AQUA Digital Trade Magazine - Autumn 2021

THE OFFICIAL TRADE MAGAZINE FOR THE POOL & SPA INDUSTRY

For the industry, by the industry

EDITION 3: MARCH 2021

IN THIS ISSUE:

Interviews with: Paul Jacobson, aka ‘Jake’ Sue Eddy, VBA Brad Baxter, Award Pools NSW Luke Geering, Smart Self Cleaning Pools QLD Campbell Heath, Bond Chemicals

Celebrating 60 Years!

For the industry, by the industry

Contents From the desk of SPASAVIC’s CEO, Chris Samartzis

4

Aspiring to make a difference by giving back to the industry: a moment with industry stalwart Paul Jacobson, aka ‘Jake’

6

Apply to become a pool inspector through SPASAVIC today!

Sue Eddy - CEO, Victorian Building Authority Cover Image: Bruce Christianson via Unsplash

A holistic approach to pool building: Brad Baxter, Award Pools NSW

9 10

Celebrating 60 years of advocating for the Swimming Pool & Spa Industry

12

Victorian Public Pools state of the sector

15

Pools are booming in Queensland! Luke Geering of Smart Self Cleaning Pools

16

A moment with Bond Chemicals Director Campbell Heath

Subscribe to AQUA Magazine! https://www.spasavic.com.au/ aqua-subscribe

on their new ‘Liquid Lithium’ product

18

Water Witch Smart Sense

21

The Hawthorn Park sky pool build - an amazing feat!

22

Outdoor Design Trends dominating in 2021

23

SPASAVIC Industry Training in 2021

27

A moment with Boss Solar - SPASAVIC sponsors in 2021

28

SPASAVIC forward calendar of events

29

Waterco Product Alert Memo

31

Published by SPASAVIC March 2021 Contact: Kathryn Barres, Communications / Marketing Co-ordinator ABN 66 076 867 091 Reproduction of the contents of this magazine is strictly forbidden unless approved in writing by the Swimming Pool and Spa Association of Victoria (SPASAVIC)

The material contained in this publication has been compiled by the Swimming Pool & Spa Association of Victoria Ltd (SPASVIC) for the benefit of its readers. SPASAVIC does not warrant or represent that the material is free from errors or omission, or that it is exhaustive. The material is provided without SPASAVIC assuming a duty of care to readers. SPASAVIC is not in the business of providing professional advice and gives no warranty, guarantee or representation about the accuracy, reliability or timeliness or otherwise, of the information contained in this publication. SPASAVIC disclaims, to the full extent permitted by law, all warranties, representations or endorsements, express or implied, with regard to the material including but not limited to, all implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, or non-infringement. The material is made available on the understanding that SPASAVIC and its employees and agents shall have no liability (including but not limited to liability by reason of negligence) to readers for any loss, damage, cost or expense whether direct, indirect, consequential or special incurred by, or arising by reason of, any person using or relying on the material and whether caused by reason of any error, omission or misrepresentation in the material or otherwise. Readers of this publication are responsible for making their own assessment of the material and should verify all relevant representations, statements and information with their own professional advisers.

AQUA MAGAZINE | EDITION 3 - MARCH 2021

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From the desk of SPASAVIC’s CEO, Chris Samartzis

Chris Samartzis CEO SPASA Victoria

Welcome to our first edition of AQUA magazine for 2021 where we will continue to curate articles of interest and support the trade to showcase their innovative products whilst providing informative and interesting stories from across Australia.

So here we find ourselves in 2021 – SPASAVIC’s 60th year of existence - having evolved from such humble beginnings as a small meeting of pool builders at the George Hotel in Fitzroy Street, St Kilda back in 1961.

SPASAVIC has since grown to become an industry leader, representing over 300 members and advocating, supporting, promoting and sustaining these member businesses through droughts, floods, recessions, boom times and most recently - a global pandemic.

I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on 2020 and forecast what 2021 may hold for the swimming pool and spa industry across Australia.

2020 was a disruptive year, not only for our industry, but for many other business sectors.

Our workplaces suddenly transitioned to working from home and many embraced the challenges that were presented to them.

I would like to extend a very big thank you to our members and industry partners for their support which made an enormous contribution by allowing us to advocate to government with confidence and clarity throughout 2020. A huge part of our advocacy was through the partnership we have with Landscaping Victoria Master Landscapers, who together with SPASAVIC, made contact with Ministers and Government bureaucrats to prosecute both of our industries’ cases for an acceptable outcome.

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“I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on 2020 and forecast what 2021 may hold for the swimming pool and spa industry across Australia”

During the Victorian lockdown, we released constant Covid updates, which by the end of November, had reached 93 in total! Disseminating government information for our industry and providing leadership has never been more important.

Although the lockdowns halted some work in consumer backyards - especially in Victoria - the overriding trend of the ‘Staycation’ continued to gather momentum and this - along with our promotional activity over many years - has embedded the notion of the ‘backyard revolution’.

Our vision of ensuring that the pool and spa industry remained open as an essential and desired industry prevented its full closure during Covid-19 and allowed many to trade, at least to some extent, during those difficult months.

Pool & Spa builders have never been busier and according to anecdotal evidence across several states, enquiry rates are phenomenally high. Our colleagues in WA are seeing high growth in the sector, and the same is being replicated throughout QLD and NSW. Consumers are constantly searching for trusted brands and are seeking expert advice from industry members on various projects.

Brand trust has never been more important and we know that anything that may water down a trusted brand can have significant consequences to an industry.

Towards the end of 2020, our training partnership with MIBT was acknowledged and endorsed by the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) to deliver the Pool Safety Inspector Course in Victoria. With over 100 registered for the course, our building inspectors / trainers have never been busier.

We continue to offer industry courses that are affordable and concise in their subject matter and we look forward to rolling them out throughout 2021.

Although consumer shows have had to be cancelled or postponed, our commitment to provide the connection with consumers will continue in future years, bigger than ever before, which will ultimately enable us to drive hundreds of thousands of dollars into mainstream media. With our future plans to grow, this will only increase with the flow-on effects driving growth of the industry across Australia.

Looking forward in 2021 and beyond, we are excited that the industry is reporting significant growth across the sector in all categories. Some spa retailers are reporting waiting times of 6 months or more and there are pool builders whose books are full till December 2021. Despite pressures on logistics and stock levels, it’s an enviable position to be in and we will continue to support and promote the benefits of owning a pool or spa to a wide audience.

We are heavily invested in the swimming pool and spa industry and we remain steadfastly dedicated to connecting more deeply with pool and spa builders across the nation. Policy formation, advocacy, promotion, innovation and ideation will give our industry greater input into the direction and growth of the sector, with benefits that will flow to all involved in this great industry of ours.

“Looking forward in 2021 and beyond, we are excited that the industry is reporting significant growth across the sector in all categories.”

AQUA MAGAZINE | EDITION 3 - MARCH 2021

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Aspiring to make a difference by giving back to the industry A moment with industry stalwart – Paul Jacobson aka ‘Jake’

How and when did you enter the pool and spa industry?

In 1985. Paul Parsons and I were playing on the same Melbourne ice hockey team.

Paul was heading up the development and growth of a Canadian based Pool & Spa Chemical Supply company call BioGuard in Canada, trading as Swim Chem in Australia.

I was managing a catering company warehouse at the time and he asked me if I would be interested in changing careers. I told him I didn’t know anything about pool or spa chemicals, but he seemed to think that the way I played hockey, I looked out for teammates and was dedicated to the sport, I would be well suited to a sales position that he wanted to fill. Go figure! So here I am today, still in the industry and still with BioLab after 36 years.

What certification/credentials do you have?

Certificate 3 and Certificate 4 in Pool and Spa Service and Maintenance and a Certificate in Life and Business Coaching.

What have you seen change in consumer demand over the years?

An increased lack of trust.

With huge changes in social, environmental, political and health over the past ten years – along with information at our fingertips via Google and other search engine providers - consumers are more informed now than ever before. Yet so many are more confused than ever before. Which has resulted in ‘buyer paralysis’ for some. With the constant battle to decipher facts, varying levels of product quality, purchasing options and pricing, consumers are unable to decide or determine who to trust with their decisionmaking process. Our challenge is to find more effective ways to communicate to the varied needs, demands and perceptions of today’s consumer, if we hope to retain or regain their trust.

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Do it for me and online services.

As people’s lives have become busier, there has been a steady increase in the ‘do it for me’ services, along with buying online and click & collect options. Given the uncertainty of covid and varying levels of restrictions and lock downs, retail businesses have had to ramp up their e-commerce with online shopping platforms and varied purchasing options and offers.

High service expectations People expect to get what they want, when they want it, if not sooner. With so many ways to purchase products these days you need to be on top of your game. If you’re not, consumers will buy elsewhere and possibly also communicate their negative experience on their social media platforms or on your website.

Greater demand for automation.

Australia was the first country to really embrace Salt Chlorination, not because people did not necessarily want chlorine, they just didn’t want to have to go out to their pool regularly to add it. Australians have always been the early adapters with new technology. This provides more opportunities for industry manufacturers and suppliers to develop and supply the latest devices and products capable of reducing the overall running and maintenance costs of owning a swimming pool or spa, whist providing end users with more time to enjoy their investment.

What do you like about the pool and spa industry?

Australia has the most pools per capita of the population than anywhere in the world.

Aussies really love swimming or bathing in water. After all, we are surrounded by it. The pool and spa industry is small enough to get to know one another yet big enough to build a career. Although the industry is made up of competitors, its people are resilient, caring, compassionate and willing to support each other when things get tough. We all like to feel valued and accepted and that we

are contributing to something bigger than ourselves. I know I do! The pool industry is great! It is all about providing or supporting pool and spa owners with products that offer hours of fun and family enjoyment, helping them cope with the challenges and stresses of life.

There is a quote I try to live by that goes something like this. “Don’t just aspire to be successful, aspire to make a difference, and remember to reach back and help others along the way.” I have been very blessed and fortunate to have worked with so many wonderfully talented people in this industry over the years, who were willing to share and invest their time and knowledge in me, so that I was then able to invest in others. For me, working for Biolab and its customers, and being able to support SPASAVIC with industry training, has allowed me to contribute to something much bigger than myself all these years.

“Don’t

just aspire to

be successful, aspire

to make a difference,

and remember to reach back and help others along the way.”

What other changes have you seen over the years?

Healthier lifestyles are a conscious decision these days. Everyone is more aware of what they are eating, how much they are exercising and what they are doing to reduce stress in their lives. Back in the 80s and 90s pools were considered a chore, and many real estate companies wouldn’t advertise a home with a pool as it was harder to sell.

Now-a-days consumers are interested in lifestyle, so real estate advertising always shows pools and spas, plus backyard entertainment areas. It’s almost like buying the house is secondary! Consumers want to improve their lifestyle and pool and spa ownership is a big part of that.

What challenges have you seen the industry face?

Times of drought have certainly been a huge challenge for our industry in many regions of Australia. Twice now, the spa industry has almost ended overnight because of bacterial concerns and government making building sector decisions without consulting the pool and spa industry.

Fortunately through the lobbying of SPASAVIC and other supporting industries, the spa industry is stronger now than ever, and this has been bolstered by the effect of people being locked down through covid and consumers not being able to travel.

Do you have any career highlights? What are you most proud of?

My family and my faith come ahead of my business successes, but in terms of career highlights, having had the opportunity to start at the ground floor of a company, to build it and watch it grow, then look back knowing that I - along with many others! played a role in creating something unique and very special. BioLab/BioGuard and its many stakeholders have helped to shape the way the industry is today. Back in 1983, Swim Chem/BioGuard was revolutionary. It was the first company to bring in computerised water analysis. No-one in the industry was doing anything like that. Most pool shops closed over the Winter months back then. One of the major shifts was helping Pool Shops to transition from just selling products to recognising their full retail potential. I’m very proud of what I’ve achieved as a member of the BioLab team.

When did you start training others in the industry?

newfound knowledge and experience filtered through in my work.

Knowledge equals confidence in terms of customer service and sales results.

Training and personal development have also featured prominently in my personal and professional growth over the years and as my role with Biolab has continued to evolve, I’ve remained interested, challenged and thankful for the opportunity to support SPASAVIC and its group of professional trainers with specific industry training.

What opportunities does the current climate present?

The pandemic has highlighted the need for an online presence AND a social presence, and the knowledge to go along with it all.

But that’s not to say that when the pandemic ends, all those requirements will end also.

We now need to engage consumers with as many communication tools as possible, based on the business offering and their purchasing habits. Do they prefer faceto-face interaction? Is the internet their preferred method of purchasing? Or is it a combination of the two? Do they prefer onsite service? For some consumers, lockdown has confirmed the value of a pool service.

They just cannot manage the pool or spa on their own.

Unfortunately, the industry is currently finding it difficult to meet all consumer needs in terms of both products and servicing. The role of a service technician is very technical and for that reason, it is hard to find enough people to fill these roles in an expert capacity.

How do you see the industry pivoting and innovating in the future?

From day one! I never really saw myself as a salesperson. It was always about trying to better understand customer needs, their business challenges and providing them with the necessary product training.

The more confident they became, the more successful they and their businesses became.

Innovating is recognising that there is a huge demand for environmentally sustainable products. Whether that is water treatment solutions, reducing power consumption, increasing the number of swimming months per year or just providing products that reduce the overall maintenance of pools and spas. Consumers are willing to pay more (up to a point) for products that make them feel better about their contribution to improving the environment.

I found that the business and life coaching training that I was using in my own business during a time of contracting to Biolab, really helped me define and understand where people were at. I found that when I came back to a full-time role with Biolab, my

Diminishing backyard size is another way we are having to pivot. The industry already had foresight on this, so probably the biggest driver has been the pandemic. Having a social media presence now is absolutely essential.

Some pool shops still only have a website, if that! It is so important that businesses constantly find ways to attract new customers. Loyalty has changed so much. Loyalty more often lies with best price or ease of purchase these days. So finding out what is important to the consumer is a priority, as that will allow a trusted relationship to be built. Once that has been established, then newer products and technology can be gently introduced in order for the consumer to save time and energy. If businesses want to survive, think about what best practice looks like. What does my shop need to look like? What does my service need to be like? Take notice of successful businesses and learn from them.

If you don’t broaden your scope and address the challenges in front of you, the end may come sooner than you expect.

Is there anything you would like to say to the Victorian pool and spa industry?

To me, we are coming out of a very challenging time. It has probably impacted and shaped individuals and business in a bunch of different ways. No matter where you sit in the anxiety spectrum, the pandemic has proven how important our industry is. The backyard is more important to consumers than ever. Six months ago, many retailers had to convert to ‘click & collect’. Since then, consumers have embarked on the biggest backyard revolution ever seen. Now is the time to ask ourselves: ‘what have I learnt’, ‘what needs to change and how will I bring those changes about’ because this won’t be the norm. It will be something else twelve months down the track. The sooner you know how to deal with these questions given the pace of the constant changes we are facing, the more successful you will be in servicing the needs of your existing and future customers.

AQUA MAGAZINE | EDITION 3 - MARCH 2021

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Sell more pools ‘on the house’.

Imagine how many more customers you could sign up for a pool if you told them it was ‘on the house’. Of course, you can’t give them a pool for free, but you can show them how refinancing their home with Outdoor Finance can free up enough money to fund the pool they’ve always wanted.

The Outdoor Finance team are specialised mortgage brokers who help refinance loans to fund outdoor projects like pools, spas and landscaping, showing your customers how refinancing can save enough money to fund their dream outdoor space.

Help your sales reps sell more pools and close deals earlier by showing customers how they can get their pool ‘on the house’.

Find out more www.outdoorfinance.com.au Outdoor Finance is a collaboration between SPASA Victoria and AB Phillips. Credit services provided by AB Phillips Pty Ltd Authorised Credit Representative number 465469 of Australian Finance Group Ltd Australian Credit Licence Number 389087.

Apply to become a pool inspector through SPASAVIC today!

Sue Eddy – CEO, Victorian Building Authority Pools and spas are a staple of many Australian homes. But before we can enjoy a splash in the pool, the men and women of the pool and spa industry have been working hard to ensure that our pools and spas are safe.

Building Surveyors and inspectors are critical to the pool and spa industry. In many cases, they’re the first to spot a potential issue, saving time and money down the track. It’s not an easy task. It is a wide-ranging job with many responsibilities, demands and pressures.

Attracting

more women to

the building and

construction industry is something that will benefit everyone.

It is however, an extremely rewarding career that challenges you and presents a variety of career opportunities.

The key to ensuring the longevity of the industry is attracting new people to such an important profession – which is full of experienced surveyors and inspectors who are keen to share their skills with the next generation.

Attracting more women to the building and construction industry is something that will benefit everyone.

I’m pleased that the Victorian Government is investing in attracting more women to the industry through its Women Building Surveyor Program.

The government has committed $6.3 million over two years to provide 40 women the opportunity to undertake training to become building surveyors within local government.

It will provide the opportunity for successful candidates from Victorian councils to begin an Advanced Diploma of Building Surveying or a Bachelor of Building Surveying.

Women bring new ideas and perspectives to the trades and I really encourage any woman who has ever considered being a building surveyor to jump on board.

Separate to the Women Building Surveyor Program, we’re encouraging anyone looking to make a change in 2021 to consider becoming a Building Inspector (Pool safety).

We’ve recently endorsed the first Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) to deliver a VBA-approved course in swimming pool and spa barrier inspection.

Having a compliant pool and spa barrier can help save lives. Since 2000, more than 20 young children have fatally drowned in cases where the non-compliance of a safety barrier has been a factor.

Ladies - find out

more about the Women Building Surveyor Program HERE

https://www.localgovernment.vic. gov.au/grants/women-buildingsurveyors-program

To find out more about the Building Inspector (Pool Safety) registration process, call 1300 815 127 or email customerservice@ vba.vic.gov.au.

It will support women to commence a new career or transition their career to commence the journey of becoming a fully qualified municipal building surveyor.

The Victorian Government is also introducing a new registration and licensing scheme for tradespeople.

This a positive step in the right direction and one that will help bring more diversity to the industry and ensure we continue to attract building surveyors.

The scheme aims to reduce non-compliant building work, enhance industry accountability and encourage skills formation, somthing the VBA is a strong supporter of.

AQUA MAGAZINE | EDITION 3 - MARCH 2021

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A holistic approach to pool building Brad Baxter, Award Pools NSW How and when did you begin your journey in the swimming pool and spa industry?

A long time ago! I didn’t have any grey hair then. I got into the landscaping industry when I was about 18, then moved into pools when I turned 30. I had been working with pool companies in Sydney doing the landscaping around the pools. I must have been one of the first back in those days. It was quite a hurdle to cross. My competitors called me ‘the Gardner’ once I had jumped ship. I learnt on the job, as there weren’t any courses back then. I spoke to as many people as I could to learn from. That allowed me to evolve as a pool builder.

Back then council would take two weeks to approve permits, which we thought was a bit rough, but now it’s much tougher with all the red tape and bureaucracy.

The biggest help to me in the early years was the swimming pool & spa association in NSW. I applied for membership and the president at the time, Mike Moss, asked me how many pools I’d build. I told him “none”.

But they took me on anyway. I’ll never forget the first concrete pool I completed, I turned around and Mike Moss was standing there watching over me! He was a fantastic help to me over the years. He worked for Davey back then. I was president of the Landscape Contractors Association for quite a few years also.

What are some of the highlights of your career so far?

The awards were always great to get involved in but I’ll always remember when they brought out the Innovation award in pool construction and we won that for the first time! The job we entered was a complete pool and landscaping package and it was such a thrill to win. It really stands out in my memory as a highlight. We’ve got hundreds of awards now and not enough walls to hang them on!

Also working with the board on different initiatives has been exciting.

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What challenges have you encountered?

There are plenty of challenges. Mainly the red tape we are forced to work with.

Also over the past ten years, consumer expectations have changed. Now they want all sorts of different products. They used to have two choices only. The difficulty is that a lot of these new products aren’t tried and tested so we’ve had to be very cautious about using certain products.

The raw materials have changed and sometimes untested materials have caused efflorescence or staining and we have to figure out why it was occurring. Ingredients sometimes get changed without the suppliers letting the industry know. So that has definitely been a challenge over the years. We have to be so careful now as products are coming in from all over the world and are relatively untested, so sometimes we’ve had to learn the hard way.

The other issue is water balance which can be quite a complicated process that affects things also.

What have you seen change in consumer demand over the years?

Choice is now huge. The customer has so many choices in all aspects from finishes to equipment. There are some great, innovative products on the market. The customers don’t just want a pool dropped into their backyard any longer. They want to see what the project will look like in 3D imaging, plant selection, drainage etc.

Now we’re building pools on rooftops and in all sorts of places where access is hard. We were building a pool in a little inner city terrace recently where you opened the front door and could see the pool right at the back of the house from the front door.

Melbourne must be the same, but we get people here who will pay an extra couple of hundred thousand for everything to be built beautifully. It’s the overall look that they’re after.

I say to my customers, “We’re building another room for your house with this pool”.

It definitely gives them the look they are after.

Pool builders use just as many trades as you need to build a house and they’re all involved in working on a very small area. There’s a lot involved in a pool build!

Are fibreglass or concrete pools more popular in NSW? I build concrete pools but I think they are both very important to the industry. I’d say that fibreglass pools have an important role in rural NSW. They seem to dominate that market. I’d say concrete and fibreglass are almost lineball. Concrete pools would definitely dominate the Eastern Suburbs and inner Sydney. But they both have their place.

What are you doing in terms of innovation?

Wet decks are the new thing. We’re doing a lot of new design to remove the traditional grate around pools. Now we’ve created slimline stainless steel channels that give a lovely seamless look. Glazing and acrylic panels in pools are increasingly popular.

“I think

the cost of a pool

comes third or fourth

down the list of things

that put people off about

having a pool. The Pool equipment top thing would be and the maintenance.” automation of that equipment is all the rage now. People want to be able to manage everything through their phone – even the water balance of their pool! They like to be Is the able to monitor their pool at all times.

I think the cost of a pool comes third or fourth down the list of things that put people off about having a pool. The top thing would be maintenance. But now, pool maintenance has been made so much easier, and this has been a real plus for us. We don’t just build the pool and move one. We often get asked if we can do other things for our customers as people have more money these days but are time poor.

The pool service industry has gone through the roof, but sadly there are not a lot of young people who want to get into that side of the industry. Our customers can enter into a service agreement with us before we even start building the pool. 95% of our customers just say ‘please continue to look after our pool for us’. Our service division is actually a very large part of our business now.

What is the state of the pool and spa market in NSW currently?

With overseas tourism removed from the equation recently, it has opened up a lot of opportunity for our industry. Sydneysiders have also realised that they have big backyards. Instead of taking the family to Whistler over Christmas, they’ve thought they’ll put a pool in instead.

We were absolutely inundated with calls over the lockdown period with people wanting quotes for pools. If we can’t follow up with quotes for all of the calls we receive, we recommend the consumer calls SPASA so that they can put them onto another reputable builder. 90% of our work is on recommendation.

I’m 65 and my son heads up construction now. He suggested that we get onto social media and things have gone even more gangbusters since then.

backyard revolution as big in NSW as it is in Victoria?

People are wanting the outside of their house to be just as good as the inside, including cooking facilities etc. Many years ago I worked for Don Burke.

I know him very well. Unfortunately he has been knocked about a bit recently but he always used to say that people should continue to evolve their living spaces to keep up the interest and enjoyment of your outdoor space.

Image top: Brad, top left, at a get together for past presidents.

Image above: Brad’s son James, accepting an Award of Excellence in 2017 from emcee Mike Whitney

What are some of the challenges for pool builders in NSW?

But by then, they just have to join the end of the queue. I’ve even had people who are so desperate to be swimming by Christmas that they’ll accept a complete change from white to black tiles if it means their pool will be finished in time!

I think the immediate challenge is training.

We have to train new people up and make sure that it’s the correct training. I know that the Associations are working hard on training programs.

Do you think pool ownership is still the great Australian dream?

100%. It is a dream. I remember when we The red tape is another thing that we all have used to advertise in magazines, people who to be across. We’re good at building pools wanted a pool would have a copy of and creating outdoor environments a pool magazine on their coffee but we can easily get bogged table, even if it was years down with the red tape, “Choice is now old. Advertising is on the but now we can employ internet now and not companies that huge. The customer really in the magazines deal with red tape. has so many choices in any longer, but I Sometimes a pool believe that almost with complexities can all aspects from finishes everyone who ever take up to 12 months to equipment. There are gets a quote on a pool to complete due to eventually goes on hold ups. We tell all some great, innovate to get one, even if it is of our customers that products on the many years later. if you’re thinking of putting a pool in, allow at least 6-7 months.

market.”

Customers don’t always seem to understand that, so we are very careful to try hard to manage their expectations. Most say ‘oh well we’ve missed the swimming season now so let’s think about it later in the year’.

Another thing I’d like to mention is the issue of succession planning for pool builders. We shouldn’t underestimate the importance of this and I’d really like to stress to other pool builders to be strategic with their planning for the sake of the industry.

AQUA MAGAZINE | EDITION 3 - MARCH 2021

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AQUA MAGAZINE | EDITION 3 - MARCH 2021

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ocating Celebrating 60 Years of Adv for the Swimming Pool

& Spa Industry

The Evolution of The Swimming Pool & Spa Association of Victoria May 1961 Our first-ever meeting was held at the George Hotel in Fitzroy Street, St Kilda on 18th May 1961 to form The Swimming Pool Association of Victoria.

Ocker Dorrity of Southern Cross Pools was appointed as president.

May 1971 The 10th anniversary of the Association was held at the Palm Lake Hotel in 1971 with Chris Dorrity presiding.

July 1974 Some spa companies were invited to become part of the Association.

Between 1974 and 1976

1978 It was decided to change the name of the Association to Swimming Pool & Spa Association of Victoria. John Van Der Haar of Neptune Pools was awarded the first life membership of the association.

Work began on the writing of minimum standards for pool fencing and safety, and a new builder contract was developed along with an Association emblem obtained through an RMIT competition.

Pool and spa industry training began in June 1980 with a pool construction training course held at Oakleigh Technical School.

A second life membership was awarded to Ocker Dorrity of Southern Cross Pools.

1976

1983

The first Victorian industry expo was held in Melbourne at the old Exhibition building with over 4,000 attendees. In October, our first fulltime employee, Mr Brian Wallace, was appointed as the ‘Administrative Director’. Mr Wallace went on to serve the Association for more than ten years.

We created the Pool & Spa Expo + Outdoor Living in Victoria.

1977 The first presentations were made at the National Design Awards which were combined with a dinner dance at the Diplomat Motor Inn.

1978 Our first publication called the ‘Poolside Year Book’ was produced to coincide with the annual consumer show.

Between 2007 – 2009 We spared the industry from annihilation through severe drought thanks to the purchase of a water bore. This water was used to fill swimming pools and was permitted even under the strictest of water restrictions.

2008 We began lobbying the Victorian government to implement a mandatory inspection program for pool and spa barriers in Victoria.

1st December 2019 New laws to improve swimming pool and spa safety came into effect in Victoria. The Association also becomes known to all as SPASAVIC.

AQUA MAGAZINE | EDITION 3 - MARCH 2021

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Victoria’s largest stone importer and distributor; multiple award of excellence winner since 2013; and proud sponsor of SPASA Victoria.

Victorian Public Pools State of the Sector Life Saving Victoria (LSV) and Aquatics and Recreation Victoria (ARV) have released the third annual Victorian Public Pools: State of the Sector Report.

For the third year in a row, Victoria’s two peak aquatic industry bodies have collaborated to support a better understanding of the Victorian public pool landscape and ensure that an intersectional understanding of the industry’s contribution to the wider Victorian community is well documented and communicated.

This report acts as one true source of information, enabling improved analysis and evaluation and more informed decision making and provides: • • • • • •

An overview of the industry’s size, scope and value Analysis of industry safety performance and tends An overview of sector projects, research and new initiatives Details of key industry award and event winners Insights into trends in public pool use by customers Evidence of the impact of COVID-19 on the industry and communities

Key information contained in this report states that there are 288 council-owned pools in Victoria, plus an additional 280 public access pools. In a typical year there are more than 70 million visitors to these centres. More than 40,000 employees are trained in water safety.

The direct value to the Victorian economy from swimming is $1.8 billion dollars, while swimming pool operation provides $304 million of that value. A further $247 million is added via the supply chains to the public pools.

Public health benefits in Victoria alone are estimated at $36 million each year, while the lifetime benefits are put at $1.1 billion.

The benefit of public pools to regional Victorian economies is put at $110 million, with metropolitan economies benefiting to the tune of $194 million.

Key statistics: Swimming is Australia’s largest participation sport, and Australia’s most successful sport at the Olympics and Paralympics (Swimming Australia, 2020)

• Each swimming pool visit generates $26 in health benefits to the community (RLSA, 2017)

• The average aquatic facility creates $2.72 million a year in value to the community (RLSA, 2017)

• Increasing the activity of physically inactive Victorians would save $245 million in health costs in a lifetime (Victoria State Government, 2017)

• Increasing the activity of physically inactive Victorians would increase workplace productivity by $3.1 billion in a lifetime (Victoria State Government, 2017)

• Insufficient physical activity is responsible for five per cent of all death and disability in Australia (RLSA, 2017)

• Lack of sufficient physical activity costs the Australian economy $3.7 billion every year (RLSA, 2017)

• Swimming and water safety skills are a critical component in drowning prevention (World Health Organisation, 2014)

• Drownings cost the Australian economy $1.5 billion each year (RLSA, 2018) • Physical activity has a 25 per cent preventative impact on anxiety and depression (Harvard University, 2020)

• Increasing the rate of physical activity by 10 per cent has been estimated to reduce physical inactivity (low levels of physical activity) related deaths by 15 per cent and new cases by 13 per cent (VicHealth, 2016)

• Physical inactivity is the fourth leading cause of death due to non-communicable disease worldwide (heart disease, stroke, diabetes and cancers) – contributing to over three million preventable deaths annually (six per cent of deaths globally) (World Health Organization, 2009)

AQUA MAGAZINE | EDITION 3 - MARCH 2021

15

Pools are booming in Queensland!

Luke Geering of Smart Self Cleaning Pools, an authorised Sub dealer of Composite Pool Solutions

What styles/shapes are in high consumer demand?

Rectangles mainly. We’ve got a lot of different ranges, shapes and sizes. Our two most popular are our vogue range and our sanctuary range. They are both rectangular but are both elegant in style with bench seat where mum and dad can relax with a drink while the kids have somewhere to splash and play. Gone are the days where people want a lagoon style pool with curved sides. Consumers are after a more elegant style these days.

What is the fibreglass pool market like in QLD at the moment?

At the moment the industry is booming. All fibreglass Manufacturers are at maximum production and are struggling to keep up with demand. We could install a lot more pools than what we are currently receiving but with manufacturing and freight times, it is a struggle!

We are getting a ridiculous amount of enquiries. My website is relatively new and I’m getting too many leads to service them all.

The boom is due to Covid-19. People can’t go on that holiday they were saving up for or spend their money on overseas travel.

In QLD we’ve had a lot of Victorians and New South Welshman move up here. The property market has gone through the roof. These people want quotes for pools before they have even selected a house. The number of enquiries is ridiculous and they are quality leads too!

I guess we’re just as busy as everyone else but fortunately we’re not in lock down!

16

What have you seen change in consumer demand over the years?

Customers rely a lot on social media and really demand a presence there. We’re all over the socials, but consumers also rely on what type of pool their friends bought and who built their friends’ pools, rather than doing their homework themselves. Word-ofmouth is very big for us. Our past customers are ultimately our best salespeople!

What are some of the challenges for pool builders in QLD? Staffing isn’t so much of an issue now as it was in the past. A few years ago we initiated some training procedures for our staff. The only hurdle we currently have is receiving the shells from our supplier in a timely manner, but at the moment every pool builder has that problem. We have weekly conversations with the manufacturer and they are working 24/7 and just can’t keep up with demand.

They work around the clock and their orders have increased phenomenally.

When coronavirus began, I looked at the bank account and panicked wondering when I’d sell another pool, because I assumed that everyone was going to be careful with their money. But it turns out that it has been the best thing for our industry! I don’t think there’s going to be any slowing down any time soon either. We’ve had to work out ways to field our enquiries better.

We touch base with everyone and just try to service them as best we can. We send out information to everyone who has made contact with us and that usually ties them over until I can get to them to conduct a site inspection.

I take care of St Lawrence, North of Rockhampton, in the North to Ayr as far West as I want to go. I’m a sub-dealer for my Dad (Jeff Geering of Composite Pool Solutions).

He is the distributor for Compass Pools and takes care of all of central and North QLD.

What are you doing in terms of innovation?

We haven’t had to innovate too much but we have changed some of our processes around to manage things a little better.

We’ve now got the capability to install more pools in the same amount of time. At the end of 2019, Composite Pool Solutions planned to grow by 20% so we had extra trailers built and purchased more tools and machinery.

We put on more guys to train up with our existing installation crews. They had to learn quickly because by February 2020, Covid-19 had already hit. Last year we ended up growing by 80%.

At the moment we’re trying to share the love a bit and we’re looking for sub-dealers in Cairns, Townsville and Mt Isa to take the pressure off Dad. This is a real current focus of ours, as it’s just such a huge region to cover. If you’re interested, please email jeff@ compositepools.com.au

How and when did you become involved in the pool and spa industry?

Do you think pool ownership is a great Australian dream for Queenslanders?

It’s a long story. Dad used to manage the Compass Pools factory in Newcastle, so I grew up running around the factory and helping Dad out after hours. 12 years ago, Dad had the opportunity to become a dealer for compass in Rockhampton, so he jumped at it. I’m a sheet metal worker by trade but ended up with a back injury so about three years ago I put my hand up to help Dad out in QLD. He has taught me all I know and I had a lot to learn. Especially last year. I had to learn fast!

I believe it is. It’s too hot up here not to have one. The further North you go, the higher the risk of swimming in the ocean, so people are wanting their own pool at home. Humidity here is 80%-90%. People can either go to a public pool or find a friend with a pool but they end up just wanting to get their own. In the last twelve months, pool builders have popped up all over Queensland and are all wanting a piece of the pie. The customer really needs to do their homework. No-one wants to spend that much money on a pool if the person building it has only built a handful of pools in the past.

My original intention was to come up to QLD for six months and learn all about swimming pools and how to sell them, then go back to Newcastle and try to land a job in the local branch. But after six months, Dad didn’t want me to go anywhere and I liked what was happening up here, so we made the decision to move the family up and from that I was offered the sub-dealership in Airlie beach and Mackay.

We don’t win sales on price. We win sales on quality! We’re actually one of the dearer ones out there due to having a far more superior pool shell, paired with a filtration system that is actually suited for the pool. We try to educate the customer as much as possible before we even do a site inspection.

Is the backyard revolution as big in QLD as it is in Victoria?

I believe it is. The property market throughout QLD is booming at the moment.

That is predominantly Victorians and New South Welshman who have moved to QLD and made it their home. Everyone realised they could work remotely during Covid-19.

So many still have their workplace in Melbourne or Sydney but they are doing business from a beach front property in QLD. Everyone wants a swimming pool, a shed, a patio and a gazebo. Backyards are being fully transformed over the period of just a few months.

Contact Jeff Geering: 1300 309 691 jeff@compositepools.com.au

Are you looking for a change?

Luke Geering: 0401 871 192 luke@compositepools.com.au

Become a Composite Pools sub-dealer in QLD!

AQUA MAGAZINE | EDITION 3 - MARCH 2021

17

A moment with Bond Chemicals Director Campbell Heath on their new ‘Liquid Lithium’ product

AQUA: So what exactly is this new pool and spa sanitiser product?

Campbell: “We are currently in the process of commercialising a new, superior, bestin-class lithium-based spa sanitiser. Liquid Lithium spa sanitiser is positioned to become the best available product on the market, replacing and the old solid lithium hypochlorite product.

This new product features a superior efficacy and safety profile compared with existing non-lithium options so it becomes the preferred product on the market – similar but much improved against the old Solid Lithium Hypochlorite.

We have recently commenced sales from our production facility in Laverton North, Victoria and are looking to promote the benefits of the product throughout the Australian spa and pool market.

18

AQUA: How did this new product come about?

Campbell: “Bond Chemicals commenced research into new and improved ways of making hypochlorites and discovered their solutions displayed unrivalled efficacy and stability when compared with existing non-lithium products on the market. These solutions are also superior to the previous solid lithium hypochlorite, highlighting that a breakthrough had been made.

AQUA: Tell us a bit about the background to the development of this new product?

Campbell: “Around 2017 a structural change occurred in the global Lithium market. The demand for lithium skyrocketed on the back of unprecedented demand for electric vehicles and hence lithium batteries. This change in turn created an unfortunate impact in the spa disinfection market lithium hypochlorite manufacturing ceased.

So, in a very short time, the market was left without its number one product.

As a result, the spa disinfection market was forced to pivot to alternative nonlithium products – namely bromine-based disinfectants or isocyanurates. Both of these alternatives suffer from significant limitations in terms of efficacy and safety – and ultimately the customer experience.

“Spa service technicians are currently seeing this problem broadly across the market and are keen for a safer alternative.”

Bromine-based disinfectants possess inferior efficacy for killing the target bugs in spa water when compared with hypochlorite.

They also create acidic spa water conditions which leads to increased corrosion of spa parts such as pumps, and as a result significant additional operating costs for the spa owner.

The performance characteristics of Liquid Lithium are as follows:

•

Advanced product stability has enabled acceptable shelf life as a liquid product:

This new product also supports a better environmental outcome since it will eliminate the parts corrosion issue as well as drive greater water efficiency by eliminating the need to purge contaminated water (eg.

Cycled-up cyanurates).

“Spa service technicians are currently seeing this problem broadly across the market and are keen for a safer alternative.”

AQUA: What is so unique and different about Liquid Lithium?

This new Bond product is superior to current non-Lithium products in the following aspects:

• • • •

•

Less corrosive Best-in-class efficacy Stable Bond product – eliminates the need for isocyanurate and the associated cycling-up issue Does not contribute to additional hardness in spa/pool water

Heightened stability at high temperature (52 degC) makes this product ideal for spa usage as well as any other high temperature disinfection applications (eg. Plunge pools):

For more information on Bond Chemicals’ new Liquid Lithium product please visit: www.bondchemicals.com.au

It is also superior to the old solid Lithium Hypochlorite product in the following aspects:

• • • •

Not as corrosive (Bond product does not contain the high levels of salt that the old solid Lithium Hypochlorite used to contain) Best-in-class efficacy No need to dissolve – ready for immediate use Increased stability – lower level of strength decomposition with time

•

Liquid format enables easier dosing (no need to dissolve solid) whilst smaller bottle volume ensures ergonomics of handling 1L, 2.5L and 5L bottles is acceptable to the Customer

AQUA MAGAZINE | EDITION 3 - MARCH 2021

19

THE SMART WATER LEVELLER HAS ARRIVED

AVA ILAB NOW LE !

Australia’s most trusted auto leveller just got better • Easy to install • Incredible value • New Smart Sense technology • Suitable for all water projects

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• Added features for more versatility

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waterwitch Electronic Water Leveller

Water Witch Smart Sense Cooke Industries are long-term partners of SPASAVIC and the wider industry across Australia.

They are excited to announce the launch of their Water Witch Smart Sense, an improved and updated model of the ever-popular Water Witch electronic auto leveller.

The original Water Witch was developed by Cooke Industries more than 25 years ago and has proudly been manufactured in Australia ever since.

The recently launched Water Witch Smart Sense includes a host of added features that will further enhance its reputation as Australia’s most trusted auto leveller: •

Easy to install and suitable for indoor and outdoor applications

•

An interactive LCD screen for programming operational functions

•

Smart Sense auto shut-off to prevent water wastage

•

Pump-Out function for infinity edge troughs and balance tanks

•

Manual Fill timer so you can keep adding water to a new pool after you’ve left site

•

Daily usage and fault logs to monitor the unit’s operation

•

Suitable for pools, spas, troughs, tanks or any other water project

Call Cooke Industries on 1300 652 076 to order your new Water Witch Smart Sense today!

To celebrate the release of the Water Witch Smart Sense Cooke Industries is also giving trade customers a carton of mixed craft beers from the acclaimed Black Dog Brewery. Be quick to redeem this offer as it is only available while stocks last!

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AQUA MAGAZINE | EDITION 3 - MARCH 2021

21

The Hawthorn Park Sky Pool Build – An Amazing Feat! with Travis Fell of Aloha Pools

How did this project originally come about?

What were the challenges of this build?

What do you love about this pool?

The striking design was the brainchild of Rothelowman Architects and they conceived the architectural concept well before our involvement in the project.

There are many complexities involved in the design and construction of a fully suspended pool, so Greg Sullivan from Commercial Pool Consulting worked tightly with the project team from HickoryBuilders to overcome factors such as: • acoustic isolation, which was required to eliminate noise for the residents in the apartments below • lateral restraints, which were engineered to deal with any possible earthquake load • the expected deflection of the supporting beams under the load of the water • the weight of the structure, which was counteracted by using a series of composite carbon fibre reinforced members • wind engineering & loads were studied so that the pool structure could withstand very high wind loads • a fail-proof system was required for the sealing and monitoring of the pool window panels • the integrity of the water-proofing liner had to be uncompromised

For most people, this would be the visual impact of standing 6 storeys below the pool, looking up through the windows into the structure. For me, it’s the behind-the-scenes technical details, working with a talented team at Hickory and Commercial Pool Consulting to overcome the challenges, and using materials and methods that haven’t been used in this combination before. I am proud to be part of a team that achieved the exact result that was asked in the original architectural design brief.

The original pool design was not going to meet the visual aspirations of the developer and architect so Commercial Pool Consulting was engaged to re-think the design, engineering and construction methodology.

What is new/different or innovative about this project?

This pool is one of only a few pools in the world that is suspended in the air, anchored between two buildings. The construction is a hybrid steel superstructure utilising a highly customised Myrtha Pool system. The addition of a series of large, acrylic viewing panels in the walls and floor of the pool adds another layer of innovation, and makes it quite a unique experience to use the Sky Pool.

The acrylic panels and stainless steel systems had to be pre-ordered from Myrtha Pools in Italy before the supporting structure was even in place, so the schematics had to be exact. Once thedesign challenges had been met by Commercial Pool Consulting, the team at Aloha Pools delivered on the physical construction of this amazing spanning structure.

And if this wasn’t already enough of a challenge, throw a global pandemic into the mix with strict Covid restrictions that included limited numbers on-site and serious interruptions to the supply chain, especially with imported parts - the windows for the pool only arrived from Italy 24 hrs before the site crane was taken down!

22

Have you swum in this pool yet?

The local residents all highly anticipated the unveiling of this pool, and I’m sure a middleaged pool builder swimming around in it would have detracted from the otherwise striking appearance of it! So, for me personally, the answer is no, but a number of the Hickory & Aloha team haven’t been able to resist.

I would particularly like to thank:

• Steve Cahill, Julie, Chenchen and the rest of the talented team at Hickory Builders

• Greg Sullivan and his staff at Commercial Pool Consulting

• Ray Taylor and the construction team at Aloha Pools

• David at Myrtha Pools Without talented, dedicated and disciplined people like these, it wouldn’t be possible to build projects with this level of complexity.

Photos courtesy of Hickory and Dahua Group

Outdoor Design Trends Dominating in 2021 This article focuses on an article written by Mikki Brammer on January 15 in the USA’s Architectural Digest Magazine where six landscape designers have provided input into the features and plantings they believe will be popular as they progress through 2021.

Taken from Architectural Digest Magazine.

Click to view the full article.

Please click on the link at right to be taken to the article and read it in full.

We can all agree that the following statement is just as applicable to us in Victoria: “After nearly a year of confinement, our outdoor spaces have become sanctuaries of solace and sanity. Naturally, landscape design has become top of mind. Even those who call city apartments home are finding ways to integrate the gentle presence of nature into their dwellings”.

Of particular interest to SPASAVIC was the following observation, which we believe is just as relevant to Australia as it is to the USA: Christine Ten Eyck of Ten Eyck Landscape Architects says that while swimming pools are as popular as ever, it’s no longer a case of the bigger, the better.

“Smaller swimming pools take up less green space of urban properties and give the illusion of swimming in a fountain-like water body surrounded by lush landscape versus a sea of paving.” She notes that outdoor showers are also high on people’s wish lists: “Showering or bathing surrounded by the intoxicating fragrance of plants in a completely private small garden gets the day started right.”

The article outlines the folllowing key trends: • Gardens with purpose • The world outside your door • Peaceful plannings • Invasive gardens begone • Subtle lighting.

All interesting trends that are just as likely to be a focus in Victoria and Australia-wide as we emerge from the pandemic but still look to #holidayathome.

“Smaller swimming pools take up less green space of urban properties and give the illusion of swimming in a fountain-like water body surrounded by lush landscape versus a sea of paving.”

AQUA MAGAZINE | EDITION 3 - MARCH 2021

23

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Also available in WA frominAustral Pool Solutions Also available WA from Austral Pool Solutio Victoria South Wales Queensland New Victoria New South Wales P: 9240 5600 Queensland P: 9240 5600 03 9580 9016 07 3279 0083 02 9674 6008 E: sales@australpool.com.au 03 9580 9016 07 3279 0083 02 9674 6008 E: sales@australpool.com.au

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6 Star 2 Speed Pump

8 Star 3 Speed Pump

Designed to help your customers save money on running costs and promote a cleaner environment, our complete range of energy efficient pumps can be relied on every day for your pool projects.

8 Star 200 & 400 VSD Pump with Bluetooth

Available at Reece Irrigation & Pools reece.com.au/henden

SPASAVIC Industry Training in 2021

SPASAVIC’s Industry Training is important to the success of Naughton’s Pools & Spas. I recently sent 15 employees to hydraulics training and I am satisfied that the tuition my staff received will be an excellent investment in my business in the long run.

Justin Hatfield, Director of Naughtons Pools & Spas

SPASAVIC’s Industry Training Program provides the framework for competency within the pool and spa industry and supports an ongoing drive to improve knowledge, skills and safe practices.

SPASAVIC offers all those associated with the swimming pool and spa industry the opportunity to attend our unique and highly regarded training courses through our Industry Training Program.

Knowledge Increases Profit and Productivity All SPASAVIC training courses have been designed in consultation with leading industry experts Courses are delivered by knowledgeable industry specialists with years of hands-on, practical experience Training ensures that your employees can better navigate the ever-changing Government regulations and standards Our courses are an affordable and valuable investment in your business SPASAVIC training is recognised as an excellent investment in your business and is utilised by the most successful employers within the pool and spa industry. As an employer, the training of your staff is vital to the success of your business and will ensure that you and your staff remain up-to-date with current industry best practice.

Invest in your business by educating and training your staff professionally through SPASAVIC’s Industry Training Program.

For more information please visit: https://www.spasavic.com.au/ spasavic-industry-training

We highly recommend that anyone involved in the pool & spa industry take advantage of the excellent industry training conducted by SPASAVIC. Helen Strangos, Director of The Diamond Pool & Spa Company

Hydraulics Training

Wed 17 AND Thu 18 March 9am - 4pm

BOOK HERE

Pool Construction Essentials Training

Tuesday 13 April 8.30am – 4.30pm

BOOK HERE

Portable Spa Basic Training

Thursday 29 April 9am – 4pm

BOOK HERE

Basic Chemistry Training

Tuesday 18th May 9am - 4pm

BOOK HERE

Advanced Chemistry Training

Thur 20 AND Fri 21 May 9am - 4pm

BOOK HERE

Pool Shop & Service Training - What Makes the Great Retailers Great

Thursday 27th May 9am – 4pm

BOOK HERE

OH&S Materials Made Easy

Friday 11 June 9.30am - 12.30pm

BOOK HERE

HR Essentials

Friday 25 June 10am – 12pm

BOOK HERE

Pool Construction Essentials Training

Tuesday 3 August 8.30am - 4.30pm

BOOK HERE

Domestic Builder Contract Training **

Wednesday 18 August 11.30am - 1pm

BOOK HERE

Hydraulics Training

Wed 25th AND Thu 26th August 9am - 4pm

BOOK HERE

Basic Chemistry Training

Monday 20th September 9am - 4pm

BOOK HERE

Advanced Chemistry Training

Wed 22nd AND Thu 23rd Sept 9am - 4pm

BOOK HERE

** For Restricted & Builder members only

SPASAVIC has partnered with Masters in Building Training (MIBT) to offer a career pathway for industry participants through their Certificate IV in Swimming Pool and Spa Building and Building Inspector (Pool Safety) training courses.

MIBT training offers complete learning flexibility through their online learning system so that students can learn anywhere at any time.

MIBT CPC40808 – Certificate IV in Swimming Pool and Spa Building.

BOOK HERE

MIBT VBAISP2020 Building Inspector (Pool Safety).

Victorian Swimming Pool and Spa Barrier Inspection training

BOOK HERE

AQUA MAGAZINE | EDITION 3 - MARCH 2021

27

A moment with Boss Solar - SPASAVIC Sponsors in 2021

At Boss Solar, our purpose is to promote and apply our ingenuity in product and solutions development to deliver enjoyment to the lives of everyday people.

We believe in offering high quality, innovative and energy efficient solar products that will allow our customers to have the best outdoor lifestyles possible. Our extensive range includes strip (flexible) collector, rigid solar panels, manifolds, ancillary components, and installation accessories.

We work with pool professionals, providing product and installation training and support.

Sophisticated manufacturing techniques and machinery enable Boss Solar to produce the most advanced and innovative solar pool heating products in the world. Boss Solar strives to do the right thing by their customers, end users and the planet.

At Boss Solar, we aim to provide customers with products that deliver the best environmental, energy consumption and costs savings possible. Boss Solar is proud to offer the following Climate Care certified products: • • • • •

Rhino Solar - Rigid Solar Panels Cobra Panels - Rigid Solar Panels NanoTek - PVCn Flexible Strip Collector Ultimate Blue - PVCn Flexible Strip Collector Triple Black - PVCn Flexible Strip Collector

In addition to our Climate Care certification, we also hold certification from the Solar Rating & Certification Corporation (SRCC) – an independent international certification.

This means that our products must have:

• •

Proven Heating Performance Proven Durability • Proven Heating Efficiency Our customers can purchase from us with confidence knowing that they are selecting a certified solar pool heating solution with verified world-class performance.

Boss Solar is also an independent manufacturer, providing a “supplyonly” service. We do not compete with our installation partners. We have no ‘lock-in contracts’ or ‘restrictions’ regarding who or what you purchase from other suppliers.

For customers wanting installation, we have a nationwide network of trained and knowledgeable installation partners.

Design and Specification Professionals Talk to us and we shall design and specify a system to meet your exact needs. We can then support the delivery of the system through our distribution partners and their installation professionals.

Builders Working in collaboration with our distribution partners, we can conduct joint sales calls to you and discuss the specifics of the solutions you need for a range of pool offerings.

Trade Professionals (Solar Installers/Pool Heating Companies) Work directly with Boss and their local distribution partners across the country who will provide exceptional service to ensure your solar heating needs are satisfied.

Consumers We work closely with our network of trained, professional installation partners. Contact Boss Solar to identify your nearest installer.

Our partners are waiting to support you through product selection, system design, quotation, supply and installation.

Visit the Boss Solar website for all the latest information regarding their extensive range of Australian Made products and solutions.

Image by Pexels from Pixabay.

SPASAVIC Forward Calendar of Events 2021 Friday 23 April

Chris Dorrity Memorial Member Golf Day

Saturday 31 July

Awards of Excellence Gala Night

BOOK HERE

2022 Friday 4 - Sunday 6 February

Pool & Spa Expo + Outdoor Living

Saturday 9 - Sunday 10 July

Spa & Pool Show + Backyard & Garden Show

2023 Friday 3 - Sunday 5 February

Pool & Spa Expo + Outdoor Living

Saturday 8 - Sunday 9 July

Spa & Pool Show + Backyard & Garden Show

2024 Friday 2 - Sunday 4 February

Pool & Spa Expo + Outdoor Living

Saturday 13 - Sunday 14July

Spa & Pool Show + Backyard & Garden Show

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30

Waterco Product Alert Memo

Read the Product Memo Alert

On 28 July 2020, the Australian Pesticide and Veterinary Medicine Authority (APVMA) made a decision to cancel the registration and label approvals for certain products, including some of Waterco’s products.

Waterco was always of the view that the decision was unlawful and ultimately commenced proceedings to have the decision set aside.

On 17 February 2021, the APVMA consented to orders being made setting aside the cancellation decision and re-instating the registration and label approvals for the affected products, including Waterco’s products.

The orders made by the court confirm Waterco’s view that the cancellation decision was unlawful and should never have been made.

Waterco can now continue selling and distributing their hydrogen peroxide based products without any restriction.

Subscribe to AQUA Magazine! click here

AQUA MAGAZINE | EDITION 3 - MARCH 2021

31

SMART POOLS CREATING SMART SOLUTIONS MEANS TAKING A HOLISTIC APPROACH As new technologies emerge, people compare the experience of buying from you to your competitors and the experience that they receive.

At Pentair we have a strong emphasis on putting our customers first.

In a world where new technologies pop up all the time, the companies that put customers needs first are in a position to win. We win, but only the right way.

No one puts the total performance package together for residential swimming pools like Pentair does. Recognised for energy efficiency, outstanding dependability and ease of opperation. Pentair products are designed to help you save energy, eliminate or reduce noise, conserve water and save money.

Pumps / Filters / Heaters / Heat Pumps / Cleaners / Sanitizers / Automation / White Goods / Water Features / Maintenance Products

AQUA MAGAZINE | EDITION 3 - MARCH 2021

32

CA210219

D GORLD IN THE A IBLE ND STASPONSL O RE PO RSHIP NE OW

SAVE WATER, MONEY & THE ENVIRONMENT WITH

SPASVIC’s

WATER NEUTRAL POOL PROGRAM 1

3

2 2

4

SAVE MONEY & THE ENVIRONMENT

Pool owners should be aware of water conservation strategies to ensure they are responsible users of water.

It’s easy to transform your backyard pool into a Water Neutral pool!

WHAT IS A WATER NEUTRAL POOL? In order to be certified as ‘Water Neutral’, a pool must have the following key water saving features:

1

Water tank, to collect rainfall to top-up the pool as needed

2

Pool cover, to conserve 90% of water lost through evaporation

3

Backwash minimisation system, to prevent excessive backwashing (e.g. cartridge filter, oversized sand filter, centrifugal / pre-filter device, backwash recycle system etc)

4

Energy Efficient Equipment

THE BENEFITS OF A CERTIFIED WATER NEUTRAL POOL You will pay less for water, maintenance and pool chemicals. At the same time you will reduce your pool’s environmental impact, while enjoying the benefits of a pool.

A Water Neutral Pool can save more than 6,000 litres of water every year, which can be used in toilets, laundries and the garden.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

A pool can either be certified by a SPASAVIC member or be selfassessed. A full list of current SPASAVIC members can be found on the SPASAVIC website www.spasavic.com.au/member Self-assessment forms are also available from the SPASAVIC website.

03 9501 2040

www.spasavic.com.au/wnp • SAVE WATER & MONEY •

• REDUCE CHEMICAL USAGE •

• HELP THE ENVIRONMENT •

SPASAVIC is Proudly Supported by: The ‘Water Neutral Pool’ program is an initiative of the Swimming Pool & Spa Association of Victoria (SPASAVIC) and is supported by the greater metropolitan water retailers.

We love you but... you’re paying too much for Builder’s Warranty Insurance.

At AB Phillips, we love the Pool and Spa industry. It’s why we have worked so hard to bring you a warranty product outside of the Victorian government offering, to make sure we are looking after your industry. We’re the only insurance broker that has access to this exclusive facility, which is why we are confident in saying we can look after you.

Our rates are often lower than what you’re paying and you can still access and lodge your certificates online. Ask another pool builder insured with us, and they’ll tell you it’s also our advice that sets us apart.

Talk with one of our Account Managers. You’ll soon see how much we love you.

Call 1300 242 136 or email insurance@abphillips.com.au

abphillips.com.au In issuing this Policy, AB Phillips Pty Ltd act under an authority given by the Insurers. This means that when issuing this Policy AB Phillips will be acting as agent for the Insurer and are therefore not able to consider your personal circumstances. This applies only to this Policy, AB Phillips Pty Ltd are your Insurance Broker on all your other Policies unless stated otherwise. AB Phillips Pty Ltd Australian Financial Services Licence No. 234457 ABN. 91 007 075 934