Women In Pest Management (WIPM) August 2023 Newsletter

Celebrating OUR WIPM AWARD WINNERS

COMMITTEE REPORT SEPTEMBER 2023 EDITION

Well done to the Australian Pest Industry! It is truly heartening to witness the unwavering spirit of our industry. We are thrilled to share the resounding success of the Termite Professional Conference held on the picturesque Sunshine Coast of glorious Queensland, which saw an impressive turnout of more than 200 attendees from all corners of Australia and around the world!

Credit and immense gratitude to Phil Ridley for his exceptional hosting and to all the remarkable guest speakers from around the World! Additionally, I take this moment to extend my congratulations and thanks to the outstanding ladies on the Women in Pest Management Committee, particularly Nicky Turner and Eliza Urey. The creation of an event like this demands unwavering dedication, strong leadership, and relentless hard work. The committee's collective efforts have resulted in these much-needed learning and networking opportunities, enriching the experiences for our valued WIPM members.

The event not only served as a platform for industry professionals to come together but also offered a unique opportunity for growth and collaboration. We were delighted to have held the WIPM Leadership Workshops in conjunction with the conference, where an intimate group of participants engaged in the various workshops and fruitful discussions, delving into insightful content, and creating a significant learning environment for all involved.

Of course, what is a successful conference without the joy of networking and the pursuit of knowledge? The Big Networking breakfast brought 150 attendees together, where they not only savoured delicious food but also had the pleasure of being inspired by our Keynote Speaker, Amanda Stevens. Her engaging presentation on Everyday Bravery not only enthralled the audience but also fuelled their enthusiasm for learning and networking throughout the day. Phew! A hectic three days!

In this edition of our newsletter, we are thrilled to celebrate the winners of the Women in Pest Management Recognition Awards. These remarkable women are present and hardworking individuals in the

pest industry, and we wholeheartedly recognise and applaud their fantastic contributions and unwavering efforts in forging avenues for women in Pest Control. Congratulations to each one of them!

We extend our genuine gratitude to all of you for trusting in Women In Pest Management. Your support and participation have been instrumental in our success, and without you, our endeavours would be futile. As we look towards the future, we have exciting projects in the pipeline that will come to light in the coming months. We warmly invite more of you to be a part of these initiatives and contribute to the decision-making process. Your valuable insights and involvement will help us create a stronger and more inclusive community.

Stay tuned for more information, and if any of you would like to participate or contribute, please feel free to reach out. We welcome your ideas and collaboration as we continue to strengthen and uplift the pest industry together.

Thank you for being an essential part of Women In Pest Management, and we look forward to sharing more updates and achievements with you moving forward.

Rachel Skedd

Rachel Skedd

COMMITTEE UPDATE

The Women In Pest Management committee has experienced a bustling couple of months, and it is with great enthusiasm that I reveal the latest additions to our association's committee. Before delving into the new members, I'd like to extend a heartfelt gratitude to Rhiannon Brown of Envirapest. She's embarking on a prolonged hiatus of a few years to dedicate time to her family and business. Over the past five years, I've had the honour of collaborating closely with Rhiannon. She's been an ardent champion for women within the pest management sector and will undoubtedly persist in this role. Rhiannon's absence from the WIPM committee will be deeply felt, but we send her and her family our best wishes. We eagerly anticipate her eventual return. With enthusiasm, I'm thrilled to announce that Amanda Robin from Competitive Pest Services will be joining the WIPM committee as Vice-President, succeeding Rhiannon's position. I'm looking forward to partnering with Amanda and anticipate learning a great deal from her. Her extensive industry experience promises valuable insights, and we're all eagerly awaiting the contributions she'll make to our committee. Furthermore it's a pleasure to introduce Kushnumma Begum from Flick Hygiene Fiji as a new addition to the South Pacific chapter of the committee and Jodie Turner from Maximum Pest Management (FNQ) to the Australian committee. No stranger to women in pest management, Jodie joined forces with me in the early days when I founded Professional Women In Pest Management, now known as AWPMA. It's fantastic to have the opportunity to work alongside her again.

Having been directly engaged as an executive committee member in numerous associations, both within the pest industry and local business realms, I've recognised a fundamental truth: thriving associations continuously infuse fresh perspectives. This infusion of new ideas propels us toward an even more prosperous association.

Nicky Turner Pestie Profiles President

Amanda Robin Competitive Pest Services Vice-President

Eliza Urey Drop Dead Pest Control Events Coordinator

Rachel Skedd APC TriStar Developments Secretary

Sheri Macrae Laguna Pest Control Committee Member

Asita Devi Deo Fastkil Fiji Committee Member

Kushnumma Begum Flick Hygiene Fiji Committee Member

Nikki De Renzy Economic Pest Control Committee Member

AUSTRALIA SOUTH

PACIFIC

Maximum Pest Management Committee Member

Celebrating the remarkable achievements of five exceptional women in their respective fields, Women in Pest Management (WIPM) expresses heartfelt congratulations to Stephanie Paddick, Amanda Robin, Nathaly Haeren, Kushnumma Begum, and Viv Van Dyk. These outstanding individuals were honoured at the Termite Professional Conference Gala Dinner held in Maroochydore, Queensland, where their dedication and excellence were recognised through the presentation of the Inaugural WIPM Recognition Awards.

Stephanie Paddick, a true trailblazer, was bestowed with the WIPM Female Leadership Award, acknowledging her exemplary leadership skills and dedication to empowering others in the pest management industry. Amanda Robin's commitment to her role in administration garnered her the WIPM Female Office Employee Award, highlighting her invaluable contributions to the success of her organisation. Nathaly Haeren's exceptional technical expertise led her to be honoured with the WIPM Female Technician Award, recognising her pivotal role in the advancement of women in pest management practices.

The WIPM South Pacific Excellence Award was presented to Kushnumma Begum, acknowledging her outstanding achievements and remarkable impact within the South Pacific region. Meanwhile, Viv Van Dyk was awarded the WIPM New Zealand Excellence Award for her exceptional contributions to pest management in New Zealand.

It was an honour for all of us to witness the presence of these accomplished individuals at the Termite Professional Conference Gala Dinner. The event was imbued with a sense of pride and admiration as the attendees came together to celebrate the dedication

and hard work that have propelled these women to the pinnacle of their careers.

In an effort to share the inspiring journeys that led to their well-deserved recognition, each of these exceptional ladies has been invited to enlighten us with their thoughts and experiences. Their stories promise to inspire and motivate aspiring professionals in the field, showcasing the limitless possibilities and opportunities that await those who persevere and excel.

As an organisation that champions diversity and gender equality in the pest management industry, Women in Pest Management takes great pride in applauding and celebrating the achievements of these outstanding women. Their success serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, urging other women to aim high and break through obstacles in pursuit of their aspirations.

Congratulations once again to Stephanie Paddick, Amanda Robin, Nathaly Haeren, Kushnumma Begum, and Viv Van Dyk – true pioneers and role models in the world of pest management.

Congratulations to Stephanie Paddick, a remarkable individual who has an impressive 12-year journey filled with accomplishments in the Australian Pest Industry. At Jim's Termite and Pest Control, Stephanie proved herself to be a born leader, hitting the ground running and rapidly expanding her pest control business and then a second business through the power of BNI networking and a sterling reputation.

After only five years, Stephanie's influence extended in a pivotal moment, propelling her into becoming the regional franchisor for Jim's Termite and Pest Control not only in her home state of South Australia but also in Sydney and regional New South Wales. Stephanie took on the role of a mentor and guide, leading over 70 new franchisees, imparting not just pest control training but also the essential knowledge to run their businesses with proactive efficiency and profitability.

Beyond her business achievements, Stephanie's resilience, hard work, and dedication to supporting women and men in the pest industry stand as a testament to her unwavering commitment to empowering others. She is a true exemplar of leadership and the strength of perseverance, serving as a reminder that with unwavering belief in oneself and unwavering dedication, any obstacle can be overcome, paving the way for greatness to be achieved.

Stephanie has this to add…

Where do I start...

The Professional Pest Managers Termite Conference turned out to be one of the best conferences I have

ever been to. The conference left me, and many others, with answers to many questions that we had never considered before. It was great to see so many other professionals expanding their knowledge in the field of termites. It was fantastic to hear from some of the top professionals in their field in regards to termites and of course Dini Miller with her cockroach talk that was really engaging. I enjoyed it very much, which I found surprising because I can’t stand cockroaches!

WOW, I was honoured to be awarded the WIPM 2023 Female Leadership award at the Termite Professional Conference Gala Dinner.

When I stand back and reflect on this award, I can be truly grateful for the hard work and sacrifices that my family and I have gone though. It was a massive loss to our family when Lynton passed away, but I wouldn’t be the person I am today if it wasn’t for the love, support and the odd push that I got from him and my family. It has been a steep learning curve and a huge task to not only continue to care for my family, but to continue to run multiple businesses. It was truly humbling to have the support of people throughout the Pest Control Industry at this time.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the sponsors of the 2023 WIPM Awards; I would also like to congratulate all of the other winners and nominees for this year’s WIPM awards.

A wise man once said “The reason most of us aren’t happy is because we obsess so much over all the thing we don’t have, that we forget to appreciate the things we do have.”

STEPHANIE PADDICK Jim's Termite & Pest Control

Competitive Pest Services

Amanda's nomination is undoubtedly well-deserved and her extensive experience in the Pest industry for 20 years is a testament to her wealth of knowledge. She leads by example and has been instrumental in the growth of the business, not just in Queensland where she is based, but also in other states of Australia. Amanda promotes a work/life balance, providing her team with flexibility and trust. Her unwavering passion for fairness and empathy towards her staff shines through in her efforts to create a supportive and empowering work environment.

Amanda's leadership style not only demonstrates compassion and empathy but also emphasizes the importance of fostering growth and personal development within the team. Her dedication to problem-solving and assisting others has inspired her colleagues and contributed significantly to the success of Competitive Pest Services.

Amanda says …

What an honour it was to be awarded the Female Office Employee of the year.

My journey to this award has been nothing short of remarkable. When I first embarked on a career in pest management, I was aware of the challenges that lay ahead, particularly as a woman in a predominantly male-dominated industry. However, I was determined to break barriers and prove that gender should never be a hindrance to success.

Throughout my career, I have encountered numerous obstacles, but I have always approached them with resilience and determination. I have strived to

excel in my role, constantly seeking opportunities to learn and grow. I am grateful for the support and mentorship I have received from my colleagues and superiors, who have believed in my abilities and encouraged me to reach for the stars.

Receiving this award is a testament to the progress we have made in promoting gender equality within our industry. It is a reminder that hard work, dedication, and passion can overcome any barriers. I hope that my journey can inspire other women to pursue their dreams fearlessly and break through the glass ceiling.

I would like to extend my gratitude to the Women in Pest Management organisation for their commitment to recognising and empowering women in our field. Your efforts in promoting diversity and inclusion are commendable, and I am honoured to be a part of this community.

Lastly, I would like to express my deepest appreciation to my colleagues and team members who have supported me throughout this journey. Your unwavering belief in my abilities and your constant encouragement have been instrumental in my success. I am truly grateful for the opportunities I have been given and the incredible team I have the privilege to work with.

Thank you once again for this prestigious award. I am humbled and honoured to be recognized as the Female Office Employee of the Year. I will continue to strive for excellence and contribute to the growth and success of our industry.

AMANDA ROBIN

2023 FEMALE WOMEN IN PEST MANAGEMENT

NATHALY HAEREN Pesty Girls Pest Management

Sincere congratulations to Nathaly Haeren on winning the Female Technician Award! Nathaly shines as the driving force behind a groundbreaking, all-female pest control venture in Sydney. With an illustrious 20year journey in the pest industry, Nathaly's humility often conceals her impressive milestones.

In a male-dominated Australian pest landscape, her relentless determination to succeed stands as an inspiration. Nathaly has spent many hours learning - walking the walk and talking the talk of Pest Control as a technician, a business owner, a saleswoman, an educator, and a mentor.

Nathaly's influence extends far and wide, earning her admiration from suppliers, manufacturers, and a fiercely loyal clientele. A true role model for women in the pest industry, she generously shares her technical prowess, expertise, and unwavering encouragement.

Her expertise, cultivated through diverse experiences including her early days at Kevin Joyce Pest Management followed by her tenure at Globe Pest Solutions, defines her journey. Armed with a wealth of knowledge and fuelled to grow her own enterprise of Pesty Girls Pest Management, Nathaly's legacy as an accomplished entrepreneur glimmers brightly in the industry.

After winning the Female Technician Award

Nathaly tells us…

Well, what a wonderful few days spent at the conference, I am still buzzing and it’s been the main topic since coming home.

The conference offered a much-needed chance to catch up with colleagues and forge new connections.

OF THE YEAR

Networking breaks and social events were buzzing with conversations, where experiences were shared, and ideas were exchanged. It was a delight to see old friends and acquaintances, fostering a sense of community and reinforcing professional bonds. The workshops were informative and renowned speakers from various fields shared their expertise, enlightening attendees on the latest trends, innovative practices, and emerging technologies. The presentations were thought-provoking, providing attendees with valuable tools and strategies to enhance their work. Workshops and interactive sessions further cemented our understanding of the discussed topics and encouraged networking among participants.

In addition to the educational and networking aspects, the conference held special significance for me on a personal level. After a challenging year, winning the Female Technician of the year award at the Gala dinner, came as a pleasant surprise and a source of immense pride. It reaffirmed the dedication and hard work, reminding me why I entered this field in the first place. The recognition also served as a reminder that perseverance in the face of adversity can lead to remarkable achievements.

Overall, the conference not only provided a platform for learning and growth but also rekindled the inspiration that may have waned during a tough year. It was a well-rounded event that catered to both professional and personal needs, leaving a lasting impact on all attendees. The knowledge gained, connections made, and the motivation derived from the award will undoubtedly shape future endeavours, paving the way for success and inspiring others to persevere.

2023 FEMALE WOMEN IN PEST MANAGEMENT

Viv Van Dyk has made an outstanding contribution to the pest industry! This is evident in her remarkable career spanning three decades. As a registered pest technician, her expertise in ant biology, taxonomy, delimiting, and biosecurity surveillance monitoring has played a vital role in reducing and eradicating introduced pest ants. Commercialising the Vanquish Pro ant bait has further cemented her reputation as a leader in the field.

Viv's active involvement with industry associations and her commitment to empowering women have been instrumental in advancing the industry and fostering diversity. Viv's legacy as a trailblazer and her dedication to pest management will continue to inspire future generations of professionals in the industry.

Viv would like to add…

I have been asked to share experiences and insights in my career as a pest technician.

John and I met at business school in the late 80s and decided to start our own business. A friend pitched us fly control and we could see the value.

To get cash flow, we bought a bank cleaning business so worked nights, did pest jobs during the day, and in winter franchised out areas of NZ outside of Auckland.

The summers were full on, running through up to 10 houses a day, with a hand pump sprayer with stainless steel wands and connectors, in full protective gear. Those wands became pretty heavy by mid-afternoon, when filled with water and an extra metre added. I used to have a hand grip strengthener on my desk and use

it daily to toughen up my hands over winter. The choice of products was slim, and spraying was the industry mainstay, no such thing as cockroach bait or IGRs in those days.

I found that I not only liked pest management but excelled at it. There may have been some wives who helped out their husbands in those days, but I am not aware of any other female technicians working on their own.

Starting with residential work, we then got into public housing control, which was pretty nasty, and we knew if we wanted to keep staff, we needed more lucrative markets. We were an equal opportunity employer and at one stage had nearly half our Auckland techs were female.

We got into commercial work, but then started getting call outs for ants, and I was fascinated, especially by Argentine ant with its immense colonies and they were so tough to control. Still, I wasn’t going to let something that small win. Call backs were high.

Research led me to Department Ag WA and Vanquish ant bait. I then worked with Landcare Research, Department of Conservation on Argentine ant and we had excellent results.

I started to get quite well known and got the call out for Red Imported Fire ants (RIFA) found by MAF. That led to a passion for design of surveillance techniques at ports, airports and importers, not only searching for exotic ants but also screening samples taken, and eradicating any unwanted species found.

VIV VAN DYK Bait Technology Limited

Fire ants were found subsequently in another 2 incursions and so along with this work we also got to work through screening several countries in the Pacific and looking for RIFA and designing baiting systems at ports in high-risk countries.

We also took on the Southern Salt Marsh mosquito in 3 different geographical regions of NZ at the same time and got eradication – the only time it had ever been done.

The products and equipment continue to get better and better and safer for everyone. Treatments are much more targeted and easier to apply with more effective results.

I found the work absorbing, fulfilling and frankly can’t think of any other career that could have given me more satisfaction. I would encourage any newcomer to the industry, as pest management is a very rewarding and enjoyable profession.

Described as a true ´Woman Champion’ in the Pest Industry! Congratulations to Kushnumma Begum from Fiji. Kushnumma received the South Pacific Excellence Award for her unwavering dedication and exceptional leadership role at Flick Hygiene, where she guides and empowers a workforce of 400 employees and is nothing short of awe-inspiring.

Kushnumma's grace and kindness shine through in all that she does, creating a warm and welcoming environment for everyone she interacts with. Her innovative efforts have not gone unnoticed, as she paved the way for the Fiji Business Excellence awards, a testament to her commitment to excellence. Not only that, Kushnumma's influence within Flick Hygiene is the driving force behind recognition programs that inspire and uplift her colleagues, fostering a sense of unity and achievement within the company.

Beyond her remarkable achievements at Flick Hygiene, Kushnumma’s unwavering determination encourages and empowers women to step into the many and varied roles within the pest industry, igniting a positive change that resonates far and wide.

Kushnumma, your journey is an inspiration to us all, reminding us that kindness, dedication, and a commitment to nurturing talent can create ripples of transformation. Your presence radiates positivity and progress, and we eagerly await the continued success you will undoubtedly achieve.

Kushnumma would like to say…

I am so honored and humbled to be the recipient of

the Inaugural 2023 South Pacific Excellence Award and would like to also thank Women In Pest Management. Thank you so much for this incredible recognition!

I would also like to take this opportunity to acknowledge my fellow nominees, Radhika Devi, Anju Laleni Lata, and Dostana Begum. These ladies are also blazing the path for future women leaders in the Pacific.

I am deeply gratified with the acknowledgment of this award. It is a meaningful one to me, and I am very happy to be nominated in the first place, then being honored with this level of recognition and appreciation. Everyone who was associated with the award deserves a thank you from me and everyone who was nominated for the wonderful job they did.

This award will be a lasting memory in my career and has made me feel very special. The thought of representing all women in the pacific in a leadership role in a male dominated industry has been humbling and exhilarating at the same time. I have had the incredible opportunity to part of a fraternity of women who have blazed a trail for all women in the pest control industry in a leadership role.

I cannot express the joy it brings me to think that my career in my chosen profession has culminated in me being recognized at this level. I would again like to thank everyone who contributed in the success that I am experiencing today, my gratitude to you all knows no bounds.

I could not have achieved this level of recognition without the support of the organisation that I represent,

MS KUSHNUMMA BEGUM Flick Hygiene Fiji

FLiCK Hygiene Pte Ltd. The support of our Managing Director and my mentor, Mr. Mohammed Tazim who brought me into this industry The support of all the staff, the support of the Board of Directors. and the Management Board as well. The training and skills provided to me by my organisation over the years have

been invaluable in reaching my professional goals. The level of guidance, respect, and motivation shown to me by my organisation is something I cannot express in simple words. I have been nurtured and today I see the path that was shown to me many years ago has been a fruitful one.

SUPPORT GOT YOUR BACK SISTA ON OCTOBER 15TH, 2023

WIPM is throwing its support behind Got Your Back Sista and will be endorsing the "I Run For Her" initiative. We invite you to join us in this endeavour. Rally your staff and form a team. Got Your Back Sista helps women and children begin again after fleeing domestic violence.

I Run For Her’ is a community, fun-run style event, encouraging individuals, organisations and businesses to come together and make a stand against domestic violence.

All funds raised will help the Got Your Back Sista Charity to provide the resources, tools and information for women and children to begin their lives again.

PESTIE PROFILES TGIF RENDEZVOUS

It's that time again for another exciting night of Pestie Profiles TGIF rendezvous. The industry has been buzzing with roadshows, conferences, and awards, providing us with a heap of topics to talk about. Additionally, we can't wait to delve into the upcoming PestWorld Hawaii.

Pestie Profiles extends an open invitation to everyone in the industry to join Jay and Nicky for this fun networking evening. So, grab your favourite drink, and engage in some great pestie conversations.

Login details below:

Friday 22nd September

7pm QLD/NSW/VIC

6:30pm SA/NT

5pm WA

JOIN ZOOM MEETING

Meeting ID: 845 0101 1343

Passcode: 084500

SERVICE AND SCHEDULING BASICS

Rapid Training – New Short Course Released!

Rapid Training have released a new short course “Service and Scheduling Basics”.

Responding to feedback from the industry, they have designed this course for people in pest management businesses who are handling customer enquiries or complaints and are scheduling in work for technicians.

It’s all about understanding what customers want – a professional, efficient experience with your business, including ensuring the technician is on the job on time and properly prepared!

The course is theory only, and you’ll learn about (or get a refresher on):

• Customer interactions

• Responding to customer enquiries and complaints

• Investigation and documenting complaints

• Scheduling and allocating pest control work

• Organising equipment and materials

The course is entirely online, consisting of multiplechoice questions based on the learning materials.

Because its online, its entirely self-paced and can be done in your own time. We allow up to 4 weeks for completion, but you could expect to get it done in about 6 hours.

Service and Scheduling Basics is $195. Complete your enrolment before 31st August 2023, to obtain our intro offer of a 20% discount on full course fee!

To find out more, including how to enrol, click here:

TECHNICAL TIPS

WIPM - Tip of the Month

MOVE MORE! This doesn’t have to be anything extreme. Theres tons of evidence backing up how exercise is good for your mental and physical health. Make it fun and even a little competitive in the office - Try a few jumping jacks, a quick walk, a couple of burpees, a few push ups, or a squat or two. Keep it ultra simple, just move more!

TERMITE PROFESSIONAL CONFERENCE

When I was presented with the opportunity to collaborate with Phil Ridley on the Termite Professional Conference, I eagerly seized it. This decision was fuelled by two primary factors. Firstly, I was in the midst of organising a women's leadership conference, which had already secured the participation of more than a dozen sponsors. Despite this, I recognised the logical course of action was to discontinue our own event and merge the realm of women in pest management with the termite conference. This strategic move not only expanded the potential for female attendees, but it also paved the way for women to actively engage in the termite conference. Secondly, what truly compelled me to join forces was the unprecedented nature of this initiative within the Australian pest management industry. Over the course of thirteen years, I have attended various conferences across Australia, yet none of them managed to bridge the educational gaps that had persisted in previous gatherings. The lineup of speakers slated for the event resonated deeply with me, prompting my desire to contribute to the conference's success. Gaining access to cuttingedge research and delving into the intricacies of termite biology through the expertise of prominent researchers hailing from both Australia and the US is an unprecedented endeavour. The roster of esteemed individuals, including luminaries like Professor Dini Miller, Associate Professor Thomas Chouvenc, Professor Nate Lo, Professor Theo Evans, and Scott Kleinschmidt, represents an entirely novel approach within the Australian pest management industry. Such a collaborative convergence of intellects has never been witnessed before in this context. By amalgamating our Women in Pest Management

(WIPM) events and awards, we achieved a delegate count comparable to that of any other major pest conference held in Australia.

Throughout the duration of the conference, I assumed a range of responsibilities, which encompassed co-hosting Pestie Profiles in collaboration with my partner Jay. Our podcast sessions provided us with the distinct privilege of engaging in discussions with a multitude of delegates, affording us the opportunity to extract valuable insights regarding their conference encounters and the facets of the event that resonated most deeply with them. I encourage you to listen to the podcast, hearing firsthand accounts of the conference's excellence.

The industry needs to extend its recognition to Phil Ridley, applauding his dedication and tireless efforts in bringing this conference to fruition. Furthermore, an acknowledgment is owed to Eliza Urey, our WIPM coordinator, whose significant contributions played a pivotal role in the event's successful organisation. Personally, I am deeply honoured to have worked with Phil and participated in the coordination of this conference, and I eagerly anticipate the forthcoming gatherings orchestrated by Professional Pest Manager.

Nicky Turner

2024 WOMEN IN PEST CONTROL CONFERENCE

AUSTIN, TEXAS

FEBRUARY 29 - MARCH 1

Although past events have been hosted virtually, Women in Pest Control aims to support the hospitality industry.

We request Participants join us in-person for a weekend of fun and fulfilling information.

It is our highest priority that attendees feel safe. Come learn and network in a judgement free zone

For more information and to register please click here:

STARTING YOUR OWN PEST CONTROL BUSINESS REQUIRES MORE THAN JUST PASSION

Starting a pest control business requires more than just passion and technical expertise; it demands proper business training, strategic planning, and a commitment to industry improvement.

Starting your own business in the pest control industry is a deliberate decision individuals make. Only after gaining valuable experience in the field with other professionals, they move forward with this decision. Thinking about the motivations behind such a choice, what are the qualities that make them suitable? Entrepreneurs know the importance of business training and benchmarking for a successful venture.

The pest control industry is relatively young in terms of formal education and qualifications. Many professionals enter the field through on-the-job learning and a traineeship, which typically demand only minimal schooling and provide limited insights into running a professional business. Nevertheless, this industry presents a distinctive opportunity for individuals who relish problem-solving and delivering effective solutions to flourish.

There are numerous avenues to enhance knowledge and skills in business beyond the basic traineeship requirement. These avenues include enrolling in formal schooling through institutions like TAFE or University, attending conferences, workshops, trade shows, joining networking groups, engaging in further reading, and various other learning opportunities.

Within several industries, professionals are obligated to meet a minimum requirement of continued professional development each year to retain their operating licenses. This ensures that individuals stay up to date with the latest advancements and best practices, which is especially crucial in the constantly evolving pest control landscape. By embracing continuous learning and availing themselves of various educational resources, aspiring pest control professionals can elevate their business, their expertise, broaden their horizons, and ultimately excel in this dynamic field.

Running a successful pest control business demands specific qualities in individuals. Pest control technicians are often proactive, independent workers who take the initiative to resolve pest-related issues for their clients. Additionally, effective communication skills (the "gift of the gab") are crucial to building trust and rapport with customers. Although possessing the right qualities may make someone a good technician, it doesn't necessarily guarantee their readiness for entrepreneurship. Starting a business requires different skills and responsibilities beyond providing technical services.

To be a business owner there are other details to consider, such as financial planning and management, marketing, legal and insurance considerations, developing and writing contracts and procedures, interviewing and hiring employees. Before venturing out on their own, aspiring entrepreneurs should invest time in learning about business management and owning a pest control business can be highly rewarding giving you the chance to make a positive contribution to your community by providing safe and effective pest control services. It also allows individuals to shape their own destiny and pursue their passion for pest control on their terms. Successful entrepreneurs have the power to contribute positively to their industry. Fostering industry growth, whether by elevating their standard of service with continual learning of new technical developments, products, and methodology, or, employing and training other pest control professionals to further extend their business services, they can play a significant role in the industry's growth and development. Business training is a critical factor in the success of any entrepreneurial endeavour, arming them with the necessary skills to run their business efficiently and profitably.

To ensure the business's viability and competitiveness, entrepreneurs should conduct benchmarking to compare their performance with industry standards. The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) provides valuable small business benchmarks, such as those for pest control services, helping entrepreneurs gauge their

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FUMIGATION FOR TODAY AND TOMORROW CONFERENCE

The Fumigation Industry Association of Australia Incorporated organising committee is pleased to announce the upcoming Fumigation for Today and Tomorrow Conference.

This event aims to unite everyone globally involved in fumigation. Whether you're a fumigator, business owner, government official, licensing authority, manufacturer, supplier or part of the industry, this event will create the opportunity for all participants to delve into engaging discussions on the present and future of fumigation technology and practices.

The event boasts an impressive lineup of influential speakers, including Dr. Jonathan Banks, Dr. YongLin Ren, Dr. Swaminathan and many more, who will contribute their expertise and valuable insights during the panel discussions. Product stewardship training in Profume, EDN and BLUEFUME has been organised for the afternoon before the event. Trade stands and fumigation demonstrations will be running over the 2-day conference.

Stewardship training from 1 pm 13th September 2023

Conference Thursday 14th September to 15th September 2023.

Pullman Adelaide, South Australia

This inaugural event was inspired by the late Jan van Someren Graver, who was a great friend and mentor to many. It was his expression, “If you are not monitoring, you are not fumigating,” that has left a lasting impression on those from all parts of the world who were fortunate to know him. It was Jan’s dream to organise a fumigation conference in Australia to bring the fumigation industry closer through communication and education. In order to make Jan’s dream come true, Mark Sheppard, CEO of Pest Australia Pty Ltd, a Registered Training organisation based in Perth, Western Australia, formed a committee of volunteers, including;

• Matthew Stein, Trical Australia;

• Dr Jonathan Banks, Grainsmith;

• Fiona Sheppard, Pest Australia;

• Mark Jamieson Quality Pest & Weed Solutions;

• Jane Beardwell, Draslovka Services.

The committee is proud to introduce the Jan van Someren Graver Award. This award was introduced to acknowledge an individual, Company, Government Department or supplier who has advanced the industry, focused on “getting it right”, and as an advocator and/or ambassador for the industry at any stage of the process.

Join us as we gather in one place to share knowledge, meet new colleagues, exchange ideas and explore the latest advancements in fumigation practices.

REGISTER NOW.

WE ARE THRILLED TO PRESENT THIS NEWSLETTER, MADE POSSIBLE BY THE KIND SUPPORT OF MARK AND RHIANNON BROWN FROM ENVIRAPEST. THEIR GENEROUS CONTRIBUTION HAS ENABLED US TO FULFILL OUR MISSION OF DELIVERING VALUABLE INFORMATION AND RESOURCES TO OUR MEMBERS. WITHOUT THEIR SUPPORT, WE WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN ABLE TO BRING YOU THE MOST UP-TO-DATE NEWS, HELPFUL TIPS, AND PROFOUND INSIGHTS ON A DIVERSE ARRAY OF TOPICS.

SPONSORS

PLATINUM SPONSOR

Gratitude is extended to all the sponsors who have enthusiastically participated in our various events and awards over the recent months. Considerable effort has been invested, and your indispensable contribution has made this achievement attainable. Anticipating a continued collaboration with you throughout the remainder of this year.

INTERNATIONAL

Agserv

2023 Various locations

PestWorld

2023 Honolulu 17th – 20th October

2024 Denver 22nd – 25th October

2025 Orlando 21st – 24th October

2026 Grapevine 20th – 23rd October

FAOPMA

2024 India

2025 Malaysia 2026 New Zealand

Women IN PEST CONTROL

2024 Conference Austin, Texas - 29th Feb

NEWSLETTER CONTRIBUTIONS

WIPM members are encouraged to contribute to our monthly newsletter. If you have an article or relevant resources that you would like to contribute, please email over to info@wipm.au.

CONTACT US

WIPM Office

Unit 4/1 Selkirk Drive, Noosaville Qld 4566

PO BOX 1910, Noosaville DC Qld 4566

President Nicky Turner 0409 217 328

nicky@pestieprofiles.au (QLD)

Secretary Rachel Skedd info@wipm.au (VIC)

Events Coordinator

Eliza Urey

events@ipma.org.au (NSW)