PPTEU
PLUMBING AND PIPE TRADES EMPLOYEES UNION
Message from the ACTING State Secretary
As we pass the halfway mark of 2025, I want to thank all members for your continued strength, unity, and commitment to standing together in an increasingly uncertain industrial landscape.
This year has seen a huge effort across the board—from enterprise bargaining and site disputes, to campaigns for fairness, safety, and respect at work. And while the challenges keep coming, so do the wins.
Over $1 million has been recovered for members through our compliance work— proving that when we stand up for what’s right, we get results. From ensuring superannuation is paid on time, to protecting redundancy and training entitlements, your Union is delivering real outcomes where it matters most.
Across Queensland, members are getting organised. We’ve seen new Delegates and Health and Safety Reps step up on jobs, strong turnouts at our Brisbane and Gold Coast AGMs, and a growing presence on major sites.
We’ve also proudly stood in solidarity with other unions. Solidarity isn’t just a slogan—it’s a
strategy, and it’s one that works.
This year’s MATES Big Lap was another proud moment for the Branch, with our Next Gen QLD team raising over $10,700 for suicide prevention and ranking third highest. These young members are a powerful reminder that the future of the movement is in good hands.
There’s plenty more ahead in the second half of the year—from bargaining wins to campaign launches, events, and more member site visits across the state.
So stay active, stay engaged, and remember: your Union is only as strong as its members. And from what I’ve seen this year, we’re in a very strong place.
In unity, Acting State Secretary
ASSISTANT STATE
Justin Maxwell I 0488 556 222 justin@plumbersunionqld.com
Kieron Cundy I 0419 771 026 kieron@plumbersunionqld.com
State Government & Fixed Industry Coordinator
Luke Barden I 0438 949 295 luke@plumbersunionqld.com
ORGANISER
Alan Temporini I 0419 949 644 alan@plumbersunionqld.com
ORGANISER
Paris Andriske I 0414 990 013 paris@plumbersunionqld.com
ORGANISER
Chris McJannett I 0473 566 498 chris@plumbersunionqld.com
ORGANISER (North Queensland)
Rhys Whitehurst I 0448 880 720 rhys@plumbersunionqld.com
ORGANISER
Dan Gillett I 0487 379 860 daniel@plumbersunionqld.com
APPRENTICE MENTOR
Paul Lockwood I 0417 224 844 paul@plumbersunionqld.com
APPRENTICE MENTOR
Jack Keogh I 0488 087 007 jack@plumbersunionqld.com
APPRENTICE MENTOR
Damian O’Sullivan I 0431 700 224 damian@plumbersunionqld.com
ADMINISTRATION DIRECTOR
Shari Charrington I 07 3844 8433 office@plumbersunionqld.com
COMPLIANCE OFFICER
Sarah Bowman I 07 3844 8433 sarah@plumbersunionqld.com
TRAINING COORDINATOR
Ambika Gonzalez I 07 3844 8433 ambika@plumbersunionqld.com
MEMBER ENQUIRIES 07 3844 8433 membership@plumbersunionqld. com
Apprentice SKILLS Competition
The Plumbing Industry Climate Action Centre (PICAC) held its 2025 National Skills Competition on March 14th, bringing together some of the best and brightest apprentices from across the country. The event, held in Melbourne, saw participants tested across an intense 8-hour challenge designed to showcase their practical expertise in both plumbing and sprinkler fitting.
We are proud to share that Queensland apprentices Ryen Munro and Harrison Tresider delivered exceptional performances, each placing second in their respective trades. This is a fantastic achievement and a clear reflection of their skill, commitment, and the quality of training and mentoring they’ve received throughout their apprenticeships.
Competitions like this one not only highlight individual talent but also demonstrate the strength of our training system and the ongoing investment made by the union movement in building a highly skilled workforce. These kinds of results don’t happen in isolation — they are the product of teamwork, support, and mentorship.
A special thank you goes to Apprentice Mentor Jack Keogh and previous competitor Sam Barnes, who supported our apprentices at this event and, contribute every day to the success of the future of our trades.
The PPTEU QLD also acknowledges the ongoing support of BERT, whose proud sponsorship of the competition helps make opportunities like this possible. Through partnerships like these, we’re able to continue investing in the future of the industry and supporting the next generation of union tradespeople.
Congratulations again to Ryen and Harrison on their fantastic results, and to everyone involved in showcasing the strength of Queensland’s apprentice training. A fantastic result and a proud moment for the Sunshine State.
The PPTEU QLD Next Generation team recently took a powerful step in giving back— celebrating long-serving member Alan, who has proudly stood with the union for over 50 years.
Alan’s dedication, loyalty, and unwavering belief in the union movement have left a lasting mark, and it was only fitting that the next generation of members came together to honour him. This act of solidarity wasn't just about recognising one individual—it was a powerful gesture of gratitude to all the older members who paved the way for what we have today.
The Next Gen crew’s involvement in this initiative reflects the heart of what the union stands for: respect, recognition, and responsibility to
each other—across generations. It was more than a tribute—it was a moment that bridged past, present, and future.
As one participant shared, "The Next Gen crew made a profound impact by honouring Alan, a dedicated member with 50 years of service, perfectly encapsulating the union's values of recognising and celebrating outstanding contributions. I feel privileged to be part of this initiative and eagerly anticipate the next event."
A huge thank you to Alan and all those who came before us—and a round of applause to the Next Gen team for leading with heart.
Apprentice Mentors Jack Keogh, Paul Lockwood and Damian O’Sullivan have been proudly handing out tools and iPads to new apprentices as part of the PPTEU Apprentice Program.
This program, proudly funded by BERT, continues to invest in the future of our trade by ensuring apprentices have the resources they need to succeed from day one. Whether it's the right tools or access to essential learning technology, this support plays a vital role in helping young workers develop their skills and confidence on the job. By backing initiatives like this, we’re not only supporting individual apprentices—we’re strengthening the future
Setting Up the Next Generation GOT QUESTIONS ABOUT RETIREMENT?
of our entire industry. One apprentice at a time, we’re building a safer, more skilled, and more empowered workforce.
The feedback from both apprentices and employers has been overwhelmingly positive. For many young workers, this is their first step into the trade—and receiving support early on sends a strong message that they’re valued and backed by their Union from day one.
Our mentors don’t just hand out gear—they offer guidance, share experience, and help set the standard for what it means to be a union tradesperson.
Solidarity on Show Across Queensland
This year’s May Day celebrations were a true show of strength, unity, and pride for workers
From Brisbane to Bundaberg, Rockhampton to the Gold Coast, PPTEU members marched alongside fellow unionists, families, and community supporters in a powerful display of
Whether it was the chants on the streets, the BBQs in the park, or the proud display of union colours, May Day 2025 reminded us all of what we can achieve when we stand
A huge thank you to every member who turned out, helped carry the banner, brought the kids, or simply came along to support the movement.
These events aren’t just tradition—they’re a celebration of the values we fight for every day: fair wages, safe workplaces, secure jobs, and dignity for all workers.
Check out the photo gallery on our website to see the highlights from across the state. You might spot yourself, your crew, or your family in the crowd!
Green
Hats For
Aaron: A Powerful Message for Our Apprentices
Earlier this year, Assistant State Secretary Justin Maxwell welcomed Byron Davies, spokesperson for Green Hats For Aaron, to PICAC Beenleigh as part of the PPTEU Apprentice Program.
Byron shared the story of Aaron, a 17-year-old plumbing apprentice who tragically lost his life just five weeks into his apprenticeship in 2012, after being struck by an unsecured excavator bucket. The failure to insert a safety pin—a common shortcut to save time— proved fatal. Aaron remains one of the youngest workers to die on an Australian construction site.
The Green Hats For Aaron initiative, created by Aaron’s family and supporters, calls for young and inexperienced workers to wear green hard hats to make them more visible on site. The green hat, inspired by Aaron’s racing colour,
serves as a visual reminder that these workers need extra care, supervision, and protection.
Byron’s message left a strong impact on our apprentices and reinforced why safety can never be compromised. As a union, we continue to fight against the erosion of safety standards across the industry—and advocate for initiatives that help protect the next generation of workers.
We thank Byron and the Green Hats For Aaron team for their ongoing advocacy. Aaron’s story is a legacy that must lead to lasting change.
Income Protection
vacuum attachments
THE LAW
Work Health and Safety 529B: It is the employer's duty to provide safe equipment, including vacuum
If workers are forced to supply their own equipment, they are being exposed to unnecessary and avoidable risks. This goes against the duty of care outlined in WHS regulations.
BTG TOUCH TOURNAMENT
We’re here for union members and their families, providing reliable, straightforward cover at every step of your health journey. Join the fund that is here for you and your health every step of the way.
Your Union. Your Rights. Your Funds.
Whenyou're covered by a PPTEU EBA, you're entitled to more than just fair pay—you’re owed contributions into key industry funds that protect your income, your skills, and your future. These include:
• BERT – Redundancy fund
• BEWT – Training and licence support
• CIPQ – Income protection and portable sick leave
• STQ – Services Trades Queensland training fund
• PPTIDF – Industry development and advocacy
• Superannuation & Long Service Leave
These funds are only effective if they’re paid correctly and on time—and that’s where your Union steps in.
SUPER NOW 12% – ARE YOU GETTING THE FULL AMOUNT?
As of 1 July 2025, the Superannuation Guarantee (SG) increased to 12%. This change overrides older EBA contribution tables that set minimum dollar amounts—and means your employer may now be required to pay more than the minimum listed in your agreement.
Super must be paid on your Ordinary Time Earnings (OTE), which typically includes:
• Base hourly rate for ordinary hours (e.g. 36–40 hours)
• Site allowances
• Height allowance
• Travel allowances (excluding fares)
This is especially important on high-value projects, where failure to include all OTE can result in significant underpayments.
HOW YOUR UNION ENSURES COMPLIANCE
Through our Union Compliance Program, we:
-Audit employer contributions monthly -Flag non-compliant companies
-Recover unpaid funds—including super, redundancy, training levies, and income protection
In 2025 alone, we've already recovered over $1 million in member entitlements across Queensland.
We’re working closely with BUSSQ to support members and employers in reviewing super payments and preventing underpayments going forward.
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
• Check your payslip and super fund portal regularly
• Ask your delegate or call the Union if something looks off
• Make sure your contact details are current so we can reach you if there’s an issue
Need help?
Contact the Union Office or speak to your delegate today
The PPTEU Apprentice Awards Night 2025 brought together industry leaders, proud families, fellow union members, and an outstanding group of nominees for a night of celebration, recognition, and solidarity.
The evening honoured the hard work, dedication, and union values demonstrated by apprentices and mentors across Queensland.
apprenticeship:
Best 2nd Year Apprentice:
Winner – Elliot Davis Runner-up – Patrick Lyndon
Lachie Smith Best 3rd Year
Apprentice:
Winner – Lance Hunter Runner-up – Luke Dula
Best 4th Year Apprentice:
Winner – Tahlia Keay Runner-up – Thomas Robinson
Apprentice of the Year:
Mentor of the Year: Daniel Gray
Young Activist Award: Harley Rohlf
These final awards reflect the strength of our culture—where safety, mentorship, and union activism are championed across all levels of our industry.
Acting State Secretary Justin Maxwell opened the evening by thanking our major sponsor BERT, interstate guests, the PPTEU team, and the Smith family, as we honoured the legacy of Lachie Smith.
Winner – Jack Thomson Runner-up – Jarred Thomas
Lachie, a respected apprentice who tragically passed away from cancer, is remembered each year through the Lachie Smith Best 3rd Year Apprentice Award—a powerful tribute to a young worker whose impact is still felt today.
The night’s awards recognised excellence at every stage of
Each recipient stood out not just for their technical skills, but for their professionalism, teamwork, and commitment to union values on and off the tools. From site leadership to community involvement, these apprentices are already making their mark.
It was an unforgettable night that reminded everyone just how bright the future of our trade really is. Congratulations once again to all our nominees and winners.
The awards night also recognised outstanding contributions in other areas:
Safety Awareness Award:
Winner – Tristan Lyons Runner-up – Karl Skinner
The Plumbing and Pipe Trades Employees Union Qld in conjunction with The Services Trades College (STC) and Fire Industry Training (FIT) will be rolling out a new Apprentice Program for 2025 - 2029.
The program accommodates up to 80 apprentices in Fire, Sanitary and Mechanical sectors each year.
The purpose of the program is to provide support and training to apprentices, and ensure they have everything they need to succeed as tradespeople in the industry.
Phone 1800 653 118 office@plumbersunionqld.com
WHAT DO YOU GET FROM THE PROGRAM?
Training and Wage Reimbursement to Employers
Each apprentice enrolled in the program will receive extra training in their 1st and 2nd year of their apprenticeship. Training that will be offered in the apprenticeship is as follows:
Year 1
-MIC Resilience Apprentice Training
-Confined Space - Life skills and cultural awareness
-Introduction to BIM -EWP over and under 11m
Year 2- Dogman Training
-Forklift & Poly Welding
-Design and Commission Domestic and Residential Sprinkler Systems
1 week of wages for time spent completing extra week of training to the employer
1 week of wages for time spent completing extra week of training to the employer
In this year’s program we are also able to offer a wage reimbursement for 1 week in years 1-4.
The wage reimbursement is managed through the PPTEU and is allocated to the apprentices that have attended the training listed.
In the 3rd and 4th year of the apprenticeship, the PPTEU Apprentice Program accommodates for wage reimbursements for 1 week of time spent completing their apprenticeship training in each year.
The Team
DAMIAN O’SULLIVAN
Apprentice Mentor Ph: 0431 700 224
damian@plumbersunionqld.com
Damian completed his apprenticeship in 2005, becoming a licensed plumber, drainer, gasfitter, and mechanical services tradesperson. He holds a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment and a Certificate IV in Workplace Health and Safety, and has spent over two decades honing his skills across the plumbing industry.
Now the proud president of the Plumbing and Pipe Trades Employees Union Queensland Branch, Damian has also served as a Health and Safety Representative and Delegate since 2012. His experience on the job and in union leadership has given him a deep understanding of the pressures apprentices face.
Driven by a belief in giving back to the trade that gave him so much, Damian is passionate about mentoring the next generation. He’s committed to being the kind of support he wishes he had as a young apprentice — guiding new tradespeople toward a strong, successful future in the industry.
JACK KEOGH
Apprentice Mentor Ph: 0488 087 007
jack@plumbersunionqld.com
Jack started his plumbing apprenticeship 12 years ago but temporarily put it on hold when he moved states, instead pursuing a refrigeration apprenticeship. Over the years, Jack has gained diverse experience in industries such as hotels, defence, navy ships, blood banks, and mines. He holds both a Certificate III in Plumbing and a Certificate III in Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning.
As a third-generation plumber, Jack has always had a passion for the trade and is now dedicated to supporting the next generation of apprentices. One of his proudest achievements was representing Australia at the International Apprentice Skills Contest in Michigan, USA. Jack is eager to share his knowledge and experience, helping apprentices thrive and succeed in their own careers.
PAUL LOCKWOOD
Apprentice Mentor Ph: 0417 224 844
paul@plumbersunionqld.com
Paul started his construction career in 1985, joining the PPTEU from day one and has remained an active and dedicated member ever since. With nearly 40 years of experience across a range of roles—including apprentice, leading hand, foreman, project manager, and HSR and delegate—Paul brings a wealth of knowledge to his current role as an apprentice mentor.
Now, Paul is passionate about sharing his expertise with the next generation of tradespeople. Drawing from his own journey, he offers practical, hands-on guidance to help apprentices develop the skills and confidence they need to thrive. Committed to giving back to the industry that has given him so much, Paul is focused on shaping the future of our trades through mentorship, safety advocacy, and a strong dedication to skill development.
His experience makes him an invaluable resource for apprentices, ensuring they are well-equipped for a successful career in the construction industry.
If you would like more information about the program and the benefits provided, please contact an Apprentice Mentor or email training@plumbersunionqld.com.
Organiser Update – Paris Andriske
Brisbane & Gold Coast AGM Wrap-Up | Looking Ahead to the Future of Our Trade
It was fantastic to catch up with members at this month’s Annual General Meetings in both Brisbane and the Gold Coast. These meetings are more than just a formal process — they’re a chance for us to come together, check in, reflect on the year that’s been, and set our sights on the work ahead.
What stood out most was the strong turnout and the genuine engagement from the floor. It’s always a pleasure to see the familiar faces of long-standing members, but equally exciting was the number of new members and apprentices who attended and contributed. It shows that the future of our Union is in good hands — one built on solidarity, shared knowledge, and a commitment to the values that make the PPTEU strong.
Across Queensland, we’re standing on the edge of something big. With over $7.1 billion worth of major construction projects tied to the 2032 Olympics already in the pipeline — and more expected — the demand for skilled workers is only going to grow. This is on top of the massive Queensland Big Health Build, with multiple new hospital projects already underway or being scoped across the state.
These are once-in-a-generation opportunities. But with them comes a challenge: making sure our workforce is ready. That means staying ahead of the curve when it comes to advancements in tools, systems, and technology — and making sure our worksites remain safe, well-organised, and union strong.
More than ever, it means making sure the next generation of fitters, plumbers, sheet metal workers, laggers, and roofers are well-trained, supported, and ready to hit the ground running. Our Union has a proud history of delivering some of the best tradespeople in the industry — and it’s up to us to keep that legacy going. Let’s keep showing up. Let’s keep learning. Let’s keep fighting for what we deserve.
In unity,
Paris Andriske Organiser – PPTEU QLD
FUNDED TRAINING: STRONGER FUTURES
Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ) is here to help you get the skills and training you need to take your career, business and projects to the next level.
IT’S OUR MISSION TO MAKE IT EASIER FOR YOU BY:
• funding between 75%–100% of your training costs.
• connecting you with Registered Training Organisations in your area.
THERE ARE THREE PROGRAMS ON OFFER:
• Short Courses: CSQ funds 164 short courses to create safer, healthier workplaces, more productive workplaces through awareness and training.
• Certificate III: CSQ’s Skills and Gap Training (SAGT) helps turn experience into a national qualification.
• Certificate IV, Diploma and Advanced Diploma: Higher qualifications.
To find out more, use the course selector on our website. You’ll be able to learn more course information, which Registered Training Organisations offer courses you’re interested in and the eligibility requirements.
csq.org.au 1800 798 488
TOGETHER WE WIN
ON AVERAGE, PEOPLE WITH A UNION COLLECTIVE AGREEMENT ARE PAID $100 A WEEK MORE
By being a Union member you help win better pay and conditions through collective bargaining with your employer. The more workers that are in a Union, the bigger chance of getting a better deal.
ACCESS TO FINANCIAL PLANNING
Financial Union Members are able to receive assistance with financial advice at no cost. To find out more go to www.bert.com.au/bert/ members/benefits/your-finances/ or contact BERT on 1300 261 114.
ACCIDENTAL DENTAL COVER
Financial members and their immediate family (up to the age of 70) are covered for dental costs associated with any accidental damage caused to their teeth (conditions apply - contact the Union Office for details).
ACCESS TO THE UNION SHOPPER
Union members can access huge savings on a wide range of goods and services through the Union Shopper. Save money on white goods, furniture, travel, security screens, movie tickets, cars and much more.
COUNSELLING SERVICE
Members can access expert assisstance and advice at no cost from experienced counsellor who can help deal with personal/family relationship difficulties, drug and alcohol issues or any other problems members may be facing. Counselling is confidential and free to all members.
$15,000 FUNERAL BENEFIT
Members are covered by a funeral benefit of $15,000 in the event of death of either the member / the members wife, husband or defacto (up to the age of 75) / the members dependentchildrenuptotheageof16.
FREE TRAVEL INSURANCE
Travel insurance covers you, your accompanying spouse/defacto and dependent children when travelling for more than 250km from your usual place of residence within Australia or overseas for up to 90 days. Register online via the PlumbersUnionwebsite.
ACCESS TO AN EMPLOYMENT REGISTER
The Plumbers Union has an established employment register for members who are struggling to find work in the industry; we endeavour to give members on the register the opportunity to connect with relevant employers andfindworkasquicklyaspossible.
WILLS AND LEGAL ADVICE
Wills and legal advice are available for financial members of the Union and their partner through theUnion’ssolicitors.