All charged up Launching the Australian Made logo Off the back of our 40th Anniversary in 2019, the year 2020 is a continuing celebration of Australian manufacturing and Australian made products. REDARC has partnered with the official Australian Made Campaign and adopted the iconic Australian Made and Owned logo. On the 27th of February, REDARC officially launched the Australian Made logo with speeches and a morning tea celebration at our Lonsdale facility. Special guest, Ben Lazzaro, Chief Executive of the Australian Made Campaign welcomed REDARC to the Australian Made community saying, “It’s fantastic that REDARC has chosen to celebrate its Australian credentials by carrying the trusted Australian Made logo on its products.” “While REDARC is making a powerful statement about its product offering, it is also demonstrating its commitment to promoting local manufacturing and its support of the local electronic products industry.”
The time is right REDARC Managing Director, Anthony Kittel said, “With a growing export portfolio, the time was right to bring more attention to our Australian made products because we believe that ‘Australian made’ is a point of competitive advantage. We know that fellow Australians also feel strongly about supporting local industry and using the Australian Made logo is the easiest way for customers to identify these products.”
Australian Made and tested for Australia’s harshest conditions “When a product is known to be made in Australia, there is an immediate connection to higher quality standards,” Anthony said. To ensure that quality remains REDARC’s hallmark, our products are built and tested for Australia’s harsh conditions. REDARC’s stateof-the-art manufacturing and testing capability coupled with continuous improvement processes, means products benefit from an ever-increasing level of durability.
Growing export business In export markets, the Australian Made logo makes the ‘Australian connection’ instantly and clearly, providing recognisable thirdparty accreditation and delivers confidence to consumers. REDARC is currently taking our domestically proven products to relevant export markets including North America (USA, Canada, Mexico), UK and Europe, New Zealand, the Middle East, South Korea and South Africa. Anthony said, “Australian Made is a strength that we place front and centre in our communications, and the logo is a brilliant tool that reinforces this message visually.” The Australian Made logo will make its debut on many of REDARC’s popular products including our range of Tow-Pro Electric Trailer Brake Controllers, BCDC In-vehicle Battery Chargers, Battery Managements Systems such as The Manager series, the recently launched Total Vehicle Management System RedVision, safety products such as the Truck Roll Over Sensor and Battery Master Isolation Switch and many more. For more details visit redarc.com.au/australianmade
AUTUMN
2020
In this issue... Officially launching REDARC Defence Systems REDARC releases third generation Manager30 Celebrating $40,000 worth of donations
Visit redarc.com.au for tech-tips and up-to-date info
Business updates
Launching our new brand campaign We’ve rolled out a new brand campaign Get REDARC Ready!
#getREDARCready
In a world of mobility, discovery and adventure, we make high-quality products that put people in charge of whatever situation they find themselves in. Made in Australia for Australian conditions, with 40 years’ experience in the design and manufacture of fully-integrated, portable, vehicular power solutions, REDARC has got your back no matter where your travels take you! We encourage the REDARC community to visit our website and invite others to: • Discover how you can get REDARC ready • See how great adventures start with REDARC • Meet our REDARC ready experts And don’t forget to share your adventures with others across Facebook and Instagram by using the hashtag #getREDARCready To learn more visit redarc.com.au/getredarcready
Our latest trade masterclass
On Tuesday the 18th of February REDARC Electronics hosted a trade masterclass event at our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Lonsdale, South Australia. In attendance were a mixture of local and regional customers including Jackson’s Australia, TTG Mechanical, TJM Equipped, Alltrac 4WD, Adelaide 4X4, Allin Towbars, ARB, Rock 4X4, Fourplay 4X4 and Opposite Lock. Technical sessions took the groups for a more in-depth look at some of REDARC’s new and existing products. The facility tour provided guests with in-depth insight from REDARC experts spanning all business and manufacturing departments. The night was capped off with product feedback sessions which allowed attendees to give valuable feedback on the products they use on a day-to-day basis. The REDARC staff would like to thank all who took the time to attend the evening and make the event a great success.
REDARC to attend Overland Expo
REDARC will be attending Overland Expo West this May in Flagstaff, Arizona. Overland Expo is the premier overlanding event in the world with a scope of classes taught by the world’s leading experts alongside a professional-level trade show that brings together all the camping and vehicle and motorcycle equipment and services. Export Manager Craig Herriot said, “We are excited to be attending the Overland Expo, showing the REDARC brand and our products and releasing our awardwinning RedVision TVMS to the North American market”. We will be promoting REDARC’s presence at the show so keep your eyes on social media. For more information visit overlandexpo.com
Partnerships in business
Hummingbird maximises environmental performance Hummingbird Electronics is proud to announce that we have achieved certification of ISO 14001-2015 (Environmental Systems) after an audit was carried out by risk management experts SAI Global. The ISO 14001-2015 Environmental Management System specifies the conditions for an environmental management system that an organisation can use to maximise its environmental performance. It is used by companies who aim to manage their environmental policies in an efficient and sustainable manner. The certification was earned after a comprehensive audit by risk management experts SAI Global on the 2nd of December 2019. During the audit, Hummingbird demonstrated adherence to Environmental Systems by outlining good business practices in ensuring consistency in providing products and services that meet customer and applicable industry standards. Anthony said, “We are delighted to be awarded the ISO 14001 accreditation, which is recognised not just in Australia but across the world. Our team has worked very hard in order to receive this accreditation.” Reducing waste and energy is primarily beneficial to the environment but will provide additional benefits to Hummingbird in improved efficiencies and reduced operational costs.
This accreditation accompanies the IS0 90012015 (Quality Management) certification in which Hummingbird received recognition in June 2018. The International Organisation for Standards (ISO) is the largest standards organisation in the world, with a network of standards institutes from 161 countries.
Defence update
Officially launching REDARC Defence Systems We are excited to have launched our new defence company, REDARC Defence Systems Pty Ltd.
Mr Peter Serdar, a Defence Industry expert with over 20 years’ experience fulfills the role of Defence Operations Manager.
Since first exploring the defence market in 2015, we have been clearly demonstrating our capabilities in advanced design and manufacturing to meet the demands of defence. In this time, we have gained greater recognition in the industry.
Mr Kelly said, “As a veteran, it is great to be able to leverage my years of experience with the Australian Defence Force.
I am proud to be a part of REDARC Defence Systems. This role gives me the opportunity to continue my involvement in defence and I have enjoyed being able to grow my skills in industrial design.”
Now, with a growing defence team and a growing list of defence partnerships, it was time to establish REDARC Defence Systems Pty Ltd. Anthony said, “We recognise that there is a real requirement for fully Australian owned medium level enterprises to meet the needs of the defence market and the launch of REDARC Defence Systems allows us to provide a dedicated team of experts for our Defence customers globally.” REDARC Defence Systems is currently supported by three dedicated staff including two veterans, Mr Mike Hartas, REDARC Defence Systems Account Manager and newly appointed Industrial Designer, Mr Ryan Kelly.
Mike Hartas, Peter Serdar and Ryan Kelly of REDARC Defence Systems.
Visit redarc.com.au | Email power@ redarc.com.au | Phone 08 8322 4848
Product information
REDARC releases new third generation Manager30 REDARC Electronics have released the next-generation of our popular battery management system, the Manager30 (product code BMS1230S3).
even if they have a different chemical characteristic from the vehicle battery.
This is the third generation of REDARC’s Manager30 battery management system with the original released in 2014, and the previous generation in October 2015.
It has been developed with ease of installation in mind and is compatible with all vehicles and alternator systems.
The main enhancements in this next‑generation Manager30 are all designed to improve the installation process, software functionality and broaden the mounting options to better service the install locations. The Manager30 maintains all its features which have seen it set the benchmark in battery charging and monitoring. It operates like six products in one; it powers an auxiliary battery from your vehicle while on the move, it’s a 240 volt charger, a solar regulator, a dual-battery isolator, load disconnect controller and remote battery monitor. Compatible with all common automotive batteries including Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4), lead acid, calcium and gel, the Manager30 is a complete battery charging and maintenance solution for recreational, 4WD, automotive and marine use. Its advanced DC-DC charging algorithm enables optimal charging of these batteries REDARC have also introduced a variant of the Manager30 which is supplied with the RedVision display (product code BMS1230S3R). This provides connectivity of the Manager30 to the RedVision Smartphone app, allowing monitoring of the battery state of charge from your mobile device.
Anthony said, “Industry and customer feedback plays a key role in our product development process. We are proud when we can announce a development which demonstrates our commitment to continuous product improvement, innovation and customer service” “The next generation Manager30 not only features updates which will improve performance and improve installation flexibility, it now gives customers a choice of how they can monitor their battery usage with the option of using the RedVision display which can also connect to a Smartphone app to allow remote monitoring.” Whether using the standard display or RedVision display you will be able to view real-time information on your battery condition, where charge is coming from, how much power is remaining and where it is being used. The easy to operate, user-friendly graphical displays show what is always happening. Like all REDARC products, the Manager30 range comes with nationwide support including a two-year hassle-free warranty, technical support and after-sales services to answer any questions which may arise. For more information visit redarc.com.au/manager
A reminder to installers REDARC Electronics has issued a product safety recall for certain serial numbers of the Tow-Pro Elite V2 (EBRH‑ACCV2) electric trailer brake controller purchased between 1st September 2018 and 21st January 2019. As a result of this recall, you may be contacted by a number of your customers regarding potential affected Tow-Pro units. If you have a new unit in stock that is within the affected range, you can return the unit to your distributor for a free replacement to the next generation Tow‑Pro Elite EBRH‑ACCV3. If an owner finds they have a unit that is affected, they are being advised to contact REDARC who will coordinate a free replacement of the main control unit. Subsequently, REDARC may contact you to organise for a customer to come to you in order to have the replacement completed, we seek your assistance to carry out this work.
The replacement entails the changeover of the main control unit only. REDARC will provide a sum of $50 inc GST for each unit that needs to be changed over, as well as provide the main control unit required for the replacement. In the instance of a customer contacting you regarding the recall you can: • Check the serial number as per our instructions on our website redarc.com.au/recall-notice. • If the unit is not within the serial number range, then there is no concern for your customer’s installation and they can continue using their Tow-Pro Elite V2. • If the unit is within the affected range, then you can organise with the customer to undertake the changeover at your earliest convenience. • Full instructions on how to carry out the replacement can be found at redarc.com.au/recall-instructions
Improved installation To bring the Manager range in line with new REDARC R-Bus standards introduced as part of the RedVision system, we have made a few changes to the product and, subsequently, its installation process. These changes are: • No more T-piece • The charger unit now does not have a terminating resistor • The charger unit has second RJ45socket • The shunt now contains a Terminating Resistor • The shunt now has an RJ45 plug (instead of the old RJ11 plug) • The shunt now has a 3 metre cable • The shunt now forms part of the ‘spine’ so it can be further away from the charger • The 1 metre cable is now no longer needed... only the 5 metre (or 10 metre) cable now supplied
Please note that as part of the recall process we do need to accurately track the serial numbers of the main control units affected against the replacement main control unit to report to the regulatory authority. Invoices cannot be paid until we can verify that we have received the affected main control unit back to our stores. We thank you for your valued support in this product safety recall and carrying out this work on behalf of REDARC.
If you have any questions about these matters, please contact REDARC on 1800 REDARC (1800 733 272) or email service@redarc.com.au
Business updates
Tow-Pro’s new environmentally‑friendly packaging We have updated our Tow-Pro Elite packaging inserts from plastic to an environmentally-friendly cardboard insert made from natural, recyclable pulp. This is one of many ways that REDARC reduce waste.
Wiring loom box
Wherever possible we locate useable and recyclable materials suitable for packaging. We are proudly ISO 14001 certified.
Where is the nut and decal sticker? In doing this, the nut and decal sticker that was in the plastic insert can now be found in the wire loom box.
The old plastic insert with nut and decal sticker
The new natural pulp insert – the nut and decal sticker is inside the wire loom box
New Area Sales Manager for Western Australia REDARC is pleased to announce the appointment of Gary Weir as the company’s new Area Sales Manager for Western Australia. Gary officially started with REDARC on Monday the 13th of January. He will be replacing Scott Montgomery who has taken on the role of Mining and Industrial Sales Manager for the REDARC Group. Gary comes to REDARC as a qualified Auto Electrician and has worked for several automotive electrical distributors throughout Australia. His most recent role saw him as Western Australia Area Manager for another automotive accessory manufacturer. “I am excited to be joining a fast-growing company that is producing Australian-made products of the highest quality. I am looking forward to building new and growing existing relationships with our Western Australian customers” said Gary.
Gary will be responsible for further promoting and growing the REDARC brand while being supported by REDARC’s Technical Support team located in Adelaide. Speaking of Gary’s appointment, National Sales and Marketing Manager, Ben Marsh said, “We are thrilled to welcome Gary to the REDARC team. He has a wealth of technical sales experience which will be vital in developing and maintaining customer relationships and developing the business in the automotive electrical industry.” Gary can be contacted directly on 0428 908 650 or by email gweir@redarc.com.au REDARC’s National Sales and Marketing Manager, Ben Marsh, can be contacted on 08 8322 4848 or by email bmarsh@redarc.com.au
New Mining and Industrial Sales Manager We are pleased to announce the appointment of Scott Montgomery in the newly created role of Mining and Industrial Sales Manager. Scott was previously REDARC’s Area Sales Manager for Western Australia, a role which he has held since October 2015. REDARC recently anointed Gary Weir as his replacement. As our Mining and Industrial Sales Manager, Scott will be responsible for developing and maintaining relationships with our customers across Australia. He will also be tasked with implementing strategic business plans and identifying opportunities in this sector. In this role, Scott will be representing both REDARC and Hummingbird as both companies offer a range of products and solutions that help improve safety and
efficiencies for operators and vehicles in the mining and industrial industries. Scott is well equipped for the role as he is a qualified Auto Electrician with close to 25 years’ experience working closely with various automotive distributors before commencing his Area Sales Manager role at REDARC. Anthony said, “Scott offers indispensable knowledge about the Australian automotive, mining and industrial industries, during his time at REDARC he has demonstrated a passion for building relationships and helping the business. We look forward to him stepping up to this new position and continue to work on creating innovative solutions for both REDARC and Hummingbird.” Scott can be contacted directly on 0437 865 646 or by email smontgomery@redarc.com.au
In the community
Celebrating $40,000 worth of donations REDARC presents certificates of donation
CFS Foundation
Catherine House
CFS volunteer Dave Dyer, Anthony Kittel, CFS Foundation CEO Gloria Berni and CFS volunteers Kate Howard and Peter Fanning
Catherine House CE, Louise Miller-Frost, with Anthony
In 2019 REDARC committed to raising $40,000 in funds to be shared with the CFS Foundation, Junction Australia, Catherine House and the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS), in honour of our 40 years in Australian manufacturing. We achieved our fundraising goal, and in January 2020, Anthony presented these wonderful organisations with their Certificates of Donation and took the opportunity to see their facilities firsthand and meet the staff and volunteers. The charities were delighted by our efforts and generosity and shared their heartfelt thanks. We heard some amazing stories of how people have benefited from the services and capabilities of these organisations and we were also reminded of the kindness and compassion that is extended to the communities that they serve. “I extend my gratitude to all of our sponsors, our staff and our wider community who have participated in our 40th anniversary charity drive, without your contributions this would not have been possible,” said Anthony.
It was smiles all-round when we visited the CFS this year. Proceeds provide financial assistance to CFS volunteer firefighters and their families who have suffered through death, injury, loss or damage of property while in the line of service. For more information visit cfsfoundation.org.au
Junction Australia
Royal Flying Doctor Service
It’s fantastic to know that these funds allow Catherine House to achieve their core purpose of supporting women experiencing homelessness and ending their homelessness for good. For more information visit catherinehouse.org.au Details of our 40th Anniversary activities can be found at redarc.com.au/40th-anniversary
Bushfire relief Proudly supporting the Kangaroo Island Mayoral Bushfire Relief and Recovery Fund REDARC is raising money for the fund through internal activities. So far, we have raised $2,000 and look forward to providing more support over the coming months.
Anthony and Kristen, Community Fundraising Specialist RFDS
Maria Palumbo CEO Junction Australia, with Anthony and Junction House resident Talia
Our donation has enabled the purchase of a giant Tepee for the playground, sponsored courses at the community centre and bought new plantation shutters for the Junction House – emergency homelessness house for young people.
Funds will go towards helping the RFDS to replace intensive care units, which can cost the organisation more than $7million a year.
The Junction Australia, Hackham Community Centre, South of Adelaide, was established in 2002 and provides programs, such as counselling, playgroups and foundational courses for locals and their families, as well as creating a place for connection. Among other initiatives, Junction Australia also provides accommodation for homeless youth in the same southern community.
For more information visit flyingdoctor.org.au
For more information visit junctionaustralia.org.au
Inside the RFDS plane with Mel from RFDS
REDARC Electronics power @ redarc.com.au
Australia Phone 08 8322 4848 Fax 08 8387 2889
23 Brodie Road (North) Lonsdale, South Australia Australia 5160
International Phone +61 8 8322 4848 Fax +61 8 8387 2889
ABN 77 136 785 092
PTY LTD
100% of the money in the fund will be going directly to people whose homes, properties or businesses have been impacted by the Kangaroo Island bushfires. For details on how to give visit kangarooisland.sa.gov.au