Women In Pest Management (WIPM) February 2023 Newsletter

NEWSLETTER COMMITTEE REPORT

FEBRUARY 2023 EDITION

Dear WIPM Members,

Welcome to the WIPM February 2023 newsletter. It has been a very busy month, so we are sharing the workload here at WIPM and it’s a great feeling when a team comes together as one.

This month many of you are still busy managing with the busy summer of pest control. While each year has its reasons for the ebbs and flows, the big patterns of business in the pest industry tend to stay the same, with Spring, Summer and Autumn crazy busy and Winter much slower. Diversification is key for the Winter months if your business is affected by the cooler weather and you want to remain busy.

As we settle into the year though, it’s a good time to set some solid goals. Do you consider the goals of your business regularly? Henry Ford said, “If you always do what you’ve always done, you’ll always get what you’ve always got.” Something to think about when you get a chance.

The WIPM Committee ladies are working hard on developing the leadership workshops that are running in conjunction with the Termite Professional Conference on the Sunshine Coast, Qld in July. This is a great

opportunity to continue your professional development in the pest industry. More information on this and the WIPM Recognition Awards are inside the newsletter. If you haven’t already, make sure you secure your tickets. There is a lot of work that goes into the breakfast and workshops so we would like to say a big thankyou to our sponsors Rapid Solutions and Sherwood Chemicals.

WIPM - Tip of the Month

Make time for yourself – to be solely focused on your business may lead to stress and burnout.

Take time to reset and refocus.

COMMUNICATION IN EMERGENCIES - GET PREPARED!

As bushfire season approaches with forest fuel growth driven by a wet spring and summer, it is time to brush up on your communication plan in case of an emergency. To help you stay safe and connected during an emergency, here are some simple steps to prepare for unexpected communication outages:

• If communication networks go down and you’re concerned for your safety, don’t wait to be told to evacuate – prepare and leave early.

• Plan ahead and don’t rely on a single type of communications technology to keep connected. Consider how you will communicate if your mobile, landline and/or internet services are not available.

• Consider buying a portable radio (solar powered or have a spare set of batteries) in your emergency kit so you can stay up to date with emergency information.

• Keep your mobile charged and have a backup power source, like a battery pack. It is still possible to contact 000 with a charged mobile phone, in mobile reception areas, even if you do not have a mobile plan or SIM card.

• Write down contact numbers and email addresses for family and friends so you have these available even if your phone or other electronic devices aren’t available or working.

• If you have UHF CB Legally restricted UHF channels Channels 5 and 35 are reserved for emergency use.

For information, check out tips from the Australian Government Communications in emergencies page or the Regional Tech Hub website.

WIPM 2023 LEADERSHIP AWARD

Nominations are now open for the Inaugural WIPM 2023 Leadership Award.

The WIPM 2023 Leadership Award is open to women across the pest management industry - pest management professionals, pest technicians, manufacturers, research organisations, etc. who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and have made notable contributions to the development and growth of the profession and their companies. This award is the highest recognition for individual achievement. This award acknowledges and celebrates exemplary leadership that has a significant and positive impact in the pest management industry. Nominees may be nominated by more than one person and can be nominated by anyone which includes a family member, a work colleague, or even a customer. Nominees must reside and/or work in Australia.

PLEASE CLICK HERE TO NOMINATE

Nominations on all awards will close at 5pm on the 2nd May 2023. You may nominate more than one person, but you must submit a separate nomination form for each.

WIPM 2023 OFFICE EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR AWARD

Nominations are now open for the Inaugural WIPM 2023 Office Employee of the Year Award. Your team works hard all year round to deliver operational excellence. They’re dedicated, motivated, and ultimately brilliant at what they do. But when was the last time you told them that, or showed your appreciation for their tireless support? Or publicly acknowledged their incredible input, impeccable attendance, and unparalleled punctuality? There is nothing better than having someone (especially an employer) take notice of your effort. This is your opportunity to nominate your office employee. Nominees may be nominated by more than one person and can be nominated by anyone which includes a family member, a work colleague, or even a customer. Nominees must reside and/or work in Australia.

WIPM 2023 SOUTH PACIFIC EXCELLENCE AWARD

Nominations are now open for the Inaugural WIPM 2023 South Pacific Excellence Award.

The WIPM 2023 South Pacific Award is open to women across the pest management industry - pest management professionals, pest technicians, manufacturers, research organisations, etc.... The 2023 South Pacific Excellence Award will honour the accomplishment of a woman who has achieved success in their own career and demonstrated commitment to the success of others in the pest management industry. The winner will be selected because of their vision, courage, and leadership in advancing others in the South Pacific and will be awarded to someone who can demonstrate the essential role women play in making our industry a better place to work. This award was created for a woman that is not only a high-achiever, but a role model for anyone interested in a career path in pest management. Nominees may be nominated by more than one person and can be nominated by anyone which includes a family member, a work colleague, or even a customer. Nominees must reside and/ or work in the South Pacific.

WIPM 2023 TECHNICIAN OF THE YEAR AWARD

Nominations are now open for the Inaugural WIPM 2023 Technician of the Year Award.

The female pest technician of the year is awarded in recognition of outstanding contribution made by an individual in a technical role in the industry. This award is designed to honour the achievements of the Australian pest control industry’s finest female service professional. This award will go to someone who participates in industry educational meetings, exhibits excellence in safety, customer relations and leadership skills, and is active in community service. Nominees must have a minimum of three years in the industry and be fully termite qualified. Nominees must be nominated by an owner, manager or technical/training director and companies may nominate more than one candidate. Nominees must reside and/or work in Australia. The nominee for this category can also be nominated for the WIPM Leadership Award.

WIPM 2023 NEW ZEALAND EXCELLENCE AWARD

Nominations are now open for the Inaugural WIPM 2023 New Zealand Excellence Award.

The WIPM 2023 New Zealand Excellence Award is open to women across the pest management industry - pest management professionals, pest technicians, manufacturers, research organisations, etc.... The 2023 New Zealand Excellence Award will honour the accomplishment of a woman who has achieved success in their own career and demonstrated commitment to the success of others in the pest management industry. The winner will be selected because of their vision, courage, and leadership in advancing others in New Zealand and will be awarded to someone who can demonstrate the essential role women play in making our industry a better place to work. This award was created for a woman that is not only a high-achiever, but a role model for anyone interested in a career path in pest management. Nominees may be nominated by more than one person and can be nominated by anyone which includes a family member, a work colleague, or even a customer. Nominees must reside and/or work in New Zealand.

Contact info@wipm.au with any questions.

The winners will receive:

 A plaque

 Recognition in industry magazines, newsletters and social media platforms

 Winner's framed certificate

 Winner graphics for their own promotion

 Invited to be a guest on Pestie Profiles Podcast

The 2023 WIPM Recognition Awards will be presented at the Termite Professional Conference Gala Dinner at the Maroochy RSL Event Centre on Friday 7th July 2023.

Please note that you do not have to attend the gala to be nominated. A representative will be chosen if you win to collect your award if you are unable to attend the dinner.

JUDGING PROCESS

To ensure professionalism and transparency, a judging panel made up of respected industry professionals with no conflicts of interest are chosen to examine the submitted nominations. The criteria of these nominations request all nominators to complete a detailed document which includes supporting testimonials. The judges may request an interview with the nominee and additional documentation to support the submission. Each judge will score each submission based on the testimonials and documentation provided by the award nominators. The aggregate highest score will determine the winner of the award.

The winner will be notified in the second week of May to allow them the opportunity to attend the Termite Professional Conference Gala Dinner to accept their award.

AUSSIE TERMITE TOURS

(Darwin - Kakadu - Litchfield)

WE ARE GETTING EXCITED!

Bookings are coming in. Spaces are limited. Please click here to book in your spot and make payment.

(Darwin - Kakadu - Litchfield)

A tour not to be missed. Great tour, best guides!

LAST CHANCE TO BOOK!

A guided tour with Jay and Nicky Turner is the best way to discover Australia’s famous Cathedral and Magnetic termite mounds in luxury and style. Find and learn all about the ecology of many of the Top Ends local termite species. This is the best working holiday that also offers pub crawls, crocodile touring, Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks, walking, cruises, birdlife, fish feeding and finishing off the tour with a bang for Territory day.

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THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN PROVIDING MENTAL FIRST AID TO OTHERS

Data released by the ABS suggest that there has never been a better time to either learn or refresh your mental health first aid conversation skills. The release of the National Study of Mental Health and Wellbeing 2021 [1]) indicates that 3.4 million Australians aged 16-85 years (17.5%) sought help from a health professional for their mental health within the period of 2020-21. Of the 3.4 million people who saw a health professional for their mental health, 57.4% had experienced a mental disorder in their lifetime and were showing signs of that disorder in the 12 months prior to the survey. With a significant number of people experiencing anxiety, affective mood and/or substance disorders, creating a supportive environment to have a mental health first aid conversation is more important than ever.

When the opportunity to help someone arises, it can be tempting to jump straight into a conversation. The desire to alleviate a person’s stress can make it feel as though time is of the essence. However, taking time to prepare your approach to the person and the mental health conversation is time well spent.

HERE ARE SOME TIPS FOR MAKING SPACE AND CREATING TIME FOR THOUGHTFUL CONNECTION

The you-centred conversation

Many people think that one of the best ways to initiate a conversation about stress or mental health is to try and make it relatable. Many may talk about their experience of what works for them, rather than focusing on the person seeking help. Creating the space for a person to share how they think, feel and operate is the key to any successful mental health conversation. In doing that, you set yourself up to actively listen, while also looking for the opportunity to remind the person of their own strengths.

Most people may share how they have personally

approached situations in the past as a guide to framing the person’s current problem. Or they may share the options and solutions they’ve considered but not yet acted on. Listening and reiterating the words and ideas back to someone may help them gain the courage needed to try the options they’ve considered. From here, an action plan may begin to form.

By listening to a person’s story, we validate a person’s expertise and ability to find a way forward on their own terms. Allowing them to share in a non-judgemental way means they have a better chance of choosing next steps with confidence. In turn, increasing the

chance of action through providing autonomy and self-agency at a time that matters most.

Tripping over language

When someone is seeking help, how we speak to them and what we say can be quite impactful. But that doesn’t mean we should avoid the mental health conversation entirely. It simply means we should carefully consider the content and the timing of that conversation.

When discussing someone’s mental health or experiences that may be creating distress, remember to avoid terms and phrases that may directly or indirectly shame, minimise or guilt a person.

For example, words such as crazy, schizo and terms like ‘you’re so OCD’ or ‘Debbie Downer’ place stigma on mental health and the experience of mental health generally.

Remember, the person is not the problem, the problem is the problem. Keep a distinction between the two.

Minimising the experience

No amount of telling someone to ‘get over it’ has ever made a person emotionally or mentally buoyant. If anything, minimising someone’s experience of their very real emotions can make them feel even less capable.

Instead, recognise that how a person feels is unique to that person. It is a complex, individual experience that informs reactions and responses, one that takes into account all kinds of influences such as biology, life experience, childhood, culture, outlook, resilience and more.

Sit with any discomfort you may be experiencing and challenge why you need to edit, perfect, or minimise the experience of others. Try and explore the reasons why listening to someone else’s view may create problems for you as the listener with awareness of your own reactions and responses in mind.

Trying to fix instead of help

Sometimes, we confuse providing help with needing to fix a situation. Telling a person what to do, how to do it and what is right for them may make you feel powerful and useful. But to the other person, it can feel more like judgement than support.

The 3 telltale signs:

1. Are you tempted to start telling someone what they should do?

2. Are you ignoring what they would like to do in favour of what you think is the best way forward?

3. Are you insisting your way is the best route through someone else’s crisis or situation?

If you answered ‘yes’, you may find yourself in ‘fixer’ mode, which means it might be time to take a step back. Apologise if need be. Explain that your want to help got away from you. Start the process again by asking open-ended questions that re-invites the person to share their self-directed plan of action. Assuming you’re the only person who can help

To help another person is a wonderful thing. But it doesn’t mean we are always the help someone needs. Sometimes, our values aren’t aligned enough for the help we offer to be useful. Other times, a difference in personality may get in the way.

Understanding when to step away and refer someone for help elsewhere is an act of truly putting the person first.

There will be times through no fault of your own (or the person in front of you) where what is required is not what you can deliver. That doesn’t mean you are not valuable to the next person.

The focus should always be on providing the person in front of you with the best possible support for their specific requirements. Even if that means handing the reins to someone else.

If you or anyone you know needs extra support, call:

DO YOU HAVE A MENTAL HEALTH POLICY IN YOUR BUSINESS?

As an employer, you have an obligation to protect the mental health of your staff. Recent reforms have highlighted the urgent need for employers to prevent psychosocial hazards in the workplace.

Start 2023 with the right policies and procedures in place. Download the Mental Health Policy Template today!

DOWNLOAD THE MENTAL HEALTH POLICY TEMPLATE TODAY!

This Policy Template includes:

• Identifying and assessing mental health risks

• Managing existing risks

• Minimising bullying and harassment

• Post injury support

• Outlining staff responsibilities

employsure.com.au

INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS REFORMS FOR SMALL BUSINESSES

THE FAIR WORK ACT HAS BEEN AMENDED!

The Australian Government has recently amended the Fair Work Act to include a prohibition on sexual harassment. These reforms come into place from the 6th of March 2023. This amendment impacts workplaces, employers, and employees.

It can be confusing to keep track of all the changes. Download our factsheet today to learn what these reforms mean for you and your business.

DOWNLOAD THE FACTSHEET

The Fact Sheet includes:

• What has changed?

• What does it mean for employees?

• What does it mean for employers?

• How can Employsure help you?

The Federal Government introduced its Fair Work Amendment (Secure Jobs, Better Pay) Act 2022 to Parliament. It has received Royal Assent and is now law. How can it affect your business?

DOWNLOAD THE TIMELINE TO STAY UPDATED!

While you have 12 months before the Act comes into effect, it is essential for small businesses to protect themselves with contracts and be aligned with legislative requirements. Safeguard your business this year and start 2023 strong.

YOU CAN READ MORE ABOUT THE IMPENDING CHANGES HERE

employsure.com.au

TERMITE PROFESSIONAL CONFERENCE

Customers expect termite professionals to “be the expert” and to feel assured that you can deal with any termite issues that present and provide the necessary services to protect their home.

Women In Pest Management is excited to be involved with the inaugural Termite Professional Conference. The Termite Professional Conference is aimed at pest managers who want to improve their understanding of termites and further their termite management skills to win more business and deliver improved services. The conference aims to help you to “Be the Expert”. The conference is going to be held in the 2023 July school holidays in Queensland on the Sunshine Coast. Perfect location and time for that working holiday getaway.

What to expect:

• Learn from the experts on termite biology and behaviour with presentations from leading Australian and US researchers

• Educational sessions on termite management techniques

• Latest information on termite management products, software and insurance

• Great opportunity to meet and socialise with fellow termite professionals

• Perfect time to combine with a winter holiday on the great Sunny Coast!

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO REGISTER PLEASE CLICK ON THE REGISTER BUTTON NOW.

NOW

IF YOU’RE A TERMITE PROFESSIONAL, THIS IS THE CONFERENCE FOR YOU!

To

get an exclusive insight into the amazing guest speaker line up as well as Phil Ridley’s motivation behind organising the conference, jump onto the Pestie Profiles Podcast.

THURSDAY 6TH JULY

SUNSHINE COAST.

MAROOCHY RSL EVENT CENTRE

SAVE THE DATE!

LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOPS

- TERMITE PROFESSIONAL CONFERENCE

HOSTED BY WOMEN IN PEST MANAGEMENT

THURSDAY 6TH JULY, SUNSHINE COAST, MAROOCHY RSL EVENT CENTRE.

SAVE THE DATE!

The WIPM Committee has been busy organising workshops featuring speakers from the pest management industry who will provide invaluable presentations on leadership and wellbeing. The workshops will be a full day and will be at the same venue as the Termite Professional Conference. The aim of the workshops is to inspire attendees to find new, innovative ways of developing and managing people and to improve mental resilience, as well as looking after the mental wellbeing of employees.

Details to be released in the next couple of weeks.

PARTNERS EVENT - TERMITE PROFESSIONAL CONFERENCE COAST TO HINTERLAND HIGH TEA

HOSTED BY WOMEN IN PEST MANAGEMENT

FRIDAY JULY 7TH 2023

While hubbie is attending the Termite Professional Conference we have arranged the perfect way to spend your day. This event is open to all conference delegate partners and any women who work in the pest management industry. Join us for a coast to hinterland drive to Montville for High Tea. Montville boasts glorious views of the Sunshine Coast & Hinterland while providing visitors with a unique shopping and dining experience. History and architecture buffs will marvel at the fine buildings which run along and around Main Street. This is a great opportunity to see one of the best places the Sunshine Coast has to offer. You will have time to do a bit of sightseeing and shopping in the main street before heading over to Secrets on the Lake for High Tea.

Secrets on the Lake is the Sunshine Coast’s Best Kept Secret. It is also home to the award winning restaurant Dining On the Deck, and a unique art space showcasing local artists. It is a truly special

place, situated in the rainforest on the shores of Lake Baroon with panoramic views of the water, mountains and rainforest. We may even have time for a sneaky wine taster at the Flame Hill Vineyard.

$125pp. Includes travel and high tea for lunch with champagne.

Pick Up: Maroochy RSL Event Centre 9:30am - Return 3pm.

We have just locked in Amanda Stevens in as the keynote speaker for the National Big Breakfast that Women In Pest Management is hosting at the Termite Professional Conference - Friday 7th July , Sunshine Coast.

Topic: Everyday Bravery

After wowing audiences in 14 countries for more than a decade on the speaking circuit, Amanda is widely regarded as one of the best female speakers in Australia.

With a double degree in marketing and consumer psychology, Amanda has authored five books and is highly regarded as a marketing consultant, having been engaged to work with brands such as Microsoft, Westpac, Foxtel, Lend Lease, Priceline, and even advising at the highest levels of Australian politics.

She’s shared the stage with the likes of Sir Bob Geldof, Sir Richard Branson and Condoleezza Rice and has presented for audiences ranging in size from 30 to 3,000 at all levels of business.

The National Big Breakfast is open to men and women in the pest management industry and is open to Delegates and Non-Delegates. You do not have to be attending the conference to book. Delegates attend FREE. Non-Delegates $30.

You must register to attend this sit down breakfast event. Limited seating of 300 people. Don’t miss out!

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Thank you to our sponsors Rapid Solutions and Sherwood Chemicals.

REGISTER

Check out the video on Amanda Stevens.

HEALTHY BITES WITH KERRYN

HOW TO STOP A CRAVING DEAD IN ITS TRACKS

written by Kerryn Waters

1. RECOGNISE WHAT IS HAPPENING

A craving occurs when you are exposed to a stimulus (food) and it promotes arousal. The key to managing a craving is to be aware that it is happening and to understand how it will behave. By focusing your attention on the mechanics of the craving rather than the food itself, you will notice your desire will ebb and flow - just like a wave. Welcome to the craving control technique called ~RIDING THE WAVE~

2. FOCUS YOUR ATTENTION

Next, focus on where the craving sensations are happening. Is it in the mouth? Are you salivating? Is your stomach trying to get your attention? Shifting

your focus from the food itself to the parts of your body where the sensation is occurring will help you to work through the rise in arousal.

3. PAUSE & ACKNOWLEDGE

Pause and think about the consequences of the 2 choices you can make right now. You can give in to the craving for the short term pleasure of taste (and possibly feelings of guilt & disappointment later on) or,

You can resist, knowing you aren't going to die and you can be proud of the self control, discipline and awareness you are building within yourself!

4. FOCUS AGAIN

Return your attention to watching how the craving

rises and falls. Each wave will be a little less intense than the last. And each time it comes down to you to decide which choice you will make. Continue to pay attention to how the craving feels rather than the food itself.

5. REFLECT

At some stage, the craving will subside. Reflect on how you handled it. Be proud of the self restraint you have shown. Know that a craving will come on again at some time and look at it as an opportunity to practice self awareness and control.

Kerryn Waters is the founder of Hibar Nutrition and a Physique Athlete who specialises in helping busy men and women achieve their weight loss goals through their diet. Prior to entering the wellbeing industry she held senior leadership roles in a number of large Australian and International companies. As the previous Business Manager of the Queensland Rentokil business, Kerryn is known for leading high performance teams by focusing on developing people to their fullest potential. She is also a self labeled ‘nutrition nerd’ and started HiBar as a way to combine her passion (nutrition and fitness) with her superpower (developing others). Kerryn is now living her best life - developing personalised programs focused on nutrition, training, mindset & accountability and working 1 on 1 with her clients to achieve outstanding health results.

If you want to know how HiBar Nutrition could help you, you can book a complimentary call with Kerryn to see if it’s right for you. Just scan the QR code below!

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EMPLOYER TIPS

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND TRAINING FOR EMPLOYEES

Once your staff are settled into their roles with all the induction training complete, what then? Continual learning and professional development for your staff help them to grow in their role, improve their performance and develop new skills. We hear it said by many, the more you learn, the more you realise you don’t know.

While some employees are climbing the corporate ladder, looking for that key to success, some are content in their role. That doesn’t mean they shouldn’t continue to learn new processes and ways to upskill. Continual learning and professional development can boost employee morale and confidence, helping them to succeed in their role. This in turn creates a better culture and the employee feels valued in the business.

While some employees may welcome professional development opportunities, others may be reluctant. As an employer, you should encourage educational pursuits in and out of the workplace. Check out this article ‘A Manager's Guide to Training Employees’ from Employment Hero. Some great tips on how you can help your employees with their ongoing learning and professional development.

COMMON GARDEN KATYDID

Scientific name: Caedicia simplex updated - 07/12/20

• Classification

Genus: Caedicia

Species: simplex

Subfamily: Phaneropterinae

Family: Tettigonidae

Super Family: Tettigonioidea

Order: Orthoptera

Class: Insecta

Subphylum: Uniramia

Phylum: Arthopoda

Kingdom: Animalia

• Size Range: 6 cm

Introduction

The Common Garden Katydid is frequently seen in Sydney and most cities in Australia throughout the year. It is also native to New Zealand.

Identification

Although the adults of the Common Garden Katydid are always green, the nymphs take on the colour of whatever they have been eating. Nymphs may be bright pink if they have been feeding on red roses, or yellow if they have been feeding on Cassiaflowers. The colour may remain for several moults.

Habitat

The Common Garden Katydid lives in urban areas, forests and woodlands.

Distribution

The Common Garden Katydid is found throughout Australia.

Feeding and diet

The Common Garden Katydid can be found living in and feeding on a variety of garden shrubs as well as Australian native plants.

Life history cycle

Female Common Garden Katydids deposit their eggs, which resemble black seeds, onto leaves and branches.

The katydid is an insect often confused with the praying mantis, but the Praying Mantis is a carnivore eating mainly insects and other small animals.

A run-in with a praying mantis is a day you won’t soon forget, but it’s not the same thing with a katydid. The two insects definitely look very similar though. The katydid is a species that looks like a cross between a grasshopper and a praying mantis.

It is as friendly as a grasshopper might be. It has a large green head, green legs, and its wings lie flat against its back. The size range of the katydid can vary, and will be largely dependent on the region or habitat it is in.

If the katydid is unable to get plant food, it can remain small and as small as one-quarter of an inch. When well fed, the katydid can reach up to several inches in length. A humid environment is one that this insect prefers.

This is a nocturnal insect so you likely won’t see it too often. The lifespan is longer than a praying mantis, and it will not live longer than one year in most conditions.

Source: Australian Museum and Nature Nibble

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INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAYEMBRACE EQUITY

Ahead of International Women’s Day on March 8, I’ve been thinking a lot about what this day means, why it is celebrated and how to inspire others to get involved.

So firstly, what is this day on March 8 about?

International Women’s day is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. It’s a day where we imagine a gender equal world. Free of bias, stereotypes and discrimination.

The theme changes each year and in 2023 it’s Embrace Equity.

Why is Equity so important?

We’re not all created equal, so to call for equal opportunities is only part of the story. Equity means women can access the workplace on equal footing to men but aren’t expected to operate exactly the same way as men. Adjustments need to be made, and the needs of women must be considered in order to create and support those equal opportunities.

Embracing equity means embracing a commitment to think differently about women in the community and how opportunities to access the world of work, education and community can be nurtured, encouraged and supported.

What does Equity look like?

• Pay transparency – new laws in Australia allow workers to share their pay and conditions with colleagues meaning its easier to understand whether for instance you’re being paid less than a male for the same job

• Learning about Bias – conscious or unconscious, bias leads to women being passed over for jobs and promotions. Often referred to simply as “recruiting in your own image” bias is what stops us from genuinely evaluating people for roles and promotions based on their skills, experience, motivation and other factors that aren’t discriminatory such as gender, age, educational background and race.

• Creating a safe environment – workplaces, educational settings and communities that have leaders who have a no tolerance position on bullying and harassment are naturally going to be more equitable and accessible for women. This means positive and proactive role modelling, calling out behaviours that exclude, telling inappropriate jokes, excessive touching or inappropriate body language or other behaviour that makes women feel uncomfortable, isolated or discriminated.

• Offer development and training opportunities – targeted professional development including training, mentoring and secondments provide valuable tools, networks and experience for women to make the leap into leadership roles, break the male line of succession and contribute to an overall more diverse and innovative workplace.

Haven’t we solved this problem already?

I’ve seen a lot of positive progress in this space the past 10 years. I’d say people – men and women – are generally more aware of gender inequity, particularly gender based family violence, and are generally becoming more comfortable calling out discrimination and getting educated on how to create and sustain an inclusive, safe place to work.

In the pest management industry specifically, I’ve see an genuine openness and acceptance of women in all facets of business. Women as operators and technicians, admin and management have been welcomed with open arms and the various initiatives to support these women have been very well supported by industry players.

However, pest management remains an industry dominated by men, as are many trades and services occupation.

The women I speak to who are in pest management invariably say it was something they fell into, either due to family networks or when looking for a complete career change.

The vast majority of women I speak to LOVE the pest management industry with passion, particularly for how they can serve their customers and bring them peace of mind.

If we’ve still got a way to go, what can we do to make change happen?

I don’t profess to have all the answers!

But as I sit here pondering as another International Women Day looms ahead of us, here are some of the ideas I have bubbling away.

• Promote a career in pest management using your own story and experience – if you have a platform in your community or on social media, use it to share how fulfilling a career in this industry can be and inspire others to get curious about it!

• Join a network – there are several pest industry specific groups for women, such as WIPM of course, that are all about supporting, educating

and promoting women in pest. There are also broader national business networks such as Business Chicks that provide valuable opportunities to network, grow and learn as well as promoting your business

• Mentor others – whether its men or women, being a role model that generously passes on valuable knowledge and experience lifts the industry as a whole and encourages people to do the same for others

• Cultivate kindness – kindness and compassion are underutilised superpowers in work and community and tend to come more naturally to women. The more kindness we put out into the world, the kinder workplaces will become and the less we’ll see of discriminatory, closed minded behaviour!

• Catch people doing the right thing – when men support you, call out others on their behaviour or lift you up, say thank you! Its not always easy to be the lone guy actively supporting and encouraging women. When that’s noticed and appreciated, we’ll see more of it and other men will surely follow.

• Commit to becoming an employer of choice – if you’re a business owner and you become known for offering a safe, flexible, diverse workplace that values its employees you’re not only a role model and ahead of the trend, but your business will also be more sustainable and successful as a result.

If you’d like to talk to me further about these, or share your own, feel free to get in touch at insurance@ rapidsolutions.com.au!

BELINDA SMITH CEO, Rapid Solutions

Experienced leader and executive with a diverse industry sector background. Skilled in business growth, strategic planning and implementation and culture building. Focussed on providing customers with peace of mind and tailoring service offerings to meet market needs. Passionate about ending family violence because everyone deserves to live safely in their own home, workplace and community.

JAPANESE ENCEPHALITIS

What is Japanese encephalitis?

Japanese encephalitis is caused by the Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV). It is spread through mosquito bites and is more common in areas of increased mosquito activity.

Infection in humans is usually asymptomatic, but on rare occasions it can result in severe disease such as encephalitis (infection of the brain) and even death.

Further information on the symptoms of Japanese encephalitis can be found at: https://www.health. gov.au/health-topics/japanese-encephalitis

How is it transmitted to people?

Humans become infected when bitten by a mosquito that has previously bitten a feral or domestic pig or a wild or domestic waterbird that was infected with the virus. Although horses are susceptible to infection, if near a source of JEV-infected mosquitoes, they are considered dead-end hosts. This means that while they can become infected with JEV, they cannot pass on infection to other horses or people.

The virus cannot be transmitted from human to human, or by eating meat from an infected animal.

Who is at risk?

Currently, there is evidence of JEV circulation in pigs in South-Eastern Queensland, New South Wales, Northern Territory, Victoria and South Australia (https://www.outbreak.gov.au/current-responsesto- outbreaks/japanese-encephalitis).

Workers in these areas who work with or close to pigs and those exposed to mosquitoes while at work, such as those who work outdoors are at greater risk of infection, unless they have been vaccinated or have prior immunity.

As a person conducting a business or undertaking or employer what are my duties under the WHS laws?

As a Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking, you have a duty of care under the model Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws. You must do what you can to ensure the health and safety of your workers (including yourself and other staff, contractors and

volunteers) while they are at work. You also have a duty to ensure that others (e.g. visitors or customers) are not put at risk at your workplace.

The model WHS laws require you to eliminate WHS risks so far as is reasonably practicable. If this is not possible, you must minimise WHS risks so far as is reasonably practicable. For more information on the meaning of reasonably practicable please see How to determine what is reasonably practicable to meet a health and safety duty.

If your workplace is in an area where Japanese encephalitis is known to be present, or if your workers carry out work in these areas, it is unlikely that eliminating the risk of Japanese encephalitis will be reasonably practicable. This means that you must minimise the risks, as far as is reasonably practicable.

How do I minimise the risk of Japanese encephalitis?

If you are in an area where JEV is present, you must minimise the risks of workers becoming infected by implementing all reasonably practicable control measures, such as:

• encouraging or ensuring vaccination, particularly if your workers have been identified as part of a group for priority vaccination,

• avoiding or minimising working outside where possible, especially dusk/evening and dawn when mosquitos are most active,

• eliminating mosquito breeding sites around the workplace where possible, including removing any debris which may collect standing water,

• ensuring workers avoid contact with bodily fluids and tissues of potentially infected animals, or if this is not possible, ensure workers have appropriate training in handling potentially contaminated animals and are provided with appropriate personal protective equipment such as masks, eye protection and gloves,

• installing insect screens on windows, doors, vents and other entrances,

• using insecticide sprays, vapour dispensing units (indoors) and mosquito coils (outdoors) to clear rooms or repel mosquitoes from an area,

• protecting workers and others at the workplace from being bitten by mosquitoes by:

◊ ensuring they wear light coloured, long, loose

fitting clothing when outside,

◊ providing and ensuring they apply an effective insect repellent (such as those containing diethyltoluamide (DEET), picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus) on exposed skin,

◊ ensuring any accommodation provided, including tents, is properly fitted with mosquito netting and/or screens, as appropriate.

You must also provide information to workers on the risks and symptoms of Japanese encephalitis, and train workers in the use of controls.

Before implementing control measures, the model Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws require you to consult with your workers and their health and safety representatives. For more information on consultation requirements, please see the model Code of Practice: Work health and safety consultation, cooperation and coordination.

Further information

For more information on Japanese encephalitis infection please see:

• www.health.gov.au/health-topics/japaneseencephalitis.

For more information on vaccination against Japanese encephalitis please see:

• www.health.gov.au/health-alerts/japaneseencephalitis-virus- jev/vaccines

• CDNA advice regarding vaccination against Japanese encephalitis virus

• Safe Work Australia

https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/safetytopic/hazards/japanese-encephalitis

• Dept of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry

https://www.agriculture.gov.au/biosecuritytrade/pests-diseases-weeds/animal/japaneseencephalitis

• Safework NSW

https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/hazards-a-z/ diseases/mosquito-borne-diseases

WIPM NEW ZEALAND COMMITTEE

AIMEE MCBEAN Company or Business*

Bugs Gone Pest Control

Mum of three and wife to Craig. I run our small pest management business in Cambridge, New Zealand. I am a Master registered technician for the Pest Management Association of NZ and hold the NZ Cert in Pest Operations (Urban Pest Control). Passionate about all things pest control, protecting our native plants and wildlife. Love spending time with whanau, friends and getting rid of possums!

Why do you support WIPM? Why did you decide to take on this role.*

Supporting women in a male -dominated roles is important for any industry if we want diversity. If I can support someone new to the industry with information or advice which might help them going forward then that's a win for everyone. I also want to make more connections within the NZ Pest Management family for my own benefit.

NIKKI DE RENZY Company or Business*

Economic Pest Control Limited

I am a Zimbabwean who emigrated to Australia and ended up in New Zealand - so pretty much a Southern Hemispherian! I thought I had cleverly arranged early retirement from my very busy role in a large law firm but my partner Mike needed help mid-2020 to run his urban pest management business. I knew how to manage and organise things but knew surprisingly little about pests. So while getting the business on track with administration, I also went out in the field and took on formal training - qualifying last year. The business grew hugely from 2020 to date and we took on a Technician for field work giving Mike more opportunity to expand the business even more. I run the Administration, the Scheduling and Reporting, the Accounting and the Health & Safety. I enjoy having a good relationship and communication with our clients and helping solve issues quickly. I also love going out with Mike and investigating complicated issues - especially ants, clever little things! Never did I realise pests were so interesting.

Why do you support WIPM? Why did you decide to take on this role.*

Historically Pest Management has been a very male dominated career. However more and more women are making it their career choice. WIPM is a much needed support group, a safe place to ask questions, share work moments and learn. The energy of the team is infectious (in the best way) and the recognition and support is so encouraging to all.

AIMEE MCBEAN

NIKKI DE RENZY

PESTNETWORK TRAINING SEMINARS

REGISTRATIONS HAVE ALREADY OPENED FOR THE UPCOMING 2023

PESTNETWORK TRAINING SEMINARS!

The Program and Registration Form is attached, and details listed below.

There is some exciting and important presentations and workshops you will want to see including:

• Bed Bug Workshop (Be familiar with the Code Of Practice)

• The latest information on Cockroach & Fly baits

• Pricing (are you getting it right?)

• Calibration & Residual Deposition

• What’s happening with the regulations around Rodenticides plus, much more….

They will have as our guest speaker Keith Farrow, the lead author of the current LIII Certificate Program who was a contributor to the Bed Bug Code of Practice.

Please note that they will have discounts available for “early-bird” as well as group/company bookings if you wish to send a number of technicians.

These are only available for a limited time so please book early as possible. Our venues will be up to the high standard we usually have, in convenient locations around the country. Our seminar venues for 2023:

Queenstown: Friday 2nd June 2023 – Mercure Queenstown

Christchurch: Wednesday 7th June – Peppers Clearwater Resort

Wellington: Friday 9th June – The Angus Inn

Rotorua: Monday 12th June - Novotel Lakeside

Auckland: Wednesday 14th June – Sudima Auckland Airport

FLOODING IN NEW ZEALAND – PEST ALERT

Not only have the recent catastrophic floods over New Zealand, particularly Auckland, Northland and the Hawkes Bay, had a profound affect on the people of these regions, but there has been a fairly dramatic affect on pests as well.

In most cases there has not been an actual increase in pests, but they have been suddenly displaced from their natural habitat and have become more visible as they seek new shelter, food sources and drier ground.

Rats were most definitely taken by surprise as streams rose and nests became drenched and have been reported in some areas to appear like a “swarm” as they exited flooded streams and moved towards nearby currently abandoned and damaged homes. And as flood water receded the many drowned rodents became evident.

Houses without power for days or weeks now added spoiled food to the flood damaged food, left out for kerbside collection which has become a very attractive larder for these displaced rodents. Rodents, flies, cockroaches – the roadside rubbish build-up is having to be moved as fast as possible. Waste collection trucks have been battling with the volumes out for collection but some areas remain inaccessible due to washed away bridges, roads and slips.

We have had clients reporting great numbers of cockroaches – predominantly American cockroaches escaping flooded drains and seeking refuge in innercity garden beds. Auckland’s CBD Queen Street lies over the original Wai Horotiu Stream so goodness knows what it was like down there. The survivors had to hightail as quickly as possible!

And ants carrying eggs and seeking dry sites to settle and re-nest. We have seen so many examples of this over the last couple of weeks, some even huddling in our rodent bait stations – not a good place guys but I suppose it is dry and temporary! What we don’t need is for them to be seeking refuge in our clients’ buildings.

Being summer, with so much moisture around from the storms and floods, it is hot and humid. Wasps –although many are displaced too - love this weather and we, as are other companies, have had a sudden increase in call-outs to deal with them.

Orchards have been stripped of fruit in some areas, now rotting and fermenting, onion and maize fields washed away and all attracting every insect, bug and opportunist rodent.

Mosquitoes are breeding in the now stagnant water and drains, midges are swarming. The list of increased pest activity just goes on.

Saving people and their homes, and opening up flood torn access routes is a priority and there are teams working tirelessly but there is something we can do as Pesties – we are reaching out to our commercial clients and asking them to be vigilant at the moment. Contain rubbish, check the exterior of buildings for ant activity, ensure there is no stagnant water, and keep calling us when there is unusual activity. We have a team on the ground and will do all we can to help in these tough but very pest active times.

New habitats will be located, new food sources will be discovered and all will settle and dry out but until then these are very busy times for all pests great and small.

Nikki De Renzy

WIPM SOUTH PACIFIC

The Inaugural 2023 WIPM 2023 Excellence Award is up and running and is already gaining much interest in Fiji. Information and nomination details have been sent out to all pest management companies operating in Fiji and have been promoted throughout fijian TV. We are also looking forward to working and promoting the award with the Fijian Pest Management Association.

Hawkes Bay Civil Defence

The Guardian

Chris Skelton/Stuff News

John Weekes

EVENTS

AUSTRALIAN

Aussie Termite Tours

24th June - 2nd July 2023

Termite Professional Conference

5th - 7th July 2023, Maroochy RSL, Sunshine Coast

WIPM National BIG Breakfast

7th July 2023, Maroochy RSL, Sunshine Coast

WIPM Coast to Hinterland High Tea

7th July 2023 Secrets on the Lake, Montville

AEPMA Pesticon

16th - 18th August 2023, The Star, Gold Coast

INTERNATIONAL

NPMA

2023 Wildlife Expo, Marriott Resort, Myrtle Beach Grande Dunes. 7th9th February

2023 PESTWORLD EAST, Dubai, UAE, 28th Feb - 1st March.

2023 Safety Summit, Orlando, Florida, 4th - 5th May

PestWorld

2023 Honolulu 17th – 20th October

2024 Denver 22nd – 25th October

2025 Orlando 21st – 24th October

2026 Grapevine 20th – 23rd October

NEWSLETTER CONTRIBUTIONS

FAOPMA

2023 Taiwan, Kaohsiung

Exhibition Centre 12th14th September

2023 India

2025 Malaysia

2026 New Zealand

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. Cut off date for the next edition will be the 24th March 2023.

CONTACT US

WIPM Office

Unit 4/1 Selkirk Drive, Noosaville Qld 4566

PO BOX 1910, Noosaville DC Qld 4566

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President

Nicky Turner 0409 217 328

nicky@pestieprofiles.au (QLD)

Vice-President

Rhiannon Brown 0491 368 478

hello@envirapest.com.au (WA)

Events Coordinator

Eliza Urey

events@ipma.org.au (NSW)

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