for— • an existing class 1 or 10 building or structure; or • an extension to an existing class 1 building; or • a structure for an existing class 1 building.

9. Fixtures for class 1 or 10 buildings Work necessary for installing or relocating a fixture, if the work is for— • an existing class 1 or 10 building or structure; or • an extension to an existing class 1 building; or • a structure for an existing class 1 building.

5. Temperature control devices Work necessary for installing, replacing or removing a temperature control device, if the work is for— • an existing building; or • an extension to an existing class 1 building; or • a structure for an existing class 1 building.

6. Water heaters Work necessary for installing, replacing or removing a water heater, if the work is for— • an existing building; or • an extension to an existing class 1 building; or • a structure for an existing class 1 building.

10. Fixtures for class 2 to 9 buildings of 1 or 2 storeys Work, other than for sanitary drainage, necessary for installing or relocating a fixture, if the work is for an existing class 2 to 9 building of 1 or 2 storeys above ground.

11. Sanitary drains Work necessary for sealing a sanitary drain upstream from the connection point for a treatment plant or a service provider’s sewerage system, if the work is for an existing building.

12. Sealing supply pipes Work necessary for sealing a supply pipe downstream from a water meter, if the work is for an existing class 2 to 9 building.

For more information, MPAQ members can call the MPAQ Technical team on 07 3273 0800.

MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE July/August 2019 |

11

FEATURE

MPAQ RELEASES A GUIDE TO CALCULATING CHARGE OUT RATES FOR YOUR PLUMBING BUSINESS Undercharging is easy to do if you do not start with the correct cost base. In collaboration with Xact Accounting, MPAQ is launching a document that will show you how to calculate charge out rates that assist with the growth and profitability of your plumbing business.

Is your business finding it difficult to establish a fair charge out rate? Are you struggling to balance profitability with competitiveness? This document is free for anyone in the industry to

12

use and is designed to help you understand how you can work towards making your business more profitable.

Many businesses go under because they are charging less than what is required to cover the costs of their business and a wage for themselves and/or their employees. With the right formulas and guidance to set your charge out rates, every business in Queensland should be profitable. A unified approach to charge out rates for our industry also means the expectations of customers are more reasonable.

Many operators do not fully understand the difference between a margin and markup. This can lead to minimal business profits, inconsistency in average charge out rates across the industry and unrealistic expectations from customers on what is a fair fee.

| MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE July/August 2019

Plumbing businesses sell two main items, labour and materials. Both of these take time and money to manage and both need to be marked up to cover their true cost and to allow for a profit margin.

The management of materials requires trade accounts, timely payments to suppliers, time taken to source, specify, store, transport and return unused items, etc. There is also your administration time to reconcile dockets and accounts, as well as other general business expenses to operate (overheads).

Cost base for your charge out rates?

• Determine the full cost of your labour.

• Add a mark up to your actual cost.

• Add a mark up to your materials.

The figures in the three tables below represent the lowest and highest data received.

South East Queensland

50

40

285 1

70

94 84

150

75

South West Queensland

99

South East Queensland

61.90% of people surveyed indicated that they had increased their hourly charge out rate in the past two years

100 70

Fraser Coast

100

North Queensland

Far North Queensland

110

Fraser Coast

Far North Queensland

99 90 Central

Not enough data provided

All information provided in this article and the MPAQ Guide to Calculating Charge Out Rates is intended as an industry guide only and should be adapted according to individual circumstances. We recommend that you consider your actual business needs and obtain independent, formal advice according to your individual business circumstances.

Hourly Rates ($)

Mackay

Your copy of the Guide to Calculating Charge Out Rates is included with this edition of the magazine.

Not enough data provided

Central, North Queensland, South West Queensland and Mackay

Call out fee ($)

88 80

Minimum charge ($)

A 40% gross margin is an ideal target for a plumbing business according to industry standards. You can use the Margin and Mark-up Table in your copy of the Guide. Finding your desired margin in the table, you will be given a mark-up percentage, which can be multiplied by your cost base to give you your desired charge out rate.

For more information, examples, and to view the margin and mark-up table, check out the MPAQ Guide to Calculating Charge Out Rates. You can access a digital copy at www.mpaq.com.au. If you have any questions, please contact MPAQ on 07 3273 0800.

20

70

94 60

South East Queensland

88

North Queensland

108 Fraser Coast

45

Far North Queensland

117

Central

Not enough data provided

Mackay

We recently surveyed our members to find out their thoughts about our industry.

As part of the survey we got an insight into the charge out and hourly rates in each region. These figures (right) are based on survey responses broken down by region and should not be considered a full representation of the industry rates.

75

South West Queensland

285

You Had Your Say

88 50

Mark-up (%)

59%

59% of the people surveyed indicated they apply a mark-up % to products of 20% or less with an average of 28% mark-up across all responses.

You can see a full snapshot of the overall survey results on pages 18-19.

MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE July/August 2019 |

13

BUSINESS

IMPORTANT ADVICE ABOUT NON-CONFORMING LIABILITY INSURANCE Members are advised to carefully read their Plumbers Liability Insurance Cover documentation and check for exclusion clauses.

MPAQ has reports that a number of insurance providers have inserted clauses in insurance policies that exclude liability for work above two storeys or above 15 metres.

Please see the examples below.

Amended Working From Heights Restriction Endorsement

This policy does not cover claims, costs, injury or damage arising directly or indirectly when the height at which the work is performed exceeds 15 metres in height.

Activities Exclusion

This policy does not cover claims, costs, injury or damage arising directly or indirectly from any work undertaken by contractors and/or sub-contractors on any ladder above one meter in height, on or within any scaffolding or on any roof.

Please be aware that exclusions are not necessarily shown on your Certificate of Currency. You need to check the policy itself. If you have a policy with these exclusions you should seek advice from your insurance broker or provider.

If you would like some advice you can call Comsure on 07 3434 7800 or email mpaq@comsure.com.au and quote your MPAQ member number to discuss your options.

SINGLE TOUCH PAYROLL REPORTING NOW AVAILABLE Single Touch Payroll (STP) is an Australian Government initiative to streamline business reporting obligations, and ensure employers are reporting and paying their employees’ super entitlements.

STP, or pay day reporting, uses existing business processes (processing payroll) to report employees’ tax and super information at the same time they’re paid. Using payroll software that is STPenabled, or a third party provider that does, an employer can send their employees’ salary and wage information, pay as you go (PAYG) withholding and super information as they run their payroll and pay their employees.

Employers can start reporting any time from 1 July to 30 September 2019. If you can’t start reporting by this time, you’ll need to apply for a later start date.

The Australian Tax Office (ATO) is aiming to support employers with the transition to STP with flexibility, STP-enabled solutions, and concessions for micro employers who rely on a registered agent.

Visit www.ato.gov.au/stp for more information.

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| MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE July/August 2019

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For more information visit www.it4plumbers.com.au or call Network Secure on 1300 67 27 48 to get your free IT advice.

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

11 - 13 SEPTEMBER 2019 Melbourne, Australia

The World Plumbing Conference 2019 is a unique opportunity for knowledge sharing, networking and professional development.

Don’t miss this opportunity to explore global participation, world leading practices, a technical product expo and knowledge sharing on protection practices.

Mark Pesce

Mark McManus

FUTURIST AND PRESENTER OF THE NEXT BILLION SECONDS PODCAST (AUS)

GENERAL PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED ASSOCIATION (USA)

Guest speakers include Dr Armando Silva Afonso (Portugal), Dr Steve Cummings (AUS), Peter DeMarco (USA), Allan Dumalay (PHL), Robert Funston (AUS), Dr Carol Grossman (AUS), David Harper (UK), Dr Lynne Jack (UK), Dr Markus Lenger (USA), Ryan Milne (AUS), Martin Sawyers (NZD), Christoph Schauer (SUI), Phil Woolhouse (AUS), Grant Stewart (AUS), Lea Smith (ZAR) and more still to be announced.

REGISTER NOW AT

WORLDPLUMBINGCONFERENCE.COM

MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE July/August 2019 | Ensure you are at the most important

15

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INSTALL A AUSTRALIA’S NO. 1

SAFETY

HOW TO CHOOSE, TETHER AND ANCHOR TOOL LANYARDS Preventing tools and equipment being dropped from heights is crucial, with falling objects causing 122 deaths in Australia from 2012–2016 and 3,515 compensation claims in 2014–15.

Factoring in the impact that lost or irretrievable tools have on productivity, job delays and replacement of equipment also adds additional time and financial costs to businesses.

LINQ Height Safety Gear national category manager, Paul Bozkurt, recommends that a tool tethering system be used by anyone working at heights.

“Any trade or task involving working at heights and the need to use tools, or where a hard hat may be worn, should use tool lanyards and tethers. This includes scaffolders, rope access workers, tower workers and roof workers, down to plumbers, electricians and carpenters working at heights,” he said.

How to Tether Tools Tethering is the act of attaching tools or equipment to an anchor point to prevent them from falling and potentially causing injuries or worse.

There are three main considerations when tethering tools: • The tether point;

PPE VENDING MACHINES AND THE NEW PROCHOICE SAFETY GEAR VEND-READY RANGE

• The anchor point; and • Tool lanyards that connect the anchor and tether point.

As not all tools have an attachment point, LINQ has developed tether points that can be fitted to the tool without damaging it or limiting its use.

“Our wire tool socks can clamp over a screwdriver or specific tool.

This allows you to attach it to any of the snap hook tool lanyard options,” explained Paul.

“Applications are broad and we would encourage people to exercise common sense in what would be an ideal attachment point, particularly on a person.”

ANSI Standards to Ensure Maximum Safety There are currently no standards in Australia for tool lanyards, but LINQ has adopted the new American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standard as a baseline for products.

“It is the only standard of any industry that the world will see in this area. Having it to reference is a great thing for ensuring our products have been formally tested,” said Paul.

Visit www.linqhs.com for more information and to view the LINQ products.

Personal protective equipment (PPE) vending machines can help large worksites save time and money, reduce waste, and improve OHS compliance and site safety.

Demand for vend-ready products, which can be stocked in the machines is increasing, according to ProChoice Safety Gear’s research and development manager, Brad Rodgers, leading the company to release their own vend-ready range.

“The machines improve stock control and the sites that use them significantly reduce their PPE wastage, while also being able to dispense PPE 24 hours a day without the need to have someone in the storeroom all the time,” explained Rodgers.

“They also create better accountability as the machines can track PPE use more closely than a traditional storeroom scenario.”

The vending machines typically use smartcard technology, with each employee issued a unique card that enables in-depth usage reporting for management and the manufacturers.

“Each product dispensed is marked against a person’s name so records show who is using the PPE and how much of it,” explained Rodgers.

Other safety improvements can be found in ensuring PPE compliance and appropriate levels of protection.

“The company can choose which products to stock in the machines so they can have absolute confidence that the workers are using approved PPE,” said Rodgers.

Learn more about the new ProChoice safety gear vend-ready range at www.prochoicesafetygear.com.

From Cairns to Warwick, Tradelink’s got you covered!

With 60 stores across Queensland, there’s a Tradelink store near you.

Plumbing & roofing supplies Bathroom, kitchen & laundry products Specialist civil & HVAC stores

Find your local store at tradelink.com.au/trade/find-us

1800 PLUMBING

HAVE YOUR SAY ABOUT OUR INDUSTRY

FEATURE

18

Key findings In April 2019, MPAQ conducted our annual survey to find out your thoughts about our industry, here’s a snapshot of the results.

What is your role in the business?

90%

of the people surveyed indicated that they were a director or business owner in the plumbing and gas industry.

How many years experience do you have in the plumbing and/or gas industry?

69%

of the people surveyed indicated that they have more than 20 years’ experience in the plumbing and/or gas industry.

The four biggest challenges faced in your businesses are: Unlicensed people performing plumbing work

Cashflow

Managing worklife balance

Lack of compliance in the industry

The four main reasons why you initially joined MPAQ are: To stay current with information about my profession

To receive help, assistance and guidance

To attend training and development courses

To show that I am a professional plumber and/or gasfitter

However, the people surveyed indicated that ‘to support the advocacy and be part of a larger voice in the industry’ was one of the top four reasons why they maintained their membership with MPAQ.

| MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE July/August 2019

“

What could MPAQ do better for your business and the industry?

3 in 4

of the people surveyed believe that MPAQ could be doing more to promote the importance of using a licensed plumber to consumers and 58% want MPAQ to keep pressure on regulatory bodies.

Teach plumbers how to quote and charge out properly

How likely would you be to refer someone else to join MPAQ?

84%

of the people surveyed indicated that they would be ‘very likely’ to refer someone else to join MPAQ with an overall average rating of 4 out of 5 stars.

Local Councils

Do you have apprentices or admin/support staff working in your company?

44%

of the people surveyed indicated they currently have apprentices working in their company with an average of 2 apprentices per company. 62% indicated they currently employ admin/support staff.

The two biggest frustrations for employers with apprentices are:

1 2

While the two biggest reasons that employers don’t have apprentices are:

1 2

”

Rate your experience (out of 5)*:

Finding the right person that really wants to be a good tradesperson Customers not wanting to pay an hourly rate for an apprentice on site

Time and Expense Customers not wanting to pay an hourly rate for an apprentice on site

Department of Natural Resources and Mines

Queensland Building and Construction Commission

*Based on the average from all responses

KEY RESPONSE: Responsiveness is a big issue with all of the regulatory bodies, with most responses indicating a lack of support.

To find out more about the survey responses for charge out rates and hourly rates, see our charge out rates article on page 12-13.

For more information about this survey and the responses, please contact MPAQ on 07 3273 0800.

MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE July/August 2019 |

19

CASHFLOW

WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU’RE SERIOUSLY OVER CHASING PAYMENT Article written by Andrew and Angela Smith, Founders of Lifestyle Tradie Group Pty Ltd If chasing customer payments increased your fitness as much as chasing a footy around with your mates did, then I bet sometimes you feel like an Olympic athlete.

Unfortunately, for plumbing business owners chasing payments is all too commonplace.

But why is it this way?

When you’ve given a customer an awesome service, completed the job on time and done so to a high standard, it seems unfair that all of a sudden you’re chasing them for your hard-earned money.

The harsh truth is that these types of customers can completely ruin the health of your plumbing business.

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| MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE July/August 2019

Chasing your customers for payment costs you and/or your employees time. Time that could be spent on other profit-inducing tasks!

On top of this, the money owed to you is not yours until it hits your bank account. Meaning it can’t be used for bills, contribute to your financial security, or be used to invest in business growth.

And yes, sometimes having payments outstanding is something that can’t be avoided. However, you can reduce the amount owed, as well as increase frequency of payment, by implementing the below terms and follow up process.

The Terms Your plumbing business’s payment terms will depend on the type of jobs you complete (maintenance or construction).

Our own plumbing business Dr.DRiP completes maintenance style work. We eliminate customer debt by collecting cash or card on site at the completion of each job. If the customer isn’t on site when the tradie completes the work, we call them to collect payment over the phone.

To assist with this, we explain to the customer when they are booking the job over the phone that we require payment upon completion. Then there are no surprises when the tradie on site asks the customer for payment!

When completing larger construction style jobs, you may choose to include periodic payments starting with a deposit at the beginning and including payments at different stages of the job.

Doing this gives you the power to increase the pressure of receiving payments as you can stop working on the job if the customer continues to not pay. This reduces your loss and increases the customer’s motivation to pay regularly.

Follow Up Process Following up outstanding invoices is essential to your plumbing business’s financial health. But before doing so, you need to understand how much is owed and by whom through your Aged Receivables Statement.

For our 30-day strata accounts, we send a statement via email every two weeks followed by a phone call after the 30 days.

For invoices still due after this time, we send a statement and copies of the invoices on coloured paper (pink, blue or yellow paper will definitely stand out in their overloaded in-tray). These are also followed up with friendly reminder phone calls every week.

We hope this article will have you spending less time chasing payments and spending more time growing your business.

For more information about understanding your plumbing business numbers and financials, check out our Top 7 Money Rules For Trade Businesses at our live event, The Next Level Tradie. Visit www.nextleveltradie.com.au/mpaqarticle to register for your free ticket. Alternatively, you can contact us at info@lifestyletradie.com.au or on 1800 704 822.

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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Georgina and Chris Mackay

PLUMBING: A FAMILY TRADE Highlands Plumbing Drainage & Gas is a family plumbing business in Moranbah, Queensland, who have overcome some of the difficulties faced by regional businesses by keeping it in the family.

In the early 1990s, Chris Mackay started his own plumbing business with the intention of providing his children with future job opportunities in the trade. Having established Highland Plumbing Drainage & Gas in Emerald, before spending some time in Cape York, the Mackay family settled in Moranbah in 2004.

Faced with challenges that come with running a plumbing business in regional Queensland, the whole family chips in. Their daughter, Georgina, and son, Geoffery, work in the business as well.

Geoffery has completed his apprenticeship, while Georgina is in the final year of hers.

We sat down with Chris and Georgina to get their views on the challenges of running a plumbing business in regional Queensland and find out what it’s like working with the family.

22

Chris, why did you decide to start Highlands Plumbing Drainage & Gas? Chris: We wanted to have a business so that when our children were older and needed a job we had an opportunity there to supply them with a trade skill. When we’ve gone through the down turn and there weren’t many apprenticeships going, we were lucky enough that we were able to still maintain and put our children through an apprenticeship. By having our own business we have been able to help our children secure some skills that will help them into their future.

There’s a shortage of trades people... why not tap into half of the population?

Would you say there are any other benefits of having the family work in the business?

Chris: It’s good actually, because you’ve all got common goals and everyone gets in, works hard, and gets to see the results of it.

Georgina: What you see is what you get.

| MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE July/August 2019

Chris: With us, everyone knows the processes and we find everyone understands the hard work and standards required because that’s what is going to get us the jobs in the long run.

Georgina, you’re in the fourth year of your apprenticeship. How have you been finding it?

Georgina: Yeah, it’s been great, and I finish soon. I will complete my gas course in the next few months.

So you’re looking forward to completing your apprenticeship?

Georgina: Yes! I go to TAFE in Mackay, so I’m looking forward to not having to travel.

Are there any other female apprentices in your class?

Georgina: I’m the only one in my class, but there was another female in the class above me.

She also works for her dad.

When did you know you wanted to do a plumbing apprenticeship?

Georgina: I worked in real estate for a while after finishing school, but I didn’t like sitting down all day, so I knew I wanted to do something different.

HIGHLANDS PLUMBING DRAINAGE & GAS How do people react when you tell them that you’re a plumbing apprentice?

Georgina: Customers can be surprised when female plumbers attend the site, but we’ve come across a lot of women who have assisted their family members in a trade somewhere along the line but haven’t trained in it.

Chris: Female apprenticeships are a lot more accepted now than they were 40 years ago. There’s been a massive change in perception. There’s a shortage of trades people, especially in this area here, so why not tap into half of the population that you haven’t been tapping into before. You want the best people in your business who are going to do the best work.

By having our own business we have been able to help our children secure some skills that will help them into their future.

Do you see Georgina taking over the business one day?

Chris: Give her five years, she’ll be running the whole show. Georgina’s really taken off in the last 12 months. She’s really starting to become an important asset with the company.

So do you see the business staying in the family?

Chris: Yeah, definitely. The next generation of kids in our family are already talking about completing their plumbing apprenticeship.

Do you have a story (of yourself or someone else) you would like to share? We’d love to hear it! Send us an email at events@mpaq.com.au or call the MPAQ office on 07 3273 0800.

Georgina at work with Mitchell Handley

MEMBER APPRECIATION

BRUCE WALLACE APPOINTED AS MPAQ OFFICIAL HISTORIAN On Tuesday 18 June, Bruce Wallace was awarded the title of MPAQ’s Official Historian, in recognition of his ongoing support by providing information about the history of the Association.

Bruce Wallace was the manager of Wallace Bros Pty Ltd from 1979 to 2015, and the company has been a member of MPAQ for 79 years. Throughout his time with MPAQ, Bruce has been an important, well-respected, and consistent part of the Association, and he has played an integral role in the growth and development of MPAQ, our members’ experience, and the plumbing and gas industry as a whole.

Bruce was first elected to the MPAQ Council in 1983 as Junior Vice-President. He served two terms as President from 1986 to 1988 and remained on the council until 1992. During this time Bruce served and chaired several subcommittees, including Apprenticeship, Constitution & Standing Orders, Kembla Scholarship, and Merv Harris Bursary.

He represented MPAQ on the TAFE Curriculum Development Committee, Building and Construction Advisory Committee, and Brisbane Region Workskills Committee.

Bruce was also the founding Chairman of the Plumbing Industry Group Training Scheme in 1989 and remained as Chairman for four years, as well as a member of the Yeronga Institute of TAFE College from

1988 to 1996 and Chair for two years from 1992 to 1994. In 1996 Bruce was re-elected to the MPAQ Council after a four year break. He undertook Bruce Wallace appointed another two terms as as MPAQ Historian President from 1998 to 2000 and served on subcommittees, such as Rules, Centenary, Merv Harris Bursary, Audit, Marketing, Journal, and Plumbing Industry Awards.

Bruce was awarded with Life Membership of MPAQ in 2006 and continued to hold positions on the MPAQ council until he retired from the council in 2013 While Bruce may have retired from the council, his involvement with the Association has continued. He is a regular attendee and driving force of our annual Stalwarts event, and he has long been our go-to for any information about the history of the Association.

Everyone at MPAQ would like to congratulate Bruce on his well-deserved appointment!

PLUMBING INDUSTRY STALWART APPOINTED WITH HONOURS

Bill Watson AM was appointed with honours

Bill Watson, Master Plumbers’ Association of Queensland (MPAQ) Life Member and Stalwart, was appointed in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List as a Member (AM) of the Order of Australia (General Division) for his services to the plumbing industry.

Bill has been awarded this prestigious honour for his commitment and dedication to the plumbing industry. He has contributed over 45 years to the trade in leadership roles as an apprentice, employee, employer, business operator, industry regulatory representative, government board appointee, and accredited trainer.

Bill has contributed not just at a state level but also at a national level through his participation on Master Plumbers Australia and New Zealand, of which he is currently a director. Bill is also a councillor of MPAQ. Having gained a broad spectrum of expertise across the trade, Bill has been responsible for steering and implementing change for a number of key industry issues.

Kent Vickers, President of MPAQ, said “We are extremely proud of Bill for his dedication and contribution to our trade, and this award is very well deserved”.

Bill has provided extensive past and present input into vocational education and training in addressing skill needs for the future – providing industry input to committees and workshops for the curriculum of prevocational and apprenticeship courses for the plumbing, drainage and gas fitting industry.

As an employer, Bill has employed and mentored over 20 apprentices, and as a business operator he brings real world knowledge of the practical application for our trade.

Bill was the Chairman of the Queensland Plumbing Industry Council (PIC) and previously the Chairman of the Plumbers and Drainers Licensing Board.

Bill is also a member of the Complex Licensing Panel, which sits under the Queensland Building and Construction Commission. He is passionate about ensuring a best practice occupational licensing system.

Kent Vickers said, “I would like to congratulate Bill on a lifetime of dedication and support in promoting our industry, which has seen so many tradespeople enjoy a better quality of life because of his contributions”.

Since the introduction of the awards in 1972, there have only been a few plumbers awarded for services to our industry. Bill will be presented with his award at Government House later this year.

MPAQ would like to congratulate Bill on his outstanding achievement!

Do you have a story (of yourself or someone else) you would like to share? We’d love to hear it!

Send us an email at events@mpaq.com.au or call the MPAQ office on 07 3273 0800.

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| MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE July/August 2019

WOMEN’S PLUMBING ALLIANCE

WOMEN’S PLUMBING ALLIANCE BUSINESS WORKSHOPS

Robyn Van Rooye fro m CSQ at the Cair ns worksh op

Attendees at the Brisbane workshop getting behind #balanceforbetter for International Women’s Day 2019

The Women’s Plumbing Alliance was fortunate enough to receive the Queensland Government’s Advancing Women in Business Initiative grant this year, which allowed MPAQ to partner with Xact Accounting, WFI and Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ) to deliver a series of regional workshops in Brisbane, Fraser Coast, Rockhampton and Cairns.

These workshops were free for MPAQ contractor members to attend and covered

Accounting on from Xaxt take Michael Rent y Bay attendees how to ve er H g showin ness care of busi

frequently asked questions about cashflow and how to use technology to save time and money.

Michael Renton, CEO of Xact Accounting, was a guest speaker at all four workshops and covered the topics of old vs. new QBCC minimum financial requirements, margins and mark-ups, pricing of a job, and the ideal structures to protect assets and satisfy QBCC requirements.

Attendees were also fortunate enough to hear from Robyn Van Rooye, Industry Engagement Manager (Far North QLD) from CSQ at the Brisbane and Cairns regional workshop. Robyn discussed the short courses and higher level

qualifications that CSQ offer and the best options that would fit plumbing companies.

Master Plumbers’ Association of Queensland and the Women’s Plumbing Alliance would like to thank WFI, Xact Accounting and CSQ for partnering with us for these regional workshops, as well as our members for coming along and advancing their business skills.

For more information about the Women’s Plumbing Alliance or upcoming events, please contact the events team on events@mpaq.com.au or call 07 3273 0800.

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MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE July/August 2019 |

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August SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

1 From 30 July -> 4

5

6

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

2

3

Rockhampton Rockhampton Backflow Course TMV Course

7

8

9

10

16

17

Bundaberg Backflow Course

Bundaberg TMV Course

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Women’s Networking Function

Sunshine Coast STC Info Forum

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Rockhampton Rockhampton Trade Forum Golf Day

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25

26

27

21

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Fraser Island 4WD Trip

Sunshine Coast Backflow Course

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24

29

30

31

Fraser Island 4WD Trip

Key TMV - CPCPWT4023A - Commission and Maintain Hot and Heated Water Temperature Control Devices *TMV night course will be run from 4pm-8pm over two nights Backflow - CPCPWT4022A - Commission and Maintain Backflow Prevention Devices CWBR - CPCPCM4011A - Carry Out Work Based Risk Control Processes Design and Size - CPCPGS4011C - Design and Size Consumer Gas Installations RTO Code: 30473

Visit MPAQ.com.Au for Events & Training information

One Student's Story After trying for years to successfully complete my Certificate IV in Gas Fitting with no luck, I decided to join MPAQ and see if they could help an Oil & Gas FIFO worker (who manages a bit of plumbing work in the desert at times), out and luckily for me I did.

For some people working two weeks on and two weeks off is the perfect roster, but when it comes to fitting training in it is another matter. The courses never seemed to match up with when I was having my breaks.

I just want to thank Kelvin, Tracy and all the MPAQ staff for the assistance and support that they afforded me in finally completing my Certificate IV in Gas Fitting. They worked in with my roster and I was able to gain my full gas licence within the timeframes of my breaks.

I would not have been able to achieve this outcome with any other training organisation.

Thank you again, looking forward to doing more training with MPAQ. - Rob Sharpe.

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September SUNDAY

1

MONDAY

2

TUESDAY

3

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

4

5

FRIDAY

6

SATURDAY

7

Brisbane Design and Size Course Hervey Bay Hervey Bay Trade Forum Golf Day

8

9

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11

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World Plumbing Conference Visit www.worldplumbingconference.com for info!

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School Holidays Start (QLD)

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Brisbane TMV Course

29

30

October SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

1

WEDNESDAY

2

THURSDAY

3

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

4

5

Brisbane Backflow Course

6

13

7

8

Queen’s Birthday Public Holiday

School resumes (QLD)

14

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12

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Brisbane TMV Night Course*

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22

Brisbane Brisbane Trade Forum Golf Day

23

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Sunshine Coast Sunshine Coast Trade Forum Golf Day

Brisbane Backflow Course

27

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Brisbane CWBR Course MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE July/August 2019 |

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LEGAL

ELECTION OVER – WILL THE PARTIES KEEP THEIR PROMISES TO FIX AUSTRALIA’S CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY INSOLVENCY AND NON-PAYMENT CRISIS? Leading up to the election both major political parties promised to fix Australia’s construction industry insolvency crisis and non-payment problems.

Readers know it is even worse than the politicians and press have been saying.

As a lawyer with almost all my clients in the construction industry and most in the subcontracting industry, I have had eight subcontractor clients go broke in the last five Ian Heathwood, months, which is terrible for them and their Principal, Cornwalls families (and not great for Cornwalls as their lawyers as it’s awful to see).

There are calls for urgent intervention at a national level to address the problems, particularly non-payment when those higher in the payment chain become insolvent or fail to pay.

To date governments have tried to achieve this by security of payment legislation in each state and territory. The Federal Government has not legislated to protect subcontractors or implement any security of payment legislation. There are several reasons for this, including constitutional limitations.

All the parties at national level say they will actually do something about it at a national level. This follows the release of the Murray Review into the woeful lack of security of payment in the construction industry and its nasty consequences, particularly at the subcontractor level.

Murray’s report made 86 recommendations to improve consistency in security of payment legislation and enhance protections to ensure those in the industry, particularly subcontractors, get paid on time for work they have done, even if the party to whom they are contracted becomes insolvent and regardless of the state or territory in which they operate.

Most readers will already know, and Murray made it very clear, that the problems start with a culture of underbidding on jobs just to win work, from the top of the construction chain to the bottom. Then everyone in the

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| MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE July/August 2019

payment chain is squeezed, not paid in full or at all, with subcontractors usually coming out the worst.

On top of that are problems that result from the design and construct culture, which is endemic at the bigger end of the industry causing major problems, particularly for those lower in the contract chain who are made responsible for risks involved in the construction despite having no real control over those risks.

According to the 2017 Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman’s report on the construction industry: • 37% said more than 60% of invoices were paid late • 60% said nearly half were paid late • 44% said the average payment was more than 30 days late • Of those who “always or frequently” pay late: • 64% were large/multinational business • 61% were medium businesses • 39% were small businesses There have been many legislative attempts to improve the situation at state and territory level. None are perfect. All, like the new Building Industry Fairness (Security of Payment) Act in Queensland, have been drafted with the right intent but they have now resulted in a diverging legislative landscape and greater complexity for a system that was supposed to be simple and easy for contractors and subcontractors to use. It is not. For any subcontractor to successfully pursue a payment claim, the chances are that without good legal advice they will run into problems and most likely not be successful.

We will see what comes of promises made by the major parties during the election but at this stage all Cornwalls can say is “fingers crossed”.

We will keep you updated and continue to promote reform at all levels of government across the country.

Cornwalls welcomes your reform suggestions. If you need advice in relation to an insolvency situation or unpaid progress or payment claims, contact me or one of the building and construction team at Cornwalls on 07 3223 5900, email constructionlaw@cornwallsqld.com.au or visit www.cornwalls.com.au.

WORKPLACE RELATIONS

ANNUAL WAGE INCREASE 2019-2020

Kym Campbell, Senior Human Resources Advisor, MPAQ

On 30 May 2019 the Fair Work Commission announced a 3% annual increase to the national minimum wage and the Modern Award minimum wage.

Having commenced on the first full pay period on or after 1 July 2019, the national minimum wage has increased to $19.49 per hour or $740.80 per week. This is an increase of $21.60 per week. The national minimum wage applies to employees who are not covered by an Award or an Agreement.

The 3% increase has had an impact on the Modern Award minimum rates, which means a plumbing tradesperson’s minimum weekly rate has increased by $25.10 per week.

The 3% wage increase has also impacted some allowances under the Modern Award, specifically those allowances that are based on percentages of the hourly award rate. Any changes to allowances applicable to your employees will be included on the updated wage sheets and information sheets.

MPAQ have updated the current wage sheets to reflect this increase and they are available to members on the MPAQ website.

Employees on Annualised Salaries and/or Individual Flexibility Agreements

If you have employees who are paid above the award and/or are currently under Individual Flexibility Agreements, you need to ensure these employees remain ‘better off overall’ when compared to the increased modern award rates.

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.

UNDERSTANDING QLEAVE: PORTABLE LONG SERVICE LEAVE QLeave provides a portable long service leave scheme for workers in Queensland’s building and construction industry.

The scheme rewards workers for their service to the industry by making sure they continue earning long service leave benefits, even if they change employers or work interstate.

Since the scheme’s establishment in 1992, QLeave has paid over $979 million in long service leave claims to workers, helping them to take a well-deserved break. Despite this, there are still many in the industry who aren’t aware of the scheme and the benefits it provides to both workers and employers.

What is Portable Long Service Leave?

Portable long service leave is paid leave given to workers in recognition of their service to the industry, rather than continuous service to one employer. Due to the transient nature of the industry, many building workers do not stay with the same employer for long enough to receive long service leave. The portable long service leave scheme means these workers can enjoy the same benefits as workers in other industries.

How does it work?

Employers in Queensland’s building and construction industry must register with QLeave. At the end of each financial year, employers need to provide details of their workers’ service to QLeave. This is done by completing a Worker Service Return.

Service reported on the return is recorded against each worker’s QLeave membership and counts towards their overall long service leave benefit. Workers receive one service credit for each day worked and once they’ve recorded 2,200 (10 years in the scheme), they can claim long service leave from QLeave.

Can employers claim through QLeave?

Employers can be reimbursed by QLeave for long service leave they pay to workers who have been with them for ten or more continuous years. Reimbursement claims must be made to QLeave within three months of the day leave was paid.

How much does it cost?

QLeave registration is free for employers and workers. The scheme is funded by a levy on all building and construction work performed in Queensland, where the total cost of work is $150,000 (excluding GST) or more.

If you have any questions or would like help understanding QLeave please contact 1300 QLEAVE or email members@qleave.qld.gov.au.

MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE July/August 2019 |

29

PRODUCT NEWS

STATES GIVE THE GREEN LIGHT FOR NEW STANDARD IN DOMESTIC WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANTS Late last year Kingspan became the first domestic wastewater treatment plant manufacturer in Australia to receive product certification under the latest Australian Standard for its BioFicient Series 1 Wastewater Treatment Plant, which has now received the necessary accreditations in NSW, QLD, VIC, SA and WA. All domestic wastewater treatment systems used in Australia must be fully tested and accredited. The latest Australian Standard (AS1546.3:2017) supersedes the outgoing 2008 standard and requires all products used after December 2020 to hold the latest certification. Kingspan’s BioFicient Series 1 was sampled on a daily and weekly basis for 34 weeks in an accredited, independent testing facility where several stress tests were used to simulate use in an actual residential property.

Kingspan Water & Energy works with architects, engineers, builders and plumbers to ensure residential and domestic wastewater systems in Australia meet the industry standard.

For more information about the BioFicient Series 1 Wastewater Treatment Plant, visit www.kingspan.com.

Kingspan Water BioFicient Treatment System

31 July

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| MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE July/August 2019

RIDGID FlexShaft Machine in use.

RIDGID FLEXSHAFT MACHINES NEW RIDGID FlexShaft machines are lightweight, compact and highly efficient machines that deliver a wall-to-wall clean.

There are two models of FlexShaft. The K9-102 clears 1¼” to 2” drain lines up to 15m and the K9-204 clears 2” to 4” drain lines up to 21m.

FlexShaft machines can also be operated while an inspection camera is in the line, letting you see while you clean.

Wall-To-Wall Clean: Chain knockers expand for full pipe cleaning.

Simultaneous Camera Use: FlexShaft machines let you keep your camera in-pipe while you work.

Increase Productivity: Faster setup and clean-up, quick cleaning, and cordless convenience for additional time savings.

Customise Your Machine: A full range of chain knockers and accessories are available.

The Ridge Tool Company is a world leading manufacturer of professional quality pipe and tube working tools serving the plumbing, mechanical, construction, HVAC, location, electrical and facility maintenance industries.

For more information contact Ridge Tool Australia on 1800 743 443 or email ridgid.australia@emerson.com. Alternatively, you can visit www.ridgid.com.au.

NCC COMPLIANT SOLUTIONS FOR GAS AND WATER PE-X CP 611A Firestop Intumescent Sealant

The NCC Compliant firestopping solution Hilti CP 611A Intumescent Sealant has been tested in Australia and assessed as per AS 1530.4 and AS 4072.1 to achieve up to FRL -/120/120 for water and gas PE-X pipe penetrations in various base materials including plasterboard, concrete, aerated concrete, prefabricated panel and masonry walls.

Hilti CP 611A has an unrivalled shelf life of 24 months, and it eliminates the need for retrofit fire collars on both sides of the penetration – saving you valuable time and money in the installation process.

Hilti’s approvals cover even off-centre penetration configurations giving you more flexibility on site. See the table below for more information.

Base Material: Fire Rated Plasterboard

Penetration Type

Pipe diameter (mm)

Min. sealant depth on both sides (mm)

16 PE-Xa/AL/PE-X (Gas PE-X)

20 25

Annular gap (mm)

FRL

5-17 26

5-15

-/120/120

5-18

32

5-16.5

PE-X/AL/PE-X (Gas PE-X)

20

5-16

PE-Xa (Water PE-X)

20

PP-R SDR11

32

13

Recommended dispenser: Hilti CFS DISP

5-15 5-16

-/120/90

-/60/60

Scan the code to find out more about the benefits of Hilti CP 611A Firestop Intumescent Sealant

HILTI ENGINEERING SERVICES Are you planning your next project? We are here to work together with you to help find the best solution. Contact us for advice.

Email AUTechnicalCentre.hilti.com or call 131 292

Q A P M #

SOCIAL

Want to the MPA feature on hashtag Q Social page? can see on Instagram Use our s what y ou’re up o we to!

MPAQ OUT AND ABOUT

Mackay Golf Day

Mackay Regional Council teams

Jayden Enterprises team

Small Business Week Lunch

Maree Adshead and Penny Cornah

Fiona Vickers, Mandy Slade and Sarah Thomas

Natalie Christian and Amanda Parkinson

Small Business Week Lunch group photo

Small Business Week Lunch attendees

Kathy Akins and Lynne Day

Mackay Trade Forum and Expo

Attendees getting the latest industry updates

Attendees and exhibitors at the expo MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE May/June 2019 | MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE July/August

33

VALE

BRYAN DOUGLAS MCGILL 30 December 1923 – 8 April 2019

The Association has lost a great character and defender of our trade and country.

Bryan McGill began his plumbing career when he gained an apprenticeship with J.R. Wyllie and Sons who became the biggest plumbing firm in the southern hemisphere.

Bryan’s career was interrupted by World War II when he enlisted in the A.I.F and flew thirty six missions in Lancaster Bombers.

Twice his plane was shot at necessitating a parachute escape. One of the dramatic escapes caused a three day walk back to the camp. As was the squadron’s “policy” if a fellow airman was deemed never to return, they “drank out” what money was left in his kit bag. So when Bryan finally made it back to camp the kit bag was empty. No doubt he was still pleased to be alive.

Another “policy” was if you were able to survive a bail out you were given a passage home; however, Bryan refused to leave his squadron mates, such was his loyalty.

Bryan McGill joined MPAQ on 20 August 1958. He served on our State Council from 1976 to 1977 and 1981 to 1988, a total of nine years. He always championed the cause of the small operator and was probably the funniest person around the board table in my time.

There was never a shortage of sparring dialogue with Geoff Richardson or Bill Watson. Bryan was a frequent volunteer whenever working bees were held at the Association office, Employment and Career Markets, and Work Skills.

Bryan enjoyed many years with his good friend Vic Harris organising games for the MPAQ Social Golf Club, of which he was honoured with a Life Membership. Likewise he was a Life Member of Nudgee Golf Club, and he was referred to as “Royal Nudgee”.

Bryan wrote golf notes for our Journal for over twenty years with inimitable humour. He also reported to our monthly general meetings.

You could sense when he didn’t have a good game when he would drift into a story in hilarious humour about how his opponents were blessed with so many lucky shots on the day.

In 2012 Bryan lost his life partner, Esme, after sixty-five years of marriage.

The Association extends their condolences to sons Scott and Peter and their families.

Rest in Peace, Bryan (aka, Skillful McGillfull).

Written by Bruce Wallace, MPAQ Historian

GEOFFREY CLIFFORD RICHARDSON The Association lost one of its finest Office Bearers on 3 April 2019.

Geoff Richardson began his plumbing career at the age of twenty, a late age in those times, after studying accountancy for a couple of years. He was apprenticed to his Uncle’s firm, E.A. Richardson who were members of MPAQ. Geoff’s brothers Vic and Bob followed suit and later became Richardson Plumbing Works who installed some of the largest roofs in Queensland and even an aircraft hangar in Taiwan.

Geoff was elected to the MPAQ State Council in 1975 and after just one year was asked to stand as Junior Vice President. He then rose through the

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| MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE July/August 2019

ranks to be President in 1979 and served two terms with distinction. He was Host State President for the Federated Master Plumbers Conference held on the Gold Coast in 1980.

After a year as Immediate Past President, Geoff was elected Treasurer for a record of eighteen years; with his accounting training he was a natural in the job with a sharp eye for figures and a sharp wit to match.

Geoff became our Industrial Convenor in 1976 and represented the Association for almost 10 years.

In 1968 Geoff was the inaugural QLD winner of the Kembla Scholarship, which was awarded to the top apprentice in each state, and he would later chair our selection committee for many years. He had a particular ability to put the apprentice being interviewed at ease, enabling the best selection.

Geoff represented the Association on the Building Industry Specialist Contractors Organisation (BISCO) from 1980 to 1981, as well as the Federated Master Plumbers of Australia for at least four years on the Board of Management. Geoff and his partner, Shirley, attended many Federal Conferences. Sadly Shirley passed away after a battle with breast cancer in 1985.

Geoff was a part of a group who formed a plumbing supply co-operative in the early 80s. This led to amalgamating with other states and New Zealand to initiate a public company called “Plumbing World” of which Geoff was a Director.

When superannuation was introduced to the building industry, Geoff led the way in establishing our own scheme as an alternative to the Union managed fund.

Quest was established in 1984 with Geoff as Director. Further on when redundancy payments became part of the building construction awards he recommended us to establish the Specialist Contractors Redundancy fund.

This fund enabled us to establish the Plumbing Industry Group Training Scheme so more apprentices could be employed.

Geoff was more than deservedly honoured with Life Membership to our Association in 1991.

In 2000, Geoff retired from the Council after twenty five years of outstanding service. Then in 2003 he retired from the plumbing business and settled on an old dairy farm near Lorne, NSW to breed Alpacas.

A second tragedy in Geoff’s personal life unfolded when his second wife, Leigh, needed to be closer to medical attention, so they relocated to Mount Tamborine in 2008. Leigh passed away in 2014 from a neurological disease.

Soon after arriving at Mount Tamborine Geoff decided to join as a volunteer in the Rural Fire Service. He was no stranger to volunteering having been a Member of the Grange Lions Club in Brisbane for fifteen years and secretary for his vintage car club.

He became a vital member of his local brigade and in 2009 took on the role of Volunteer Community Educator. He recognised how important it was to educate the public about preventing fire induced accidents.

He was the driving force behind the first mobile community engagement trailer and vehicle. Geoff conducted training courses throughout Australia even when travelling on holidays. He became the grandfather of the program.

Awards to his outstanding service were many: • 2011 QFES Australia Day Award • 2013 Highly Commended Award for Excellence for his role as Volunteer Community Educator • 2013 Rural Fire Service Assistant Commissioner for Volunteer of the Year • 2015 Australian Fire Service Medal – the highest award a fire fighter can receive and the only volunteer to receive one • 2019 Commissioners Commendation for his work during the bushfire events in Deepwater and Miriam Vale in Central Queensland Such was the respect shown to Geoff, the Fire Service Personnel gave him a Guard of Honour on the completion of his funeral service. This Guard of Honour was the longest I have ever seen and mostly likely will ever see again.

Master Plumbers’ Association of Queensland also salutes Geoff Richardson as one of our finest office bearers, and I believe the best Treasurer in the Association’s 119 year history.

Our condolences to his extended family and partner, Sue. Written by Bruce Wallace, MPAQ Historian

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This specification enables product certification in accordance with the requirements of the Plumbing Code of Australia (PCA) and specifies suitable materials for waste pipe connection outlets and gratings.

Previously, materials were open to interpretation allowing the use of aluminium which is susceptible to corrosion. The update specifies aluminium use should be restricted, particularly in wet environments.

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MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE July/August 2019 |

35

MEMBER NEWS

THE LAUNCH OF BRIAN MCGRATH PLAYGROUND A local park has been named after MPAQ Life Member, Brian McGrath OAM.

Brian McGrath OAM at the newly named Brian McGrath playground

Brian was born in Crown Street, Bardon in 1930. He has been a lifelong resident of Bardon and has spent much of his time promoting the advantages of Jubilee Park, where he and his friends played for many years.

Brian has been a member of Bardon Lions Club since 1967 and was elected District Governor of the area for the Lions and represented the Lions Club overseas. He was awarded an OAM for his work with the Lions Club and for his assistance and

contributions to those affected by the 1974 flood disaster.

As a long-time member of Master Plumbers’ Association of Queensland (MPAQ), Brian has been involved in the building and growth of both the Association and the plumbing and gas industry, and he was recognised as a life member in July 2006.

Brian is also well known for his involvement with the wider community. He has been admitted into the Australian Lions Foundation Hall of Fame.

Everyone at MPAQ would like to congratulate Brian on this recognition for his contribution to the community!

RHEEM AUSTRALIA ANNOUNCES 2019 RHEEM APPRENTICE PLUMBER GRANTS RECIPIENTS Ten apprentice plumbers from around Australia have 3,000 reasons to smile after being named the 2019 Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants recipients. Rheem Australia has been running the program since 2012 with the aim to help foster the future generation of plumbers. This year there were $30,000 in Grants.

The 10 Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants recipients each receive $2,000 to go towards their college fees and/or textbooks, a $1,000 tool voucher, and a tool tote to help carry their tools.

This year’s recipients are aged from 15 to 43 and hail from around the country and each has a clear aim: to be a great plumber. They range from Blake bin Swani, a young indigenous man and father of two from Broome, WA, who is also a local football coach and mentor for other local Noongars; mature age apprentice Reannon McCann from SA, a stand out AFL Women’s player and captain of her premiership winning team for the past two years; NT father-of-five, Carl Macic, who is training to be a plumber while also working as a policeman and would like to one day work with his kids in a plumbing business; and Luke Cox, whose family’s savings had to be used to pay for Luke’s surgeries when he suffered heart failure in 2017.

“These apprentices represent the future generation of plumbers and we are proud to be able to provide support. The plumbing industry has provided immense support to Rheem for more than eight decades and these Grants are designed as a thank you and to help foster apprentices. We are thrilled to play a small role in helping to encourage those who might be struggling financially or need a morale boost to continue with their studies,” says Rheem CEO, Chris Taylor.

Queensland Apprentice is a Grant Recipient Belmont’s Connor Stafford will become his family’s fifth generation plumber after receiving a 2019 Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grant. Connor, 21, has been named one of the ten Grants recipients for 2019. He beat more than 100 other apprentice Rheem Apprentice Plumber plumbers from around Grant Recipient, Connor Stafford Australia. What stood out with the judges was Connor’s standout work ethic and desire to carry on his family’s tradition.

Connor, a fourth-year apprentice who works with Allanna Plumbing Services, has also previously been nominated twice for Apprentice of the Year awards (for 3rd and 4th year Apprentice of the Year) at the Plumbing and Gas Industry Awards and as a plumbing ambassador. He also went to the nationals in the Tournament of the Minds, a public speaking competition.

Connor received a $3,000 grant: $2,000 to go towards his study fees and a $1000 tool voucher.

The full list of this year’s recipients can be found at www.rheem.com.au.

Do you have a story (of yourself or someone else) you would like to share? We’d love to hear it!

Send us an email at events@mpaq.com.au or call the MPAQ office on 07 3273 0800.

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| MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE July/August 2019

NEW MEMBERS

WELCOME TO MPAQ’S NEW MEMBERS NAME

COMPANY

DIVISION

Reece Rowlinson

Rowlinson Plumbing & Gas

Brisbane North

Cale Cramer

Cramers Plumbing Co

Brisbane South

William Neill

WNP Plumbing and Draining

Brisbane South

Jay Stafford

Jay Stafford Plumbing

Central

Dean Rostirolla

D and P Plumbing

Central Highlands

Benjamen Tonon

Tonon Plumbing and Gas Pty Ltd

Far North Qld

Shane Jopson

Aspiring Group

Gold Coast

Clayton Booth

Booth Plumbing Services Pty Ltd

Gold Coast

Angus Hall

Network Secure Pty Ltd

Gold Coast

Peter McEnearney

Peter McEnearney Plumbing Pty Limited

Gold Coast

Michael De Pinto

DePinto Agencies Pty Ltd

Mackay

Kendall Nash

KNP Plumbing & Gas

Mackay

Brian Gould

Gould Instruments

North Qld

James Lee

JVL Plumbing & Gas

North Qld

Steven Van Bennekom

Total Plumbing Works

Toowoomba

Joshua Stevenson Sanity Plumbing Pty Ltd

William Neill WNP Plumbing and Draining

Clayton Booth Booth Plumbing Services Pty Ltd

Thomas Lee JVL Plumbing & Gas

Troy West T & R West Plumbing Service MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE July/August 2019 |

37

MILESTONE MEMBERS

30

YEAR

MILESTONE

Leslie O’Keefe from Wurtulla Plumbing with MPAQ President, Kent Vickers

25

15

YEAR

YEAR

MILESTONE

Fred Nitz

MILESTONE

Tim Eagle from Eagle & Stork Plumbing Pty Ltd

Join MPAQ and you could win a

$3,000

Holiday thanks to Samios!

CONGRATULATIONS TO MPAQ’S MILESTONE MEMBERS NAME

COMPANY

DIVISION

MILESTONE

Jody Monaghan

Stimson Plumbing & Building Maintenance

Toowoomba

50

Brian Sorohan

BD & MC Sorohan

North Queensland

40

Stephen Wagner

Wagner Plumbing

Brisbane North

30

Leslie O’Keefe

Wurtulla Plumbing

Sunshine Coast

30

Trevor Endres

Trevor Endres Plumbing

Fraser Coast

20

Paul Waller

Waller Plumbing Pty Ltd

Brisbane South

20

Terry Lahrs

Lahrs & Sons Pty Ltd

Brisbane South

15

Mark Mills

Mills Plumbing & Gas Pty Ltd

Brisbane North

15

Kate Nicoll

Nicoll Industries Pty Ltd

Brisbane South

15

Shane Rolfe

Shane Rolfe Plumbing

Brisbane South

15

David Franklin

Taps & Toilets (Moreton)

Brisbane North

15

Nick McSweeney

McSweeney Plumbing

Brisbane North

10

Daniel Miles

Premium Plumbing & Drainage Pty Ltd

Brisbane North

10

Scott Baldwin

Scotts Plumbing & Gas

Country

10

Luke McNicol

Consort Plumbing

Ipswich

5

Darrin Petrie

Ezy Construction Group Pty Ltd

Outside Qld

5

Steven Adams

Northside Gas and Plumbing

Brisbane North

5

Ondre Arkadieff

O A Plumbing and Bathrooms

Brisbane South

5

Scott Saron

Scott Saron

Brisbane South

5

Noel Gardner

Think Water Whitsunday Mackay

5

Trent Goetze

X-Act Plumbing Services Brisbane South

5

10

10

YEAR

YEAR

MILESTONE

MILESTONE

Yvonne Radunz from Xport Plumbing Pty Ltd with MPAQ Member Specialist Jason Searle

Graham Shaw from Graham Shaw Plumbing Pty Ltd

10

Join MPAQ as a Contracting Member between 1 July 2019 and 31 December 2019 to go into the draw to win a travel voucher worth $3,000.

New contracting members must join the association between 1 July 2019 and 31 December 2019. Membership application and payment (first payment for monthly paying members and entire payment for annual paying members) must be made within the 6 month promotion period where applicable. New members must elect to enter the draw via a link provided in membership confirmation emails. All entries must be received by 11.59pm AEST on 31 December 2019. The competition is open to MPAQ contracting members who are Australian residents aged 18 years and over. Only one entry per company is permitted. The winner will be drawn at random on 10 January 2020 at noon AEST at 11/243 Bradman Street, Acacia Ridge, Brisbane, QLD 4110. The winner must accept the prize within 10 business days of this date. Full Competition Terms and Conditions Apply - visit www.mpaq.com.au/join for more details.

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| MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE July/August 2019

YEAR

MILESTONE

Mark Raymond from Raymond Plumbing with MPAQ Executive Director Penny Cornah

SUPPORTERS

THE SUPPORTERS OF OUR INDUSTRY Trading Contact

Platinum Corporate Supporters Australian Valve Group BUSSQ Building Super Cbus Emerson Valvcheq Backflow simPRO Software Pty Ltd Reece Reliance Worldwide Corporation Toyota Tradelink WFI Insurance

Gold Corporate Supporters

Bretts Trade Plumbing Supplies Decina Bathroomware Pty Ltd Dial Before You Dig (Qld) Ltd GWA Group Hilti Australia Iplex Kembla QLeave Rheem Australia Pty Ltd Zip Heaters (Aust) Pty Ltd Zurn Australia

Silver Corporate Supporters Billi Pty Ltd Busy At Work Halgan Pty Ltd Rinnai Xact Accounting

Corporate Supporters

9th Day Advanced Enviro-Septic Aitchison Reid Building & Construction Lawyers All Trades Queensland Pty Ltd Alpha390 Finance Ancra Australia Pty Ltd Apollo Valves APT Management Services Pty Ltd Aquacure Water Treatment Pty Ltd Aquaknect Aquatech Solar Technologies Pty Ltd Astivita Limited AusPress Systems Pty Ltd Australian Industry Trade College Gold Coast Australian Laboratory Services Pty Ltd Australian Pump Industries Pty Ltd AustWorld AutoTender Backflow Central & Hydromet Bermad Water Technologies Brute Beveller Comsure Insurance Brokers Con-Serv Corporation Australia Pty Ltd Construct Law Group Construction Skills Queensland Cornwalls Law + More Davey Water Products Pty Ltd Doyles Construction Lawyers EJ Elgas Ltd Enware Australia Pty Ltd Everhard Industries Pty Ltd Finlease Flowpex Piping Systems Fyreguard - Passive Fire Protection Global Roto-Moulding Pty Ltd Gould Instruments Grundfos Pumps Pty Ltd

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Handford Virtual Services Hydroflow Distributors Insinkerator K & R Plumbing Supplies - Toowoomba Kennards Test and Measure Qld Kingspan Water & Energy Pty Limited Lifestyle Tradie Group Pty Ltd Logical Metering Mascot Engineering Group Master Hire Modus Operandi Network Secure Pty Ltd Openpay Pty Ltd Plastec Australia Pty Ltd Plumbcall Franchise Systems Pty Ltd Plumbing Plus Queensland Plus Passive Fire Porters PROTRADE United Quantum Energy Technologies Pty Ltd Queensland Brassware Association Queensland Gas Association QUT Facilities Management Rain Harvesting Rainware Outdoor Showers Rehau Pty Ltd Ridge Tool (Aust) Pty Ltd Samios Saniflo Select Water Tanks Pty Ltd Shower Sealed Pty Ltd SkillsTech Australia Snap Fire Systems Pty Ltd SolarEast Australasia Pty Ltd Specialised Plumbing Centre Stiebel Eltron (Aust) Pty Ltd Stoddart Stormtech Pty Ltd Stratco (Qld) Pty Ltd Studor Australia Pty Ltd Supakwik Water Heaters Pty Ltd Taylex Industries Pty Ltd The Bidet Shop The Couta Group The Service Trades College Australia The Wondercap Company Pty Ltd Total Eden Totally Workwear Tradie Bookkeeping Solutions Valves R Us Viega Pty Ltd Vinidex Pty Ltd Vivax-Metrotech AUS Zetco Valves Pty Ltd

Associate Council

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

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