Plumbing SA | May/June 2023

Plumbing SOUTH AUSTRALIA May / June 2023

embers

SA M

MPA

supportingdy are y bo industr the

mpasa atten

members

d ind

ustr y ev ents

THE L L I UPSK RY! T S U IND

Published by Master Plumbers Association of South Australia

E T OF TH R A P E B E PICTUR BIGGER !

JOIN US

99 Morringe Avenue Camden Park SA 5038 2

E: service@apms-sa.com.au

P: 08 8295 2333

F: 08 8295 8140

W: www.apms-sa.com.au

MASTER PLUMBERS SA

INSIDE THIS EDITION...

FOREWORDS CEO Editorial

5

MEMBERSHIP Member Benefits

20

SA & NT Industry Members

23

WORK HEALTH AND SAFETY Men’s Mental Health Week

8

When Work-Life Balance is Imbalanced

14

INDUSTRY Marching Forward

6

Mums in Plumbing

7

Member Profile

9

Apprentice Profile

16

MPA Staff Profile

17

Our Industry Supporters

22

MPASA - Be Part of the Bigger Picture

page 7

Domenic Pirrotta apprentice

page 16

LEGAL & FINANCIAL Getting a Handle on Complaints

11

Your Super is the Foundation of Your Future

12

Family Separation and Small Business

13

EVENTS & SOCIAL 2023 MPA Roadshow

4

Member Instagram Posts

19

Master Plumbers SA Event Calendar

21

FRONT COVER: Unite MPASA

PRESIDENT: Matt Sando DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Mike McEntee INDEPENDENT CHAIR: Daria McLachlan TREASURER: Damon Hammond COUNCILLORS: Steve Adams, Rob Dineen, David Hurst, Steve Slack

MASTER PLUMBERS SA STAFF Andrew Clarke | Executive Officer m: 0438 282 448

Jodie Bischoff People, Careers & Wellness Manager

e: andrew.clarke@mpasa.com.au

e: jodie.bischoff@mpasa.com.au

Gavin Watson | Operations Manager

Sam Baulderstone | Field Officer

m: 0488 909 185

e: gavin.watson@mpasa.com.au

m: 0447 496 216

e: sam.baulderstone@mpasa.com.au

PUBLISHED BY: Master Plumbers Association of South Australia Inc 213 Greenhill Rd Eastwood SA 5063 | PO Box 145 Fullarton SA 5063 Ph: (08) 8292 4000 Email: admin@mpasa.com.au | Website: www.mpasa.com.au PRE PRESS AND PRINTING: Keystone Printing

Ph: (08) 8231 9999 | Email: info@keystoneprinting.com.au

Brock Perkins | Field Officer m: 0499 975 475

e: brock.perkins@mpasa.com.au

Brittany O’Neill Administration Support Officer e: brittany.oneill@mpasa.com.au

Rachel Clark

Rhia Daniel

Administration Officer

Marketing & Membership Coordinator

e: rachel.clark@mpasa.com.au

e: rhia.daniel@mpasa.com.au

Opinions expressed in Plumbing SA are not necessarily those of the MPA SA, nor does the MPA SA guarantee the accuracy of the statements made by contributors or advertisers or accept responsibility for statements they may express in this publication, nor does the MPA SA accept liability to advertisers for the publication of advertising which may be held contrary to the Competition and Consumer Act 2010. MPA SA reserves the right to refuse, cancel, amend or suspend any advertisement or insert without reason. All advertising pricing is correct at the time of publication but is subject to change without notice. Errors and omissions excepted.

INIC NLCULD UEDSES PRPO RD OU DCUTCT EXEPXOPO FRFORM OM 4.43.03P0M PM ! ! *Fo*F oodo&d ridn incinlucdldu& ederkdisnks

2023 2023PLUMBING PLUMBINGROADSHOW ROADSHOW JOIN USUS FOR OUR 2023 PLUMBING ROADSHOW AND MINI TRADE EXPO, PRESENTED BYBY JOIN FOR OUR 2023 PLUMBING ROADSHOW AND MINI TRADE EXPO, PRESENTED MASTER PLUMBERS SASA AND THE OFFICE OFOF THE TECHNICAL REGULATOR. MASTER PLUMBERS AND THE OFFICE THE TECHNICAL REGULATOR.

DAY DAY

DATE DATE

Tuesday Tuesday Wednesday Wednesday

Thursday Thursday Wednesday Wednesday

Wednesday Wednesday Wednesday Wednesday

28th March 28th March 29th March 29th March

30th March 30th March 19th April 19th April

TIME TIME

4:30-8:30pm 4:30-8:30pm 4:30-8:30pm 4:30-8:30pm

LOCATION LOCATION

Port Lincoln Port Lincoln Port Augusta Port Augusta

4:30-8:30pm 4:30-8:30pm 4:30-8:30pm 4:30-8:30pm

Port Pirie Port Pirie Victor Harbor Victor Harbor

4:30-8:30pm 4:30-8:30pm 4:30-8:30pm 4:30-8:30pm

Murray Bridge Murray Bridge Tonsley TAFE Tonsley TAFE

SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION 3rd May 4:30-8:30pm Clare 3rd May 4:30-8:30pm Clare

Wednesday Wednesday Wednesday Wednesday

Wednesday Wednesday Wednesday Wednesday Wednesday Wednesday Wednesday Wednesday

10th May 10th May 24th May 24th May

31st May 31st May 7th June 7th June 21st June 21st June 28th June 28th June 26th July 26th July

4:30-8:30pm 4:30-8:30pm 4:30-8:30pm 4:30-8:30pm 4:30-8:30pm 4:30-8:30pm 4:30-8:30pm 4:30-8:30pm 4:30-8:30pm 4:30-8:30pm

Modbury Modbury Gawler Gawler Barmera Barmera Wallaroo Wallaroo Mount Gambier Mount Gambier

VENUE VENUE

Wayback Football Club Wayback Football Club Central Football Club Central Football Club Port Football Club Port Football Club Hotel Victor Hotel Victor

Bentleys Hotel Bentleys Hotel Ramblers Sporting Club Ramblers Sporting Club Tonsley TAFE Tonsley TAFE Modbury Bowling Club Modbury Bowling Club

Gawler Greyhound Club Gawler Greyhound Club Barmera Club Barmera Club Coopers Alehouse Coopers Alehouse East Gambier Football Club East Gambier Football Club

TOPICS TO BE COVERED BY THE OTR TOPICS TO BE COVERED BY THE OTR

Flexible Hoses Installation of TMV’s and Licencing Installation of TMV’s and Licencing Flexible Hoses Vacuum Drainage Requirements Requirements Vacuum Drainage Insurance and Design Stormwater Legislation Stormwater Legislation Insurance and Design Pot Fillers Rainwater Harvesting Rainwater Harvesting Pot Fillers Electrical Safety Installation Heat Pump Heated Installation Heat Pump Heated Electrical Safety FPA101D Tampering with Infrastructure Tampering with Infrastructure FPA101D Circulatory Heated Water Systems PCA Ratification Circulatory Heated Water Systems PCA Ratification Water Services Dental Backflow Requirements Dental Backflow Requirements Water Services Fire Service Testing Requirements Fire Service Testing Requirements

MPASA PRESENTATION MPASA PRESENTATION

Local and National Update Local and National Update CPD/Licencing CPD/Licencing

INDUSTRY SPONSOR EXPO INDUSTRY SPONSOR EXPO

New Products, Services New Products, Services and Technology and Technology

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

SCAN SCANQR QRCODE CODETO TOREGISTER! REGISTER! 4

MASTER PLUMBERS SA

CEO EDITORIAL

BY ANDREW CLARKE EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Training for Plumbers in SA

The Plumbing industry has gone through some training issues of late, with changes to national qualifications, providers not having capacity to deliver due to various reasons such as resources or lack of class sizes. MPASA has responded to the feedback and have reached out to our ‘’network’’ to assist in solving these problems. Courses include:

1. Disconnect – Reconnect electrical equipment

training course. (Course Code: UEERL0004)

5 Day course with some pre-reading, face to face environment because of the practical nature of the training.

Theoretical and practical assessment.This unit covers disconnecting and reconnecting composite appliances connected to low voltage installation wiring (single and three phase up to 1000 volts AC)

What skills will you gain: - Competently use and interpret a multimeter - Use electrical hand tools - Interpret electrical components - Use electrical safety equipment - Identify correct earthing points - Safely isolate a live electrical supply Participants will also learn to: - Work Safely - Identify supply arrangements - Follow isolation procedures. Lock out Tag out - Select and use testing and measuring devices - Terminate and connect cables and conductors Pre-requisites: Applicants must have completed UEECD0007 Apply work health and safety regulations, codes and practices in the workplace. If they do not have this unit, you can obtain this through the provider by recognition of prior learning by completing a workbook and having the following:

-

Cert III level qualification in a trade or education qualification - Australian recognised trade certificate - Induction complete certificate - Safety induction card - Construction White Card - Certificate IV in WHS - WHSO training - A CPR (resuscitation) certificate - A first aid certificate which included CPR For more details contact the provider: Gas Train Ph: 1300 955 583 Unit 1, 61 Tapleys Hill Rd, Hendon SA 5014 www.mpasa.com.au

2. Carbon Monoxide (CO) Training – Non-

Accredited

Course content includes: - Properties and characteristics of CO - Why CO is toxic - Effects of CO by concentration in air - Sources of CO - What is combustion. How is CO formed?

- What are the signs of a faulty gas appliance?

- Types of gas appliances – open flued, room sealed, outdoor and flueless - Overview of appliance standards - ESV safety alerts on various open flued appliances - Certification information (e.g., GTRC and various labs) - Ventilation requirements – positive pressure & negative pressure - Negative pressure test procedure - CO spillage test procedure - ESV video example of testing - Carbon monoxide safe working level (Time Weighted Average) TWA calculation For more details contact the provider Gas Train Ph: 1300 955 583 Unit 1 , 61 Tapleys Hill Rd, Hendon SA 5014

3. Video Training on the following non accredited

courses: All available via the MPASA Website (Members access only) -

TMV Servicing & testing RPZ Servicing & testing DCV Servicing & testing DDCV Servicing & testing Safety Showers Servicing & testing including: Eye wash, Face wash & Combined wash (All videos produced by Gould Instruments)

Digital Backflow Prevention Test Kits

MPA SA is now selling Gould Digital Backflow Prevention Test Kits Members of the Association will get a discounted rate for purchasing the GI-DBT2 Test Kit. Please refer to the MPA SA website for details.

New Member Benefit – Fuel Deal

MPA SA has negotiated a Fuel Deal with On The Run (OTR) and the offer is now in place.There are savings on the pump price with the majority of OTR outlets – all explained and easily managed. Contact Lauren on Ph: 0459 536 639 for further information and application forms.

Northern Territory Members can apply for the Fuel discount offering via the MOGAS Regional distributor network. Please contact Lauren for more information.

5

MARCHING FORWARD In recent times, workers’ marches and protests are being observed all around the world; people marched in Canada, Indonesia, Taiwan, Belgium, Spain, Turkey, France, South Korea and Japan, to name a few.

MPASA is about making the most amount of impact for the right reasons and if striking or marching down the streets of Adelaide is the only way to get the message across then – so be it!

The right to protest is currently a hot topic in South Australia. As an environmental protest in mid-May disrupted Adelaide traffic and business operations, it led to significant changes in Parliament to increase fines and jail terms for those parties or individuals.

MPASA does not condone this behaviour but sometimes we need to make a stand when all our efforts to lobby government for change leads to zero action.

It is the people that vote the government in; people’s wellbeing and support of community outcomes should remain a high priority.

MPASA fights to protect our members, our industry and the public. We have lobbied for the improved protection to consumers who constantly get ‘’ripped off’’ by unscrupulous businesses (we all know who these people are), we have spent decades trying to stop these business operations.

The feedback I hear from peers, plumbers and the calls coming through to the office indicate that this bar is not always being met.

We understand that over history, building standards have changed to meet current industry regulations and / or environmental changes but the fact remains there are concerns over the whole building and certification process.

There just isn’t the level of compliance, as our working environment is now rushed, profits are being eroded for many reasons and the care factor on quality is dropping away as attitudes change.

My biggest concern is the lack of understanding around stormwater and the effects this has on homes and surrounding properties.

Councils are oblivious to their responsibilities and turn a blind eye to the current practices of certification versus actual installation practices.

Keep an eye out for future updates. As your industry association, we are not finished in our pursuit for greater protection for the community and greater compliance for buildings.

For our Members abiding by our Code of Ethics, MPASA is here to have your back.

My recent meeting with the relevant Minister highlighted the fact that these business practices are in fact increasing and it is becoming a run-away train.

Our office is receiving an increased number of calls from concerned members of the public; many of them are advocating on behalf of a vulnerable consumer, often an elderly person or a person living with disability.

If more businesses get away with these tactics, more will follow.

This behavior is disgusting, and it harms our industry’s reputation.

As the housing crisis remains front-of-mind for many Australians, purchasing a home is the biggest decision every family or individual makes in their life.

We believe that the standard of the build needs to be 100% compliant.

6

MASTER PLUMBERS SA

MUMS IN PLUMBING Did you know only 3% of tradespeople are women?

There’s even fewer mums in plumbing. But lets talk about the opportunities that plumbing holds for mums.

Flexible working hours: Many plumbing companies

offer flexible work arrangements, which can be particularly beneficial for mothers who need to balance work with family responsibilities. This can include parttime work, job-sharing arrangements, and the ability to work from home on administrative tasks.

Self-employment: Some mothers may choose to become self-employed plumbers, which can offer greater flexibility and control over their work schedule. This can involve starting your own plumbing business or working as an independent contractor.

Career advancement: The plumbing industry

offers a range of career advancement opportunities, such as becoming a supervisor or manager, which can provide greater job security and opportunities for professional development.

Apprenticeships: Many plumbing companies

offer apprenticeships for those looking to start a career in plumbing. This can be a great opportunity for mothers who may be looking to re-enter the workforce or switch to a new career.

Industry support: There are a number of industry associations and support groups for women in the plumbing industry, such as Women in Civil Committee and BUSY Sisters Mentoring which provide networking opportunities, training, and resources to support women in their careers.

Overall, the plumbing industry can offer a range of opportunities for mothers, whether they are looking for flexible work arrangements, self-employment, or career advancement.

With the right training and support, plumbing can be a rewarding and fulfilling career choice for women.

TOTAL BUSINESS SOFTWARE FOR THE TRADES. Manage your business like you mean business with one software for job quoting, scheduling, inventory tracking, invoicing, workflow management and more. Plus, meet the hardest working support crew you’ll ever hire to help you build, repair and grow your business.

www.mpasa.com.au

READY TO GET TO WORK? simprogroup.com/MPSA23

START HERE

7

MEN’S MENTAL HEALTH WEEK June 12-18 is Men’s Health Week. This Men’s Health Week, take the time to consider: • What does good health look like to you?

• How have you been feeling lately?

• Who could you reach out to for support if you were feeling stressed or depressed?

• When was your last check-up at the doctors or dentist?

• How many fruits and vegetables are you eating each day?

Adelaide Men’s Group

Read Steel Blue’s guide on 10 Stretches Every Tradie Should Do for Health and Injury Prevention.

100 YEAR MEMBERS A J PAternoster & son pty ltd

W.F. Gray & Co Pty Ltd

Australian Men’s Shed Association

50 YEAR MEMBERS

MensLine Australia

A S Carlson & Sons Pty Ltd

E J Northway & Son Pty Ltd

Baldwin’s Plumbing & Gas

F S Scott & Co Pty Ltd

Bruce Harris Project Management Pty Ltd

Glenelg Plumbing Services Pty Ltd

How do some of these groups successfully help men take care of their physical well being, while also providing important social connect?

Men’s shed QR code 1 Working in plumbing means you’re moving around all day, and your “office” looks different each day.

A lot of young apprentices are excited about building strength and muscle when they start out, but soreness is a common downside to all the physical activity you do.

8

BT & RB Foreman Dineen Plumbing Eco Green Plumbing

Hall & Baum N D Birchmore Pty Ltd Victor Plumbing Service

LIFE MEMBERS D. J. HEBBARD

R. R. FARNHAM

T. DRIVER

J. HOLDER

S. B. HALL

B.HARRIS

MASTER PLUMBERS SA

MEMBER PROFILE TRENT’S PLUMBING & GAS

Trent’s Plumbing and Gas in the largest plumbing and gas fitting company based on the Southern Fleurieu.

We are the preferred plumber for most builders, real estate agents and landlords in the region.

Our services include new installations and maintenance for residential and commercial clients in Victor Harbor, Goolwa, Port Elliot, Yankalilla and Myponga - and all locations in-between.

start your PLUMBING CAREER WITH an industry leader.

APPLY NOW www.mpasa.com.au

www.mpasa.com.au

9

MOVE YOUR BUSINESS WITH TOYOTA HILUX

TOYOTA FOR BUSINESS An unbreakable connection since 1968 You go further when you have a partner in mobility. That’s why Toyota for Business moves with you to fully understand your business and drive it forward.

Your Association membership unlocks Toyota Fleet discounts across a great range of Toyota vehicles to help you find the right car for your lifestyle and budget.

Scan to sign up for the latest insights from Toyota for Business

To find out more, visit your local Toyota Dealer or go to toyota.com.au/fleet

10 12

MASTER PLUMBERS SA

GETTING A HANDLE ON COMPLAINTS For example, if you: When things go wrong, consumers may have good reason to complain.

Sometimes they complain direct to the business they’ve been dealing with, sometimes they also report the matter to Consumer and Business Services (CBS), and sometimes they post their gripe on social media and give the business a bad review and rating.

•

cause damage to the consumer’s property

•

seek payment for additional work that the customer did not authorise

•

do not provide an itemised bill when required.

Some problems can be prevented, but there are times where the reason for the problem is out of the tradesperson’s control. CBS offers this advice on how to deal with complaints.

Some plumbers may not realise that consumers have up to 30 days after receiving the original bill to ask for an itemised version. The business must then provide the itemised bill within 7 days showing how the price was worked out, the number of labour hours, the hourly rate, the materials used and the amount charged for them where applicable. In 2022 there were 235 reports to CBS about plumbing matters, and many of the issues mentioned above featured in these reports by consumers.

What’s your process?

Compliance and enforcement action

A lot of businesses don’t give any thought to putting a process in place to deal with complaints. They just try to deal with issues as best they can when issues arise.

But a complaint process doesn’t need to be a complex document describing many steps to take and diagrams and arrows going in all directions.

Even if a complaint is resolved to the consumer’s satisfaction, CBS could still take action against a tradesperson for breaches of licensing or consumer laws, so plumbers are reminded to make sure they meet their legal requirements.

For some handy tips on being prepared to deal with any complaints about your business, see the ‘How to handle customer complaints’ page at sa.gov.au.

Enforcement action by CBS may include issuing a written warning, a written assurance that the plumber will stop the unlawful activity, a public warning or an expiation notice, taking disciplinary action, or prosecuting the tradesperson in court.

Typical complaints

More information

When thinking about the types of complaints you might receive in the future, you could consider what an appropriate response to customers would be when issues arise that you have no influence over. For example: •

vandalism at the building site, despite the builder taking necessary precautions to prevent such events where possible.

•

another tradesperson who subsequently works at the site and inadvertently messes up work you had performed correctly.

•

delays with plumbing materials due to high demand across the industry or delivery delays due to extreme weather events.

SA.GOV is a useful hub of information for business. Visit www.sa.gov.au/topics/business-and-trade for information about licence and registration requirements and also general advice about running a business – including sales practices tips and requirements for invoices and receipts.

You must genuinely try to fulfil your supply obligations and take reasonable precautions. It is an offence under the Australian Consumer Law to accept payment for goods and services if you know you aren’t able to supply the goods or services in a timely manner, or if you intend to supply goods or services that are materially different.

Consumers may also make a complaint if there are concerns about your conduct or the work performed. www.mpasa.com.au

11

YOUR SUPER IS THE FOUNDATION OF YOUR FUTURE If you run a business that employs up to 19 people, you are one of the more than 2,500,000 micro and small businesses operating in Australia. These businesses include partnerships; sole traders; and companies, along with Family and Unit Trusts controlled by individual or company Trustees.

Whatever the structure, many businesses are owned by people who are married or in a de facto relationship. That spouse couple might both be participating in the day to day functions of the business or it could be run by one of the spouses alone.

Perhaps there are third parties in a formal partnership agreement or involved as company shareholders.

The business may have been built over many years. The spouse couple may be Directors and shareholders of a company structure, or Trustees and Appointors of a Trust. There might be Director’s loans or beneficiary loan accounts on the balance sheet.

The family home might have been used as security for business loans; and the cars used by the couple everyday, held by and financed through the business. If it is a family business, there may not have been formal employment provisions in place for family members who have worked in and contributed to the growth of the business.

When the relationship ends, unravelling those business arrangements can be complicated. The business does not stop functioning as a result of a separation, but a new set of considerations have to be dealt with.

After separation, a couple’s assets are divided between them in accordance with the provisions of the Family Law Act 1975. This takes into account the financial and non-financial contributions each person has made to the relationship, as well as how particular issues will affect their ability to be financially independent in the future.

An interest that either spouse has in a business will be considered as part of that asset division, along with other holdings such as a family home, investment property and motor vehicles. It does not matter if only one of the spouses has been involved in running or working in the business.

The process of dividing assets requires that the assets are assigned a value. In some circumstances, values can be agreed between the spouses. If there is no agreement, an independent valuation is obtained.

Valuing a business can be approached in a number of ways, and the method used will depend on the nature and structure of the business. Importantly, the value of the business for Family Law purposes may not be the same value that would be assigned to a business being prepared for sale. As such, a valuation should be undertaken by an experienced business Valuer.

12

To obtain a valuation, all relevant financial information must be provided to the Valuer. That includes bank statements, tax returns, financial statements, employee records, loan documentation, constitutions and Trust Deeds.

The spouse couple should agree as to who will be appointed as the Valuer and be clear as to the information and documents to be given to them. To avoid incurring unnecessary costs and inflaming dispute, the valuation process should be transparent and communicated to both spouse parties.

The separated couple may have an accountant who can assist with identifying and gathering information and sharing that with the Valuer and lawyers as may be required.

After separation the couple can either continue to jointly manage the business; dissolve it and split the proceeds; or one person can buy out the other. The decision taken will require careful consideration of the needs of each person in relation to ensuring business continuity; rearranging operations; and redefining entitlements.

Ongoing joint management requires both people to progress the separation in a respectful and civil manner, with emotional issues kept out of the practical decision making required to run a business. That may not be achievable.

If an agreement is reached that one party will end their involvement in the business, it is important that process is done correctly. For example, one person might need to resign as a Director, transfer shares in a company to the other spouse and also remove themselves from control of a Trust. Loans, guarantees, claims and liability issues will need to be dealt with.

If the business is to be sold, the couple will need to jointly appoint an agent and agree the sale price, irrespective of whether both of them have formal ownership of the business.

This avoids disputes arising from one person appearing to control that sale process to their advantage.

Even if you are not separated, you might want to review how your business is operating to minimise the impact of a separation or Divorce, should that happen.

If you are not keeping up to date and accurate financial records, are taking cash in hand work, or do not have shareholder agreements that include provisions around valuing the business; share transfers between shareholders; and dispute resolution processes, then you may find you will incur substantially more costs than you need to, if you separate.

If you require assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us.

We offer all Master Plumbers members the first 30 minutes of advice free on any new matter.

MASTER PLUMBERS SA

FAMILY SEPARATION AND SMALL BUSINESS Promoters will often charge you a lot of money and may attempt to obtain your personal identity information to steal your super for themselves.

If you are approached by a promoter, report it to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) as soon as possible.

The ATO has released a helpful factsheet to educate you on the dangers of illegally accessing super.

Social media post:

Your superannuation can only be accessed early under very limited circumstances, so it’s important to know the rules, otherwise your retirement savings could be at risk.

Accessing your super early is illegal when you don’t meet a ‘condition of release’.

If you do, you could be hit with huge penalties.

You also need to be aware of people who offer to help you access your super early.

These people, also known as ‘promoters’, have targeted workers in the meat industry.

Have you ever been approached by someone telling you that you can access your superannuation whenever you want?

Don’t fall for it.

If you fall victim, you risk losing more than your retirement savings.

For more information, go to ato.gov.au/IllegalEarlyAccess Vanessa Balnaves Partner Lynch Meyer Lawyers D: 8236 7622 E: vbalnaves@lynchmeyer.com.au

They may tell you they can set up a self-managed super fund (SMSF) in your name so you can access your super to buy a house or go on a holiday.

This is illegal.

08 8374 0132 www.mpasa.com.au

plumbing ad prepress

Tuesday, 23 September 2014 11:54:41 AM

13

WHEN WORK-LIFE BALANCE IS IMBALANCED Work-life balance is about finding equilibrium between one’s personal life and professional life, such that both receive appropriate time, attention, and energy.

It’s the ability to effectively manage work-related responsibilities and demands while maintaining a healthy and fulfilling personal life, including time for leisure, family, friends, and personal interests.

At the outset, it is important to establish boundaries, both mentally and physically.

I consulted with a business owner whose wife told me she wanted him home more, both physically and emotionally, and that when he was home, he wasn’t really there – his mind seemed to be always at work.

I created the “closing the door on the day” concept which worked a treat. Half an hour before he left to go home, he was to review his accomplished tasks for that day and then plan the following day.

Once he had done that, he was to mindfully close the door of his office and head home.

The review, plan, and door close, provided both a time boundary and a planning discipline that helped his mind close out the day so he could be more fully present that night at home.

Whether you work onsite, in an office, or from the kitchen table, having your own closing out process is essential to getting separation from work.

Another aspect of balance (and this is particularly important for highly driven people) is that we have some structure and plan to our time off.

Many years ago when I was working 80-hour weeks, my coach told me that as I reduced my time at work it was important to redirect that time into engaging activities, otherwise, I was likely to fall in a hole of boredom and sabotage the good work I was doing in reducing the time spent at work.

It was a good reminder of the importance of having some kind of plan along with identifying the activities which regenerate us.

The first are those that are extrinsically motivated - often motivated by the have to’s and the should’s where the energy generated to achieve an outcome is separate to the inherent reward within the task.

Take for example winning a new plumbing job. You knew that if you had a million bucks in the bank you may not touch a particular job because of how much of a headache it could turn out to be on the way through.

However, the extrinsic motivator “profitability” drives you forward to win it.

Another example might be going to the gym.

Many people are extrinsically motivated to go, so that at some time in the future they will look buff, but most don’t do it because they feel like getting up early to sweat it out.

The second category are those activities that are intrinsically motivated: we really enjoy them and often lose consciousness of time.

The reward comes simply from engaging in the activity itself. For one person at work, it might be liaising with clients, fixing leaking taps, or doing strategy work.

For another person outside of work it might be playing with the kids, smoking ribs and wings on the smoker/ BBQ, or going hiking. It’s different for everyone. Though they might still be demanding, the corresponding enjoyment and sense of fulfilment are high.

So, next time you are looking to get some energy back and think that balance might be an issue, remember to: close the door on work; plan your time off; and review the mix of have-to and want- to activities, because my guess is, you may need to insert some additional activities into your life (whether at work or outside of work) because you want to do them, not just because you have to.

Ray Hodge Business and Leadership Development Expert W: www.rayhodge.com.au

This is where, it’s not just the separation from work that’s important but it’s the level of engagement in the out-of-work activities that is critical to achieve better balance.

Tasks and activities largely fall into two categories.

14

MASTER PLUMBERS SA

SAVE WITH RINNAI ELECTRIC HEAT PUMPS The innovative controller works to maximise hot water availability while using up to 75% less energy*, compared to a standard electric storage tank.

The Enviroflo Electric Heat Pump is perfect for replacing a standard electric water heater and comes in various capacities to suit different needs and applications.

Visit rinnai.com.au to find out more.

Looking for an energy saving, reliable hot water solution – then look no further than our Rinnai Enviroflo Hot Water Heat Pumps.

Utilising the latest in advanced heat pump technology, Rinnai Heat Pumps are built to last, with high-quality components and materials that ensure reliable and long-lasting performance.

Enviroflo Electric Heat Pumps operate by utilising a heat exchange system that absorbs the heat from the surrounding air and uses it to heat your water.

* Energy saving of up to 75% based on a Rinnai Enviroflo 250ltr/265ltr/315ltr Heat Pump, when compared to a standard electric water heater of the same capacity during peak winter load in Zone 1 based on AS/NZS4234. Savings will vary depending upon your location (Zone 1-5), type of water heater being replaced, hot water consumption and associated fuel tariffs.

25 YEAR  GUARANTEE

DON’T DIG IT... RELINE IT Fixing blocked drains once and for all 0408 815 679 | www.adelaidepiperelining.com.au www.mpasa.com.au

15

APPRENTICE PROFILE DOMENIC PIRROTTA What inspired become a

you to plumber?

I wasn’t enjoying school, I wanted to get out and do a hands-on kind of job. Plumbing was the first one that came to mind. I like cars, I wanted to be a mechanic originally, but I didn’t see as much money in it.

And plumbing, you’re working on houses and the skills are more needed, and you’ll never run out of work and the skills are more diverse.

I straight away thought plumbing, as opposed to other trades like carpentry. Plumbing is, in my opinion, one of the most diverse trades.

What would you say to someone

I’d say do it! You’ll never run out of opportunities, it’s very diverse, you won’t get bored of what you’re doing.

I guess it depends on what kind of company you’re working for, but there’s so many different kinds of plumbing jobs you can do.

So if you get bored of one area, you can move to another area. There’s other opportunities after as well, like you can become a field officer; there’s other things you can do with your qualification.

What do you like to do outside of work?

Outside of work, I like cars. I like enjoying my spare time, working on my car or going out and about with mates.

What have you enjoyed apprenticeship so far?

about

your

When I started getting into the swing of things, when everything started coming naturally to me and I started actually do it myself.

Pretty much anything I can do myself competently, I enjoy.

New stuff, I mean it can be a bit nerve-wracking doing something I’ve never done before when you’re not sure how it’s going to turn out or how long the job is going to take.

But it really grows you up, really makes you feel good about yourself.

Need Pipe Relining?

Make PPS your subcontracting partner.

When you sub, we keep a low profile and just get on with making the problem disappear. No other company in SA offers trenchless pipe relining solutions that match PPS, so when you're faced with a tricky job you know you're working with the best partner to fix it.

Long-term Partnerships Guaranteed Solution Minimal Disruption Maintain Your Client Make a Profit Percentage on the Job

16

MASTER PLUMBERS SA

8297 1000 | www.ppssa.com.au

MPA STAFF PROFILE Brittany O’Neill Meet Brittany, our brand-new Administration Support Officer.

Along with her sunny smile and impeccable organisation skills, Brittany has brought her rich previous experience in administration to the role.

1. What does your normal day look like at Master Plumbers?

A normal day for me consists of reviewing and responding to emails, answering phone calls and patching them through to the appropriate staff members. I provide administrative support to the team in the form of scanning, sending and filing documents, and chasing up incomplete documents when necessary. I have also been providing some support to the accounts team by monitoring incoming funds and assisting with calls to obtain outstanding payments. The role certainly keeps me on my toes and my to do list is never ending.

2. What do you enjoy about working at Master Plumbers?

I have really enjoyed getting to know the team here at Master Plumbers – everyone has their own quirks and strengths, but is there for support if you need it. From day one it has been a challenge of learning the systems, the specifics of my role and

new processes – but one I have been keen to take on. I love admin work; I love being able to find better ways of doing things and hopefully creating less work for everyone else.

3. What do you do in your spare time?

I am not a very outdoorsy person but I love reading and being around my family. I am the oldest of six siblings ranging from 24 to nearly 4 years old, so a lot of my time is spent with them, my parents, step-mum, grandparents and great grandparents, my partner and his family. Time with them all is something I know I won’t always have and so I love getting to listen to them all and hear the stories they want to share. I love all things Disney and Harry Potter – both of which have representation on my desk here at work.

4. If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?

I have always wanted to go to England as my family are all from there and a lot of my extended family still live there, many of them I have not yet met. I would love to travel around Europe – one of my sisters and I had a 4-week trip to 13 countries booked but unfortunately COVID put a stop to that. I would also really love to go to Florida to go to Walt Disney World and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter theme parks.

SAPIPERELINING

www.mpasa.com.au

17

Send your plumbing apprentice to PEER’s trade school!

Apply Now!

Why choose PEER? ›

Enrol your apprentice anytime

›

Industry relevant training with engaged trainers

›

We keep you regularly informed about call up schedules

›

Ongoing support to help your apprentice succeed

›

Award-winning Trade Training Centre

Haven’t seen our facilities?

Experience the PEER difference, tour our facilities.

Become a Plumbing Trainer with PEER! Are you looking for a career change?

Shape the next generation of plumbers.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Call 8348 1200 or visit peer.com.au 18

RTO Code: 45744 MASTER PLUMBERS SA

MEMBER'S LATEST PROJECTS

tag o t t e forg t ’ n Do ofsa a p @m gram a t s ur In o y can in e w s so t s o p are! h s re

#mpasa #masterplumbers #plumbingsa 19

Master Plumbers SA MEMBER BENEFITS Membership of Master Plumbers South Australia gives you immediate access to a vast array of products and services to meet your plumbing business and lifestyle needs. Make sure your taking advantage of what’s available.

Keystone Printing 10% discount for all marketing services & first consultation is free Call Celeste on 0466 519 982

National fleet discounts on the complete range of vehicles Ph: 1800 228 844 or www.hyundaifleet.com.au

10% discount on all services, including website design Ph: 08 8387 5559 www.axisdigital.com.au

15% discount off all Loadex Hire Plant & Equipment Located at 21 Opala St, Regency Park SA Or visit www.loadex.com.au

CMI Toyota 3 year roadside assistance, plus $500 of genuine Toyota accessories along with fleet discounts

20

10% discount on all printing Located at 465 Morphett St, Adelaide SA Call Peter on 8231 9999

Solitaire Automotive Group

National fleet discounts on the complete range of vehicles Ph: 8368 5203

Exclusive discounts to members

Discounts on First Aid Training & Products Ph: 1300 785 646 and quote your membership number

$1,000 towards sign writing on any new Ford Ranger or Transit Van Located at 1 Main North Road, Medindie SA or Ph: 8269 9999

Special rates for MPA Members on WHS & HR Services

Ph: Teaghan 8443 3868

Ph 0423 161 907 www.precision-hr.com.au

National fleet discounts on the complete range of vehicles Ph: 1800 444 847 or visit your local Toyota car dealership

10% discount on all tax advice & accounting services Ph: 1300 001 132 www.kpibusiness.com.au

20% discount on initial implementation costs of simPRO Ph Ash Parrott on 0457 799 055

$150 Discount on signage

Members receive free preliminary legal advice by phone at no charge Please call Michael Hutton on 08 8236 7612

www.lynchmeyer.com.au

WFI Insurance can provide MPA Members with competitive rates on insurance Call Mark on 0427 491 240 or visit www.wfi.com.au

One hour complimentary business advisory session with a 10% discount on all consultancy Ph: 0403 341 105 Email: ray@rayhodge.com.au

National Fleet discounts available on all vehicles Ph: 1300 131 211

$250 Discount on signage

6% discount for Master Plumbers South Australia members

5% Discount on signage

This offer is exclusive to new Podium subscriptions.

(valued at $1500 or higher)

(valued at $3000 or higher) (valued at $1000 or lower)

Call Barry or Michael – 8281 8944

Ph 0488 851 748 or visit www.podium.com

MASTER PLUMBERS SA

Public Holiday & EVENT CALENDAR 2023 JANUARY

JUNE

Sunday 1

New Year’s Day

Wednesday 7

Plumbing Roadshow (Gawler)

Monday 2

New Year’s Day (Additional Day)

Monday 12

King’s Birthday

Thursday 26

Australia Day

Wednesday 21 Plumbing Roadshow (Barmera) Wednesday 28 Plumbing Roadshow (Moonta)

FEBRUARY

JULY 2nd - 9th

NAIDOC Week

Wednesday 26 Plumbing Roadshow (Mt Gambier)

MARCH Friday 3

Crucial Women in Construction High Tea

Saturday 11

World Plumbing Day

Monday 13

Adelaide Cup Day

Wednesday 22 World Water Day Tuesday 28

Monday 7

Picnic Day (NT)

1st – 31st

Tradie’s National Health Month

Plumbing Roadshow (Port Lincoln)

Wednesday 29 Plumbing Roadshow (Port Augusta) Thursday 30

AUGUST

Plumbing Roadshow (Port Pirie)

SEPTEMBER Sunday 3

Father’s Day

Thursday 14

R U OK Day

APRIL Friday 7

Good Friday

october

Saturday 8

Easter Saturday

Monday 2

Labour Day

Monday 10

Easter Monday

Friday 13

President’s Lunch

Wednesday 19 Plumbing Roadshow (Victor Harbor) Tuesday 25

ANZAC Day

MAY Monday 1

May Day (NT)

Wednesday 3

Plumbing Roadshow (Clare)

NOVEMBER Saturday 11

Remembrance Day

Sunday 19

World Toilet Day

december

Wednesday 10 Plumbing Roadshow (Murray Bridge)

Sunday 24

Christmas Eve (from 7pm to midnight)

Sunday 14

Monday 25

Christmas Day

Wednesday 24 Plumbing Roadshow (Tonsley TAFE)

Tuesday 26

Proclamation Day

Wednesday 31 Plumbing Roadshow (Tea Tree Gully)

Sunday 31

New Year’s Eve (from 7pm to midnight)

Mother’s Day

www.mpasa.com.au

21

OUR INDUSTRY SUPPORTERS Sponsorship of Master Plumbers makes It possible for us to add significant value to the service we provide to our members. We wish to express our sincere appreciation to our Branch Sponsors for their generous support.

Please support them by purchasing their goods or services.

For further details on our industry partnership deals or products, Contact Master Plumbers SA on 8292 4000 or admin@mpasa.com.au www.mpasa.com.au 22

MASTER PLUMBERS SA

SA & NT industry members Plumbing Plus

03 9600 1899

Architectural Water Solutions Pty Ltd 08 8947 3677

Rain Harvesting Pty Ltd

07 3248 9600

Arthur J Gallagher

08 8172 8121

Reece Pty Ltd

08 8231 4444

Australian Gas Networks

0447 930 657

REHAU PTY LTD

1300 768 033

AusPress Systems Pty Ltd

08 8374 3426

Reliance Manufacturing Company

0408 834 572

BioCycle - Jowa Group Pty Ltd

08 8381 9100

Rheem Australia Pty Ltd

08 8343 0062

Caroma Industries

08 8405 0311

Rhino Industrial Pty Ltd

08 8947 3400

CBUS

1300 361 784

Ri-Industries

08 8444 8100

Chromagen Australia Pty Ltd

08 8346 8331

Ridge Tool (Aust) Pty Ltd

1800 743 443

Cooke Precast Concrete Pty Ltd

08 8209 3093

Rinnai Australia Pty Ltd

1300 555 545

Crystal Clear Purification Systems

08 8340 4344

Robert Bosch (Australia) Pty Ltd

0417 788 025

Davey Water Products

08 8346 0947

Rocla Pty Ltd

08 7285 1905

Eco Building Supplies

08 8277 2467

Saniflo

1300 554 779

Enware Australia Pty Ltd

08 8352 3577

Scott’s Plumbing Supplies

08 8261 6666

Gramall Hot Water Systems

08 8251 2979

Shore Hire

08 7077 0833

Harsmith Building Products

0408 516 682

SimPRO

1300 139 467

Abey Australia

03 9747 7777

Hitachi Construction Machinery (Australia) Pty Ltd 08 8360 5300

South Australian Plumbing Supplies 08 8682 4493

Hydraulic Consultant Association

0408 825 618

Storm Plastics Pty Ltd

Iplex Pipelines

08 8256 2031

Studor Australia 02 9637 1042

In-Sink-Erator

1300 136 205

TAFE SA (Elizabeth Campus) 08 8207 9700

KPI Business and Tax Advisory

1300 001 132

TAFE SA (Tonsley Campus) 08 8207 2854

Milwaukee Power Tools

0438 827 937

TAPS 08 8433 1200

Office of the Technical Regulator

08 8226 5500

The South Australian Water Corporation 1300 650 950

PEER

08 8348 1200

Tradelink

1800 PLUMBING

Perks

08 8273 9300

VTM Valves

02 6365 3121

Pete’s Treat Waste Water Solutions

08 8556 4111

Win Attachments

08 8349 7390

Pickard Trade Centre

08 8366 7760

Wireless Communications 08 8274 0000

Plastec Australia Pty Ltd

07 5413 4444

Zip Heaters Aust Pty Ltd 0406 384 940

www.mpasa.com.au

08 8374 3277

23