The Tradie December - January 2024

C O V A HON THE HILLS!

A CHAT WITH A

CAULKING CHAMP

tinkering WITH THE

LATEST TOOLS

GENUINE FISHING

WEAPONS

TRADIE HUMOUR

Hook, line & tradie!

AT IT S

FINEST

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#85 dec/jan 2024 Bit of fun

Features

Tools ’n’ toys

08 From the Editor 10 Upfront 12 Gadgets 14 Smoko

16 From the front 20 Have your say!

28 Go Big, Go Home 35 Double Trouble 40 Silver Bullet 44 Family Portrait 60 Cruising with Caulkers 64 Chirping Chippy

25 Mind your business 48 Tool Up 66 Tradie Tough Tests 78 Wheels ‘n’ Gear

72

22 68

40 28

16 52 26

6 THE TRADIE

FROM THE EDITOR Published by:

out of: On office

379 Docklands Drive, Docklands VIC 3008 T: 03 9690 8766 www.primecreativemedia.com.au CEO John Murphy Chief Operating Officer Christine Clancy Sales Director Brad Buchanan bradley.buchanan@primecreative.com.au National Advertising Manager Elisha Sinclair elisha.sinclair@primecreative.com.au

Gonefishing!

Slip, slop and slide into our latest mag SUMMER MEANS a lot of different things for tradies. Of course, one major one being the work dries up, giving you too much time to fill up.

It’s a good chance for older bodies to rest up, and for younger ones to hit up Bali or Goldie for a well-earned beach party (or five).

While you’re nursing a possible summer hangover, why not soak up this edition of The Tradie for some on-thesite ideas?

Aussies love the water, and when we’re not surfing on it, we’re fishing in it.

Bar Crusher is one of those household names closely associated with Aussie fishers, and in this edition we have a ripper 8 THE TRADIE

feature on their boats, history and innovations that help you get the biggest catch.

That’s not all, however, with pro fishing guide Tim O’Reilly also taking us from the reefs to look for the big fish who scare off the little ones.

If you’re more of a landlover, there’s plenty of stuff that keeps you firmly planted on the ground.

Our latest Tradie Tough Tests are all about the cool gadgets you should put on your Christmas list or pick up on Boxing Day to level up your worksite.

The New Year is also a chance to re-shape your approach to business, and we’ve got plenty of tips and tricks on how you can enter 2024 with the best tools to succeed.

We also hear from four very different tradies and why they love their work.

Farbod – the painter – tells us how his dad got him into the gig, and how that led to their business taking up some of the biggest jobs in the nation.

Colombian caulker Camila is an Instagram star who appeared on The Block. She tells us about how she acclimatised to tradie culture Down Under and why she’s in love it with.

Comedian Luke Heggie mightn’t be a tradie

Sit back and soak in the seas

anymore, but he tells us why working onsite gave him the best material he’ll ever have.

Meanwhile, chippies Matt and Cam tell us how one “beery” night led to them starting a hugely successful business.

So don’t let us keep you from this epic edition of The Tradie, have a great (and safe) summer!

Editor Harry Murtough harry.murtough@primecreative.com.au Client Success Manager Arianna Lucini arianna.lucini@primecreative.com.au Contributors Tim O’Reilly Art Director/Design Daz Woolley & Bea Barthelson

The Publisher reserves the right to alter or omit any article or advertisement submitted and requires indemnity from the advertisers and contributors against damages or liabilities that may arise from material published. © Copyright – No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any means electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the permission of the Publisher.

HONAVTHOE CHILLS!

A CHAT WITH A

CAULKING CHAMP

tinkering WITH THE

LATEST TOOLS

GENUINE FISHING

WEAPONS

TRADIE HUMOUR

Hook, line & tradie!

AT IT S

FINEST

#85 DEC/JAN 2024 $7.95 inc GST

S CHIP4PIE lyf!

SUBSCRIBE TODAY! To subscribe you can email subscriptions@primecreative.com.au call 03 9690 8766 or visit The Tradie Magazine website below!

PLUS check out www.tradiemagazine.com.au

EDITOR Harry Murtough

TheTradieMagazine

T

@thetradiewtw

1. d

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10 THE TRADIE

It’s like regular paragliding EVER DONE aerial paragliding? er to your back. but they attach a massive propell t?

Sounds exhilarating, righ ding competitively.

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GADGETS

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Who’s buying this?!

Dog bath Dog bath lick lick mat mat

There’s dog people, then there’s dog people.

We don’t judge, we love doggos! But we have to question how clean your dog’s gonna get with peanut butter smeared around the place. The mat is designed to keep your pooch calm while you give them a clean, which is smart in principle.

However, if your dog is anything like ours, it’s gonna take a lot more than a mat to calm them down.

Maybe if we had an entire tub of peanut butter…

This mat can be yours for only $8.

Camo umbrella hat It’s fishing season, and this product will help you keep dry while you’re at it. It will also make you look a bit silly, but that’s beside the point.

When you’re out on those longer fishing hauls, a parka mightn’t be enough to keep you from getting drenched.

The headbrella is not just marketed as something fisherman can ng wear, oh no. You can also wear it during hikes, or when your attendi n. luncheo t a conspiracy theoris This piece of fascinating headwear is just $5.

Finger covers

Weird, but insanely useful. You might get a tonne of judgement when you break out these bad boys at a watch party to grab chips, but you’ll be the one laughing when you don’t have crumbs all over your digits.

These are perfect for the likes of Cheetos, Burger Rings, Doritos – pretty much any chip that leave your fingers looking like you strangl ed an Oompa Loompa on your lunch break.

These ingenious inventions can be yours from just $19.99.

Stretchy cat head hand puppet Santa Well this is mildly terrifying. If you’re looking for a last minute secret gift, this might be it … if you don’t like the colleague. on a The expression is something you’d be familiar with if you’ve ever stood cat’s tale when they’re napping. rubber Making it even more bizarre is the fact the cat’s head is made from and not fluffy, which somehow makes it creepier.

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12 THE TRADIE

SMOKO

Stone safety

Exposing your airways to silica dust can cause silicosis – a deadly disease which comes in chronic, acute and accelerated forms

Tradie health put in the spotlight IN OCTOBER, Safe Work Australia recommended a national ban on high silica manufactured stone.

Australia’s peak body for workplace safety released its Decision Regulation Impact Statement: Prohibition on the use of engineered stone (Decision RIS), which it provided to the Commonwealth for review.

The report revealed the following findings: • “Engineered stone workers exposed to respirable crystalline silica (RCS) are significantly overrepresented in silicosis cases. Engineered stone workers are being diagnosed with silicosis at a much younger age than workers from other industries. “ • “Engineered stone is physically and chemically different to natural stone. The high levels of RCS generated by working with engineered stone, as well as the differing

properties of this RCS, are likely to contribute to more rapid and severe disease.”

• “There is no toxicological evidence of a ‘safe’ threshold of crystalline silica content in engineered stone, or that other chemicals found in engineered stone do not pose a health risk to workers.”

• “Silicosis and silicarelated diseases are preventable. However, a persistent lack of compliance with, and enforcement of, the obligations imposed under WHS laws across the engineered stone industry at all levels have not protected workers from the health risks associated with RCS.” “The final report is powerful and compelling,” Employment and Workplace Relations Minister Tony Burke said during the report’s release.

“It shows very clearly

why we need further action to protect workers from this deadly disease.

“No one should ever contract a terminal illness simply because they’ve turned up to work.

“The Government is working with the states and territories on a co-operative national response.”

Mr Burke said relevant state and federal ministers would meet before the end of 2023.

Both the ACT and South Australia announced they would support a nationwide ban during that meeting.

NSW Premier Chris Minns said the state would be willing to enact its own ban if one was not agreed upon by the end of 2023.

In the wake of the report, both mega retailers Bunnings and IKEA announced they would no longer stock high-silica manufactured stone products.

Throughout this process, the CFMEU has maintained it will implement its own ban on high silica product use by members by mid 2024.

STAY ALERT Since releasing the report, Safe Work Australia unveiled a new

phase of its Clean Air. Clean Lungs. campaign.

The objective is to enhance awareness regarding the dangers associated with silica dust and the responsibilities outlined in work health and safety laws for mitigating these risks. The campaign encompasses guidance on recognizing hazards and implementing measures to either eliminate or reduce the likelihood of exposure in the workplace.

Check it out Head to swa.gov.au/clearlungs for more information.

14 THE TRADIE

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FROM THE FRONT

Bar Crusher has boats big and small (5.35m to 7.80m) for your fishing needs

GENUINE FISHING

WEAPONS Crushing it with Bar Crusher

WHEN Melbourne-based (VIC) Bar Crusher Boats launched back in 2000, factory-built plate aluminium boats were pretty rare in Australia. The situation’s changed dramatically, with plate boats soaring in popularity as they’re relatively light to tow, economical to power, easy to maintain and incredibly durable.

From an original two-model line-up, the range has expanded to nearly 30 models in a number of configurations – cuddy cabin (C), hard top (HT), hard top pilothouse (HTP), centre console (XS), rear centre console (XSR), open hard top (XT), walk around (WR), and bow rider (BR).

Designed and built for Australian conditions, the CE-certified boats have proved popular right around the world.

FISHING WEAPONS Bar Crusher is a premium Australian boat builder delivering high-performance fishing boats for hardcore

Australian anglers. The range spans 5.35m to 7.80m with models suitable for everything from casting lures for barra in the Top End, right through to battling big marlin beyond the Continental Shelf… and everything in between.

From the 535C through to the 780HT, Bar Crusher’s DNA runs strong with the same exclusive technologies and construction techniques used throughout the range. All Bar Crusher boats incorporate the Waveslicer deep-V hull for a smooth ride and safe following-sea performance; expertly-engineered Rigideck subfloor system (think of the honeycomb structure of an aeroplane wing and you’ll get the picture) for maximum hull strength; Quickflow water ballast technology for excellent stability at rest; and the SafeTank advanced fuel system.

Bar Crusher boats are loaded with fishing-related features. From the Game Lock coaming and secure toeholds (for a comfortable fish-fishing position),

Images by Ben Sandman, Tim McGoldrick, John Wheatley 16 THE TRADIE

through to rod holders, baitboard, live bait tank, rocket launcher, SARCA anchor and more, these boats are fully-loaded Fishing Weapons. While other boat manufacturers often charge for these items as ‘extras’, Bar Crusher’s philosophy has always been that people are going to want them anyway, so the boats leave the factory with it fitted as standard.

There’s also the option to personalise your Fishing Weapon and the online boat builder on Bar Crusher’s website allows you to do exactly that.

SETTING THE PACE Driven by innovation, Bar Crusher’s research and development team is tireless in its efforts to set new standards in boat design and performance. This has seen countless design improvements and advancements in construction techniques over the past couple of decades.

The Bar Catch launch/retrieve system is one innovation that has revolutionised people’s boating experiences. The simplicity and ease-of-use of the Bar Catch allows for single-handed launch and retrieve, no matter what size Bar Crusher you own.

As one of the few Australian boat builders fortunate enough to have people within its ranks who are passionate and experienced boaters/anglers, many of the design improvements have come from within the business. Bar Crusher also values customer feedback and regularly takes onboard owners’ suggestions, then determines the feasibility from production and performance perspectives. If it’s possible and if it passes Bar Crusher’s rigorous testing, it goes ahead!

Every industry has a leader – and a successful business is more than just having a good product. From a stateof-the-art manufacturing facility, to powerful branding and marketing, to the national dealer network and exceptional aftersales support… everything within the Bar Crusher business [just like its boats] is part of a very well-planned strategy.

Bar Crusher’s been with Aussie fishers throughout the highs of their fishing journeys

THE TRADIE 17

FROM THE FRONT PREMIUM QUALITY After 20-odd years of focusing solely on building plate aluminium boats, Bar Crusher has it down to a fine art.

Professionally engineered and built from the highestquality materials, the experienced and devoted team’s attention to detail is evident in every Bar Crusher boat.

Every feature has been carefully considered for its performance, practicality, versatility and, importantly, durability.

Bar Crusher uses high-tensile 5083 marine grade plate aluminium, precision laser-cutting robotics, and highlyskilled welders using the best equipment available. All stainless steel fittings (316, rather than cheaper 304) are insulated from the boat with plastic washers or insulative grease products, and hinges and panels are high-tech fibre reinforced composite to provide many years of service. Toughened safety glass is used for the windscreens in the cuddy cabin and hard top boats, with heavy-duty acrylic used on the console boats.

The marine environment is unforgiving on equipment and this has always been front-of-mind at Bar Crusher.

The factory’s fit-out team uses quality wire, switches, fuse boards and glue-filled heat shrink to cover connections to lock-out the salt air. It’s these little things (the things many boat owners don’t think about, until they have a problem), Bar Crusher has always gone the extra mile to do to ensure many years of hassle-free boating and fishing.

This unwavering focus on quality extends right through to the one of the most important (yet regularly

Bar Crusher boats are teeming with technology, including their Quickflow water ballast technology which allows for better stability when stationary

Bar Crusher Boats help tradies get the best out of the great outdoors

Bar Crusher’s innovative launch/ retrieve system allows users to single-handedly launch and retrieve any Bar Crusher boat

18 THE TRADIE

overlooked) aspects of any trailer boat – the trailer. Every Bar Crusher boat is factory-packaged on a customdesigned, Australian-made Easytow trailer. The result is a perfectly-balanced package that makes towing safe and easy, and ensures the boat always self-centres and aligns at the ramp.

EXCEPTIONAL VALUE Like anything - if you want quality, you have to pay for it.

It’s as simple as that.

Value extends far beyond the price you might pay for something. It’s the pleasure a quality product brings, the longevity it delivers and the value it adds to your life. For anyone serious about fishing, this is the true value of a Bar Crusher boat.

In a similar light, the resale value of Bar Crusher boats on the used market is unmatched by any other brand. This is testament to the build quality and performance of every Bar Crusher – no matter the miles it’s travelled, the places it’s been, or the fish it’s helped its owners catch!

Factory made plate aluminium boats weren’t as common Down Under in 2000 when Bar Crusher got started

Scan to find out more!

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renault.com.au THE TRADIE 19

HAVE YOUR SAY!

Skilled women tradies only make up three per cent of the industry as it stands

Constructing the future Tools for change: Building stronger teams with diversity and positive workplace culture I’M HACIA, the founder of Empowered Women in Trades (EWIT), and we’re on a mission to shake things up in the trades and create a space where everyone, regardless of

Hacia Atherton – EWIT CEO and Founding Director

gender, feels welcome and valued. In this issue, I’m here to chat about something close to my heart and crucial for the future of our industry: gender diversity in skilled trades.

Right now, we’re sitting at a measly three per cent female representation in skilled trades, and in some trades like welding, it’s even lower at just one per cent. We can’t afford to ignore this disparity, especially now that our industry is grappling with a crippling skills shortage.

Bringing more women into trades isn’t just the right thing to do; it’s the smart thing to do.

Now, I know what some of you might think: “Why fix what ain’t broken?”

But here’s the thing: our

industry is strong, no doubt about it, but it could be even stronger.

How? Tapping into our workforce’s full potential means bringing more women into skilled trades.

Diversity isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a game changer. It’s about bringing different perspectives, skills, and ideas to the table, making our industry more innovative, resilient, and opening up new opportunities. Embracing diversity in trades goes beyond just filling a quota; it’s about enriching our workplace culture and boosting productivity. A diverse team brings in a range of perspectives, fostering innovation and problem-solving,

which all lead to improved financial results.

THE LITTLE THINGS But the ripple effect doesn’t stop within the walls of the workplace; it extends out into the broader community. By breaking down gender barriers in trades, we’re setting a powerful example for future generations, showing that trade success is defined by skill, not gender.

So, you might wonder, how can your trade business actively contribute to this cultural shift and champion diversity and inclusion?

It all begins with a commitment to challenge and transform any preexisting biased attitudes within yourself and your team. Ask yourself if you

are actively cultivating a workplace culture that values and respects diversity in all its forms.

A great first step is to examine your recruitment practices closely. Are they truly fair and inclusive?

Strive to eliminate any unconscious bias from your hiring process, ensuring that you select candidates based on their skills and potential rather than gender.

So, our goal at EWIT is crystal clear – we want women to make up 30 per cent of the skilled trades workforce by 2030.

Ambitious? Absolutely and it will take a village to make this a reality. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get to work because the future of trades is in our hands, and it’s looking brighter than ever.

GET IN TOUCH Reach out to EWIT today if you would like to become a part of our village of change-makers!

20 THE TRADIE

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HAVE YOUR SAY!

Glued in

Carpentry Australia’s Quarter in Review: Building connections, business, and a better future AS THE SUN SET on another fruitful quarter, Carpentry Australia reflects on a series of engaging and impactful activities that strengthened bonds within the carpentry community, fostered professional growth, and addressed the evolving landscape of the industry.

Carpentry Australia has welcomed a new member to their team, Miss Felicity Pettiford. Based up in Sydney. Felicity is an important part of the growth and development of Carpentry Australia, contributing to some important projects as part of the organisation.

This immersive event delved deep into planning, structuring, and strategising for more profitable and effective business operations.

Carpenters from across the region gathered to discuss their business structures, and to explore opportunities for refinement and development. Many walking away excited to implement their new strategies.

Following the Inner Sanctum, Carpentry Australia hosted a vibrant member event at PJ O’Brien’s Irish Pub on Pitt Street. The evening was a resounding success, with crews engaging in INNER SANCTUM networking activities and WORKSHOP AND breaking the ice through MEMBER EVENTS: a lively trivia challenge.

Crafting success McCabe Carpentry and strategies Joinery walked away with Kicking off the quarter the coveted door prize - an with a bang, Carpentry incredible Paslode Framer.

Australia headed to Carpentry Australia Sydney to lead the Inner connected with its Sanctum workshop. members for a second event in October down on the beautiful Mornington Peninsula, facilitating discussions among women in trades, industry veterans, and many members engaging in their first event. The event provided a platform to Nathan Quinn, Carpentry discuss current industry Australia Head of Development trends, challenges, and enjoy camaraderie over drinks and activities.

Industry veteran, Trevor, 22 THE TRADIE

walking away with the awesome door prize of the King Gee pack and Stabila Level. He couldn’t stop smiling.

The event feedback continues to be highly positive with many excited to join us at our next events.

VICTORIAN ABT CONFERENCE AND TRADE EVENTS: Shaping the future of carpentry Carpentry Australia took the stage at the Victorian ABT Conference, presenting a keynote and engaging with students in building design and construction. The presentation explored the changing landscape of the industry and outlined how Carpentry Australia can support students in preparing for a successful future. Many new apprentices and students joined as members on the day and have booked in to join us at upcoming events.

Carpentry Australia also connected with Carpentry apprentices at the Melbourne Polytechnic Trade Event. Offering guidance and advice to the upcoming generation of carpenters - the heroes of tomorrow.

ADVOCACY AND PROGRESS Representing Australian carpenters, Carpentry Australia actively

participated in the Inside Construction Expo, featuring on two industry panels - ’Balancing the Scales: Retention vs Recruitment’ and ‘Addressing Workforce Shortages.’ These discussions included future initiatives and needs, with insights shared by the Director of the National Skills Plan.

Carpentry Australia is also supporting the Victorian Skills Authority to help address current TAFE challenges and was selected to provide a review and recommendations on the Australian Skills Guarantee consultation.

ABC RADIO FEATURE: Discussing the future of building plans Carpentry Australia received an invitation to ABC Radio to discuss the new building plans for the nation and their impact on the industry. This platform allowed the Carpentry Australia to share insights, perspectives, and contribute to the broader conversation on the future of carpentry.

Carpentry Australia has

Sydney CA members enjoyed socialising with a spot of trivia at PJ O’Brien’s in Sydney

been invited back to speak on a separate 3AW show to continue the conversation in the coming weeks.

HELPING HAND DAY: A Heartfelt Initiative Carpentry Australia demonstrated its commitment to community support through the Helping Hand Day in Victoria’s Warrandyte.

Carpenters volunteered their skills to overhaul the home of Sue, who faced health challenges. These Helping Hand Days will extend across Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland in 2024, showcasing the generosity and skills of the nation’s carpenters.

Carpentry Australia ambassador Kevin Sheedy will be attending the next Carpentry Australia private event where we he will speak as we acknowledge and award the members who contributed on the day.

GET IN TOUCH If you want to understand how Carpentry Australia can support you, call us 1300 562 779 or visit carpentryaustralia.com.au

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HAVE YOUR SAY!

Heat is on

Scorching summer a test for painters and their products ONE OF THE most common problems, especially during warmer months, is blistering of acrylic paint on exterior wooden surfaces.

Incorrect preparation of surfaces prior to

Jodie Rebecchi – MPAV General Manager

24 THE TRADIE

painting can cause major problems which can be expensive to rectify.

A common scenario is when a painter decides to paint a dull but usually sound surface, he/she sands the surface and applies two coats of exterior acrylic, within days large blisters have begun to appear on the new paintwork rising with the sun and diminishing at night.

From a customer’s point of view, it’s easy to see why they blame the new coating for their problems. The painter has prepared the surface, properly followed the label instructions and now the customer has unsightly blisters all over their

timber (what a disaster).

Let’s go back a few steps and look at why this may occur. There may be moisture within the substrate beneath the paint film which converts from a liquid into a vapour when the surface is heated by the sun. Or - at some stage the timber was painted with enamel which over the years, has become very hard and brittle and it lacks flexibility. When the painted surface is heated by the sun, blisters occur because the moisture cannot escape. Repainting exterior timber with a dark colour can also escalate blistering as dark colours absorb more heat.

A NEW COAT The painting industry has always had problems with paint lifting on old previously painted weatherboards especially when painting over old enamel paint.

Boards expand and contract, the paint does not. This movement literally shears the paint away from the wood.

Enamel develops millions of tiny cracks (usually not visible to the naked eye) and these allow excessive moisture to enter the board and when this board is painted and sealed with two fresh coats of paint, it traps moisture in the wood as soon as the sun and heat play on the surface.

Prior to any preparation works or even at quoting stage, three things need to occur. An adhesion test needs to be carried out and if the old paint starts to peel away then it should be completely removed and treated as a new surface to avoid the paint lifting off at a later time. A moisture test also needs to be carried out

Aussie homes will be coping plenty of heat during this summer, which can put a strain on unprepared home exteriors

and if the readings are in excess of 10 per cent, the timber needs time to be allowed to dry out. Special attention needs to be paid to butt joins of timber when moisture testing.

We also recommend that any buildings that were painted before 1970 have a lead test undertaken and if positive for lead, then lead paint removal procedures need to be adhered to.

The only way to totally avoid blistering and peeling issues, is to strip all timber back to a bare substrate and start again.

All timber should be primed with an oil-based primer, filled where necessary, spot primed and followed by two coats of exterior acrylic paint. In many cases, the consumer does not want to pay for a complete removal as its expensive and labour intensive but it is in most cases unavoidable.

MIND YOUR BUSINESS

Tool care

Crime is up. Here’s one way to protect your tools

IT COULD happen to any tradie: You head to your ute to start the day, only to discover that thieves have broken in and taken off with your tools despite having them locked and secured.

That’s what happened to one NSW tradie interviewed

by NBN News this past October. Over $15,000

worth of tools were stolen from his ute. Tools he’d collected for 20 years gone overnight.

With crime on the rise, more Aussie tradies might find themselves in the same boat.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, break-ins increased for the first time

You can’t always be around to protect your tools

in over a decade last year, with property stolen in two-thirds of cases. Motor vehicle theft also rose, with over 55,000 victims reporting that their vehicle was nicked.

INSURE YOUR TOOLS WITH BIZCOVER Tradies have gotten resourceful to keep their tools and equipment safe—locking up toolboxes and storage, installing security cameras, attaching GPS tags to items—but sometimes your best

efforts are no match for criminals.

That’s why tool insurance might come in handy.

Portable Equipment* cover, an optional part of a Business Insurance Pack*, covers you for loss and damage to your tools and stock due to theft, fire and other perils listed in the policy wording.

So, if your tools are nicked (despite your best efforts to keep them securely locked up or under your watch), Portable Equipment insurance can help you replace them.

Want no-dramas Portable Equipment cover? BizCover can help you get covered and back to work in minutes!

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MIND YOUR BUSINESS

Helping out How Fergus has tradie business sorted BEING A TRADIE has never been busier.

Between managing jobs, staff and cash flow, it can quickly become a nightmare. Outside factors like skills and materials shortages as well as inflation are also piling on to your already stressed operation.

26 THE TRADIE

It’s no wonder that 42 per cent of tradies are having trouble managing deadlines and job progress.

Many tradies (57 per cent, in fact) don’t consider bringing in job management software to save the day. But Fergus is here to help remove

stress and increase your income, all while making things as simple as possible.

BRINGING IN THE BREAD When it comes to building on your bottom line, Fergus has you covered.

It helps you ensure no spare change is being lost

on unaccounted hours and unreconciled material invoices. Your team can log hours via the Fergus Go app, and supplier integrations keep your invoices in check.

Use the margin tool to check labour and material profits before sending quotes or invoices. With that tool, you can say goodbye to underpricing.

One struggle for tradie business operators is keeping jobs on budget.

Fergus is in your corner on this with real-time analysis. Use this data to inform customers early and adjust quotes if necessary to protect your profits.

Tradies who’ve used Fergus have been able to take a much-needed sigh of relief

“We got onto Fergus and in just one quarter we smashed an extra 20-30 per cent onto our sales through sheer organisational efficiency,” J.T Carter Plumbers’ Duncan Leask said.

With high demand comes a struggle to prioritise jobs. Fergus helps to identify your most profitable jobs and focus on similar work to maximize your earnings.

“There’s no need to

MIND YOUR BUSINESS

Treat yourself these holidays and let Fergus equip you with the tools to handle 2024

print out plans anymore,” Ezi-Flo Plumbing’s Steve Luczo said.

“From files and photos, to plans, documents and certificates, you name it, the guys have it right there in their hot little hands against the job. It’s awesome.”

A REAL TIME SAVER Let’s be honest, most tradies want to be on the tools and not stuck crunching numbers.

Fergus understands this and does its best to save you time.

Slash the time spent on admin tasks by going digital.

“If you’re looking to shift from pen and paper to software, just do it,” Outback Tradies’ Sarah Bradford said.

“Honestly it’s a life saver in business. You can automate everything in this day and age. Just automate as much as you possibly can, so you can spend your time on the things that matter.”

Tradies can keep up to date with work on-site using the Fergus Go app, ensuring you get your admin work done during the day without having to play catch-up for hours at the end of the day.

“Everything goes through Fergus,” Watersmith Plumbing’s Andrew Watersmith said.

“They’ve all got the Fergus app on their phone and all of our (supplier) invoices get attached to the job. That then makes my life easier when it

comes time to sending invoices.”

Fergus helps you invoice in just three minutes and can help your customers pay online through Stripe with Fergus Pay to increase your cash flow.

Easily transform your job card into an invoice and quickly calculate costs (thanks to supplier integrations) – it’s as simple as that.

Tradies can forget about manually matching material invoices with customer/job invoices. Let automatic reconciliation do the work for you when you quote your job number.

“We know now that there is not one cent that get spent that we do not allocate to a job,” Malady Electrical’s Rick Jones said.

“I’m terrified to think how much money that we never did invoice out to our customers.”

Empower Your Team: Get your team on the right track by providing all the necessary job details through the Fergus Go app. This includes job instructions, safety forms, before photos, customer info, one-click calling, maps, and time tracking.

BENEFITS BOTH WAYS Keeping your customer happy is the core of maintaining a thriving operation. But keeping everyone happy can give tradies plenty of headaches, with research showing 44 per cent of

them struggle in managing customer info and communication.

Well struggle no more!

Fergus can elevate your customer experience.

Your clients will be wowed with professional quotes and invoices. You can easily capture job images to share with them or keep for reference.

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Get time with your family or mates without being distracted by work - it’s all taken care of and under control.

Check it out Reckon you’d benefit from Fergus and its services? Reckon you’d benefit from Fergus job management software? Sign up before January 31 to get 30% off your first 3 months with the promo code TRA31 Head over to fergus.com to start your free trial.

* The findings from the 2023 Kennards Hire Construction Confidence Check are the result of a survey conducted by YouGov from 19 – 28 May 2023. The sample comprised of 501 senior business leaders/ decision makers from construction businesses with 20+ employees in Australia.

THE TRADIE 27

FEATURE

GGoohobmieg Doing battle with toothy brutes of the Outer Reef

A whopping Giant Trevally boatside for release

a big NOTHING GETS the heart of a fisherman racing like toothy huge a ing Watch e. pelagic explosion on the surfac critter zero in on a surface lure is right up there in the fishing highlight reel. Getting skull-dragged across live to coral by toothy brutes is what takes many sport fishos that tors preda apex true the Great Barrier Reef. Those that patrol the coral reef fringes and drop-offs. The kind apart! gear fishing tear

Forward march

sland Let’s take a cruise up the North East coast of Queen se Becau way. the on lose can we gear and see how much will reef the on out ers monst g fightin day best the even t normally leave a few casualties. Without getting caugh and bigger that ber up in what gear to take, remem stronger is normally better.

Words and Images: Tim O’Reilly 28 THE TRADIE

Big poppers, big stickbaits, big trolling lures, big baits, this big jigs and big hooks are all pretty standard out on die to go lures where place A . abyss eastern edge of the razor the g coatin paint Their floor. sea the into and melt is There . sharp teeth of big coral dwelling mercenaries n nothing sexier in the tackle game then a large woode down marks teeth giant and off popper with paint falling the sides!

Most if not all of the fish mentioned below are fast to movers and prefer any lure moving at a decent pace to outfits ng spinni long nably reaso invoke a strike. Using to ge levera some having whilst ce distan long a cast lures le possib ves pull up big fish. There are a thousand retrie the from high speed flat out to long sweeping strokes of metal and vibes the of Some slack. rod, winding in the g jigs will require short sharp lifts of the rod tip, windin quickly in between.

Hunt or be hunted

Let’s kick this off with the most punishing thug on the reef, giant trevally. These things hunt in packs and relish or nothing more then a wolf-pack attack on stragglers just to grow they coast, strays. On Queensland’s east rs about every size imaginable. From tiny little river dwelle huge to s, prawn jelly on hing munc palm, your of the size offshore brutes pushing 50 kilos!

As fishing styles and techniques have changed and fishing values systems have done a little backflip, giant

Now that's a fantastic trout taken on the surface

trevally have risen from the doghouse to the penthouse. , With back-breaking power and dogged fishing ability g castin ater Bluew for tay mains of bit GTs have become a is there up, ng stacki bait find you ver Where . enthusiasts likely to be a team of Gts nearby, looking for something

to chase.

Dogtooth tuna maybe the only fish worthy of taking toughest bully on the reef mantle off giant trevally.

These things were made under some pretty serious le genetic conditions. For some reason, they are capab they as ially Espec away. man fisher g of absolutely blowin grow up past 30kg! Doggies present a bit of a holy grail

Spanish mackerel are a big, powerful and acrobatic fish

THE TRADIE 29

FEATURE

e item for spear fisherman and everyone throwing surfac doggie a g hookin of s lures on the outer reef. Dream ed up on top are more regularly counteracted by realis jigs metal and lures diving deep trolled on res captu worked erratically up from the depths. Hang on!

No mercy

ed Wahoo are a razor-ganged blue water denizen, design big A ation. imagin man’s fisher sport a from ht straig snapping beak full of the sharpest teeth imaginable, causing unfound miser y on the flying fish population. h for These speedy critters are likely only pipped by sailfis rs poppe cast lures, trolled fast take will o Waho . speed run. first fast ing and stickbaits, whizzing off on a blister and With gleaming iridescent flanks of blues and purples first at g painin oil al magic a like r appea they flashy silver, beside the boat.

Always on the lookout for an easy meal injured on the surface, coral trout are one of the most iconic and sought after fish on the Great Barrier Reef. Lucky they are so prolific and a good amount of giant bluespot trout over can still be found on the outer reef edges. Any trout ed return be should and spot 80cm long is likely a blue unharmed as they are no take. But imagine nearly a meter of coral trout appearing behind a big popper, ps my engulfing in then turning back for a coral lair. Perha . favourite sight in all of fishing Comfortable both up on the flats and down amongst deep reef patches, green jobfish are a wonderful staple g of the outside reefs. Aggressive on the take and fightin rful wonde a have es -jobbi green doggedly to begin with, en set of dentures on them and glow a vivid blueish-gre when fresh from the water. With laser like strikes, jobfish Even smaller coral rarely miss their target, especially when feeding up on trout are veracious flats. After crash-tackling the lure, jobbies lunge off feeders the in sideways arching runs, they look fantastic and taste just fine.

On your guard

The OG of the outer coral reefs has to go to magnificent looking Maori Wrasse. These fish transition from a dull of assemblage of colours into a face tattooed spectacle s colour of ra pletho whole A s. green and blues, oranges pegs tooth gnarly big with brute flats a in er togeth n throw big and a dangerous attitude. Lure fisherman don’t catch be must they and res creatu numbers of these magnificent many d, hooke those Of sland.

Queen in med released unhar more battles are lost then won.

Wrasse quite often live in the reef cracks and patrol ps the shallow flats rubble, resting amongst coral outcro fish these of tail ful power huge The . as the move about a propels them down into structure. Once stuck behind of ays sidew sit e rock or under coral, these crafty wrass

30 THE TRADIE

Barrier beauties spot. upside down and use their fins to remain glued to the most but le possib is them ge dislod into diving times Some e. lures never return from an encounter with the big wrass rod the in length t decen some Large spinning outfits with is required and consider using 200lb leader! the Besides the odd mangrove jack that ventures out into ant domin the as mid reef patches, it tends to be reds bass lutjanid species on the outer reef. Residing in packs and known for climbing all over lures as soon as they touch down, red bass are super power ful fish. A typical fight on medium spin tackle will often see them find cover lly be multiple times. But with heavy leader they can norma are but fish tasty a like just look they as l extracted. Carefu risk. (toxin) era ciguat a as listed s, specie take a no

Another Ciguatera risk are Chinaman fish. Chinaman are an anomaly of a fish. Like a coral trout on steroids, these things can seriously pull line, scoffing at the claims other fish make as to the toughest critter on the reef. Starting out young, they are one of the prettiest fish on the reef, high fins and a scattering of , colours over light red. But as they grow old and gnarly little into off ing round and ening length their teeth pegs, Chinaman fish take on a deep red, angry faced appearance. t Chinaman fish show up often where you least expec and reefs r deepe the d aroun t caugh get them. Plenty shoals, often down at 30-50m. But I have seen some in grotesque sized fish, hiding up under coral bommies

Lightning fast strikes of mackerel chasing garfish

THE TRADIE 31

FEATURE

ait a couple of meters of water. A cast popper or stickb g disappearing behind a rock or a metal jig quickly gettin a of tors indica Beautiful Maori tugged back to the bottom are sure Wrasse lured up Chinaman fish on the end of a line. Plenty of battles are on the flats lost and they will literally fish themselves to a standstill.

Spanish mackerel are one of the mainstays for sport fisherman on the outer reefs and shoals right up the n Queensland east coast. They make an annual sojour but tion popula a as g shiftin , south and between north Even the wife's draw aining a few local residents right up the coast. can be raided to maint to be the most productive, also make flats lures! The winter months tend producing a better qualit y of fish. Nothing beats the sight of a missile-like mackerel snatching a lure from

jaws the surface as they clear the water by many meters, flailing. they Shark y mackerel are a common enough capture as nt curre and edges reef the d aroun ls schoo bait ise terror when ffs snip-o lines. They are responsible for plenty of casting small metal lures and offerings tied with mono s leader. They don’t grow as large as their Spanish cousin r popula as aren’t skin ling -smel shark y slightl a and with inspire for the table either. Oceanic queenfish don’t exactly ng dazzli have fish queen terror, however these long thing nsible respo are and teeth razor tiny cobalt colours and on the for eating more then their fare share of tiny baitfish outer reef.

A big green jobfish put up a great tussle

32 THE TRADIE

A double header of hard pulling Chinaman Fish

Sharp competition

e Giant barracuda are a little maligned up on the outsid ted of the Great Barrier Reef. They tend to be an unwan bycatch chasing more prized species. But there is no denying the fierceness of a huge ‘Cuda.’ Smashing a popper on the surface before jumping clear, gnashing for those fearsome teeth is a sight to behold. Not known to y quickl t bough be their staying power, barracuda can last With . begins r dange the the boat, but this is where minute zippy runs and wild antics called up by their long to slimy, slender frame, the danger usually comes trying take you If on. t caugh dislodge whatever lure they were , the chance to peer deep inside a giant Barracudas mouth fangs! insane check out the The only fish with scarier dentures then a giant cuda dile has to be the oceanic gar fish, also known as the croco little cing mena These dilus). croco urus (Tylos Long Tom and missiles grow over a meter long on the outer reef flats h enoug y unluck e anyon present a seriously hectic task to a sing dismis at rful maste are They to keep a hook in one. lure or fly, with a long bony, pointed snout, full of needle s like teeth. Affectionate called flats-marlin by lure caster e surfac ’s water the s as a joke, these fish cartwheel acros a only face A ting. retrea or when either giving chase mother could love and provider of more then a few scars on hands!

Like all these fish, it is a good ecological reminder to in treat all the same. Each species participates equally Just Reef. r Barrie Great the call we place ificent the magn a giant because you caught a Chinaman fish or red bass or al cod, try and give them just as much chance of surviv the in back them Get s. acros come as any other fish you them plunge to pt attem and time quick in e releas water for to off headfirst, it seems to make a huge difference as whether they swim off strongly or not.

A big blue spot trout with a fair set of dentures

The great journey

some of The outer Great Barrier Reef and Coral Sea presents There are Earth. on ns locatio fishing sport le arkab rem the most a few. but on ed so many big toothy critters we have only touch of sight within fishing when Besides being visually spectacular to ss vastne such and ure struct much so the reef, there is simply it all. If fish you see never could e lifetim one that system the reef the side of ever you want to feel truly alive for a moment, pop over city of water under an Watch reef. a boat on the edge of any outer activity unfolding. are Barracuda and sharks: Lumped together because they outer the of man most often despised in equal amounts by fisher ies. fisher y health very having reef. In Australia we benefit from s shark and cuda barra ngous humu of likes In other places, the we ally gener But . racing heart the get might lures e eating surfac and atic acrob the try avoiding both these specimens, along with scary looking alligator garfish (long toms).

The president of the razor gang, big wahoo

THE TRADIE 33

TRADIE PROFILE

It didn’t take long for brothers in-law Cam and Matt to realise they made the perfect team

e l b u o D

TROUBLE

Chippy duo talk building business From brothers in-law to brothers in-business – Matt and Cam show limitless potential with their carpentry business

SOMETIMES, FINDING things in common with your in-laws can be tough.

Not for Matt Sablinkis and Cam Fraser.

Matt had started dating Cam’s sister - Sarah just as he had finished his apprenticeship.

Cam followed not

long after in becoming a qualified chippy, and it didn’t take long for the for the bros to realise they’d make the ideal team.

“It started over a beery night where we said we should just work together,” Matt said.

Once they had decided to go out on their own, all

it took was another beer (or two) to come up with their company name: Limitless Build.

“We had another beery night to brainstorm names - if the name sounded good after a few compared to when we’re sober, then it’s a good name” Matt added.

THE TRADIE 35

TRADIE PROFILE

UP FOR ANYTHING Both Matt and Cam have been carpenters for a bit over 10 years, and it doesn’t look like they’re getting bored anytime soon.

“Everyday is different, we’re some place new day in, day out. Getting to experience all of melbourne,” Matt said.

“It’s really satisfying and rewarding driving past a house you built.”

Cam is a big fan of tackling challenges headon, and loved the obstacles he encountered as a carpenter everyday.

“It’s great solving problems on the fly as well,” he said.

“When you do renovations when you’re an apprentice and trying to figure out solutions on the fly is the hardest thing for every chippy.

“So when you’ve dealt

When they’re not on the tools, Cam’s hitting the gym, playing golf or helping raise five kids. Meanwhile, Matt loves getting out and about anywhere

36 THE TRADIE

with high energy situations like that, you can handle anything it almost feels like.

“I don’t get nearly as stressed on a normal day at all because of carpentry, and I’ve got newborn triplets as well as two more boys.”

Limitless Build really hit its stride during Covid, when demand for outdoor structures like pergolas skyrocketed.

Once things started to

settle down, Matt and Cam noticed their clientele shift towards more high-end residential builds.

“Covid really made us home in our business properly,” he said.

“Our original business model in 2022 was trying to be high-end outdoor living.

“But to grow your team, you kind of need feelers everywhere. So now, we do high-end residential as

well, and we’re doing it a lot more.”

THE WHOLE GANG Limitless Build has about 10 fulltime staff on deck, including Matt and Cam’s partners Sarah and Jaimee respectively working in the office.

One thing Matt and Cam said helped build their business substantially was bringing in a business coach.

Matt and Cam have plenty of Limitless Build prides itself on talented tradies on the team, offering quality builds, but also including leaders Jack ‘Ando’ top-notch customer engagement Anderson and Matt Cole ‘Cole Train’ apprentice Will Tull, Kyal Waldron Pat Jaworski and Jett Daniels.

THE TRADIE 37

TRADIE PROFILE

“Getting a business coach is the best thing we did,” Cam said.

“You can be the best chippy out there, but no one’s gonna teach you how to run a business on their dime – you’ve gotta figure it out for yourself.

“If you get someone in your corner the whole time, it’s a piece of cake.”

Matt said getting a coach helped give Cam and himself room to breathe and enjoy their life out of work.

“Coaching threw us in the deep end, but spat us out above everything else,” Matt said.

“It helped us get more family time too – the more we implemented certain things, the more time we had at home.”

Limitless Build’s main source of business is high-end residential builds across the greater Melbourne area

38 THE TRADIE

A healthy team mentality is another thing Matt and Cam believe has helped keep their business in good stead.

“We do six-month KPI meetings with each person to see how they’re doing, and we can them improve,” Matt said. “That’s why we like our team, we’re not just about work, we want to help grow your skills and teach you what we know.

“If you go somewhere else, that’s fine – we’ve helped to give you a path.

One of our dreams is to have a waiting list of people wanting to work with us.”

Cam echoed Matt’s statement, adding tradie mental health was a

huge area of focus for the team.

“We concentrate on our team mentality, including mental health,” he said.

“It’s really important to use that everyone gets along, but also that if there’s something stressing y ou out, we encourage people to talk about it.”

UP AND AT ‘EM Cam and Matt have been member of Carpentry Australia for about five years.

As well as helping set them up with a business coach, the pair said it was great to have an association geared purely to helping carpenters.

“They know how to improve the carpentry industry – they’ve been great with us,” “They’re just for carpenters, it’s great having someone in your corner like that.”

Matt and Cam are always looking ahead to how they can turn Limitless Build into a carpentry powerhouse.

While they love being out on the tools, Matt and Cam wanna get to a point where they can spend more time growing Limitless Build from behind the scenes.

“We wanna expand, but we don’t want to become some massive company,” Cam said.

“We’d love to build it to a point where Matt and

myself can do a lot more of running the company efficiently, making sure everyone’s happy and that we’ve got a great customer experience that they deserve.

“The more you go into building high-end projects, the more you need to give a customer experience that reflects that.

“A lot of that is done behind a computer, or making sure you’re bringing the client in to see the progress – communication is a massive part of Limitless Build.”

You can find more about Limitless Build at limitlessbuild.com. au or @limitlessbuild on Instagram.

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FEATURE

Track ! s r a t s

iS lver bullet

Yamaha’s 30th Anniversary e-Bike will make you a gun rider

40 THE TRADIE

STEPPING OFF a normal mountain bike and onto an e-Bike is a moment you never forget. After years of sweating up hills, the feeling of an invisible hand on your back as you now glide up is something that you can get very used to.

Speak to the many e-Bikers out on the trails and they’ll tell you “Yeah nah, not going back to analog any time soon” as they happily admit their old pedal-powered

MTB is sitting in the garage gathering dust. Or on Gumtree.

Yamaha is more famous for motorcycles but way back in 1993 the Japanese firm developed a Pedal Assist System.

This consisted of a small centrally-located motor that chimed in to help the pedalling action of the rider in a natural way. Now pretty much all e-Bikes use the same system. And to celebrate the achievement,

Yamaha first perfected its small and centrally located motor 30 years, now you can find it pretty much everywhere

Yamaha has introduced the 30th Anniversary Edition of its YDX-Moro 07 e-MTB. MARKING A MILESTONE The bike comes with a polished frame and 30th Anniversary badge, otherwise specs are the same as the standard Icon Blue model. Which is no bad thing. Yamaha was at the Australian launch at Wylde MTB Park in Western Sydney,

Yamaha’s epic 30th Anniversary YDX-Moro 07 is capped off by its polished appearance and celebratory badge

THE TRADIE 41

FEATURE

where it brought along its MX and road racers to demonstrate the quick way around the trails.

Now the polished twin spar aluminium frame brings the Moro even closer to its pistonpowered dirt bikes.

Yamaha’s patented Dual Twin design combines hydroforming and forging techniques to create a frame that protects components with uncompromised riding control. And at the heart of the beast beats the new PW-X3 mid-drive

motor – Yamaha’s smallest and lightest to date. The PW-X3 provides class leading power to weight ratio with jaw dropping responsiveness and smooth power delivery.

A 500Wh battery provides 85Nm of power that is delivered in a wide variety of modes including ECO, Standard, High, the unique and natural feeling MTB mode, Extra-Power, Automatic and Walk Assist. The battery can be recharged to 80 per cent in an hour and 100 per cent in four hours.

ALL GEARED UP YDX-Moro 07 is an enduro e-MTB that sports 27.5in wheels and comes in small, medium and large frame sizes. It features RockShox suspension with a generous 160mm front and 150mm rear travel, a slick shifting Shimano XT 12-speed drivetrain, cable-operated dropper

seat post and four piston caliper Magura brakes for one finger stopping.

The 30th Anniversary YDX-Moro 07 is keenly priced at $9099 inc GST ready to ride and is bound to appeal to riders who already own a Yamaha or who dream of doing so – the ideal machine to enjoy a convenient and regular

check out the 30th Anniversary YDX-Moro 07e

thrill ride with minimal noise on trails close to home.

But be warned – one ride and your old MTB may up in the shed or on EBay… Moro is available from Yamaha dealers and they are offering a low one per cent finance rate on both models until the end of the year.

Or see the movie here

W C

N Hard to believe we’ve been rocketing around tracks on Yamaha bikes for 30 years

N

1

*L S

42 THE TRADIE

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TRADIE PROFILE

Farbod, his brother Fred and father Amin have grown APMG Services into a company of about 25 people

Family portrait MPAV member Farbod discusses building a business Starting up a family business from scratch is no small feat. Farbod Mollaei gives The Tradie a glimpse into how small-time painting can go gangbusters

44 THE TRADIE

While APMG started as a purely painting operation, it quickly expanded its services due to high demand

FARBOD COMES from a family of painters. His father - Amin has been painting for 46 years since he was a teenager, and brother Fred is also a qualified painter.

“He [Amin] had his mum and two sisters to look after, so he took that responsibility,” Farbod added.

Farbod himself decided to enter the world of business management, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in that field.

“It dawned on me, however that I had to become a painter and get involved somehow,” the 29-year-old said.

DOWN TO BUSINESS Farbod, Amin and Fred started out working for

other people, but realised between them, they could accomplish more.

“We were doing a lot of work for other people, so we go to a point where we were like ‘screw it’, we can do this ourselves,” Farbod said.

With his business expertise, Farbod initially went out with his father purely to get quotes on jobs.

It was at that point Farbod felt the itch both his father and brother had for painting.

“I realised I can’t just be going around all the time just to do quotes – I don’t mind getting my hands dirty,” he said.

“So I went out and did an apprenticeship course.”

DIFFERENT STROKES Six years have passed, and the trio have their pride and joy in APMG Services.

While the business started out focussing on painting, Farbod said the demand for other services grew quickly.

He said clients would ask about issues such as water and weatherboard damages.

“Now, we have full-time handymen, carpenters and other non-fulltime workers like sparkies or plumbers,” Farbod said.

APMG Services is based in Melbourne’s east and handles facility maintenance for various businesses in the Melbourne area.

This includes some of the biggest aged care and

Farbod said being a member of MPAV came with tonnes of benefits, including assistance with estimates on jobs

THE TRADIE 45

TRADIE PROFILE

APMG’s job portfolio spans across the Melbourne area, and includes some of the largest aged care and childcare companies in Australia

childcare operators in the nation.

All up – including contractors – APMG has about 25 employees from tradies to admin staff.

So, where does Farbod fall into this picture?

“Everyone calls me the guy who doesn’t do anything, which does my head in,” he joked.

“From the painting side, I’m very involved with quoting jobs and the likes.

I also help in running the day-to-day stuff in the office.

“I work with the General 46 THE TRADIE

Manager to iron out the strengths and weaknesses and plan the growth of the business.”

APMG Services has done plenty of growing in the past 12 months – including adding professional gardening to its offerings – but Farbod said there’s always plans to go bigger and better.

“I always need something to keep me on my toes, we already have a few feelers out on how we can take the business to the next level,” he said.

KEEPING COATED Since his painting days, Farbod has been a member of the Master Painters Association of Victoria.

He said when he first joined up, he was the youngest member of the association at the time.

Sufficed to say, Farbod hasn’t regretted signing up to MPAV whatsoever.

“I’ve used MPAV a lot from quoting and estimating on jobs,” he said.

“I’ve done all the courses they’ve offered including

lead painting and some of the business courses.

“It’s definitely worth spending that membership fee. If you’re involved, you get the value of that back pretty soon after joining.”

Farbod added that the association became a crucial resource for his painting business when it came to keeping in the loop during the pandemic.

“It’s a great association, during Covid we had so many issues with rules and regulations coming into effect,” he said.

“There was simply no way for us to be able to follow it.

“MPAV was able to take all these rules that were changing every day, and filter all the things that were related to painter.

“Rather than a 10-page document, they were able to condense it to a twoparagraph email to know what rules applied to us.”

You can find out more about APMG and its services at apmgservices. com.au or by calling 1300 979 740

It didn’t take long for Farbod to fall in love with painting, having been surrounded by painters in his family from an early age

THE TRADIE 47

TOOL UP!

The trimmer uses Bosch’s powerful 18V batteries, which are used across its Professional range of power tools and accessories

Short back and sides

The ultimate trim with Bosch GFR 18V-23 2-in-1 Line Trimmer and Brushcutter TRADIES CAN expect the ultimate in power and simplicity when they pick up Bosch’s new 18V

2-in-1 Brushcutter and Line Trimmer.

With summer in full swing, the need for an

efficient trimmer for outdoor jobs is a must.

Utilitising Bosch’s awesome 18V Li-ion

Power and simple – the 2-in-1 Brushcutter and Line Trimmer makes lawncare a piece of cake

batteries and chargers, the trimmer is able to carve through lawn without drama for extended periods.

SIMPLE AS The trimmer’s lightweight – yet durable – aluminium motor housing and overall robust design is perfect for tradies who want a comfortable and ergonomic tool for lawncare and landscaping.

Controlling RPM is easy with precise adjustments ranging between 4500 to 6400 min-1. Bosch’s Anti-Tangle feature also

The how-to’s Bosch has made it as easy as possible for tradies to made adjustments to the cutting line or remove the cover

REMOVING COVER: To inspect the line or remove debris from the line trimmer head, gently press the sides to release the cover, allowing it to be easily removed.

When reattaching the cover, make sure the tabs align with the slots and firmly press it in until you hear a distinct click sound.

EXTENDING CUTTING LINE: As the line becomes shorter due to cutting, you can easily extend it by tapping the trimmer spool on the ground while the tool is running.

This ‘bump feed’ mechanism will dispense approximately 10mm of line on each side of the spool.

If the line has broken near the eyelet, repeat the tapping process several times to reach the full 33 cm diameter for effective cutting.

48 THE TRADIE

TOOL UP!

just a trim!

THE TRADIE 49

TOOL UP!

atch W o t n a c S Tradie the gh Test Tou

The 2-in-1 Brushcutter and Line Trimmer has an impressive cutting diameter of 23cm, and the Pro-Tap spool can extend that to 33cm

50 THE TRADIE

makes an appearance in this trimmer, making your experience even smoother.

The feature is a smart innovation that takes a tradie’s trimming experience to the next level. It proactively manages blockages, such as those caused by grass or vines, to ensure all obstructions are avoided when working. When a blockage is sensed, the tool automatically reverses the spool in an anti-clockwise direction for three seconds to clear it. Once the blockage is successfully removed, the tool seamlessly resumes its operation in a clockwise direction.

Tradies benefit from this with uninterrupted and hassle-free trimming,

increased efficiency, and faster task completion without interruptions.

Anti-Tangle eliminates the need to stop work, power off the tool, or manually clear grass or debris in case of blockages, saving time and effort.

SPOOL ‘EM UP This trimmer also boasts Bosch’s EasyWind Spool design.

This feature offers a user-friendly feeding and winding feature that eliminates the need to disassemble the head for maintenance.

Unlike head units with enclosed components like springs, the EasyWind design reduces the risk of losing small parts during maintenance.

With its streamlined

design, changing the line becomes a quicker and simpler process, as there’s no need to navigate the challenging task of threading the line through the inside.

Say goodbye to tedious and time-consuming line changes, even with a spring-loaded head, thanks to the hassle-free design of the EasyWind Spool.

POWER AND PRECISION The trimmer sports a potent brushless motor, ensuring powerful performance.

Its constant electronics guarantee continuous brushcutting, even when handling demanding tasks.

With a precision Laser Cut blade, it offers a substantial cutting diameter of 23cm.

Additionally, the Pro-Tap spool extends the cutting diameter to an impressive 33cm, allowing for even greater application.

Despite all this power, Bosch’s trimmer doesn’t produce noise over 90db* making for a trim that’s soft on the ears.

Check it out Find out more by searching Bosch GFR 18V-23 2-in-1 Line Trimmer and Brushcutter online.

M d

TOOL UP!

Powered up Fully charged with DEWALT Petrol Powered Generators EXPERIENCE the ultimate in power generation with DEWALT Petrol Power Generators. Our range is Guaranteed Tough®, ensuring that you can take on even the most demanding tasks in any situation. Whether you’re facing a sudden

power outage, working on a remote job site, or embarking on an outdoor adventure, our generators provide the reliable energy you need.

Crafted to withstand the harshest conditions, these generators are engineered for heavy-duty

use. Powered by DEWALT engines, they deliver high performance with the added peace of mind of built-in low-oil shutdown protection.

But that’s not all; when you choose DEWALT, you’re choosing durability and quality.

Our generators are backed by a three-year warranty, reflecting our commitment to your satisfaction and the longevity of our products.

Don’t let power interruptions hold you back. Trust DEWALT

Petrol Power Generators for dependable energy, whatever the situation.

Never go without power again.

DEWALT Petrol Power Generators last the test of time for tradies, and are backed by a threeyear warranty

Check it out For more info go to Dewalt.com.au.

Discover the unseen.

Optimal solution for long-term measurement on refrigeration, air conditioning systems & heat pumps.

Meet the testo 570s digital manifold • • •

360 hours battery life Suitable for use also with A3 & A2L refrigerants Intelligent error analysis in the testo Smart App

Also featured in our new Heat Pump kit (03) 4100 0438 testo.com.au With local service and calibration.

Discover the unseen.

Available at your local Authorised Testo Dealer.

TOOL UP!

Get chopping

The most powerful battery-powered chainsaw in the world STIHL’S AP BATTERY system welcomes two new highly-anticipated additions to the range

52 THE TRADIE

this year; the MSA 300 C-O battery powered chainsaw, and the AP 500 S battery, which is the

power behind it.

Designed with forestry professionals and arborists in mind,

the MSA 300 C-O sets a new benchmark in performance as the most powerful battery chainsaw in STIHL‘s growing battery range, and makes light work of felling, crosscutting and limbing larger trees.

With plenty of torque and a battery capable of delivering 3kW of power, the MSA 300 C-O cuts quickly through large pieces of timber

and is comparable in performance to the popular MS 261 C-M. The STIHL MSA 300 C-O comes standard with the 16” Light 04 guide bar but it’s also available with a 14 or 18” bar too (just like the MS 261 C-M).

The RS Pro chain cuts 20 per cent faster than the standard Rapid Super (RS) chainsaw chain due to the narrower kerf of the teeth, maximising the amount of

The MSA 300 C-O is one of the latest chainsaws to benefit from STIHL’s powerful AP 500 S battery

The AP 500 S is a massive upgrade on all levels for battery powered STIHL - the #1 selling chainsaw brand worldwide

THE TRADIE 53

TOOL UP!

chops away!

The RS Pro chain helps the MSA 300 C-O cut 20 per cent faster than your standard Rapid Super chain

work achievable on each charge.

The new STIHL AP 500 S battery is one of five batteries in the AP system, and is the powerhouse behind the MSA 300 C-O’s world class performance. It’s the first battery in the AP System to use laminated battery cells capable of delivering a significantly higher power output of 3kW, whilst also lasting up to 2400 full cycles.

FULLY POWERED The AP 500 S battery is compatible with every other AP System tool, with around 20 per 54 THE TRADIE

cent longer working times compared to the AP 300 S. The AP 500 S has STIHL Connected integrated into the battery housing too, meaning you’ll always know how much work the battery’s done when used with the STIHL Connected App, regardless of which machine you use it with.

The maximum chain speed of the battery powered MSA 300 can be adjusted to three levels ranging between 24 and 30 m/s and is controlled using an easy to reach button. This allows the user to match

the power required to the job at hand and maximise the battery performance.

STIHL recommends level 1 for cutting small logs, and level 3 for snedding or important felling cuts. The bright LED light makes it clear which power level is in use.

The MSA 300 C-O is STIHL’s first battery powered chainsaw with a full anti-vibration system. Thanks to this, the MSA 300 C-O is extremely comfortable to use and has the lowest vibration figures across all our battery and petrol-powered rear handle chainsaws.

Additionally, the STIHL MSA 300 C-O includes all the features you’d expect from a professional STIHL chainsaw – captive sprocket nuts, an adjustable chain oil pump, a tool free oil cap and durable, long-lasting magnesium components.

DETAILED DATA Finally, the STIHL MSA 300 C-O is ready for use with Smart Connector 2

A, an intelligent meter that transmits useful data from the machine to the user’s phone using the STIHL Connected App, including the total runtime, the runtime history, and even a record of which power levels have been used.

The MSA 300 C-O comes in four versions and will be available from November only at your local STIHL Dealer.

Check it out Contact your local STIHL Dealer to find out more!

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DO YOU KNOW A DRIVER OF CHANGE?

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The Women in Industry Awards recognise outstanding women leaders from across Australia’s industrials sector.

TOOL UP!

What the Spark Power tool accessories from Crescent APEX keep tradies covered TRADIES – especially sparkies – are no strangers to electrical safety. They’re part of the 54 per cent of the workforce who work around live electricity every day.

A further 62 per cent use battery-powered impact tools and 87 per cent have experienced shocks while on construction jobs.

Tradies need to know their tools and accessories have their back when it comes to electrical safety.

56 THE TRADIE

ENTER CRESCENT APEX “Most tools in this category are insulated, not isolated, and the difference is massive,” Crescent APEX Product Manager Mary Hughey said.

“Our eSHOK-GUARD power tool accessories are the only power tool accessories on the market that isolate an electrical current, preventing it from ever reaching the person using it.”

Combining safety and convenience – Crescent

APEX’s eSHOK-GUARD Isolated Bit Holder and Socket Isolators are UL classified for isolation up to 1,000 volts DC and 1,500 volts AC. They’re perfect for tradies working on circuit breakers, appliance installation and repair or even HVAC system work.

The Isolated Bit Holder is your go-to for keeping screws snug with its handy magnetic tip.

Switching bits is a breeze thanks to the easy-to-use retaining ring, and it plays nice with impact drivers and drills, thanks to the ¼-inch hex shank.

Now, onto the Socket Isolators in ¼”, 3/8”, and ½” sizes – they’re built tough for heavy-duty impact jobs.

Plus, the ball detent

The ESHOK-GUARD Isolated Bit Holder & Socket Isolators are designed to stand between you and 1000 volts

makes popping in and out sockets a piece of cake.

ABOUT CRESCENT APEX AND APEX TOOL GROUP Crescent stands as a leading brand within Apex Tool Group, a prominent global manufacturer of hand tools.

The extensive product range encompasses Crescent® adjustable wrenches, mechanics’ hand tools and sets, Crescent Wiss® snips, scissors, shears, knives, and trade tools, Crescent Lufkin® measuring tapes,

rules, wheels, and chalk reels, Crescent Nicholson® files and saws, Crescent H.K. Porter® heavy-duty cutting products.

Apex Tool Group, LLC ranks among the largest producers worldwide of industrial hand and power tools, tool storage, drill chucks, chain, and electronic soldering products.

Apex caters to diverse global markets, including automotive, aerospace, electronics, energy, hardware, industrial, and consumer retail.

Check it out For additional information, please visit www.crescenttool.com.au

TOOL UP!

Ultimate chuck Alemlube’s Lock-On Air Chuck has tradies breathing a sigh of relief IF THERE’S one thing that drives tradies nuts when on the road, it’s a low tyre.

Whether you’re driving all day going from site-tosite, or going off-road for a bit of 4x4ing, checking your tyres conveniently has been but a pipedream.

Not with Alemlube and

Sturdy design with air-tight locking features make Alemlube’s Lock-On Air Chuck a reliable piece

its latest Lock-On Air Chuck.

LOCK AND LOAD The core of the Alemlube Lock-On Air Chuck’s design lies in its Trigger Activated Lock-On Mechanism, a patented innovation that lets you

secure the air chuck onto the tyre valve or release it with a mere squeeze of the trigger. The days of struggling with unwieldy attachments or wrestling with troublesome valves are a thing of the past; this air chuck offers a straightforward clip-on/clip-off action that’s brimming with convenience. Once the Lock-On Air Chuck is locked onto the valve, you no longer need to hold it in place during inflation and/or deflation. This means tradies are free to go about other tasks.

Be it a car tyre, a bicycle tyre, or any inflatable, this air chuck streamlines the process, introducing a new level of ease.

ON THE TRIGGER The Lock-On Air Chuck also boasts a leak-free sprung-loaded seal.

This sturdy TPU seal guarantees a secure

and airtight connection, preventing bothersome air leaks during inflation.

Regardless of whether you’re inflating tyres for daily work or preparing for an off-road adventure, the Lock-On Air Chuck won’t waste a single breath of air.

What sets this tool apart even further is its design.

The Alemlube Lock-On Air Chuck is constructed tough for tradies, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of frequent use. Its rugged design is also corrosionresistant, which extends the air chuck’s lifespan and performance, even in challenging conditions.

This is a tool that’s built to last, providing consistent reliability. It also sports a Hardened Steel Collet,

tailored to fit standard Schrader valves with VG8/8Vl valve threads.

READY TO ROLL The Lock-On Air Chuck’s sliding sleeve securely locks the air chuck onto the Schrader valve. Once you attach it, it stays in place, providing peace of mind during inflation and/ or deflation. No more worries about accidental disconnections or leaks—this air chuck means business. Portable air hoses have always been hit or miss, but not with Alemlube’s latest attachment. The Lock-On Air Chuck gives tradies peace of mind whether on-site, in the bush or on the beach that their tyres are looked after.

Check it out Tradies can find out more online.

D E K O O H

UP!

THE TRADIE 57

TOOL UP!

Tight as on the tools Warren & Brown 100-Teeth Ratchet Sets: A Must-Have for Any Workshop WARREN & BROWN is known for its innovative and high-quality tools, and its 100-Teeth Ratchet Sets are no exception. These ratchets are made with precision and power in mind, making them ideal for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.

One of the key features of the 100-Teeth Ratchet Sets is their super strong high tooth gear.

This gear has 90-100 teeth per ratchet, compared to the 60-70 teeth found in most other ratchets. This gives Warren & Brown’s ratchets unmatched precision and torque, making them perfect for even the most challenging jobs.

Another key feature is the aluminum handle design. This design makes the ratchets lightweight and easy to handle, even for 58 THE TRADIE

extended periods of time. The quick release lock also makes it easy to change sockets quickly and efficiently.

LOCKED IN The 100-Teeth Ratchet Sets are available in a variety of lengths, ranging from 150mm to 400mm. This makes it easy to find the right ratchet for any job, whether you’re working in a tight space or need a longer reach.

If you’re looking for a set of ratchets that will deliver precision and power, the Warren & Brown 100-Teeth Ratchet Sets are the perfect choice.

If you need even more

flexibility and precision, Warren & Brown also offers a 100-Teeth Swivel Ratchet Set. These ratchets have a round swivel head that pivots through a 180-degree range. This makes it easy to reach fasteners in difficult-to-access areas.

SORTED NO MATTER WHAT The 100-Teeth Swivel Ratchet Set is available in the same three drive sizes and lengths as the standard 100-Teeth Ratchet Set, so you can find the right ratchet for any job.

Whether you’re a professional mechanic or a DIY enthusiast, Warren & Brown 100-Teeth Ratchet Sets are a musthave for your toolkit.

These ratchets offer precision, power, and versatility that you can’t find anywhere else.

The 100-Teeth Ratchet Sets have tradies covered no matter your ratchet needs

Check it out Order your set today at wbtools.com.au and experience the Warren & Brown difference!

T S I T W’N ’ T U RN

TOOL UP! The testo 570s digital manifold for long term measurements & super long battery life

Fully connected Tech-savvy tradies: prepare to be blown away by the testo 570s

Compare multiple quotes

Protect your business instantly

WHEN IT COMES to keeping tabs on refrigeration, air conditioning systems, and heat pumps over a long time, spotting sneaky problems isn’t always easy. That’s why Testo has cooked up the new testo 570s digital manifold with its nifty error-spotting capabilities. It’s like having a trusty sidekick that never misses a beat.

The testo 570s boasts a super long battery life – a whopping 360 hours. It’s perfect for handling both extended measurements and quick jobs during the workweek.

EASY AND ACCURATE Modern tradies will love the ease of use they get from the testo Smart App. The app allows you to quickly detect issues and anomalies, as well as record and report on long term measurements.

The Smart App isn’t the only modern asset to the testo 570s, with the manifold also able to wirelessly measure temperature, vacuum, pressure, and current with Bluetooth probes – no fuss, no wires.

It’s also a precision pro – even on low pressure readings – due to the testo 570s’ measuring accuracy of 0.25 per cent full scale.

Check it out Check out testo.com.au (HVAC/R) for more

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TESTO TOUGH The testo 570s amongst the other Testo manifolds are the ultimate tools for a tradie. The 570s isn’t the only top tool from Testo that can help tradies, however.

These manifolds are part of new Testo heat pump kits, which help provide comprehensive measurements.

These kits come with a number of helpful tools for effective heat pump maintenance, such as a clamp thermometer which can be operated via your smartphone.

TRADIE PROFILE

Camila the Caulker (from Colombia) tells her story Caulking isn’t what led Camila Bernal to Australia, but it’s definitely what’s kept her here. The Insta sensation talks relocating, The Block and why she loves being tradie

g n i s i u cr

with caulkers

60 THE TRADIE

CAMILA ORIGINALLY moved to Australia nearly nine years ago for her studies. Like many of us, the 31-year-old needed to work while studying.

But a job in hospitality wasn’t for Camila, and a tradie friend suggested she enter the awesome world of caulking.

“It’s Monday-Friday, 7am-3pm, it’s better money – and I thought actually, that all sounded pretty good,” she said.

CAULK IT UP Of course, the shift from student to tradie is never easy, but Camila had a tonne of things working against her.

“The first one being English was my second language,” she said.

“I was not in Colombia, I was an international student.

For me, the language was a big barrier.

“I’d show up to a jobsite, people would give me instructions and I wouldn’t understand half of what they said to me.”

Camila also knew coming from Colombia had certain stigmas about it, something she was quick to disprove.

“Being from Colombia, all the conversations in the jobsite would start with ‘oh, you’re from Colombia! … the drugs … the cocaine … Pablo Escobar!’,” she said.

“It was very challenging at the beginning, I thought it was really annoying. Now, I’ve learnt not to take it personally.

“I tell people there’s more the Colombia than that, and if someone is really disrespectful, I make sure they know they shouldn’t talk like that.”

As well as being a talented caulker, Camila is a qualified professional graphic designer, which she says helps her creative flare as a tradie

Camila also spent time in Cambodia last year volunteering to help build a home for a vulnerable family

An lastly, Camila was entering an industry that’s still very much a male tradie’s world.

Despite all this, Camila took the bull by the horns and tackled all the challenges that came her way.

“It was an amazing experience,” she said.

“I’ve learned how to handle these things and try not to take things personally.

“I started learning the trade, I started being more comfortable being in a male-dominated environment – the way I started feeling about myself made them respect me more.”

SEALED, SIGNED AND DELIVERED More than seven years later, and Camila has fully cemented herself into the caulking community.

After working for various people across her early days, Camila started an Instagram to catalogue all her jobs in a portfolio.

However, she noticed followers were coming in droves to see her collection of caulking content.

“I started with nothing, then I kept getting followers,” Camila said.

“People started coming to me there for work, but I could THE TRADIE 61

TRADIE PROFILE

Camila was nominated for two EWIT awards last year, and three this year - Tradie Lady of The Year, Tradie Trailblazer, and Culture Change Maker

62 THE TRADIE

only do weekends because I was working full-time for another company as well.

“I got to the point where I said hang on – I’ve got so much work coming in that I can probably just do my own thing.”

And so Camila the Caulker was born.

With a catchy business name like that, there was no stopping her. Her business mainly comes in the form of high-end domestic caulking, with jobs coming from all directions seeking Camila’s caulking capabilities.

Camila is one of a growing number of tradies using social media – particularly Instagram – as a way to promote their awesome work.

“I don’t have a website, I don’t pay for advertising, I don’t have anything,” she said.

“I get 85 per cent of my jobs through Instagram, from builders, tradies, or just even everyday people – they all message me through Instagram asking about jobs.

“My Instagram works well by itself, it’s a really important tool for me. I put a lot of time and love into it.”

Not only has Camila found Insta to be an awesome tool for getting work, but also a way to connect with other tradies and help promote other sides of the industry as well.

“It’s been an amazing networking platform too … it’s how we can support each other,” she said.

“If I’m on a job, I like to promote the painter, the tiler, the electrician etc.

“It’s really nice because it makes everyone feel supported in the industry.”

CELEBRITY CAULKING It wasn’t long before Camila’s social media prowess got the attention of hit homebuilding TV sensation The Block on Channel NINE. Camila threw a shot in the dark by dm’ing The Block on Instagram, thinking her message would get lost with thousands like it.

But not long after hitting send, Camila was called by the producers who needed a talented caulker for the show.

“I was driving in the morning – just another day – and I got this phone call from the people from The Block.

They’d seen what I had done on Instagram, and they wanted me to do work on the show,” she said.

Camila helped out on sites for the 2022 season, and helped put the finishing touches on homes this year to help prep them for selling.

“This season, I was contacted by contestants and builders on the show,” she said.

“Three of them I had to say no to because of how much work I have – I only have two hands!

e v i t a e r c

c a u l k in g

“I ended up doing all five houses after the show had finished.

“They wanted me to help finish up on the beautiful houses to have them ready to sell.”

STANDING STRONG As well as being a kick-ass caulker from Colombia, Camila is an ambassador for Empowered Women in Trades (EWIT) – a women tradies advocacy group.

From her own experiences acclimatising to the tradie life, Camila said she’s often asked to speak to fellow women in trades to help encourage them to stick with it.

“I was talking to one of my clients the other day, and they said if they had employees, they’d love to have a female team,” Camila said.

“It’s really nice to hear people say ‘I need a female painter’ – they want to see more girls on tools.

“I’m not someone who says women are better, because there’s amazing men doing amazing things.

“But I think the industry is changing a lot and I fully

support more women in trades, 100 per cent.”

Camila was nominated for three awards at the EWIT Gala Night Awards on February 24. She said while she loves getting props for her caulking regularly, being nominated for these awards meant something more.

“A very important thing for me is that I’m not just seen as a company – Camilla the Caulker,” she said.

“I feel like I’m doing something meaningful with the industry, I’m getting contacted by a lot of people who want to share my story and help inspire others not only from Australia but also from all around the world and show them that with hard work and dedication, anyone can make their dreams come true.

“I feel like it’s more than just offering caulking, it’s talking to other women in trades to help inspire more to take up the tools.”

Camila the Caulker is based in Melbourne, doing a lot of work in the city’s west

You can find more about Camila and her work @camilathecaulker on Instagram.

THE TRADIE 63

TRADIE PROFILE

Chirping chippie Former tradie-turned-comedian shares why tradies have the best material 64 THE TRADIE

Images: Anneliese Nappa

Luke is a proud Queenslander through and through

T RADIE BANTER! Tradies are hilarious, we all know that.

Comedian – and former tradie – Luke Heggie’s heard his fair share of tradie humour, and he’ll be sharing plenty of it in his upcoming tour LUKE’S WORKED a few jobs in his time. And by a few, we mean 80-odd.

The Brisbane-born charismatic comic has worked in restaurants, kitchens, bottle shops, and as a security guard, a forklift operator and even a snow maker.

“I had the odd office job, which I absolutely hated,” Luke said.

But what’s been his favourite job other than his current gig? Gotta be tradie.

“They’re the funniest blokes we have in the country,” Luke said.

“They’re on-site, sledging each other all day.

“It passes the time of day, some of the funniest blokes I’ve met have been tradies, they just don’t have the wherewithal to get on stage to be comedians.

“I’ve always enjoyed the mateship aspect of it. Even when you’re on a terrible job there’s always someone there who’s on the same wavelength who you can have a laugh with.

“If it wasn’t for that, I don’t know why anyone would sign up for a lifetime of hard work and not find some fun.”

lot of countries you are bottom of the run and considered on the lower end of society.

“It’s completely turned around here.”

From working at the bottle-o to making snow, Luke’s life has gone in many colourful directions

Grogan 2024 Melbourne International Comedy Festival MARCH 27 – APRIL 21

Perth Comedy Festival MAY 3

Sydney Comedy Festival MAY 17 & MAY 18

BIT OF A LAFF While never fully qualified in any trade, Luke’s regularly found himself helping on sites.

“I mostly did carpentry stuff, but of an unqualified nature,” he said.

“Since starting comedy, I know a few builders and someone – who’s a great patron to the arts – put me on as a builder and let me

shoot off when I wanted to do gigs.”

“I’ve only just stopped that in the last year and half.”

Working in various jobs across the globe, Luke’s seen plenty in his time.

But one thing he loves about Aussies is the tradie lifestyle.

“It’s much more celebrated here than I’ve

seen anywhere else – it becomes an identity,” he added.

“You see all the young blokes getting nice utes to look the part, I suppose it ties in with the Aussie dream of wanting to own and build a house.

“People do respect tradies a lot more here and you can get paid pretty well here too, whereas a

ON THE GROG(AN) In Luke’s upcoming tour – named Grogan – he’ll be drawing from the hilarious banter he’s heard chirped by tradies in his time.

“I’m not gonna lift someone’s complete story, but some of the words and phrases they use and the general attitude toward life is a really rich vein when it comes to comedy,” he said.

“Just the way some of these blokes think – there’s still the old guard there, but it has changed a lot.

“There was a real stigma around builders being old school bigots and catcalling women … I think that’s a thing of the past.

“It’s a different environment, it’s not as ‘tough’ as it used to be which is a good thing.”

As for the tour name Grogan well, you’ll have to find that out for yourself.

“It’s a bit of a wink and a nudge to the old language,” Luke said.

“I grew up in Queensland, and we used to say it all the time, but I don’t hear it much anymore so, dare I say, I don’t think anyone knows what it is.

“It’s just a bunch of stand up about things that have annoyed me in the last 12 months since the last time I did a show, basically.”

THE TRADIE 65

TRADIE

gh touTESTS

Ultimate

Y T I L I VISIB Bosch’s GLL 50 G Professional laser levelling tool

Tradies needing an upgrade in their laser measuring tech need look no further than Bosch’s latest GLL 50 G Professional. This measuring tool sports all the latest specs that will have your tradie mates green with envy

BRAND:

66 THE TRADIE

THE GLL 50 G is the latest iteration from the GLL 30 G Professional, and it’s an upgrade in every way.

For this test, we hit up chippy Nebal Abilmona from Sealand Building, who noticed right away how much more accurate, clear and durable this was compared to his previous distance measurers.

TEST #1: GREEN MACHINE Nebal put the GLL 50 G through its paces, using it for installing door, window, hand rail and cabinet installations. It is also perfect for non-carpentry purposes such as plumbing or electrical installation as well as tiling purposes.

The GLL 50 G has a measuring accuracy of +/0.6mm/m – in other words, it’s insanely accurate.

“We’ve used it for multiple applications, what I love is the two-line laser which means you can clearly see vertical and horizontal lines,” Nebal said.

“It’s got a range of 15m, and that awesome level of accuracy is maintained throughout that distance.”

Bocsh has gone with a green laser with this device, which compared to the red lasers of yesteryear, is way easier on the eyes.

“It’s got a very powerful beam … it’s thin but very clear,” Nebal added.

Even from its max distance of 15m, the green laser measurer was ultra clear

Being a carpenter, Nebal would mostly use this device for measuring door, window, and cabinetry installations

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“You can see it in a light room, you can see it clearly in a dark room – it’s great.”

Adding to this powerful beam is the GLL 50 G’s smart pendulum system. This feature allows the measurer to self-level and it will flash if the device somehow becomes out-of-level.

TEST #2: LIGHT AND EASY One major benefit Nebal noted with the GLL 50 G is its compact size.

“It’s definitely not your traditional laser that you lug around from site to site,” he said.

“This laser level is small, compact and light. It fits in your toolbox and you can chuck it on your passenger seat.”

Despite its size, the GLL 50 G its protected by a thick rubber casing with an IP 55 rating protecting it from dust and water jets.

Another plus of not being a ‘traditional laser’ is the GLL 50 G’s ease of use. You can take it straight out of the box, flick the massive ‘on’ switch and away you go.

Like all things Bosch, the battery is another huge plus here. The GLL 50 G has a dual battery system, meaning it can take either or both alkaline batteries or a rechargeable Li-Ion battery pack*.

Nebal loved having options when it came to batteries and being able to charge the Li-Ion battery pack and still use the measurer with alkaline batteries.

ULTIMATE GREEN LANTERN As far as laser measurers go, Bosch’s GLL 50 G Professional keeps things simple for tradies.

It’s durable, no-nonsense and accurate as Nebal points out in this review.

He particularly loved using it on measuring out bulkheads and cabinets.

“Lasers are awesome if we’re doing bulkheads, this was easy to setup and measure for those bigger tasks,” Nebal said.

“All-in-all, my favourite thing about this laser is how small, but powerful it is.”

The laser level is small, compact and light 1

Nebal was ecstatic about how accurate the GLL 50 G Professional was

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The GLL 50 G Professional also comes with the 1/4” tread allowing the tradies to fit it up on tripod and get to work

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Small, durable and feature a clear on/ off switch, the GLL 50 G is as simple as it is powerful

Durable, no-nonsense and accurate as anything

CHECK IT OUT Find out more by searching the new Bosch GLL 50 G Professional laser measuring tool online. *Sold separately

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P A R T S In

Tradies spending all day on the tools need two things for their feet: comfort and durability.

DEWALT has come through here in spades with its latest Akron PROComfort Work Boot, which delivers tonnes of awesome features in spades

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Reece loved the laces, the strap and YKK side zip on the boots, and said they made his feet feel very secure

Between the steel toe cap, and the TPU toe cap bumper guide, these boots have tradie toes covered

WE’RE NO stranger to DEWALT’s PROComfort collection of boots, and the Akron boot comes through once again.

We had our carpenter mate Reece Porter from Form Concreting try on these boots while he was working on an outdoor site in Mornington, which included a pool.

He ran it through tonnes of different environments, and thanks to all the bells and whistles have in this boot, it passed with flying colours.

TEST #1: SORTED ANYWHERE Working anywhere in Australia; tradies need to be prepped for all kinds of weather.

Conducting any work around a pool – or any body of water – tradies want something that can handle a splash or two.

The Akron PROComfort’s upper area is water-resistant premium full-grain nubuck leather.

The PU/Rubber out-sole also has a Slip Resistance C rating – this is the highest possible non-slip rating you can from the boots.

“Working around water or in the rain – you need boots that are not only gonna keep your toes dry, but aren’t gonna give up under you,” Reece added.

Not only are the Akron PROComforts good in the wet, they have a high heat resistance rating of 300C ensuring your toes aren’t roasting in the summer sun.

Reece – like many chippies – works with all kinds of heavy-duty equipment and materials.

As well as steel toe protection, the Akron PROComforts have an impact and abrasion-resistant top cap bumper which Reece loved as it meant a longer life for the boots.

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Comfort like no other, paired with durability like no other 1 The Akron PROComforts are designed to handle water like a pro

2 We tested the black versions of the Akron PROComfort Work Boots, with a wheat colour also available

3 Knowing tradies can spend hours on their feet, DEWALT have come up with a boot that keeps them comfy throughout the day

TEST #2: ALL-DAY COMFORT The Akron PROComforts sport DEWALT’s fantastic PROComfort 3 Layer Build, which features various additions inside the boot that make it comfy as.

This includes a injection-moulded performance Polyurethane midsole and insole as well as top-ofthe-line memory foam.

“I’ve got wider than normal feet, but these boots were super comfy and could breathe,” Reece said.

“I feel like I could wear these all day – even all night – and my feet would still be okay.”

Getting boots on and off is a small thing, but can be the difference between a boot tradies love, and a boot tradies don’t.

Reece said the Akron’s YKK medial zip made getting the boots on, and even easier taking them off.

“I found the zips super convenient,” he said.

“I had no issue zipping them up. The straps also hold on well and the laces stay done up which has been an issue for me in the past. That all makes for a pretty secure boot.”

IF THE SHOE FITS With comfort like no other, paired with durability like no other, Reece said he’d be hard-pressed to pick up any boot that wasn’t DEWALT’s Akron PROComfort Work Boot.

The PROComfort innovation is again on full display with this boot, added with plenty of features to keep tradie feet happy and safe.

“These boots are awesome, I don’t even wanna take them off,” Reece said.

“They definitely get my tradie tick of approval.”

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and connected The testo 570s digital manifold Tradies are certainly just as guilty as anyone when it comes to spending too much time on the screen.

Well Testo has worked this to its advantage with the testo 570s digital manifold

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Nick used the testo 570s on some Mitsubishi VCR units atop a building in Clifton Hill, to Melbourne’s north-east The 570s can be hooked up to units but can also take readings wirelessly via Bluetooth

SERVICING HEAT pumps, refrigeration and air conditioning systems can be a complex matter. It can get even more complicated when you need to keep track of measurements and readings over a longer time.

Tradies working on HVAC&R systems don’t need to fret any longer with the testo 570s.

For this test we brought in our Nick Gatt from MPE Mechanical, who tested out the 570s on an air conditioning system on a roof at Clifton Hill with a fantastic view of Melbourne.

He was using the testo 570s on some Mitsubishi VRF (variable refrigerant flow) units. One of these running low on gas and in need of pressure testing.

TEST #1: ULTIMATE CONNECTIVITY The testo 570s offers a plethora of ways for tradies to get readings and view data.

The device is easily connected to your smartphone via the testo Smart App. After connecting the manifold, Nick was able to easily detect abnormalities and issues with the aircon system.

“Coming from an analogue background where I’ve always used analogue gauges, I find this very easy to access all these readings through smartphone,” he said.

“This way, I can walk away from the system. The 570s is

able to data log too, so I can go away and come back to see what the system has been logging.

“Testo’s range with vacuum stats and clamp meters are all integrated with the main manifold an all-in-one piece of equipment.”

The manifold itself isn’t puzzling either – the information is all there on a big clear screen housed in a tough, German-engineered casing.

Once the 4-way valve manifold had been hooked up to the system and Bluetooth connected to the app, the smart measurement and diagnosis got underway.

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As accurate as they come 1

The 570s has a built-in Li-Ion battery chargeable via USBC port, but can also chuck in AA batteries – no wonder it has a 360-hour life

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Nick also gave a thumbs up for the automatic digital refrigerant scale and valve to allow charging systems according to target subcooling, superheat or weight with ease

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Nick was able to get accurate readings quickly on both the testo 570s and his smartphone via the testo Smart App

TEST #2: SMART TECH Battery life is a huge pro with the testo 570s – 360 hours.

That keeps charging time to a minimum, and gave Nick peace of mind that he could go through a weeks work without worrying about charging his 570s. Testo’s 570s is capable of working with a tonne of HVAC&R systems, and is also A3 and A2L refrigerant friendly.

“It’s able to test water pressure too which comes in handy when working with chillers and bigger water cooler equipment,” Nick added.

“The fact that my clamp meter can read straight off the manifold was handy as well, and again

emphasised how great having all this work wirelessly is.”

When it comes to getting these measurements, the testo 570s is as accurate as they come. It can take readings with a measurement accuracy of 0.25 per cent full scale.

TRIED AND TESTO-ED From the ease of use, to its connectability and wireless capabilities, the testo 570s is a technician’s best friend.

The 570s streamlined the data for Nick, making his work on the VRF units an absolute breeze.

Nick also loved the innovative digital, automatic refrigerant scale the testo 560i which makes system charging super easy.

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There’s nothing quite like hitting something with a hammer. Even something as basic as a hammer can be upgraded, and Kincrome has brought in all the latest tech to ensure tradies have a blast when striking away

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Kincrome’s Hammer Range

KINCROME HAS a tonne of hammers in this range – claw, pein, dead blow, club, sledge – you name it! Thankfully, carpenter Toby Spicer from Pillar Constructions was more than happy to give them a go on a site in Frankston in Melbourne’s south-east.

Kincrome developed each of these epic hammers alongside everyday tradies. This was done to ensure they made hammers that Aussie tradies can use day in and day out.

TEST #1: CAN YOU HANDLE IT? Across all these hammers, Kincrome has designed each to be secure and comfortable in the hands of tradies.

Traditional tradies might love the hickory handles on some of these bad boys. Changes to the end flange angle – as well as the overall shape – help make for a balanced and smooth hammer to grip.

“It’s a comfy hammer, the weight distribution makes it super easy to use,” Toby added.

“A hammer’s a hammer, but it’s so important to have a good handle, which these Kincrome ones have.”

Toby loved having a play with the graphite-handled hammers. These have a graphite core and are 30 per cent stronger than their fibreglass colleagues, which

The comfort of Kincrome’s claw hammers meant Toby was able to use them for extended periods, delivering quality blows each time.

The rubber head on Kincrome’s mallets is designed to minimise any damage to work surfaces, and also come with overstrike protection

gives them more resistance to shock and recoil during strikes. Adding to their overall comfort is the Gel-Grip.

This textured grip is designed to help tradies hold the hammer firmly, even through gloves.

It’s also sweat-resistant, making it awesome for tradies on those hotter days.

TEST #2: STRIKING TRUE Of course, how effective a hammer is at, well, hammering is the number one priority for tradies.

No matter what you need a hammer for, Kincrome’s range has tradies covered.

Toby would mostly be using claw hammers for his work, which come in steel or high-carbon steel heads. Both boast large striking faces, with the steel claw hammer one solid piece to increase strength and durability and the high-carbon steel heads being supported by the shock absorbing graphite handle.

“The heads are all really good,” Toby said.

“As a carpenter, I’d be using the claw hammers the most, but if I needed to break out any of these other hammers, I know Kincrome’s got that same quality throughout.”

Kincrome’s keen eye for balance is noticeable in its ball pein hammers, which delivered precise blows and is perfect for mechanics or tradies working with metal.

Toby also loved having a play with the club hammers, which were heavy-duty pros when it came to working some out the outdoor posts on Toby’s site.

They also feature the high-carbon steel heads with graphite handles making for a tough and knarly upgrade to any tradie’s toolkit.

THE FINAL NAIL Toby had a blast trying out each of the epic hammers Kincrome has brought to the table with this range.

There’s a high-quality hammer for any tradie here, each offering pinpoint striking abilities with awesome durability and maximum comfort.

“I won’t be underestimating the importance of a good hammer anytime soon,” Toby said.

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Toby found the ball pein hammers were great in accurately striking metal

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Whether you like old school hickory, or prefer something newer, Kincrome has developed handles for both comfort and ease-of-use

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From mallets to club hammers, Toby loved what each of these hammers brought to the table

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w e r c sabove

Bremick’s UltraFast Decking Screw Tradies are finding themselves doing more outdoor decking and timber jobs than ever, and Bremick has delivered the perfect screws for the job.

Its UltraFast™ Decking Screw range cuts down on installation time while delivering an elite final product for your customers

WHEN IT comes to selecting the right screws, it’s a simple yet vital process for tradies.

Not all screws are made equal, but the Bremick’s UltraFast Decking Screws exceed all expectations.

For an efficient, clean and durable deck, Bremick has brought in all kinds of innovations to the design of these decking screws to deliver an awesome product.

Our carpenter mate Toby Spicer from Pillar Constructions was on deck (pun intended) to help us with this Tradie Tough Test. He was doing a deck job in Mornington in Melbourne’s east. The UltraFast Decking Screw range comes in either trim, raised or truss head screws of 50 to 100mm lengths and between 10-14 gauge in various finishes. For the test, Toby was using 50mm truss head screws made from bronze stainless steel 304 on 140mm merbau timber.

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TEST #1: FIRM AND FAST As far as efficiency goes, the UltraFast Decking Screw is a tradie’s best friend.

It starts at the tip of the screws, where Bremick has

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Toby was able to screw through the merbau quickly and cleanly with the UltraFast Decking screws The Stainless Steel 304 Bronze screws Toby used not only prolonged the life of the deck, but also looked great with the timber

used its Spear Point tip for precise pre-drilling.

“One of the most time consuming parts of a decking job like this is pre-drilling your screws,” Toby said.

“With this feature, you’ve eliminated that need to predrill which means you’re done so much quicker.”

Making these screws even sharper is their Sharks Tooth™ Thread which smoothly cuts through timber fibres resulting in a quick and smooth process.

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The screws give a polished and premium touch 1 The screws come with a Spear Point which meant Toby could forget about wasting time pre-drilling

2 The UltraFast Decking Screw range comes in a variety of lengths, heads and finishes depending on a tradie’s decking needs

3 A quick and efficient job makes for a happy tradie and customer

TEST #2: CLEAN AND LEAN Bremick’s design of these screws means the risk of splitting wood is significantly less than with other screws.

Towards the top of the UltraFast Decking screws they sport either a clearing thread (truss head) or top grip (trim head) which help keep the screw embedded in place.

The icing on the cake comes in the form of Bremick’s Torx Drive heads which prevents camming out, ensuring a clean and secure screw every time.

Toby really loved using the bronze screws in particular for this job.

This is because the bronze is absorbed by the Stainless Steel at high temperatures, which results in a longer life for the deck.

“They complete the deck with a really high-end polish,” Toby said.

“The bronze not only complements the colour of the timber, but it’ll ensure it lasts longer too.”

“Customer can’t really go wrong with them.”

DONE AND DUSTED Once he’d finished, Toby was ecstatic with his work.

The deck was firm and looked fantastic with the screws giving a polished and premium touch.

“It eliminates so many of the problems with other decking screws, especially when it comes to avoiding splitting the timber or snapping the screw,” he said.

“With these screws, there’s no pre-drill and no splits making for a quick and clean job.”

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Their Sharks Tooth™ Thread smoothly cuts through timber fibres

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s t s a e B Diablo Wood + Metal Blade

Being able to cut wood and metal with one blade is a carpenter’s dream. Well tradies, that dream is now a reality thanks to Diablo

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These blades feature Ti-Co hi-density carbide meaning they are made the handle impact and last longer against wood and metal

Sealand Building does a lot of new builds on the Mornington Peninsula to Melbourne’s east

DIABLO HAS really come through with the first circular saw blade to cut both wood and steel in the Aussie market.

It was something we – and chippy Nebal Abilmona from Sealand Building – couldn’t wait to get our hands on.

The blades sport plenty of Diablo’s features that make them sharp and durable, including hi-density carbide tips and a non-stick Perma-SHIELD coating.

It’s a combination of those features and a few more unique perks that make these blades an absolute must for the versatile carpenter.

TEST #1: WOOD ALL GOOD First up, Nebal tested the blades on softer materials treated pine and composite decking.

He noticed right away these were no ordinary blades, and it managed to handle business.

“One thing I love with Diablo is they have a thinner kerf,” Nebal said.

“That makes sure you don’t get any heat build-up, which creates less wear and tear on the blade and saw.”

The lifespan of the blades are further helped by the Perma-Shield Non-Stick Coating, which is a nonstick coating designed to protect the blades against gumming and corrosion.

The Wood + Metal Blade can cut through 2” thickness on clean wood or wood with nail cutting applications.

TEST #2: TEST YOUR METAL Next up, we tried cutting metal. Nebal brought out 2mm aluminium, 2mm steel tubing as well as 3mm steel sheets.

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THROUGH THICK AND THIN Tradies who cut all kinds of materials during their day need this blade in their kit. No need to swap out different blades for wood and metal – this bay boy from Diablo has you covered.

Not only is the Wood + Metal a jack of all trades, it’s tough as nails too.

This is thanks to a tonne of specialised features that make sure each cut – metal or wood – is as clean as the last.

“Alumiumium is a soft material, so it was no surprise a great blade from Diablo could handle that with ease,” Nebal said.

“But when it came to the other metals, it just glided through.

“There wasn’t any wear after using the blades on both wood and metal back-to-back, which was very surprising.

“This is obviously a very good product, being a tradie it’s great to have a versatile blade that’s gonna save you a lot of time when you’re under the pump.”

CHECK IT OUT Find these blades and more from Diablo from your local Bunnings Warehouse and soon to Total Tools.

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Suffice to say, Nebal was blown away with the results.

“That’s incredible,” he said after carving through the 3mm steel.

“Not a single tooth is gone … that wasn’t hard to cut at all. It just breezed through.

“Of course, when you’re cutting these kinds of materials, you have to take it slow. But that’s very impressive.”

“The blade’s got a very fine kerf to it as well – it’s not spitting out or burring. Each cut is super clean.”

Nebal’s favourite feature when cutting through all these different metals was the laser cut stabiliser vents and arbor.

This feature reduces vibration making for a much more stable cut, while also keeping the blade cool to further prolong its lifespan.

“I’ve been using Diablo for a very long time and will continue to do so if they keep bringing out great blades like these,” he said.

Each cut is as clean as the last 1

Diablo’s Wood + Metal Blades come in 165mm and 184mm sizes

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Clean and true – Nebal was blown away by the blade’s effectiveness on thicker metals

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Nebal tested one blade on various metal, wood and plastic materials and it handled them all with ease

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Built to produce

With six total seats and space to spare, Renault Trafic Crew Lifestyle has your team sorted

Tradies are sorted with Renault Trafic Crew Lifestyle TRADIES HAVE always been massive fans of Renault Trafic, loving its flexible and efficient design.

It’s taken another massive stride in the comfort department with the Renault Trafic Crew Lifestyle entering the scene.

This generation of Trafic adds massive upgrades to the interior of the van, allowing for tradies who operate on the road all day, everyday.

RIDE IN STYLE Renault Trafic Crew Lifestyle is the ultimate team player.

Your team of tradies will love all the cool additions to the interior.

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speakers in the back, rear sun blinds, a non-slip floor, and tinted windows that open.

If you’re the at the wheel, it gets even better up front.

Trafic Crew Lifestyle sports the latest in Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and an in-built satellite navigation system making connectability a piece of cake.

It also has a wireless smartphone charger and a few USB ports, meaning a low battery warning won’t stress you or your mates out.

ALL FUELLED UP Comfort that comes with convenience is what tradies can expect with Trafic Crew Lifestyle.

The EDC automatic

With three reclinable second row seats, you have tonnes of space for either your crew or your equipment

gearbox is the real MVP, sipping just 6.5L/100km on the combined cycle.

Teamed up with that 2.0L turbocharged engine and an 80L fuel tank, the Trafic can go for a good while without needing a pit stop.

So, you and your hardworking tradies spend less time at the petrol station and more time knocking out the real work.

Safety is also a huge reason why tradies choose Renault vans, and Trafic Crew Lifestyle is teeming with features that give you peace of mind.

It has nine advanced driver assistance systems including

adaptive cruise control, active emergency braking and blind spot monitor.

Whether tradies need a van with seating or space, Trafic delivers both in a modern and premium vehicle that’ll be the envy of your worksite.

check it out Find out more at www.renault.com.au

On the guard

lock !& load

WHEELS ’N’ GEAR

From the Work Week To The Weekend, Weather Guard is the asset protection equipment you’ve been looking for WEATHER GUARD may not be a name that’s top of mind when thinking about secure storage for your tools or adventure gear… yet…

Weather Guard have been making asset protection and organisation equipment for utes and vans in the USA for over 60 years, growing into the market leader for the last 20. Here in Australia, you will know them better as the same manufacturers who make Bailey Ladders and Bailey Fall Protection equipment, which have been trusted by tradies and DIYers alike for over 65 years.

FULLY TESTED Their Australian based engineering team have fine-tuned the design to ensure the range excels in the harsh Aussie conditions. With vast success, the Weather Guard brand and range was launched in Australia in early 2023, and the team continues on their path to grow the brand into the #1 asset protection brand for Aussie tradies and

outdoor adventurers alike.

The Weather Guard brand has lofty ideals; To provide the highest security, superior safety and unmatched durability you need to protect your equipment. And you can easily see how they have translated these ideals into design features across the product range.

Currently the range consists of the Professional Series Aluminium Ute Boxes, for all your weekday tools and equipment and the Adventure Series HDPE Cases, for your sensitive electronic instrumentation and any weekend adventure gear, giving rise to their mantra ‘From the Work Week To The Weekend’.

WORK AND PLAY The Pro Ute Box series features extreme protection, tamperresistant retracting locks, with an automotive style rotary latch – so be assured no one is busting your tools out! Combined with the automotive grade weather seals and gas

Weather Guard has been a top choice for tradies across the last 20 years, whether for work or play

struts you can see why these boxes have become so popular, so quickly.

The Adventure Case series carry over many of the same design features (automotive seals and gas struts), and boast a huge IP65 (dust and moisture) ingress prevention rating. The food grade, UV and impact resistant HDPE aerodynamic construction, with integrated carry handles, pressure release valve and drain valve, make these some seriously versatile and protective cases for your gear.

Don’t forget the fourpoint tie down system which doesn’t impede the opening of the lid – Weather Guard have thought of it all!

The Pro Ute Box Series comes in three configurations, Chest,

Upright (available in 900mm, 1200mm and 1500mm options) and Gulllwing and available in two finishes (black or clear). They are all a full 600mm in width for maximum gear storage. The Adventure Case range consists of three lengths (600mm, 900mm and 1200mm) while the Slimline range comes in two (1200mm and 1500mm), perfectly covering any size equipment you might want secured.

Oh, and we can’t neglect to mention the best bit - the Warranty!

The Weather Guard

Professional Series is backed by a Limited Lifetime Warranty and the Adventure Case Series carries a Five-Year Warranty. This certainly shows Weather Guard means business, and we have no doubt their goal to be #1 in Aus won’t be too far off.

Weather Guard encourages you to see the quality and performance difference for yourself by visiting one of their nationally located dealers – visit weatheguard.au and check out the dealer locator and find out more about this unmatched range.

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WHEELS ’N’ GEAR

d e g g plu

Charged up

in!

Be the first to discover PEUGEOT’s 100 per cent electric e-Partner Van THE ELECTRIC revolution for businesses, tradies and van buyers is here, with PEUGEOT now offering its first 100 per cent electric vehicle in Australia. Now you can enjoy every day driving that is smooth, jolt-free and with less vibration, all while benefiting from impressive acceleration thanks to immediately available torque.

With Partner Van 80 THE TRADIE

already established as a local business favourite, PEUGEOT e-Partner retains all of the practical features and functionality of its conventionally powered petrol siblings, but with all the benefits of electric vehicle.

Based on the EMP2 (Efficient Modular Platform) multi-energy modular platform, e-Partner offers a 100 per cent electric engine with

a maximum power output of 100kW and a maximum torque of 260Nm. Plus e-Partner is available with a lithium-ion battery offering 50kWh of energy storage, making it a robust workhorse.

TOP NOTCH TECH The newest addition to the highly sought after Partner range also offers unrivalled comfort in a utility vehicle, thanks to

PEUGEOT e-Partner makes any drive a dream thanks to its newly introduced i-Cockpit™

the PEUGEOT i-Cockpit™.

But it is also a highly capable workhorse, with compact dimensions for city parking, e-Partner has up to 3.9 cubic metres of cargo space with dual rear swing doors allowing for easy access when loading all your gear.

Because PEUGEOT believes a van can be both practical and aesthetic, careful attention has been paid to the style,

on-board comfort and functionality of PEUGEOT e-Partner. e-Partner’s ergonomic, quiet and tech savvy cabin makes driving smooth and effortless - perfect for when you’re on the road all day.

With anticipated high demand for this dynamic new van, it’s time to get ready to discover the smooth, quiet and efficient drive of PEUGEOT e-Partner.

check it out Find out more at www.peugeot.com.au

WHEELS ’N’ GEAR

Made Right Here Why tradies trust locally made cement CEMENT AUSTRALIA’S team has been digging, milling, and crafting cement products right here in our backyard, and it’s more than just a job for them – it’s a tradition.

Since way back in 1890, Cement Australia has been the go-to for

Aussies wanting to build something strong.

What sets Cement Australia apart is their dedication to keeping it local. That means the cement they cook up is ready to face the Aussie weather and meet all standards – no compromises.

Cement Australia’s comprehensive range of locally made cement includes the Concrete Mix, Builders Cement as well as General Purpose Cement, Trade Mortar and Rapid Set Concrete.

TRUE-BLUE RELIABILITY Choosing Cement Australia isn’t just getting cement; it’s getting a slice of history and a promise of quality. Its cement play by the Aussie Standards rulebook (AS3972), and they go the extra distance with tests at Cement Australia’s NATA-

accredited lab. So, when you grab a bag, you know it’s not just strong; it’s Aussie-strong.

And check this out – Cement Australia’s cement was in the mix for big deals like the Brisbane Airport Runway and the Woolgoolga to Ballina Pacific Highway Upgrade.

From massive projects to your own backyard creations, Cement Australia is there, making sure things hold up.

POURING BACK But here’s the cool part: supporting Cement Australia is supporting your local crew and keeping the jobs close to home.

They’re not just about

making good cement; they’re about making a difference in the communities they’re part of. This can be seen in Railton, North-West Tasmania, where Cement Australia marked the 100-year anniversary of its local plant.

With their eagle-eyed manufacturing process, you can trust that what’s in the bag is top-notch and reliable.

Cement Australia isn’t just a brand; it’s part of our Aussie building story. So, if you’re laying down the groundwork for something awesome, do it with Cement Australia – where quality meets history, and every bag has a bit of that Aussie charm.

Check it out Visit cementaustralia.com.au to find a stockist and for more information THE TRADIE 81

WHEELS ’N’ GEAR

The Twin Burner Butane Stove from Hot Devil is perfect for tradies who are hungry on and off the site

This butane stove is teeming with top notch safety systems to ensure it’s as safe to use as your tools

Hot Devil heats things up with twin burner butane stove

Fuel to flame THE TEAM at Hot Devil have an appetite for developing high quality new products for the Australian market, and the all new HDTBS Hot Devil Twin Burner Butane Stove is no exception.

82 THE TRADIE

With specially designed twin burners for easy flame control, and a rugged carry case, you know this great stove is the ideal travelling companion for the hungry

tradie, or camping, fishing and general outdoors enthusiast!

Better yet, it operates using high quality purified butane gas (ie. Hot Devil HD200C

220-gram butane gas cartridge four-pack), and is jam-packed full of all the first rate safety features you have come to expect from Hot Devil including double sealed valves, gas leak prevention, and twin over-pressure safety

devices (to mention just a few).

With a smart (and durable) polished aluminium finish, you’ll be the envy of the worksite and campsite with your new Hot Devil Twin Burner Butane Gas Stove!

Check it out Scan to check out the video or head over to hotdevil.com.au to find your nearest Hot Devil stockist!

HASSLE FREE TYRE INFLATION & DEFLATION

A50007CF CLOSED FLOW

NEW ALEMLUBE TYRE INFLATER LOCK ON AIR CHUCK

A50007OF CLOSED FLOW

Maximum working pressure of 150psi (10 Bar) Trigger activated lock-on mechanism Durable long lasting TPU seal Sliding sleeve securely locks the air chuck onto the valve Heavy duty construction for strength, durability & resistance to corrosion Suitable for use with automatic tyre inflators, manual tyre inflators, portable pressure gauges & constant pressure systems

PERFORMANCE & LONGEVITY YOU CAN RELY ON www.alemlube.com.au