SPLASH December 2018 - January 2019

Swimming Pools / Leisure / Aquatics / Spas / Health

121 December 2018/January 2019

Water management For swimming pools www.splashmagazine.com.au

The revolution of the Ultra-fine bubble The importance of Water familiarisation Pool in landscape Award winners

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Wondering how?

Talk to our experienced staff

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AIS’ vision is for the global aquatic community to have access to safe and perfectly disinfected water while ending the dependence on hazardous chlorine dosing.

AIS’ mission is to develop simpler, safer and smarter technologies for water disinfection.

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with advanced features and Virtual Pool Care NEW Blue Connect, the smart pool analyser, is a device that combines a water quality sensor and smart algorithms which mixes water, weather and user data. Blue Connect combined with the smartphone app will help you look after your pool 24/7, even if you are away. No more uncertainty about what is happening in your pool.

In addition to all the Blue Connect features, Blue Connect Plus gives access to a powerful web platform that allows your local pool professional to monitor the pool remotely, for the ultimate peace of mind.

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Blue App

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Includes the Gold premium measureme nt probe

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The Blue Connect Plus is for all salt pool types where the device is likely to be installed in the technical room using the included Tapping Saddle Adaptor, BlueFit50.

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Published by The Intermedia Group Pty Ltd ABN 940 025 83 682 41 Bridge Road, Glebe, NSW, 2037 Australia Ph: (02) 9660 2113 Fax: (02) 9660 4419 On behalf of The Swimming Pool & Spa Association of Australia Ltd (SPASA Australia) Publisher: Simon Cooper Managing Editor: Chris Maher Phone: 0412 048 639 Email: chrismaher@intermedia.com.au

editorial A festival of summer

Contributors: Cal Stanley, Izzy Grace, Alan Lewis, Laurie Lawrence, Ros Ronning Advertising Manager: David Stennett Phone: 0404 725 554 Email: david@spasa.com.au

Visitors to our shores often comment how topsy-turvy it seems to have Christmas in the summer. Obviously, it doesn’t seem like that to us – in fact, most of us couldn’t imagine it any other way.

Senior Designer: Chris Papaspiros Production Manager: Jacqui Cooper

Christmas is a time for friends and family to gather, share the love, remember good times past and plan good times for the future. What better way to do that than around a swimming pool?

Head of Circulation: Chris Blacklock For Subscriptions Call: 1800 651 422 Copyright All material in this publication is copyright to the publisher and/or its contributors. No material may be reproduced without the express permission of the publishers.

Disclaimer: This publication is published by The Intermedia Group Pty Ltd (the “Publisher”) on behalf of SPASA Australia. Materials in this publication have been created by a variety of different entities and, to the extent permitted by law, the Publisher accepts no liability for materials created by others. All materials should be considered protected by Australian and international intellectual property laws.

Unless you are authorised by law or the copyright owner to do so, you may not copy any of the materials. The mention of a product or service, person or company in this publication does not indicate the Publisher’s endorsement. The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Publisher, its agents, company officers or employees. Any use of the information contained in this publication is at the sole risk of the person using that information. The user should make independent enquiries as to the accuracy of the information before relying on that information. All express or implied terms, conditions, warranties, statements, assurances and representations in relation to the Publisher, its publications and its services are expressly excluded save for those conditions and warranties which must be implied under the laws of any State of Australia or the provisions of Division 2 of Part V of the Trade Practices Act 1974 and any statutory modification or re-enactment thereof. To the extent permitted by law, the Publisher will not be liable for any damages including special, exemplary, punitive or consequential damages (including but not limited to economic loss or loss of profit or revenue or loss of opportunity) or indirect loss or damage of any kind arising in contract, tort or otherwise, even if advised of the possibility of such loss of profits or damages. While we use our best endeavours to ensure accuracy of the materials we create, to the extent permitted by law, the Publisher excludes all liability for loss resulting from any inaccuracies or false or misleading statements that may appear in this publication.

This issue of SPLASH! magazine published by The Intermedia Group Pty Ltd (Intermedia) may contain magazine or subscription; offers, competitions, forms and surveys (Reader Offers) which require you to provide information about yourself, if you choose to enter or take part in them. If you provide information about yourself to Intermedia, Intermedia will use this information to provide you with the products of services you have requested and may supply your information to contractors that help Intermedia to do this. Intermedia will also use your information to inform you of other Intermedia publications, products, services and events. Intermedia may give your information to organisations that are providing special prizes or offers that are clearly associated with the Reader Offer. Unless you tell us not to, we may give your information to other organisations that may use it to inform you about other products, services or events or to give it to other organisations that may use it for this purpose. If you would like to gain access to the information Intermedia holds about you, please contact Intermedia’s Privacy Officer at The Intermedia Group Pty Ltd, PO Box 55, Glebe, NSW 2037.

Many northern hemispherians come to Australia and say it’s traditional for Aussies to go to beach on Christmas Day, but that’s not true at all. Head down to your local beach (Bondi for example) and you’ll see far and away that most people are tourists, soaking up the “authentic Aussie” experience, with nary an Aussie to be seen.

Chris Maher Managing Editor chrismaher@ intermedia.com.au

That’s because most of us are at a family gathering somewhere, and many, many of those are around a swimming pool. Each year when the call goes out to who’s going to host Christmas, you know that Uncle and Aunty X are the favourites, because they’ve got a backyard pool where everyone can cool off after their traditionally enormous lunch of seafood or roasts and platters of fresh Aussie fruit.

The family shares the cooking, pressies and most of all – the fun. Kids squeal and play games, adults join in and memories are made for a lifetime.

Full page ad

And as those kids get older, the evocative smell of Christmas stays with them – pine needles, sunscreen and swimming pool water.

All of us at SPLASH! wish our readers the best time this Christmas, not only relaxing with family and friends around the pool, but also taking comfort that as part of this industry, you’re helping other families enjoy Christmas in our own, uniquely Australian way.

Merry Christmas!

Copyright © 2018 - SPASA Australia.

SPLASH! contains NO advertorial.

Proudly supported by

This issue’s cover The views expressed in this magazine do not necessarily represent those of the above supporters, nor should any product advertised in SPLASH! magazine be seen to be endorsed by the above.

Cover shows TLC Pools’ project in Ivanhoe, Landscape Victoria’s joint winner in their new pool category. There is more on these awards on page 42.

Photography by Dave Kuleza.

December 2018/January 2019 SPLASH! 5

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Contents 26

24 22

42

Neptune Pools, the beginning Part Two of Cal Stanley’s three-part story on the highs and lows of establishing a career in the Australian pool construction business. The final part will appear in the following edition.

Women in leadership Ros Ronning looks at why women are twice as likely as their male counterparts to take on the grunge work in a business, and how women can become aware of the stigma they are creating for themselves.

24

Stutchbury wins design of the year A pool-centric hillside sanctuary in Bayview on Sydney’s northern beaches has been crowned the 2018 Australian House of the Year in the Houses Awards.

38 48

26

Water management for a hot climate With a hot summer predicted for many parts of the country, Izzy Grace looks at ways the pool and spa industry is conserving water, and how those measures are being used to reassure consumers that enjoyment of water doesn’t mean you need to consume a lot of it.

38

Pools wow at landscape awards Landscaping Victoria has recently held its 2018 Master Landscapers Industry Awards, introducing a new category especially for swimming pools.

48

The importance of water familiarisation Laurie Lawrence explains why force has no place in the teaching of swimming, and how teachers can find fun ways to encourage children to become familiar with the water and perform swimming activities voluntarily.

50

WAHC and the ultra-fine bubble boom Alan Lewis reviews the latest World Aquatic Health Conference, paying particular attention to a revolutionary new form of disinfection involving the production of roughly 100,000,000 ultra-fine bubbles per millilitre of water.

regulars News. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Commercial news . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Pool DAs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

New products. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Ad index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

December 2018/January 2019 SPLASH! 7

news

Industry Moves

Trevor Coakley moves on after a long career After 29 years in the swimming pool and spa industry, well known and even better liked industry stalwart Trevor Coakley is hanging up his sales book and moving into retirement.

SPLASH! caught him sorting through his vast technical library in preparation for his departure from the industry.

“I’ve been cleaning out some books,” he says. “It’s amazing how many manuals and catalogues you collect over the years. Someone will always come up with a question like ‘Do you know the old Poolrite multi-port valve?’ and I’ll I go, ‘Hang on, I’ve got a book on it!’. I’m handing them on, so I don’t feel bad about throwing them out.”

Colleagues and customers contacted SPLASH! to sing Coakley’s praises as a dedicated, engaging workmate and a knowledgeable, helpful representative.

Coakley returns the favour, saying he absolutely loved his time in the industry and made some great friends, some of whom he’s known for nearly 30 years.

“Nelleke and Denis are two absolutely outstanding people,” says Coakley. “Nelleke was very good at what she did and had great knowledge.

Together they took a little company and made it into a big company. They are great people.”

He was their northern area manager, which encompassed everywhere north of Parramatta Road all the way up to Coffs Harbour, while David Patterson handled everything south of Parramatta Road.

After several years at Niagara, Coakley took a “sabbatical” for 12 months with Premium Quality before returning to Niagara – where he stayed for another nine years, including two years under Pool Systems ownership.

“I was there for about two years after Pool Systems took over when I got picked up by Nathan and Tony from Newline. I’d known Tony for many years, working alongside each other at the PoolWerx conferences, so he asked me to work with them and I jumped at it. I was there until Pool Systems bought Newline. A funny thing. It was a Saturday when Tony called and said: ‘I just sold the business’. And I asked, ‘Who to?’. He said Pool Systems, then ‘Trevor, are you still there??’ So they got me back.”

Coakley is the only person to have worked with the three now linked companies, Niagara, Newline and Pool Systems – twice with Pool Systems, where he stayed until his retirement.

“The pool industry gets in your blood,” he says. “You just want to stay in it. I’m sure you’ve found other people in the industry feeling the same.

“And it’s been a bit like being a doctor – you go to a function and people say ahh my pool is going green – what do you think that is? And before you know it, you’re helping fix their pool!”

A long journey

Coakley is married with two children and a three-year old grandchild.

“I work in the pool industry, my son-in-law works in the pool industry as a technician, and my daughter works in Crystal Clear Pool Shop in Woy Woy,” he says.

“I think we’ve come a long way in the pool industry from pump, filter, chlorinator – there’s more technology in terms of automation for looking after your pool. Even testing pool water has become remote now – you can have something floating in the pool and check it on your Apple Watch or iPhone.”

Another change in the industry is the rise of replacement over repairing.

“Now with the cost of repairs it’s better to replace than repair,” he says. “Back with John at the pool shop you’d get your pumps rewound – but nowadays you get them replaced and get a new one with the new technology, because it’s changing at such a fast rate.”

He says he’d absolutely recommend the industry to people looking at a career, saying it’s an interesting occupation that keeps you on your toes.

“You’re always faced with different challenges,” he says.

Before he joined the pool and spa industry, Coakley worked in the travel industry – first for 18 years with Ansett as a sales rep before shifting to Avis Rent-a-Car. Then his brother Geoff put him in contact with Wayne Marshall, a sale rep at BioGuard, who introduced him to Canadian Doug Starr who was the national manager at the time. Surprisingly, they were looking for someone with no industry experience.

“They wanted someone without any experience in the industry,” says Coakley. “Someone they could train without any preconceived ideas. And they taught me a lot – it wasn’t long before they taught me how to get up in front of 50 or 60 people to talk about looking after your pool.”

After four or five years at BioGuard, Coakley got an offer to work in Peter and Sylvia Fishburne’s pool shop, TPR Pool and Spa Centre in East Roseville in Sydney.

“John Harding was the service manager and I was employed as the retail shop manager,” he says. “John was a mentor of sorts and taught me to how to fix equipment and service it. ‘Give it a try Trev, give it a go,’ he used to say. John has moved onto Lo-Chlor now.”

Coakley credits working in a pool shop for giving him a sense of what customers need.

“I learnt what the shops were faced with in terms of the customers and their questions,” he says. “And that gave me an insight and an empathy with what the pool shops had to deal with. It was like an apprenticeship in knowing and understanding what happens in the industry.”

But after about another five years, he felt the urge to get back on the road and he picked up a sales job with Onga, owned at the time by Starite, just before its purchase by Pentair.

Niagara and beyond

He moved on to Niagara Pool Supplies – who had become a major distributor for Onga – and Coakley developed a strong business relationship as well as a lasting friendship with Nelleke Gilhuys and Dennis Baxter.

8 SPLASH! December 2018/January 2019

The next generation

Putting out fires

Coakley has long been a volunteer with the Rural Fire Service, which he enjoys immensely, and is likely to spend more time helping with the service and ensuring his Berowra neighbourhood says safe from the ravages of a hot summer.

“I’ve been here at Berowra for 35 years, and I love it up here and we’re going to stay here. The freeway’s five minutes up the road so you can go up the coast without having to go through Sydney and just head off if you feel like it.

“I’d like to say thank you to all the people I’ve come to know in the industry and the many friends I’ve made. Everyone’s been fantastic and I’ve enjoyed working with them over the years. There’s some great people out there and I appreciate the support they’ve given me – I wouldn’t have been doing the jobs for so long if I hadn’t received the support they gave me over the years.”

news

Real estate

The pool with a million dollar view

Victoria helps quarter and year improve The available three-monthly pool DA numbers for September-to-November showed an improvement of one per cent compared to the same period last year. Over the three months, Victoria was up 23 per cent, New South Wales up five per cent and Western Australia up two per cent; while Queensland was down 18 per cent and South Australia down 13 per cent.

The annual figures comparing the 12 months to November showed an improvement of three per cent. Victoria was up 17 per cent, South Australia up 12 per cent, New South Wales up four per cent and Western Australia up three per cent. Queensland was down 17 per cent.

Yearly comparison by month

The home is surrounded by four hectares left as natural bushland

500

r new

Aug Sep

Jul

Aug Sep Oct Nov

Year old Year new There is a swimming5000 pool for sale on the Gold Coast hinterland and we couldn’t resist the temptation to publish a photo of it. Of course, to own the pool 4000 you also have to buy the home, designed by renowned architect Warren Coyle.

3000 The designer kitchen overlooks a combined living and dining space where banks of bi-fold doors open out to a breathtaking 2000 entertaining space and a spectacular infinity pool.

Lazing in the pool1000 you can take in the surrounding secluded valley, relax looking out across the naturally wooded hills as they roll 0 to the coast, the view pierced by the Gold Coast QLD towers rising up in Oct Nov NSW VIC WA the distance.

The home is set on 10 lush hectares with four hectares left as natural bushland to attract an abundance of wildlife. A range of native vegetation has also been planted near the home to attract birds so the owners can wake to the sweet sounds of nature every day. All of this is located just 30-minutes from the international airport and only a short drive from the nearest township.

Contact: www.sophiecarter.com

SA

Yearly comparison by State

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Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun

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Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun

Year old

1500

A view across the rolling hills to the towers of the 0 Gold Coast

Year new

500

Year new

2000

Three-monthly comaparison

Year old

Year old 2000

Jul

Aug Sep Oct Nov

Year new 7000

5000

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4000 3000

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7000 6000 5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 0

While these figures give an indication of the way the market is trending, they are not comprehensive and don’t include all pools built or even all DAs lodged. By some estimates, the total national numbers including all types of pools could be almost double these figures. They do not include pool projects that are approved as part of a new home, smaller projects under the cost threshold, renovations that don’t require a DA, or some aboveground pools. Additionally, not all councils are forthcoming with data or report on time; councils in some states such as Queensland and Victoria are particularly reluctant.

For further information, call Cordell Information on 1800 80 60 60.

December 2018/January 2019 SPLASH! 9

0

news

Safety

Pool owners urged to check gates

Child water safety advocate Laurie Lawrence is calling on pool owners to check the safety of their pool gates.

Lawrence says faulty pool gates and fences remain a leading cause of drownings of Aussie kids under five, and that 12 children under the age of five lost

their lives because of swimming pool drownings in 2017/18, with hundreds more involved in nonfatal drowning incidents.

“Drowning is the second most common cause of accidental death of children in Australia,” Lawrence says.

“Kids gaining access to pools because of faulty gates is something that should not be happening. Pool owners need to check their fences, latches and hinges regularly, as a gate that is not self-closing and self-latching provides instant and often undetected access for toddlers to the pool area.”

D&D Technologies, the manufacturer of the MagnaLatch pool safety gate latch, last year launched National Check-YourPool-Gate Day with Laurie Lawrence’s KidsAlive water safety program to help curb childhood

drownings caused by faulty pool gates. The day was held on December 1, as the beginning of summer is the ideal time to check the fence and gate.

“Australia has one of the highest pool-ownership rates per capita in the world, but the tragic fact is pool owners are not checking their pool gates and fences regularly,” says D&D’s technical director John Clark.

“Statistically, gates are the weakest link. We’ve known this for a long time and that’s why we are so committed to helping pool owners get serious about gate maintenance.

“All it takes is a few minutes to check your pool fences and gates, including latches and hinges, are in good working order. This simple routine at the start of summer could save the life of a child.”

Checklist for pool gates

• Gate should open outwards, away from the pool • Latch release knob should be at least 1500mm above ground level • Gate must be self-closing and self-latching • Gate hinges should be rust-free and bind-free • Gate should carry reliable, tension-adjustable hinges • Latch must be adjustable for height and width.

• Hinges must be adjustable for closing tension.

• Latch cannot be key locked in the “open” position • Latch cannot be disengaged using implements • Gate latch cannot be shaken or jolted open • Gate will shut securely from any open angle or force • Gate complies with all Australian Standards for pool safety

Safety

Leaking pool heater sends family to hospital Four people were taken to hospital in November following a carbon monoxide incident at Hawthorn, Victoria.

The Metropolitan Fire Brigade (MFB) was called to a home in Robinson Road at 8am after paramedics found a family of four were drowsy and suffering loss of consciousness. Firefighters used specialist equipment to conduct atmospheric monitoring and the readings tested positive for traces of carbon monoxide.

The two adults and two children were transported to hospital, and crews remained on scene continuing testing for about three hours until the house was made safe.

MFB commander Anthony McCoy said the leak seemed to be emanating from an incorrectly installed pool heater flue. The Victorian Building Authority will investigate the incident.

Keep informed by subscribing to the free online newsletter.

“This was a close call for the family,” he said.

“It’s a timely reminder for all community members to ensure gas appliances are properly installed and maintained.”

Director of Energy Safety, Paul Fearon said the incident highlighted the dangers of carbon monoxide.

“While it appears that the victims of this incident have suffered immediate symptoms of CO poisoning, people need to understand the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning.

“The signs and symptoms are commonly misdiagnosed as the flu. Symptoms such as headaches, dizziness and nausea are common. Always seek medical advice if more than one person in the household, or pets, are suffering similar symptoms.”

Top five online news stories

The online stories that made the news over the past two months.

Video: Revolutionary wave pool tested in Queensland

Leaking gas pool heater sends family of four to hospital

A new concept in surf machines had a trial run at Yeppoon, with the surfing pros saying it shows great promise.

Four people were taken to hospital following a carbon monoxide incident at residence in Hawthorn, Victoria in November.

10 SPLASH! December 2018/January 2019

Complete Poolrite business now up for sale Given the level of response to the initial call for expressions of interest, Evolve offered the entire Poolrite business for sale.

Zodiac settles patent infringement against Evolve Group Zodiac Group Australia settled its patent infringement proceedings against Evolve Group over the makeup of Evolve’s mineral product.

Trevor Coakley moves on after a long career After 29 years in the swimming pool and spa industry, industry stalwart Trevor Coakley is hanging up his sales book and moving into retirement.

news

Upcoming events 2019 Jan 29-31

Spatex, Coventry UK

Feb 1-2

Pool & Spa Expo, MCEC Melbourne

Feb 26-28

IAAPA Conference, Abu Dhabi/Dubai, UAE

Feb 26-Mar1 Tecnova Piscinas, Madrid, Spain Mar TBC

Pool Spa & Outdoor Living Expo, Perth

May 3-5

ew Zealand Pool Spa and Outdoor Living N Expo, ASB Showgrounds, Auckland

May 9-11

sia Pool & Spa Expo 2019, A Guangzhou, China

May 20-22

AALARA Conference, The Star Gold Coast

July 13

SPASA Victoria Awards Dinner

Aug 2

PASA Leadership Convention S 2019, Adelaide Hilton

Oct 15-18

Piscina, Barcelona, Spain

Nov 4-11

Aquanale, Cologne, Germany

Nov 5-8

FSB, Cologne, Germany

Nov 6-8

SETT, Montpellier, France

Mineral Crystals high purity magnesium salt

2020 July 29-30

PLASH! Pool & Spa Trade Show, Gold S Coast Convention & Exhibition Centre

More details at splashmagazine.com.au. Dates are subject to change and should be checked with the relevant organisation. Send calendar submissions to info@splashmagazine.com.au.

www.waterco.com

December 2018/January 2019 SPLASH! 11

news

ABOVE: Swimming pool ownership by Helix Personas category LEFT: Swimming pool ownership by region

C

M

Data

Aussie pool ownership continues to improve It’s been three years since the previous Roy Morgan survey into segmentation and data integration tool to classify the Australian Australian pool ownership, and according to their statistics, population into 54 Personas and six Communities.

Australians are even more in love with pools now than they were in “This reveals that Australians in the Leading Lifestyles and Hearth early 2015. and Home communities are the most likely to own a swimming The results show that swimming pool ownership in Australia has pool,” she says. “In fact nearly a third of Australians classified as part increase from 12 per cent to 13 per cent, which translates to nearly 2.7 of the 107 Domestic Bliss Persona (part of the Leading Lifestyles million Australians living in a house with a swimming pool. community) own a swimming pool – the highest of any Persona.”

Regional Queensland, which includes the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, and a string of regional cities up the coast such as Bundaberg, Category split Mackay, Townsville and Cairns, leads the nation. Twenty percent of Leading Lifestyles: High income, highly educated, progressive regional Queenslanders live in a house with a swimming pool. and success and career focused, people in the Leading Lifestyles Behind regional Queensland are Perth (19 per cent), Brisbane (18 Community enjoy cultured city living to the max. per cent) and Sydney (15 per Hearth and Home: Closest cent) which are all above the to the average Australian, life national rate of swimming pool revolves around the home for ownership, and are also Australia’s these contented families and “Over 17 per cent of Australians with three most northerly state capitals. empty nesters, who see their kids aged six to 11 have a pool at home, a Swimming pool ownership homes as an expression of status figure that jumps to just over 23 per cent is below the national average in and achievements. other parts of Australia. Only Least likely to own a swimming for homes with older children.” nine per cent of residents of pool are those in the Metrotechs Melbourne and Adelaide have a (seven per cent) and Doing Fine swimming pool and in Australia’s (seven per cent) communities. Of most southerly capital city of Hobart only four per cent of the locals the top ten Helix Personas most likely to own a swimming pool, seven have a swimming pool – unchanged on four years ago. are from the Leading Lifestyles community and three are from the Michele Levine, chief executive officer of Roy Morgan, says that Hearth and Home community. besides a warmer climate there are other factors that determine The most likely Helix Persona to own a swimming pool is 107 Domestic whether someone will own a swimming pool.

Bliss of which a high 31 seven per cent own a swimming pool. Australians “These include socio-economic factors and also the presence of in 107 Domestic Bliss are culturally diverse. Just under half were born children in the house. Over 17 per cent of Australians with kids aged overseas, with a significant proportion hailing from Asia, along with a six to 11 have a pool at home (up two per cent on four years ago), a smaller proportion born in Europe. There are many mid-life householders figure that jumps to just over 23 per cent (up three per cent) for homes among them, along with mid-life families and older households, living with older children (12-15 years). predominately in the suburbs of Sydney and Melbourne.

Roy Morgan ran the data through its Helix Personas consumer For more go to splashmagazine.com.au/quicklinks 12 SPLASH! December 2018/January 2019

Y

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news

Industry moves

Cal Stanley to retire

In Brief Pentair Water has become a 2019 platinum sponsor for SPASA Australia.

Pentair sales director, Bipin Gangadharan says that Pentair is proud to be a strong supporter of the pool and spa community and there is no better way to show that level of support than as a Platinum sponsor of SPASA Australia for 2019.

Major upcoming events proudly supported by Pentair include: the SPASA Australia Leadership Convention, National Awards of Excellence, and regional awards of excellence and golf days in NSW, QLD and SA. SPASA Victoria held its AGM in November, voting in the 2018/2019 board, with key roles of president going to Cliff Cooke, vice president to Grant Symes and treasurer to Lindsay Hartshorne. Other members are John D’Arcy of Award Pools and Spas, Ted Martin of Compass Pools, Joel Kean of Aqua Dreamz, Brendan Nelissen of Waterco, Gary Young of Natural Pools and Gary Kilworth of Out from the Blue.

Controversial senator David Leyonhjelm has asked if he is being prosecuted for being a man after Canada Bay council issued him with a court attendance notice for not registering his backyard pool. He is asking why his wife isn’t also being prosecuted, as they are joint owners of the house, and says it is logical if they’ve both failed to register it, then they both should be prosecuted.

The maximum penalty is $2200.

Cal Stanley, SPLASH! columnist, industry committee member, standards committee representative, swimming pool construction veteran and industry consultant, is stepping away from official duties after more than 38 years in the industry.

He is currently completing his three-part column for SPLASH! on his journey as a concrete pool builder, and the third part – and his final column – will appear in the next issue of SPLASH!. The second part appears in this issue on page 22.

The 78-year-old industry veteran is retiring from his current position on the SPASA WA committee, of which he has been a member for 36 years, and from his swimming pool consultancy activities.

Over his more than three decades in the industry, Stanley has donated thousands of hours at local and national level for the benefit of all members, he has held numerous positions over the years on national bodies and associations from 1985 to 2012 including being SPIAWA and SPASA Australia president in the 1990s; company secretary of SPASA Australia Ltd in the early 2010s; and representative on the SPASA Australia board.

Stanley holds a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment and is a highly regarded expert in swimming pool hydraulics. He has been a key contributor on many technical committees both local and nationally; and is well known nationally and internationally for his SPLASH! articles and SPLASH! expo presentations.

As an industry representative on the Standards Australia Committee CS-034 from 1992 until April 2018, Stanley

Cal Stanley, snapped at SPLASH! Asia in Singapore will remain involved in the background providing support to SPASA Australia and their representation on this committee throughout its review. In addition, he will remain a member of the Building Commission of WA Private Swimming Pool Technical Advisory Committee in an independent capacity.

SPASA WA has said that the industry as a whole has been very fortunate to have him make such a contribution to the association and although retiring he will continue to be available to provide free verbal advice to any SPASA members on any pool-related matters.

SPLASH! will bring a more comprehensive acknowledgement of his industry journey in the next issue.

Retailing

Give the customers what they want, says award winner David and Prue Kimber with their award

New Zealand retailer Poolwerx Hamilton, owned by Prue and David Kimber, has again received the award for Best Home Services Franchisee at the Westpac New Zealand Franchise Awards, in recognition of successful year in which their business experienced sales growth of 16 percent.

Prue Kimber says a focus on analysing and utilising business

14 SPLASH! December 2018/January 2019

information to further improve company processes and customer communication was integral to their sales increase.

“We really focused on what the data was telling us about what our customers wanted and valued, and the result was that we were able to increases our average transaction value by 12 percent, increase customer numbers by 22 percent and ultimately lift sales and profitability in an environment of strong competition,” she says.

“To win this award again is fantastic, as it recognises all the hard work that we put in over the

year and justifies thinking outside the box.”

She says expansion is on the horizon, with plans well under way for their second retail store.

“When we opened our first store in Hot Springs Spas, we doubled our business and we are looking to do the same by opening a store in a mobile territory that currently has limited retail pool store competition.

“Opening a second retail site is a big risk but after 12 years in business we are ready to take the franchise to the next level with multiple retail sites.

Poolwerx provides the support we need to achieve this and by doing so we will reach our goal of becoming a multi-milliondollar business within the next two years.”

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news

Chemicals

Six people sent to hospital following super-chlorination incident Wollondilly Shire Council shut down the indoor pool as a precaution, while the rest of the venue remained open.

Additionally, more than a dozen people were treated onsite.

“The centre is open and operating as normal following an isolated incident Monday morning. We are working with authorities to fully investigate the matter over the coming days.

We have been given the all clear to re-open as normal.”

Emergency services responded to a call on the Monday morning after reports of people being affected by chemicals in the indoor pool. NSW Ambulance deputy director of critical operations Ian Johns told ABC radio they treated 14 people for health issues caused by the spill – mostly young children who had been undertaking swimming lessons.

“It turns out some chemicals were mixed with the pool and some people had an adverse event,” he said. “The chemicals gave off a gas and caused minor breathing and airway irritation and some localised skin and eye irritation.”

One child was considered in a serious condition while two other children and an adult were in stable conditions at Campbelltown Hospital, and another adult and child were taken to Bowral Hospital – also in a stable condition.

A statement from the Wollondilly Shire Council said there was an operational need to use a superdose of disinfectant.

It has been reported that the superchlorination, or shock treatment, was required following a Code Brown event after a child had defecated in the swimming pool.

“Unfortunately a chemical spill occurred during this process, resulting in fumes, and emergency services were called by the contracted operator of the facility,” the statement said.

“Emergency services have arranged for the observation of those who have pre-existing respiratory issues.”

They released a Twitter statement on Tuesday morning:

Mother calls for review Jayde Todd, the mother of the most seriously affected child, told the ABC that her 15-monthold daughter Wynter Gordon was taken to Campbelltown Hospital and needed oxygen to help her breathe, had a heart rate of 220 bpm and that the hospital found a gas bubble in her stomach, requiring a relieving nasal tube to be put down her throat. Her temperature spiked at 39.3 before hospital staff succeeded in getting it back down. Wynter has been diagnosed with pneumonitis, or inflammation in her lungs.

Todd described the other children at the pool as gasping for air and vomiting before they were rushed outside, and called for the council to review the procedures for handling chemicals and reacting when exposure occurred.

“I’ve read a lot of news articles and they’ve kind of hush-hushed it, all the children have gone home, you know, everyone’s fine, and nothing severe, whereas Wynter might be spending her second night in hospital.”

NSW Health’s guidelines for handling loose stool faecal incidents and solid stool faecal incidents both require the pool to be immediately closed down before superchlorination is carried out.

Leisure Management Services chief executive Gary Bramich, the company that manages the pool for Wollondilly Shire Council, released a statement saying: “Staff are trained through an on-site induction program and a variety of ongoing, periodic training programs and supervision. Management at the facility have made some immediate changes to procedures to eliminate the risk of this type of incident occurring again. We are currently waiting on the recommendations from Worksafe NSW before undertaking a further comprehensive review of all processes as recommended.

Staff have been offered formal support and immediate training

updates were being applied for lifeguards. A formal risk management procedure has already been carried out and we await further correspondence from Worksafe, so it is inappropriate to comment further.”

Training essential SPASA Australia CEO Lindsay McGrath says that SPASA takes every incident of this type very seriously.

“We provide training and advice to members and support the industry and the public on standards, guidelines and best practice. Incidents that involve the incorrect mixing of chemicals or incorrect application of chemicals can be avoided with basic cost-effective training that SPASA provides.

SPASA recommends that pool maintenance be conducted by a qualified technician. Trade qualified personnel have proven their skills in attaining Certificate III and or IV competency and skill set,” he says.

“Swimming should be a healthy and happy experience with great water quality a standard expectation for families.”

Photo: Jayne Todd

Six people were taken to hospital including one child in a serious condition following a chemical incident at Wollondilly Leisure Centre in Picton in Sydney’s west on Monday December 3.

She said the children were only told to move to the other end of the pool before the superchlorination, not to leave the pool and the area. She also feared the incident would be “hushed up”.

“I’m a bit worried they didn’t have proper training for someone handling chemicals, especially putting it in when children were still in the pool, babies were still in the pool,” she told the ABC.

Wynter Gordon being treated at Campbelltown Hospital.

December 2018/January 2019 SPLASH! 17

news

Data

Expos

Beware: don’t respond to scamming emails For many years scammers have been sending emails to expo exhibitors – and regular exhibitors will be aware of the annoying emails you get claiming to have lists of data, or asking for payment for fictitious directories associated with the expos.

These are fake but generally harmless – as long as you don’t respond to them! Don’t even click on the “Unsubscribe” button or reply telling them off – all that does is let them know they’ve got a valid email address – which they will then add to another list to try and onsell.

If you have a real concern that an email may be legitimate, contact the expo organiser through your existing contact information – not through any links or phone numbers on the email in question. However, emails that offer lists and data on exhibitors or attendees are definitely fake.

Some of these emails say things such as: “I’m contacting you to learn if you would be interested in procuring SPLASH Expo contacts for your sales, marketing and promotional activities. List Contains: Name, Company’s Name, Phone Number, Fax Number, Title, Email address, Complete Mailing Address, Company revenue, size, Web address etc.”

SPASA Australia, owner of the SPLASH! expos, wants to make it clear that: 1. SPASA does not ever rent or sell any email contact information.

2. No company is authorised to distribute or sell any contact lists owned by SPASA. 3. SPASA does not share any contact information with unauthorised third parties.

SPASA CEO Spiros Dassakis says that the scammers who offer to sell these lists often aggregate information based on web crawler or email “scraper” programs searching for the “@” sign in an email addresses posted on various websites. Many of these companies are offshore and have no direct access to the swimming pool and spa industry, or whatever industry they are trying to dupe.

“Please do not engage with and/or acquire/purchase any list from any company claiming to have use of Pool & Spa or SPLASH! expo databases, attendees or contact information, as it puts you and other’s contact information at risk,” he says.

Help the industry, complete the wage and salary survey

The Swimming Pool & Spa Association of Australia (SPASA) has engaged an independent organisation, Business Benchmarking Solutions, to undertake its inaugural national Wages & Salaries Survey for the swimming pool and spa industry.

The 2018 Wages & Salary Survey will provide decision makers with current salary and remuneration data and trends across the following Sectors: • Retailer & Service • Building Business & Subcontractor • Supplier & Manufacturer Almost all companies, regardless of size, use as much market data as possible to inform all areas of operations. Sometimes, the amount that businesses pay employees or contractors is often a reflection of what they think others are paying or what they feel they are worth.

This is the opportunity to see and compare the actual amounts being paid throughout the swimming pool and spa industry.

The SPASA 2018 Wages & Salary Survey will provide accurate amounts for industry sectors based on a diverse range of factors.

It is free to participate and the survey will be available for purchase once published at the following rates: • Member/contributor $99: become a contributor to the SPASA Wages & Salary Survey and save more for playing your part; • Non-member/non-contributor $199: alternatively, industry participants can purchase a copy of the SPASA Wages & Salary Survey once it is published.

Benefit of participation • Benchmark wages/salaries/rates against the market rate • Review employee benefits and reward programs • Design competitive remuneration packages • Understand where you stand relative to the rest of the industry • Gives you evidence of industry standards for pay and incentive negotiations • Reduce staff turnover

Don’t get caught – phishing scammers are tricky!

18 SPLASH! December 2018/January 2019

• Attract new employees • Profile existing positions Contact: Suzie Kent at suzie@spasa.com.au or on 1300 021 482.

INTEGRATIONS

news

How long before project commences

Hiring of professionals

Reasons for renovating

Data

Homebuyers invest in renovation to improve lifestyle, survey finds The latest Houzz & Home Australia Survey shows half of homeowners on Houzz Australia are planning to renovate their home (57 per cent) at a median spend of $25,000.

The annual survey of more than 7200 respondents in Australia also shows that improving a home’s design or functionality are the top considerations during renovations (74 per cent each). Also important is increasing the home’s resale value for nearly half of renovating homeowners (46 per cent). In fact, eight in 10 homeowners believe their renovation had a positive impact on home value (80 per cent), and nearly half of homeowners believe that their home value has increased by at least the full amount of the project cost postrenovation (37 per cent).

The survey also found repeat homebuyers invest the most in home renovations at a median spend of $30,000, followed by long-term owners and first time homebuyers ($22,000 and $15,000 median spend, respectively).

“Recent buyers and long-term homeowners alike are keen on investing in major projects and they’re validated by the value these projects have brought to their homes,” says Nino Sitchinava., Houzz principal economist. Kitchens topped the list of interior updates for renovation frequency in 2017.

Other top findings include: • More Deliberate Planning and Budgeting: Over the past two years, homeowners have become more deliberate in planning and budgeting for renovations and were seven percent more likely to set a budget in 2017 than in 2015 (74 and 67 per cent, respectively).

20 SPLASH! December 2018/January 2019

• Home Professionals in High Demand: More than nine in 10 renovating homeowners chose to hire a home professional for renovation needs (92 per cent). Repeat homebuyers are the most likely to seek professional assistance (94 per cent), followed by long-term homeowners and first-time homebuyers 89 and 88 per cent, respectively).

• Plumbing and Electrical Top System Upgrades: Homeowners prioritised plumbing and electrical over any other system during renovations (32 and 31 per cent, respectively). First-time homebuyers are twice as likely to upgrade electrical systems during renovations as long-term homeowners (52 versus 25 per cent, respectively).

The annual Houzz & Home survey is the largest survey of residential remodelling, building and decorating activity published.

The survey covers a wide range of renovation projects in 2017, from interior remodels and additions to home systems, exterior upgrades and outdoor projects. Data gathered includes historical and planned spends, professional involvement, motivations and challenges behind building, renovation and decorating projects, as well as planned activities for 2018.

The 2018 study includes more than 7200 respondents in Australia alone, providing insights into the home improvement activity of the more than 40 million monthly unique users of the Houzz site and mobile apps. The Houzz & Home Survey was sent to registered users of Houzz Australia and fielded in March and April 2018.

The full Australian report is available at splashmagazine.com.au/ quicklinks.

feature

Neptune Pools,

the beginning

By Cal Stanley

ABOVE: As pools changed into more formal geometric shapes, precision in the set out became more important.

Due to the interaction with the house, some pools had to be positioned to the millimetre

T

his is the second in Cal Stanley’s three-part story on his move into the swimming pool and spa industry and his subsequent life as a concrete pool builder in Perth.

A new adventure

While my previous training and experience in accounting and management would stand me in good stead, I had to become more flexible and think outside the box as I embarked on this new adventure. You all know how blinkered an accountant can be!

I could always draw reasonably well, especially scaled plans. I would not only design the pools, all quotes would include a scaled design of the entire backyard. (In the 80s that is where every pool went.) Besides the pool, the drawings would include the proposed location of garden beds, paving, pool barriers and the pool equipment.

The principles going forward would be: (a) I would learn all I could about every facet of concrete swimming pools including: design, engineering principles, water flow through pipes, filtration, chemical water treatment. About sewers, electrical requirements, what the local councils would and would not permit, etc. One of the things this led to was a library of more than 40 Australian Standards that impacted on the industry.

22 SPLASH! December 2018/January 2019

(b) Every pool would be built to the highest standard I could give it within the constraints of the contract. (c) The customer would always be right. (d) My warranty on every pool would be best in the industry. If something went wrong that was not caused by normal “wear and tear”, it would be fixed regardless of age; and (e) I would sell at the highest price I could reasonably obtain.

Selling pools

I never visited a prospective customer in my work clothes.

I also never dressed in a suit or tie. I never called on a prospective customer using the truck. I recall coming up against another sales guy who used a Mercedes. He was perceived as being too expensive by many prospective customers. The work utility was used and acceptable for most potential clients.

There is no rocket science involved in selling pools. All it involves is being knowledgeable enough to confidently and positively respond to any question thrown at you.

This is not always easy in the early days. I never made a commitment I could not carry out. I never reduced a quoted price to beat a competitor. I did not need to as I could normally show that my quote included benefits the others did not.

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I found out early on that the lowest quote was seldom accepted for such a considerable investment in the home. So I quoted high and expected acceptance of every quote! I succeeded in averaging about one in three, which I was happy with. If I did not get the contract at the highest price, I seriously wondered what had gone wrong with my costings. I never dropped my price to get a contract and recall letting one go because I would not reduce my price by $200.

You are better off without the client who bargains and argues about every cost. Deal with them and not only will they be a headache from day one, they will likely leave you partly out of pocket at the end.

I never chased volume. I did chase hard for the complex job, the one that had a degree of difficulty, interest and perhaps glamour to it. I enjoyed being able to solve problems for my clients.

I was still what many would call a poor salesman because I would mail out my design and quote then sit back and wait. I almost never chased a client for a contract. Invariably they would get back to me when they were ready. I even signed one contract more than five years later – at a higher price of course. When you constantly call back all the time asking for the job, you become annoying and much less likely to be successful. I know all the sales experts will tell you otherwise, but I tried to put myself in the client’s position and know I would not deal with someone who continually pestered me to buy.

After all, many of the pools represented the second largest investment they would ever make to their property. They shouldn’t and mostly wouldn’t sign up in a hurry. I will admit however that the one time a client wanted to sign a contract on the first visit, I was embarrassed that I didn’t even have one with me.

In the final 10 years of pool construction I seldom had a competitor!

Supervision

I grew into this role over time. I had to. In the early days of the 1980s most pools were quite simple, being about 9 metres by 4.5 metres and freeform in shape. Supervision really meant organising the sub-contractors and seeing that they showed up for the job. But I did always peg out the pool for excavation and assisted in setting out the pool at the formwork stage with the contractors. I continued this practice right up to the last pool I built.

As time passed and pools changed into the more formal geometric shapes, precision in the set out became much more important and exacting.

Due to the interaction of house and pool many pool shells had to be located within millimetres. Occasionally a surveyor had to be used.

Normally I always dropped in at a pool site when a contractor was working on a pool.

I had an office worker and employees to deliver materials to site, clean up all leftover materials and rubbish and to install the plumbing and equipment. I handled everything else.

Standards Australia

In 1992 I was appointed by SPASA WA to the CS-034 Standards Committee that was and is still the Committee that deals with the safety Standards – AS1926.1 (Pool barriers), AS1926.2 (Location of pool barriers) and AS1926.3 (Water recirculation). I remained on that committee until Standards Australia decided I was using some of their own protocols too well in representing SPASA Australia and I was removed from the committee by Standards Australia in March this year. Nevertheless I continue to work closely with Spiros Dassakis who has taken over my position on the committee.

A revised version of AS1926.1 will be sent out for “public comment” shortly and I will be having plenty to say about it when that happens. n For these columns, Cal Stanley draws on his experience and success in pool construction, having run award-winning Neptune Pools in Western Australia for three decades, as well as sitting on many standards committees and industry body boards, and working as a pool consultant, trainer and delivering hydraulics courses for the swimming pool industry. If you have a question regarding his columns, email him at neptunepools@westnet.com.au.

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feature

Stutchbury wins design

of the year

ABOVE: The pool takes pride of place in this design Image Credit: Michael Nicholson

TOP RIGHT: You can relax in the pool surrounded by the palms, sipping on the breeze as it wafts up the valley from Pittwater Image Credit: Michael Nicholson

RIGHT: The cave-like qualities make this home a sanctuary connected to the landscape, anchored in a rock shelf Image Credit: Michael Nicholson

A pool-centric hillside sanctuary in the Bayview on The judges said the Cabbage Tree House is Sydney’s northern beaches has been crowned the 2018 a remarkable, complete Australian house that Australian House of the Year in the Houses Awards. authentically and poetically embraces its landscape Selected by a panel of distinguished industry setting on Sydney’s northern beaches. Anchored in experts, Cabbage Tree House by Peter Stutchbury a rock shelf, the masonry structure leans back into Architecture is a the hillside as a “physical unique, cave-like manifesto of the character abode that responds to Anchored in a rock shelf, the masonry of its place.” the landscape, defies Internally, the home has structure leans back into the hillside residential norms and cave-like qualities. It is a as a “physical manifesto of the features a dramatic sanctuary away from city character of its place.” swimming pool that life and is connected to the makes the most of the landscape. The scale of the indoor/outdoor space. building is broken down into smaller spaces of retreat Each year, the Houses Awards uncover the best and seclusion – all with views into vast bushland.

Australian residential architecture and design. The Exposed concrete, steel and brickwork gives the program recognises how existing and emerging impression of permanence and longevity, as well as professionals embrace architectural challenges while having thermal mass benefits. The home is intended developing the meaning of “home”. for comfort in all seasons: it captures cool breezes

24 SPLASH! December 2018/January 2019

feature

from the east in summer and is splayed to the north toward the winter sun.

Although this house is undeniably an impressive piece of architecture, it has the warmth, layers and inhabitation of a welcoming home. Every design detail is considered – from the circular skylights that give glimpses of blue skies above, to the handcrafted timber handrail to the stair. It is a house through which one can reconnect with nature – not as a museum piece, but as a home to be lived in.

This home is the Australian House of the Year for it timeless qualities, impressive sculptural forms and connection to place.

And of course, no home that possesses a unique Australian quality would be complete without a swimming pool. The Cabbage Tree pool is a place where you can relax surrounded by the palms, sipping on the breeze as it wafts up the valley from Pittwater.

Contact: housesawards.com.au December 2018/January 2019 SPLASH! 25

feature

Water management

for a hot climate

By Izzy Grace

ABOVE: Pool covers are one of the most effective ways to minimise evaporation Image: Sunline

RIGHT: Supreme Heating says their pool covers can reduce evaporation by up to 97 per cent

W

ith a hot summer predicted for many parts of the country, we look at ways the pool and spa industry is managing and conserving water, and how those measures are being used to reassure consumers that enjoying water doesn’t mean you need to use a lot of it.

Preventing leaks

Minimising water usage and reducing evaporation and backwashing are the keys to maintaining a watersmart swimming pool, which is especially important in drought-affected areas.

As Chris Medcalf from Australian Leak Detection explains, the public often questions why and how leakage occurs and how to prevent it in future.

“Water loss is not limited to swimming pools and affects all underground infrastructure when it fails,” he says. “Vast volumes of water can be lost due to pipework or structural leaks on a home owner’s swimming pool. Likewise, leaking water pipes in the public highway or that supply our homes can also lose vast amounts of water.”

The questions are how to find it, how to fix it and how to manage the water loss during restrictions.

“Pools lose water not just through leakage but also evaporation,” says Medcalf.

“Rates of evaporation will vary subject to the climate at certain times of the year, and severe winds also increase its rate.”

While evaporation itself cannot be prevented entirely, it is possible to reduce the rate of evaporation by covering the pool when not in use. For the most part, people are inclined to do so during winter when the pool isn’t used as often. This helps retain moisture in the confines of the pool.

“People often think their pool is leaking when it is actually evaporation that is causing the loss,” says

26 SPLASH! December 2018/January 2019

Medcalf. “A simple bucket test can confirm whether it is a leakage issue or one of evaporation.”

The bucket test

Evaporation is dependent on a range of environmental and pool-related conditions such as wind, water temperate, dew point and barometric pressure.

Consequently, evaporation rates can vary greatly from day to day and even pool to pool.

The bucket test exposes water in a bucket to the same conditions as those affecting a swimming pool.

Comparing the water loss in each makes it possible to determine if the pool is leaking structurally, or if the water loss is in fact due to evaporation.

Here’s how it works: 1. Bring the pool water to its normal level 2. Fill an empty bucket with pool water to about one inch from the top of bucket. (By filling the bucket close to the top, you are ensuring that air movement over the surface of the bucket will be similar to that of the pool.)

3. Place the bucket on the first or second step of the pool. To keep it from floating away it may be necessary to place a few bricks or rocks into the bucket. (By placing the bucket in the pool water, you are ensuring that the water temperature of each will be similar.)

4. Mark the water level inside the bucket 5. Mark the water level of the pool on the outside of the bucket, on the pool wall, or skimmer face plate 6. Operate the pool for 24 hours as it had been operated when a leak was first suspected 7. After 24 hours, compare the two levels. If the pool water (outside mark) goes down more than the inside water level, there is likely a leak Medcalf ’s company uses non-intrusive acoustic

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technologies to help locate leaks in pipework and detect faults in a pool’s structure.

“Leaks in pipes create noise in swimming pool pipes, albeit at lower frequencies,” he says. “By utilising inert gas, we are able to pressure-test pipes and confirm leak locations using this technology.”

In addition to pipe testing, he also uses qualified divers to test fittings in the swimming pool to aid the localisation of leaks from the structure.

Why do pools and pipes leak?

Medcalf says there are a number of factors why pipes leak, including soil corrosivity and ground movement.

“One major factor is soil moisture deficit (SMD). As the ground expands and contracts – often after heavy rainfall or prolonged dry spells – the structure simply cannot cope with the level of movement. This ultimately leads to pipes and the pool shell cracking or breaking,” he says.

Materials used in the construction of the pool also have a limited lifespan. And while regular maintenance helps to reduce the likelihood of leakage, it doesn’t prevent it entirely.

“As with the globally acknowledged water shortage, there is a skills shortage,” he says.

“Training to become a well-rounded leakage technician takes years. In the absence of x-ray vision, we have to train people to use all the tools available to locate leaks on pipes or structures. That’s why investment in staff is key to successful leakage reduction in future.

“Technology is changing at a fast pace, reducing the need for human intervention, but leaks will always occur. It really comes down to how quickly you can locate and repair them in order to reduce the impact of water loss and the impact to our environment.”

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Water-saving devices

In the case of water supplies, there are a number of ways property owners can reduce the volume used throughout the home and garden – not just in the swimming pool.

“On average in NSW, approximately 300 litres per person per day are used and this usage is made up of cooking, cleaning, drinking, showering and gardening, to name just some,” says Medcalf.

He says manufacturers have made great progress in the sale and provision of water-saving devices.

“Toilet cistern sizes have been greatly reduced in capacity saving up to three or four litres per flush, spray head taps also reduce the amount of water use, as do aerated shower heads,” he says.

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so when leaks do occur, we can find and remediate as quickly as possible.”

Smart Approved WaterMark

ABOVE: Rollers make using a cover more convenient.

Image: Daisy

In terms of how people can be motivated to sell products or manufacture new technologies to further reduce consumption levels in the household, he says we all play an essential part in demanding new means of water saving.

He cites the fact that Cape Town recently almost ran out of water to show the extreme challenges nations face due to water stress.

“What happens when the next major world city comes close to running out of water? As a business we have a role to play in reducing leakage and water loss

Smart Approved WaterMark (SAWM) certifies water efficient products and services here and overseas, so consumers have an obvious symbol to look out for when purchasing for their homes and gardens. In the pool and spa sector, SAWM approves a range of pool covers, backwash recycling devices and water filters.

SAWM is also the certification partner for water efficient products for SPASA’s Climate Care Certified program (see below). Certification with the Smart Approved WaterMark provides a Climate Care applicant with verification of water saving claims required in the application.

“Smart Watermark was set up in 2004 by four founding partners – The Water Services Association, The Australian Water Association, The Nursery and Garden Industry Association and Irrigation Australia,” says CEO Chris Philpot.

He says its aim is to help consumers identify the most water-efficient products available in the market.

“We have an independent expert panel that reviews testimonials, case studies and test data to identify worthy products and services. Those that tick all the boxes gain rights to use the Mark and market their product with the Smart Approved WaterMark label

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28 SPLASH! December 2018/January 2019

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for two years. Since 2004, we’ve processed over 1000 applications.”

He says that as we prepare for another long, hot summer, it is important that we all enjoy water, particularly in our swimming pools – but that we use it efficiently and don’t waste it.

Industry members can help their customers by alerting them to some of the ways to achieve this.

Philpot suggests a number of ideas: 1. Ensure you use a Smart WaterMark pool cover: With the right cover, pool owners can help reduce evaporation and save water. It can also reduce their chemical bill.

2. Use rainwater to refill the pool: Installing a rainwater tank is a great way to reduce the use of mains water in the swimming pool. Rainwater diverters, such as the Enviro Watersaver, are an inexpensive alternative to installing a tank. They attach to a downpipe and can be used to divert rainwater into the pool. In large downpours, you will need to monitor the water level in your pool so that it does not overflow. You should consult a plumber about stormwater diversion.

3. Reduce backwash on the filter: Sand filters require backwashing, which can use up to 8000L of water every year. SAWM recommends purchasing a cartridge filter if installing a new pool or replacing the filter. Cartridge filters do not require backwashing to be cleaned so they use less water. Backwashing a sand filter should be

carried out once every 4-6 weeks. Only backwash until the glass goes clear as backwashing for longer will waste excessive amounts of water.

4. Avoid overfilling your pool: This can prevent your filter from working effectively and will cause water to overflow. The water level should be about half way up the skimmer box opening for the filter to function properly. If you want to allow the water level of your pool to drop below this, you will need to buy a T-piece

ABOVE: As well as saving water and energy, Swimroll looks good and provides an additional layer of safety.

Image: Remco

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ABOVE: Poolguard is another style of cover from Remco RIGHT: AstralPool’s OC1 filter media reduces the need for backwashing

suction line that connects to the skimmer box, allowing the filter to function normally.

5. Check regularly for leaks: Leaks can develop in the pool’s membrane and piping. Even a small leak can lose 7000 litres per year.

Climate Care Certification

SPASA Australia COO Spiros Dassakis says the pool and spa industry is making significant changes to ensure it stays at the forefront of energy and water

sustainability. The latest initiative to launch is the Climate Care Certification.

“SPASA is proud to deliver an industry wide program to support, protect and promote the way the swimming pool and spa industry operates and strives for best practice sustainable solutions,” he says. “This ensures that we as an industry remains relevant and people can feel good about owning water and energy efficient pools and spas.”

Dassakis says that it’s part of conditioning an industry that has never been exposed to a program like Climate Care before – and that will take some time.

“Swimming pools are not what they used to be; they are far more efficient when it comes to energy and water usage,” he says.

“We now have water efficient filter media and pumps, measures like pool covers that prevent evaporation, and a host of solutions that help detect leaks and monitor pool water levels.

“Swimming pools store water for long periods of time. They filter, sanitise and keep water clean so it can be used again and again – unlike the water used in the kitchen, bathroom, and laundry, which is used once then disappears down the drain. So, with just a little effort and investment, pool owners can more than offset the amount of water used in their pool.”

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certified under the Climate Care Certification Program may include (but are not limited to): • Pool covers (must complete SPASA Pool Cover Certification Guidelines) • Solar Heating • Spa Lids • Backwash, water treatment and recycling systems • Cartridge filters • Filter media • Pre-filtration devices or backwash minimisation systems • Pool pumps • Any noise reduction measures • LED pool lighting • Heat pumps • Smart meters/controllers • Pool cleaners • Construction/installation/renovation of pool/spa • Retrofitting of products/systems to existing pool/spa

Pool covers have other advantages including keeping the pool warm in winter and saving on chemical usage.

Image: Supreme

Saving water with pool covers

Supreme Heating’s products are certified by Smart Approved WaterMark and SPASA’s new Climate Care Program. It’s just one of the schemes the company is involved in, says spokesperson Joe Maio.

“We understand the public perceives the swimming pool and spa industry as large users of water and,

1300 498 819 info@spa-craft.com.au www.spa-craft.com.au Head Office: 20 Curtis Road, Mulgrave NSW 2756

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December 2018/January 2019 SPLASH! 31

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consequently, we have various initiatives in place to support and promote responsible pool ownership,” he says.

“The popularity of pool covers has grown dramatically in recent years. This started during the drought eight years ago with consumers becoming more aware of the benefits of using a pool cover to dramatically reduce water loss through evaporation.

Swimming pool water evaporation can be reduced by up to 97 per cent, providing water savings of approximately 50,000 litres to 70,000 litres per year depending on location when using a Heatseeker Diamond pool cover.”

The use of a pool cover is always recommended to ensure the ongoing sustainability of any pool or spa.

“In addition to a dramatic reduction of water evaporation and chemical consumption, a Heatseeker Diamond pool cover can increase heat retention by up to 75 per cent and help save pool owners ongoing heating costs, while keeping out debris commonly found in pools, such as dirt, leaves and insects.”

Massive water savings

Sunbather CEO Tom Boadle agrees that a pool cover can potentially save up to 95 per cent of pool water evaporation.

“For example, on a 40sqm unheated Sydney pool, that’s over 50,000 litres,” he says. “A small 2000 litre

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water tank won’t come close to those savings and will probably cost more to install than a pool cover, especially if it requires an electric pump.”

He says that without a cover, an average heated swimming pool in Australia will lose almost twice its volume of water every year from evaporation. In the hotter areas it’s even more.

“An average heated eight-metre-by-four-metre pool will lose almost 80,000 litres of water each year if it’s heated year round,” he says. “That’s a lot of water when the Bureau of Meteorology states that the average household uses 280,000 litres.”

Monitor chlorine use with covers

Simon Boadle, also of Sunbather, says that pool covers of all types are becoming increasingly popular throughout Australia, due to the ever-rising costs of pool heating, increasing concern about water evaporation and the covers’ ability to reduce general pool maintenance for the average family.

But he adds that we need to take into account the effect of the covers on the chemical demand in the pool water.

“Using a pool cover does require a greater level of care when it comes to operating the pool’s sanitising system as the chlorine demand for a covered pool is much lower than an uncovered pool,” he says.

“If the cover is left on for the majority of the time, then chlorine demand can be reduced by as much as 90 per cent.

This is because a quality opaque cover seals the water surface and has the effect of converting your pool into a fully enclosed water tank.”

He says that industry water quality advice found in the Australian Standard AS 3633, State Health Department articles and general pool industry articles are targeted at public aquatic amenities that cope with heavy bather loads while maintaining a high level of swimmer protection against water borne disease and contamination.

ABOVE: Some types of pool covers can also provide an additional layer of protection for children and pets.

Image: Remco

LEFT: Swimroll’s rigid and buoyant panels can support around 80kg.

Image: Remco

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“There is not one authoritative article that addresses the effect of using a pool cover on pool sanitisation.

To apply the same levels of sanitisation recommended for public pools to an average domestic pool can very quickly result in dangerous levels of over chlorination and corrosive water quality if a pool cover is in regular use,” he says.

“As the number of pool covers grow, our service department is seeing an increasing number of seriously out-of-balance pools. Winter is the time when most pools are not used but pumps and unregulated chlorinators remain on summer settings. If covers are left permanently on the pool during these conditions their useful service life will be greatly reduced by the poor water quality.”

Boadle believes the solution is to install a sanitising system that self-adjusts when the pool

“Swimming pool water evaporation can be reduced by up to 97 per cent, providing water savings of approximately 50,000 litres to 70,000 litres per year.” cover is either on or off the pool. An ORP-controlled sanitiser is the best system for this purpose as it continually measures and adjusts the water quality throughout the day.

“Pool covers are obviously here to stay, and it is most important that the Australian pool industry keeps its high reputation by providing pool owners with correct advice on how to maximise the benefits of pool covers while maintaining safe and healthy water quality.”

LEFT: Cartridge filters can reduce water usage as they don’t require backwashing, just hosing out.

Image: Waterco

RIGHT: Waterco’s MultiCyclone reduces the need for backwashing

34 SPLASH! December 2018/January 2019

The extra benefits of rigid covers

One of the best ways to tackle evaporation is through the use of pool covers. But Carl Voshege from Remco wants people to be aware that once you have the pool cover on, you’re also going to save money in the winter by reducing heating costs.

“We want people to enjoy everything that’s great about a pool, with the minimum of effort and cost.

Our range of custom-designed automated covers can cut evaporation of water and chemicals by up to 70 per cent – and also cut heating costs by up to 60 per cent,” he says.

As well as saving water and energy, he says that Remco’s Swimroll also looks good and provides an additional layer of safety. The Swimroll panels interlock in a tongue-in-groove fashion, and are hollow to ensure high buoyancy flotation and insulation to the pool water. Completely sealed, they create a floating floor on the surface of the water.

“Swimroll creates a look with genuine style,” he says. “That’s why homeowners, architects and pool builders around Australia choose Swimroll to create beautiful, stylish pools with unparalleled functionality.

“When installed with an integrated safety ledge or retro-fitted safety rail, nothing can slip between the side of the pool and the Swimroll cover. The cover’s rigid and buoyant panels stay on top of the water and can support around 80kg. As an added safety precaution, Swimroll is also lockable,” he says.

Not the guzzlers some think

Waterco’s group marketing director, Bryan Goh, says pools aren’t the water guzzlers they’re often made out to be. And he agrees that pool covers are a simple yet highly effective solution to retaining precious water.

“The main source of water usage is water evaporation, which can be easily mitigated

feature

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by installing a pool cover,” he says. “I think pool owners should be encouraged to engage in any water saving measures or products to help reduce their water usage, but there are a lot of things a home owner can do to help. A covered pool that is backwashed when the pool water level is high does not end up being a big user of water.”

Since the last drought, Goh says the industry has implemented many water saving measures.

“Manufacturers and suppliers like ourselves have developed a number of highly effective water saving solutions,’ he says.

“Waterco believes in investing in products which are better for the environment, so that the pool owner can continue to enjoy using their pool guilt-free and without hurting their back pocket.”

For example, he says installing a MultiCyclone pre-filtration device to a sand filter can reduce its backwash frequency to once per year, resulting in a saving of up to 7000 litres of water per year for an average domestic-sized swimming pool.

“Then there’s the Micron ECO media filter, which features an internal hydraulically efficient system facilitating both energy and water savings,” he says. “It features special ‘fish tail’ laterals that improve its filtration and backwashing capability, leading to a 30 per cent reduction in backwash water.”

Designed for installation where backwashing may not be practical, or areas where water may be scarce, Waterco’s Opal XL cartridge filter is another product that minimises water loss. It contains large filter cartridges, which minimises its cleaning frequency, therefore reducing its water requirement.

“If pool owners want to reduce water loss, my advice is to install a cover, check the pool for leaks, backwash the filter only when necessary and preferably when the pool water level is high, and reduce the need for water top-ups of the pool,” he says. “I also recommend minimising the use of fountains and waterfalls to reduce water loss.”

Water saving filter media

Recently shown to the industry at SPLASH! 2018, AstralPool’s revolutionary OC-1 filtration media has many successful installations in aquatic centres throughout Australia and the world.

Spokesperson Granville Harris says Astral Fluidra is currently working on producing filters that can provide the same amount of

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water and electrical savings to the domestic swimming pool market.

Billed as “the future of swimming pool filtration”, OC-1 features open cell media that has a low resistance to allow more water to be turned over in a pool. This specialised filtration method is said to reduce water consumption by up to 40 per cent and only requires backwashing once every three months.

“We are discovering that the crystal clear water obtained when using OC-1 filter media and the longer cycles between backwashing that are being experienced in public pools, are also being reflected with our domestic filters,” Harris says.

“We are hopeful that our OC-1 domestic range will be available in time to assist in the battle against the current drought situation in many areas of Australia, and help relieve the constraints of water rationing for domestic pool owners.” n ABOVE: Be sure to keep an eye on the chemical balance in the pool when using a pool cover for long periods BELOW: One tiny piece of AstralPool's water saving OC-1 filter media

Watersmart swimming pool tips • Avoid bombing or excessive splashing • Drip dry on the top step so water goes back into the pool – it all adds up!

• Operate pool fountains and waterfalls only when you’re entertaining • Top up pool water with a bucket instead of a hose so you are aware of exactly how much is being used • Fill pool to half way up the skimmer box opening for the filter to function properly • Plant or install windbreaks around the pool to reduce wind evaporation rates • Glass pool fences can also help limit evaporation

Contacts: AstralPool: www.astralpool.com.au Australian Leak Detection: www. australianleakdetection.com.au Daisy: daisypoolcovers.com.au Remco: www.remco.com.au Smart Approved Water Mark: www.smartwatermark.org SPASA: www.spasa.com.au Sunbather: www.sunbather.com.au Sunline: www.sunlineaustralia.com.au Supreme Heating: supremeheating.com.com.au Waterco: www.waterco.com.au

36 SPLASH! December 2018/January 2019

THE NEW BENCHMARK IN ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY FOR SWIMMING POOLS & SPAS

The Climate Care Certification Program is an initiative of the Swimming Pool & Spa Association of Australia Ltd (SPASA). It is the industry’s efficiency and sustainability certification program.

SPASA is proud to deliver an industry wide program to support, protect and promote the way the swimming pool and spa industry operates and strives for best practice sustainable solutions.

BENEFITS OF CERTIFICATION CONSUMER BENEFITS

ü Purchase with confidence knowing that you are choosing a certified environmentally sustainable solution ü Enjoy the benefits of choosing a solution which utilises water efficiency, energy efficiency, noise reduction measures, environmentally sustainable designs or efficiency/sustainability innovations ü Reduce your overall carbon footprint whilst saving money

INDUSTRY BENEFITS

ü Highlight your product/system/installation’s environmentally sustainable qualities ü Show your commitment to preserving the environment and to industry best practice ü Demonstrate your investment in the industry’s sustainable future and inspire others to do the same

THIRD-PARTY VERIFICATION All Climate Care Certified products undergo independent third-party testing and/or verification to assess and report on claims being made such as water efficiency and energy savings.

Only credible and trusted local, national and international testing and verification bodies are considered by SPASA to ensure that claims being made on energy and water efficiency and sustainability are substantiated.

SPASA is proud to have appointed Smart Approved Watermark as their certification partner for water efficient products. www.smartwatermark.org

SWIMMING POOL & SPA ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA TEL 1300 021 482 WWW.SPASA.COM.AU

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Pools wow at landscape awards

ABOVE: Pool in the Landscape joint winner, Domain Pools & Landscapes PHOTO CREDIT: Patrick Redmond

L

andscaping Victoria has recently held its 2018 Master Landscapers Industry Awards, introducing a new category especially for swimming pools.

The newly added category of Pool in the Landscape was hotly contested, with judges ultimately split between a beautifully constructed pool by Domain Pools & Landscapes in Eaglemont and a highly aesthetic and innovative pool by TLC Pools in Ivanhoe.

38  SPLASH!  December 2018/January 2019

The result was they shared a win in this inaugural class.

The entire landscape on the Eaglemont property also earned Domain a win for Residential Construction over $250k due to the high standards of technical construction processes achieved across all forms.

Pools also featured prominently in other categories, including in the winning project for the Landscape Design over 200sqm category, won by COS Design for their Caulfield Project.

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David and Goliath

In a David and Goliath style contest, a tiny inner-city courtyard and a complex civil works project shared the main award, with the Landscape of the Year jointly going to Nature’s Best Landscapes and ACE Landscape Services.

ACE’s technically complex project at Monash University Caulfield Campus also took out the top honour in the Commercial Landscape Construction over $500k category, due to the professional excellence shown in this multi-disciplined project that would have tested all of the skills required to manage and construct such a complex landscape.

Meanwhile, the Fitzroy North project by Nature’s Best doubled up for a win in their relevant construction category for Residential Landscape under $30k as well as receiving Highly Commended recognition in the Hard Structures in the Landscape, and Landscape Design under 60sqm categories.

Judges described the project as, “a unique garden with loads of personality, engaging you with its beautiful balance of materials and finishes, proving that even the smallest of spaces can have a huge impact.”

Just pipping Nature’s Best for the win in Landscape Design under 60sqm and lending more weight to the theory that great things come in small packages, Georgia Harper Landscape Designs’ rooftop in North

Melbourne was a shining example of impressive design principles, detailed planning and meticulous specifications. The end result was a functional and aesthetically pleasing space which was also recognised for its intelligent planting.

Esjay Landscapes were a big winner on the night scooping up two awards for both residential construction $75k-$150k and $150k-$250k categories as well as having their apprentice, Ben Trend, pick up Apprentice of the Year amongst high-quality competition. Esjay also picked up an additional commendation in Residential Construction $30k-$75k and a Highly Commended award for their Kew East Project in Hard Structures in the Landscape.

The same Kew East project, designed by COS Design, saw this beautifully balanced and functional outdoor space earn the multi-award-winning Steve Taylor and his design team another trophy to place on their burgeoning shelf for Feature in the Landscape, together with a win for Landscape Design 60sqm-200sqm.

Kihara Landscapes won Residential Construction $30k-$75k with their traditional Japanese Tea House in Hampton. The judges commented that the project was not only executed with a high standard of workmanship, but also delivered a very complex and layered garden.

The award for excellence in Commercial Landscape Maintenance & Management was awarded to Super Gardens for their Essendon Fields project, a high profile and environmentally challenging site that has been beautifully maintained for 15 years.

In the Commercial arena, Landstruct Landscape Construction impressed the judges with detailed paving and innovative use of materials to win Commercial Construction under $500k while Australian Ecosystems Mullum Creek project in Donvale, described as “an exemplar of a sustainable landscape displaying well-considered examples of hydrology and ecology”, took out top honours in the Natural Built

ABOVE: Pool in the Landscape joint winner, TLC Pools PHOTO CREDIT: Dave Kuleza

BOTTOM LEFT: Winner Landscape Design over 200sqm, COS Design PHOTO CREDIT: Urban Angles

BOTTOM RIGHT: Natural Built Environment winner, Australian Ecosystems for their Mullum Creek, Donvale project

December 2018/January 2019 SPLASH! 39

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Domain Pools & Landscapes PHOTO CREDIT: Patrick Redmond

Landscape category. Warners Nurseries won the Member Vote and the Supplier of the Year award.

The judges were equally impressed by two projects in Hard Structures in the Landscape. Australian Quality Landscape’s near flawless project in Seville consisted of some of the finest stone walling skills and characterises the complex “old skills” required of a landscape professional. Juxtaposed with this was

Warrandale Industries’ Predator Container Project at the Melbourne Zoo, which was a great representation of the skills required in today’s landscape arena, with a complex mix of civil, building, landscape and logistics.

A full list of winners including recipients of Highly Commended and Commended awards from the 2018 Landscaping Victoria Industry Awards can be found at www.landscapingvictoria.com.au. n

Last opportunity to join Australia’s leading fibreglass pool network With a business that is expanding across Australia and around the world, becoming a Narellan Pools business partner puts you in the best company.

A network of 41 strong local pool builders, this is your last opportunity secure your future with Narellan Pools.

WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU: • Build wealth and a saleable asset by owning your own business under the Narellan Pools brand

We have created a successful and sustainable business model that provides you the opportunity to build your personal wealth and a saleable asset.

• Iconic Australian brand with of 40 years of experience

Narellan Pools offers a unique culture. It encompasses a collaborative and supportive focus enabling you to connect with like-minded and passionate business people who share their success. Be in business for yourself, but not by yourself!

• National marketing generating over 16,000 enquires a year (30% increase on last year)

• World class training and on-going support

• Proven business model achieving double digit sales growth

We are looking for business partners in Bendigo, Ballarat, Melbourne, Rockhampton, Brisbane North and Mid North Coast NSW. Take the first step by contacting Jonathan Bate on 0439 798 778 or at jbate@narellanpools.com

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Landscaping Victoria Master Landscapers Landscaping Victoria Master Landscapers is a 52-year-old, progressive association of committed professionals working in an exciting and expanding industry. The Association comprises commercial and residential registered

heliocol splash half 082017.indd 1

ABOVE: COS Design

landscape builders, landscape designers, landscape gardeners, students and educators, and landscape service and product suppliers. In a multi-billion dollar industry they share the common goal of promoting the standards of ‘Quality, Pride and Professionalism’.

Contact: 03 8761 9137; megan@ landscapingvictoria.com.au

PHOTO CREDIT: Urban Angles

LEFT: TLC Pools PHOTO CREDIT: Dave Kuleza

8/1/17 10:05 AM

December 2018/January 2019 SPLASH! 41

Join us for a combined one-day trade and two-day consumer expo exclusively focused on pools, spas and outdoor living spaces, all under one roof!

3-5 May ASB Showgrounds, Auckland You are invited to be part of the biggest industry event of the year The New Zealand Pool Spa and Outdoor Living Expo is a combined one-day trade and two-day consumer event, which will generate hundreds of leads for exhibitors over the three days.

Put your sales people in front of qualified buyers and generate new business and sales to help fill your order books for months after the event.

Enquiries on how to exhibit: Sue Ryman-Kiernan E: spasa@wiseconnections.com.au T: +61 3 9885 6566

We will work directly with you to achieve the best outcome by: • Attracting visitors through a targeted marketing campaign incorporating all media platforms • Capping the number of exhibition stands • Encouraging a diverse range of exhibitors that will attract trade buyers and consumers

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Women in leadership – becoming aware of the stigma we create for ourselves

By Ros Ronning Don’t leave your Super Self in the shadows

R

os Ronning is the managing director of performance management specialist C-Change Potential. She brings SPLASH! readers useful insights on improving their working potential, often with especially relevant advice for women in the industry.

Fight the stigma

Believe it or not women can sometimes be their own worst enemy.

Why? Because women are twice as likely as their male counterparts to volunteer (often reluctantly) to take on the grunge work in a business. Known as the quiet achievers or workers behind the scene, they are collaborative, agreeable and hardworking.

However, instead of being a highly valued, this approach can also be misinterpreted, and it is assumed you are a pushover.

If we read between the lines; it’s really sending a message to give me all the dirty work that goes unnoticed, often unappreciated and always unrewarded.

Yes, these projects, tasks or “business housework” are essential because they are beneficial to the business but they are unlikely to get you noticed or promoted.

It may be that women are more altruistic or risk averse; or more likely, that women just volunteer more. It’s in their nature. Or is it? Perhaps it’s because our gender roles have been programmed that way from birth.

Studies show that managers (regardless of sex) are more likely to ask women to do the grunge work because they are more inclined to say yes.

So, what do we do about it?

How do we make everyone feel valued?

It’s not just a matter of saying no to unpromotable tasks because that may lead to repercussions (AKA – a Career Limiting Move). As a leader in business we need to be aware of our unconscious bias and plan to distribute the grunge work evenly amongst staff.

It may also be the case that as women, we need to start placing a higher value on ourselves and our capabilities.

We should aim to increase our visibility in the business, highlighting the value we bring to the business and the role we play in its success.

Eliminate those self-limiting beliefs. You don’t always have to be perfect to excel – others aren’t, and you forgive

them their weaknesses, so why not start cutting yourself some slack.

Back yourself. Let others see your potential. Be proud of your achievements. If you can’t express what it is you do well, others will assume you are incapable of doing anything well.

Develop your “elevator pitch” – Who am I? Why am I here? and Why should you listen to me? It should be brief enough to recite without having to think about it and convey a crystal-clear message about your vision for your future.

Don’t assume others will automatically know what you are doing and how you are doing it. Actively bring attention to the value you provide – it’s called selfpromotion and it can be done without appearing egotistic or obnoxious.

Sell yourself

This may result in some of you shuddering in fear or horror, but seriously, every time we interact in a business environment we are actually selling ourselves. Practice being your own greatest advocate – if you truly believe in what you do and what you have to offer, you will become the business professional who is known for their honesty, reliability and the value you add.

When you speak do it in a way that compels others to listen. If you have failed to be heard before, try a different approach and not just the same approach dressed up to appear to be different.

Stop trying to be all things to all people – no one works well under a micro manager. The art of great leadership is surrounding yourself with talent and building enduring relationships to ensure your business can deliver what it promises. n Ros Ronning is the managing director of C-Change Potential, a performance management practice specialising in organisational performance and engagement through effective leadership and management practices. The company provides human resource consultancy, executive coaching and facilitation services to commercial corporations and small to medium enterprises. Areas of expertise include performance management, leadership development, strategic planning, organisational behaviour, policy development, change management and organisational development.

December 2018/January 2019 SPLASH! 43

commercial news

Aquatics

Commercial

news Tenders. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Peninsula Leisure wins crisis management award . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 The importance of water familiarisation. . . . . . . 48 WAHC and the ultrafinebubble boom. . . . . . 50

Residents wait as governments squabble over Parramatta Pool When Parramatta Stadium was pulled down so the new Western Sydney Stadium could be built, the residents were unhappy to learn that the much loved Parramatta War Memorial Pool had to be demolished in the process.

But they were mollified by the promise to build a new, modern swimming pool in its place.

However, while the new stadium construction is progressing apace, squabbling over funding between the state government and the council has left the pool in limbo.

The City of Parramatta Council says their aim is to deliver the contemporary year-round aquatic leisure centre their research indicates is demanded by their ratepayers, and that according to the relevant NSW parliamentary committee, the State government should pay for it.

Now the Minister for Sport, Stuart Ayres, says the State will build it but won’t spend any more than $30

million. Parramatta Mayor, Andrew Wilson has said that is insufficient to deliver a like-for-like pool.

The council was unhappy with the four designs submitted from the international design competition as each surpassed the $75.2 million budget – some costing as much as $90 million. The designs, leaked to the Daily Telegraph, show futuristic plans that have some residents excited, while others are happy with a basic pool but want it expedited.

Local residents, frustrated at the slow progress of the pool, have started a Save Parramatta Pool Facebook page.

In October, counsellors split along party lines and voted to halt the progress on the pool.

Minister Ayres told the Sydney Morning Herald on November 13 that he had had enough.

“The people of Parramatta deserve a pool. If the council won’t deliver it with us, then we will do it on our own and we will make our commitment of a

Waterparks

Revolutionary surf wave pool design tested in Queensland Inventor Aaron Trevis threw a rock into the water and as the ripples extended outwards, he had a great idea for a new surfing concept. After years of dreaming and designing, his concept is now being tested in Yeppoon Queensland thanks to Surf Lakes International. The machine and park design will produce a variety of waves, which can suit surfers of different skill at the same time.

Trevis says the design is based on the concept of a really big pressure pipe.

“You push it up, it falls down, you push it up again. The finesse is in the timing of it, so it works in harmony with the water. Once it’s moving with the swell it looks great. We’ve seen some pretty good results today and it’s not quite perfect yet, so it will be amazing when they get it right.”

There are five breaks at the current test site, and legendary Aussie surfer Mark “Occy” Occhilupo says it’s good to have different breaks on wave pools, for different skill levels and for a change-up.

He has one break named after him – Occy’s Left.

There are a variety of slabs, beach breaks and peaks.

44 SPLASH! December 2018/January 2019

“We’ve got four different peaks. At the moment mine is really user-friendly but when it gets bigger hopefully it will be a slab. This is a test site but in a commercial sense we can pump six to eight waves sets – so way more waves for everyone,” says Occy.

Another legendary surfer, Barton Lynch, was also testing the waves at the trial site. He says the wave keeps a great shape as it grows.

“It maintains the integrity of the shape at one to two foot, and you can transfer that to three to four foot, or four to five,” says Lynch.

“People will be getting the waves of their lives – and while they’re doing that there’ll be people of all different sort of standards, getting the waves that suit them. That was always the dream, to create something for everyone and all types of waves that all sorts of people can enjoy in the one environment. To me that’s a definite win – it’s only just started but it’s already happening, so that’s super cool.”

See a video of the test site at splashmagazine.com. au/quicklinks

WATCH NOW

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like-for-like pool,” he said. “You’ll get a pool in Parramatta, exactly the same as the one that was there before. But if they want a better pool Parramatta Council has got to come to the party.”

A spokesperson from City of Parramatta Council said that the council has been working hard to deliver a contemporary yearround aquatic leisure centre on the basis of extensive community and stakeholder consultation along with market research, industry insights, and feasibility studies.

“The selected site for the new centre (the Mays Hill Precinct within Parramatta Park) has presented challenging site conditions and heritage restrictions, resulting in additional design and construction costs.

“Council has been negotiating with the State Government over the last two years on an appropriate replacement for the Parramatta War Memorial Swimming Pool. At the 8 October Council meeting the elected Council resolved that the State Government should fully fund the replacement pool in line with the NSW Parliamentary Committee’s inquiry and report into the Sydney stadiums strategy, which recommended that the NSW Government fully fund the design and construction of a replacement pool as a matter of priority.

“As the NSW Government has announced that it will now deliver the new aquatic centre, Council looks forward to working with the Government and will continue to strongly advocate for the community to ensure the best outcome – a modern aquatic centre that meets the current and future needs of our rapidly growing population.”

The concept is based on a really big pressure pipe, causing some commentators to call it a steam punk wave pool

December 2018/January 2019 SPLASH! 45

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Tenders

Latest tenders These and other tenders are put online prior to the print magazine publishing. Be sure to subscribe to the free newsletter, or follow SPLASH! on Facebook or Twitter to keep alerted to new tenders, and for quick access to more information.

Brisbane City Council Musgrave Park Pool Refurbishment Request for Tender: RFT 531751 Council is seeking tenders for the Musgrave Pool Upgrade project.

Documentation is available from www. brisbane.qld.gov.au/tenders Closing: 19 December 2018, 12 noon.

Narrandera Shire Council Lake Talbot Pool Water Slide Replacement Request for Tender: T-18/19-2 Further information and documentation available from: https://www.tenderlink.com/ narrandera/ Contact: (02) 6959 5510; www.narrandera. nsw.gov.au Closing: Tenders closing at 2pm, Wednesday 19th December 2018.

Horsham Rural City Council Horsham Aquatic Centre Stage 2 Outdoor Pool Repair/Upgrade Design and Construct Project Request for Tender: 19/017 Horsham Rural City Council invites appropriately experienced and qualified Aquatic contractors to undertake the repair/ refurbishment of the existing outdoor pool located at the Horsham Aquatic Centre.

This is the second stage being employed to upgrade the facilities at the Horsham Aquatics Centre. The pool filtration system has recently been upgraded with the replacement of the original reinforced concrete sand filter with two medium pressure fibreglass sand filters, new filtration pump and new hydraulics matched to the capacity of the existing in pool hydraulics.

The second stage works includes but is not limited to: converting the pool to be wet deck on two sides, increasing the depth in the shallow end, decreasing the depth in the deep end, new in pool hydraulics to improve flow through the pool that is equal to industry best practice, further upgrading the filtration plant to match the desired flows through the pool. Council is willing to consider either a conventional concrete

46 SPLASH! December 2018/January 2019

construction pool system, or a ‘Mythra’ alternative pool system.

Contact: (03) 5382 9777; www.hrcc.vic.gov. au. More information: www.hrcc.vic.gov.au (Tenders) Closing: Tenders close at 12 Noon, Friday 21 December, 2018

Latrobe City Council Industry Capability Network (ICN) Project Gippsland Regional Aquatic Centre - Trade and Supplier Opportunities The Project Development of a major regional aquatics centre complete with 50m indoor pool, learnto-swim and programmable warm water pools, children’s water play areas and health and fitness dry spaces.

Indicative Project Timing - Concept plan and business modelling: Complete July 2018 - Tender release: Mid July 2018

Design outcomes include the water attraction being fun and engaging without unduly increasing operational costs, the feature being safe and complying with relevant safety standards, the design integrating with existing facilities (but not terminating in an existing pool), the water feature being able to be closed off from other facilities to provide flexibility in operations and it ideally being modular so it can be refreshed or added to when funds allowed.

A pricing guide (of up to $300,000 excluding GST) is included in the tender.

A non-mandatory tender briefing meeting is to be held at 11.00 am on Wednesday 12 December 2018 at the Aquatic and Recreation Centre, 8 Egan Street, Halls Creek.

Documents are available from: www.tenderlink.com/hallscreek Contact: Lloyd Barton, Director Corporate Services; (08) 9168 6007; dcs@hcshire.wa.gov.au Closing: Tenders close at 3.00 pm AWST on Friday 8 February 2019

- Contract commencement: October 2018 Trades and Supplier Opportunities

Brisbane City Council

Latrobe City Council wishes to maximise local opportunities and asks Trades and Suppliers to register. This enables your company details to be passed on to potential head contractors for consideration.

Lease and Operation of the Ithaca Swimming Pool

More information: gateway.icn.org.au/ project/4139/gippsland-regional-aquatic-centre Closing: Full Scope Closes 31 December 2018

Shire of Halls Creek Design & Construction of a Water Attraction at the Halls Creek Aquatic & Recreation Centre Tender Number: RFT 2018-08 The Shire is seeking a suitable and experienced contractor to design and construct a water attraction at the Halls Creek Aquatic and Recreation Centre to complement our existing facilities which includes a 25m, eightlane main pool and a leisure pool.

The target group for the water attraction is children, primarily aged between eight to 14 years old. The project objective is to maximise children’s attendance at the centre and thereby increase the health benefits from physical activity and bathing in chlorinated water.

Request for Tender: 510986 Council is seeking to establish a new lease arrangement for the Ithaca Swimming Pool.

The lease will be for a period of five (5) years, dependant on the offer submitted by the successful proponent. Council seeks proponents who have the expertise to operate the facilities and possibly invest in any other complementary additional facilities in the future.

To be successful as an operator of the Ithaca Swimming Pool, the operator would need to agree to operate the facilities for a maximum five (5) year period, preferably without subsidy from Council.

A proposal for the operation of the Ithaca Swimming Pool, with or without additional “value-added” facilities, where there is a financial return to Council and high customer outcomes would also be highly regarded.

Documentation is available from www. brisbane.qld.gov.au/tenders Closing: Friday 1 March 2019 at 12 noon

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Safety

Peninsula Leisure wins crisis management award

SOUNDPROOF POOL FILTER & PUMP COVERS

ASSEMBLED IN 5 MINUTES REDUCE NOISE BY 80% PARC received a 79 per cent positive rating from 950 respondents after the crisis was resolved

The response at Peninsula Aquatic Recreation Centre (PARC) to an October 2017 crisis has been recognised at the third Australasian Leisure Management Communication and Marketing Awards.

Named as the recipient of the 2018 Crisis Communications Award, the award recognises Peninsula Leisure’s team for successfully managing a crisis that posed a significant disruption to business.

A critical malfunction within the pool infrastructure led to the closure of PARC’s 50 metre pool, learn-to-swim pool and aquatic playground for eight weeks prior to Christmas.

While the impact was evident in post event customer surveys, a 79 per cent positive rating from 950 respondents was recorded with the mean response as “extremely satisfied” (10/10) when asked how they handled the closure.

The crisis commenced when a malfunction was first detected on Friday 13th October 2017 through scheduled early morning inspection.

The anomaly was immediately reported to the pool duty manager and operations manager.

After initial inspection, chief executive Tim Gledhill and general manager Simon Beqir were notified of a potential crisis and within 30 minutes the crisis management team – consisting of Gledhill and Beqir along with the facility’s operations manager, marketing manager, digital marketing coordinator and swim school manager – convened to determine the immediate actions.

These actions included engaging an expert pump engineer to investigate the issues and immediately notifying staff and customers of the immediate pool closure – which later was escalated to a closure for several days. A crisis communication action plan was formulated, a crisis phone line set up, speaking points and release statements for media were prepared and enquiries on social media were responded to.

Gledhill notified senior stakeholders including the board and chair and Frankston City Council. Staff were told to refer enquiries to the crisis media contact number and to not comment on social media.

Business continuity and contingency planning was also acted on, and the crisis was finally resolved on December 10. The judges said PARC’s transparency and willingness to engage with members was a key contributor to the survey results showing high customer satisfaction.

December 2018/January 2019 SPLASH! 47

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The importance of water familiarisation The importance of water familiarisation Teachers should spend time establishing a comfortable and secure learning environment for their pupils

By Laurie Lawrence

I

n this regular SPLASH! feature, we will bring a series of tips for swim teachers from Laurie Lawrence and Emma Lawrence and the World Wide Swim School team.

The acclimatising period

Making children feel relaxed and comfortable in the water is essential before structured teaching and learning can take place. Apprehensive or frightened children will naturally have a serious barrier to learning. In many cases they will not even attempt some of the simplest learn-to-swim activities, which can have detrimental effects on their water safety.

Therefore, teachers should spend time establishing a comfortable and secure learning environment for their pupils. This acclimatising period is often referred to as water familiarisation and is best done in a fun way in shallow water.

“Having a defined class area which is roped off is important for the safety of your class.”

Simple activities such as lying on their back in very shallow water with the ears submerged or rolling over kicking fast with lots of splashing without even putting the face under are two very simple water acclimatisation exercises.

Beginner swimmers are usually frightened of the water. Very often the parent or caregiver may have unintentionally frightened the child in their attempts to keep them safer around the water. For 48 SPLASH! December 2018/January 2019

example by simply saying, “Come back from the side of the pool, you’ll hurt yourself,” or “Don’t go near the pool, it’s deep,” will be ingrained into the child’s psyche and often is remembered by the child as they go to participate in their first swimming lesson.

Around two years of age and above, if children have not been regularly exposed to the water, they may show signs of discomfort, apprehension or fear. It will not be easy to condition these children for submersion as we do with young babies. These children must be handled quite differently and must initiate their own submersions. They must never be forced underwater for any reason whatsoever.

With practical teaching experience, swimming teachers will soon be able to observe and recognise these fears. The children’s tell-tale body language will alert the teacher they will be able to identify common characteristics of a frightened beginner. Teachers may notice children: • Shivering or shaking, even in warm water; • Shutting the eyes and holding the breath; • Clenching fists, shrugging shoulders and observed body tension; • Frequent talking or even crying; • Pulling back as soon as the teacher goes to touch them; • Arching their back if the teacher tries to support them.

Swimming teachers should be aware that children’s early experiences in the water will determine their future attitudes. For this reason, we should aim to make these early learning experiences positive, safe and pleasurable in an attempt to shape a love of the water that children will carry with them through to adulthood.

Force has no place in the teaching of swimming.

Teachers need to find fun ways to encourage children to perform swimming activities voluntarily.

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Making the kids comfortable

Before learning can take place, children must feel comfortable. Having shallow water is fantastic for teaching beginners. In fact, for frightened beginners shallow water is vital. It allows the child to feel and be in control as they practise basic water familiarisation activities such as walking, jumping, splashing and attempting breath control activities like pouring water over their face or even attempting self-submerging.

Shallow water not only makes children feel in control but fosters the child’s independence in the water.

This will allow the teacher to teach with a “hands off ” approach building more and more independence and confidence in the child.

There will be no need for the teacher to handle the frightened beginner in the early learning stages – the child will be able to initiate their own water familiarisation activities with encouragement from the teacher. Experienced teachers will find that the child becomes relaxed much sooner.

During deep water orientation teachers must be extremely vigilant to ensure the safety of their class.

Drowning is a silent killer and there have been reported instances of a children actually drowning during supervised swimming lessons. During deep water activities, teachers should call on the parents to provide that extra pair of eyes to help with supervision. This type of parental involvement will build a good rapport with parent and child alike.

Ensuring maximum practice time in deep water with beginners can be difficult. Teachers often fall into the trap of taking students one at a time while others wait for their turn. The innovative teacher will come up with ways to keep their class moving. First trips to deep water may be as simple as having the class hold the side of the pool and all submerge together. As the children feel their own buoyancy they will rapidly grow in confidence. If the children are kept busy and active they will progress sooner and the teacher will avoid behavioural distractions in the class.

be left unsupervised in and around water and certainly not in a supervised teaching class.

It is important that teachers don’t rush the water familiarisation stage with students. Basic skills like pool entry and exit, breath control, submersion and floating skills are all vital to a child’s progressive learning.

These simple floating skills, established early, will form the child’s base for learning to swim and stroke development. Teachers must remember that floating is the basis of all learn to swim and must not be rushed.

It must be mastered before trying more complex swimming skills. If children learn to relax and float independently on their front and back for up to ten seconds, then once propulsive patterns are introduced a more relaxed stroke will be developed.

Swimming teachers often observe those children who struggle, thrash, and fight the water have difficulty keeping themselves afloat.

We as teachers must remember the importance of progressively building swimming skills to develop a relaxed and natural stroke which will last a lifetime.

Good stroke development requires perfecting a streamlined body position. Teachers are reminded that this position in the early learning stages is not very stable for beginners. Beginners may need to perfect their balance and body position in the water by floating with a kickboard then floating with a wider arm position to assist in buoyancy before building a more streamlined position. Always build skills. Remember floating is the basis of all learn-to-swim and should be a consistent part of any lesson plan.

Professional Development Academy

The Professional Development Academy is World Wide Swim School’s dedicated online training platform for teachers. Swim teachers can use these learning programs to upgrade professional development points towards re-accreditation.

Contact: worldwideswimschool.com n

Progressively building swimming skills develops a relaxed and natural stroke which will last a lifetime

The next step

Once the teacher sees the students’ confidence growing, they may set up a deep water follow-the-leader circuit.

This can help to generate maximum practice time during the lesson. Teachers should look to utilise teaching benches, ledges, deck level pool edge, rails or ramps depending on what is available at your swim school. Lesson planning is the key when teaching beginners in deep water.

Having a defined class area which is roped off is important for the safety of your class. This will ensure that you can keep your group together and avoid students wandering outside of your supervision. It is not necessary to have a large teaching space, particularly with beginner students or when taking inexperienced swimmers into deep water. Experienced teachers will set up a confined area which gives them good supervision of the class and the ability to move easily and quickly if they need to respond to their student in trouble.

Teachers must have all their teaching equipment on hand. If this is done there will be no need to leave students to get teaching equipment. Should the teacher, for some reason, need to leave the water all their students must go with them. Young children must never December 2018/January 2019 SPLASH! 49

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WAHC and the ultra-fine bubble boom

By Alan Lewis

ABOVE: Keynote being delivered by Dr Eadric Bressel, director of Movement Research at Utah State University

A

new age of technology is dawning – but are we ready to accept new attitudes and treatments in our swimming pools and spas?

The 15th annual World Aquatic Health Conference (WAHC) was held this year at the Charleston Marriott in South Carolina, where the National Swimming Pool Foundation (NSPF) continues its focus on aquatic research and education.

In his keynote presentation, Eadric Bressel PhD reviewed the benefits of the scientific literature wherein aquatic activities are shown to be more beneficial or on par with land-based activities which improve physical and cognitive health. He pointed out that there is evidence in the research pointing to marketing aquatic activities for elite athletes as well as those with disabilities.

Professor Bressel’s aquatic research examines how athletes adapt to various physical movements necessary to perform therapeutic exercise and thereby proves the numerous health benefits of water activity, as compared to similar adaptations performed on dry land.

The format for this WAHC differed from those in the past. While the main elements of the conference were conducted in the Charleston Marriott, six locations were chosen as WAHCities in Boston, Colorado Springs, Dallas, Los Angeles, Minneapolis and Niagara Falls. The main elements of the WAHC were broadcast to these locations at appropriate times. This allowed many who were unable to reach Charleston to attend broadcast lectures nearer their homes.

Thus this WAHC had a record attendance of nearly 600 people including representatives from Australia, Austria, Canada, China, France, Israel, the Marshall Islands, Mexico, Poland, Ukraine, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom and the United States.

50 SPLASH! December 2018/January 2019

Seven main streams of topics were presented: 1. Elements of WAHC 2. New Industry Technology 3. Recreation Water Illness Prevention 4. Facility Management and Design 5. Advanced Service Concepts 6. Increasing Fun and Reducing Risk 7. Improving Water and Air Quality There were simply too many subjects to deal with here, but I will choose those that might be more important and relatively new to most readers, and present them in this and the following issue. First up is UFB.

Ultra-fine bubble technology

Without a doubt, ultra-fine bubble technology (UFB) was the most significant of the technologies discussed, presented by Michael Geyer from Pure Vision Technologies for the first time at a WAHC. Also known as nano-bubble technology, this technology is not new and has been developing in many parts of the world, particularly in Japan, for more than a decade in areas such as agriculture, waste water conservation and recycling, fish farming and cultivation, and aquaponics.

Now Geyer, who is based in Phoenix Arizona, has finally produced two devices for swimming pools and spas as well as bodies of water such as lakes, decorative pools and fountains. Geyer reports that he has installed his products in well over 100 pools around the USA. The product for commercial pools is known as AquaGen, while Aqua Fuzion is for residential pools.

Both systems dissolve oxygen into the water itself and discharge it in the form of tiny bubbles which are only one-tenth of a micron in size. They are too small to be seen with the naked eye and so Aqua Fuzion researchers need a sophisticated and a very expensive facility with which to measure the number

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of bubbles produced, using a laser beam to count the bubbles in the water.

It might be hard to believe, but we were told that these machines make roughly 100,000,000 ultra-fine bubbles in one millilitre of water!

Because they are so small, they cannot break the surface tension of a water molecule and hence remain in suspension in the water for weeks at a time.

Water enhancer status

All-in-all, because of the huge number of bubbles, the collective sum of oxygen bubbles amounts to a large area of contact between the oxygen and particles, micro-organisms and contaminants that are usually present in swimming water.

It is reasonable to assume that these bubbles do oxidise many of the contaminants in the water.

However, Geyer decided to add ozone to the system to greatly increase its disinfecting capability.

In addition, he added oxygen concentrators to the system so that indoor pools can also benefit from the purification of the air in the pool hall.

When these products were submitted to the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) for approval, the authorities thought there would be insufficient disinfection and oxidisation of the water in public pools, where the bather loads are high.

So these products were awarded NSF approval as a “water enhancer”. At the same time, they required that the public pools or spas have at least 1.0 ppm of free chlorine in the water. So until it is proven that the combination of oxygen and ozone fine bubbles together are satisfactory, the addition of chlorine will remain the practice. By running ozone through the Aqua Fuzion, both the oxygen and the ozone molecules are atomised 1000 times smaller than typical systems.

It must be emphasised that where ozone bubbles are of larger diameter and visible to the naked eye, we know that these are not of any value to disinfection, because they would immediately rise to the surface and gas-off by breaking the surface tension of the water and joining with the rest of the oxygen in the air above the pool.

Therefore, the size of the bubbles is vital because when they are that small, they will remain in suspension much longer and are more likely to oxidise unwanted micro-organisms in the water.

Although it is not greatly significant, sensing of the ORP in this water is a good indication of the power of the bubbles to oxidise. However, a pool running as

described above will still need the 1ppm of free chlorine at this stage of the development of this technology.

Beyond that, more research is needed to measure the effectiveness of the breakdown of organics in the pool.

We know that the oxygen bubbles are negatively charged, and hence will latch onto and surround organic positively charged particles which are present.

The next step is to research the effects of millions of bubbles on cryptosporidium, giardia and other pathogens that frequent swimming pools. Since these pathogens are anaerobic, we can assume they cannot survive in a highly alkaline, oxygenised environment.

What remains to be discovered is just how much oxygen is needed to do the job.

WAHC Highlights The 15th annual WAHC session topics included interlock safety, national water safety plans, legal issues in aquatics, preventing sexual harassment and predators, facility management and design, and learn-to-swim initiatives.

Dr James Amburgey, a water filtration researcher at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, was a breakaway hit throughout the conference, bringing humour, candour and urgency to the broader discussion of water filtration and water quality. Dynamic Genesis faculty Feras Irikat also proved popular presenting WAHC’s new Design & Engineering track. A colour psychologist, Irikat’s sessions on colour theory and the art of innovation highlighted the diverse industry concerns that have come to typify the audience that gathers for the WAHC. Kerstin Hewitt, an environmental health specialist in California, clarified just how energising that diverse audience can be: “I always come back with such renewed enthusiasm for the work we and others do in conjunction with recreational water facilities.”

Attendees from the Environmental Health (EH) sector have a growing presence at the WAHC, making up around 17 per cent of all registrants.

The 16th Annual WAHC will be held in Williamsburg, Virginia, October 16–18, 2019. Early registration begins in April 2019. Interested presenters and attendees can learn more at thewahc.org.

BELOW LEFT: Colour theory class led by Feras Irikat BELOW RIGHT: The new UFB technology has been installed in more than 100 pools in the USA

December 2018/January 2019 SPLASH! 51

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ABOVE: The smaller bubbles stay suspended in the water, enabling oxidation of contaminants ABOVE RIGHT: The technology can make roughly 100,000,000 ultra-fine bubbles in one millilitre of water

RIGHT: Learn to Swim Success Stories Q&A, JJ Ayers-Millar and Basir Robertson, City of Charleston Recreation Department

The benefits of UFB

Even though this technology in not yet prevalent, there have been many incidents reported of those with ailments such as inflammations, swelling, psoriasis, eczema, scars and wounds, burns, arthritis and even skin cancer wounds healing after regular visits to a pool treated with UFB. The reports suggest healing does take place and help the sufferers recover promptly from their maladies.

This needs much research – but would add enormously to the aquatic industry if it was proved true and may help thousands with ailments that might need a simple solution such as bathing in UFB water.

UFB systems have been installed in the Mesquite Groves Aquatic Centre in the City of Chandler in Phoenix. This happens to be the highest use municipal public pool in the state of Arizona. Below is a chart showing the reduction of chemical costs for the annual fiscal years after the installation of the new systems: 2013-2014: $83,482 2014-2015: $73,170 2015-2016: $49,661 Chlorine and bromine have been in use for more than a century but have never been able to help sufferers in such a way. We can hope that this new science will lead to a revolution in thinking about just how we should treat swimming pool water, and hopefully Geyer and his associates will push forward with the essential research needed to ensure better water in our swimming pools and spas.

The Elements of WAHC panel with (left to right) Scott Bowron (NCAquatics), Joseph Stefanyak (Jeff Ellis & Assoc.) Dr James Amburgey (University of North Carolina), Dr Darla Goeres (Center for Biofilm Engineering, Montana State University), Dr Michael Beach (CDC’s National Center for Emerging Zoonotic Infectious Diseases)

52 SPLASH! December 2018/January 2019

Next time

In the next article I will look at the research into further important aquatic industry issues including: Understanding the neglected insidious biofilms, by Darla Goeres PhD; Future filtration needs, by James Amburgey PhD; Links between water and air quality in chlorinated swimming pools, by Ernest “Chip” Blatchley; Drowning risk factors and prevention strategies, by Julie Gilchrist PhD Surface bound organic contamination disinfection and swimming pool filtration, by Vance Fiegel; Legionnaires’ disease: steps to reduce risk in aquatic venues, by Jasen Kunz MPH; Standard of care in design, construction and implementation to improve water and air quality, by Doug Whiteaker; Outbreaks: crypto, legionella and pseudomonas, and other healthy swimming updates, by Michele Hlavsa RN MPH. n

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WAGES & SALARY SURVEY 2018

A MUST HAVE FOR DECISION MAKERS The Swimming Pool & Spa Association of Australia (SPASA) has engaged an independent organisation, Business Benchmarking Solutions to undertake its inaugural national Wages and Salaries Survey for the swimming pool and spa industry.

Almost all companies, regardless of size, use as much market data as possible to inform all areas of operations. Sometimes, the amount that businesses pay employees or contractors is often a reflection of what they think others are paying or what they feel they are worth.

The SPASA 2018 Wages & Salary Survey will provide accurate figures for industry sectors and based on a diverse range of factors.

This is your opportunity to see and compare the ‘actual’ amounts being paid throughout the Swimming Pool and Spa Industry.

The Survey is only available electronically and will take 5 – 20 minutes based on the size and make up of your business.

FREE* TO TAKE PART! Benefits of Participation: » Benchmark wages/salaries/rates against the market » Review employee benefits and reward programs » Design competitive remuneration packages » Understand where you stand relative to the rest of the industry » Gives you evidence of industry standards for pay and incentive negotiations » Reduce staff turnover and profile existing positions

Contact members@spasa.com.au or call 1300 021 482 for more information *The survey will be available for purchase once published.

SPASA Australia | 30 Kensington Road, Rose Park SA 5067 | 1300 021 482 | members@spasa.com.au

new products

Deck the pool for Christmas There’s nothing like spending Christmas around the pool, cooling off with friends while soaking up the glorious Aussie sunshine. But that combination of sun and water can cause trauma for the timber deck. Taubmans says its new treatment, Johnstone’s Professional Deck Oil, has been specially developed with advanced formulas and built-in Aqua

Protect Technology, providing nourishment and protection to keep any woodcare project looking better for longer.

The innovative coating is part of Taubmans’ new premium range offering maximum woodcare protection and a superior aesthetic finish.

Contact: johnstoneswoodcare. com.au; www. taubmans.com.au

Timber stripes in outdoor sofa

Add an element of solid timber style to the indoor/outdoor space with the Stripe Sofa, featuring a solid teak frame with a striped side detail.

It can be ordered with either black or white cushions, and Sunbrella fabric is available on request. It is suitable for indoor and outdoor undercover use, in both residential and commercial spaces. Dimensions are 2140mm wide by 820mm deep by 670mm tall.

Contact: www.satara.com.au

December 2018/January 2019 SPLASH! 55

new products

Siesta time with a Mexican hammock

These nylon Mexican hammocks from Mayan Legacy will help add relaxing slumber time to this sunny summer. Mayan Legacy’s nylon hammocks are a more affordable alternative to their super nylon hammocks and are an excellent option to hang outdoors, preferably still in weather-protected areas.

Alternatively, if left outside and exposed to the natural elements, a hammock protector can shelter the nylon hammock from the sun, rain and wind, keeping it in beautiful condition.

As well as the standard sizes, they have king plus and jumbo plus options with an even stronger net, which are more comfy and weather-resistant.

Contact: www.mexicanhammocks.com.au

Protect Pool, Protect Your Your Pool, Protect Kids Protect Your Your Kids View our online video showing common pool fencing faults and how to spot them at View our online video showing common pool fencing faults and how to spot them at www.kidshealth.chw.edu.au/projects/drowning-prevention/swimming-pool-fencing www.kidshealth.chw.edu.au/projects/drowning-prevention/swimming-pool-fencing

KIH1025/0811/SC KIH1025/0811/SC

56 SPLASH! December 2018/January 2019

new products

Pool construction warning signs

Pool builders have a responsibility to ensure that the construction site for a pool is made secure with a compliant temporary barrier during the construction period, as excavation works may hold water more than 300mm. The responsibility of the builder finishes with the issuing of a final occupancy certificate at the completion of the works. However, the occupier of the premises is responsible for the erection and maintenance of a sign that states “this swimming pool is not to be occupied or used”. The sign must be displayed at all times while the pool is under construction and only removed once an occupation certificate has been issued for the pool, or once a certificate of compliance has been issued.

While this requirement comes into effect in NSW on 1 March 2019, SPASA has developed the new warning signage early to ensure that members start implementation sooner. This sign can be used on all new constructions, installations and renovations of swimming pools and spas. You can get 10 for $77 or 100 for $600. They are 300mm by 420mm with pre-drilled holes for easy installation.

Contact: members@spasa.com.au

POOL HEATING PANEL

Compact cable drum stand

Cable handling experts Adept Direct have released a new lightweight Compact Cable Drum Stand that that they say is a significant safety tool when running cables for lighting and pumps on spas and pools. The new small cable dispenser is designed for smaller reels of cable and wires and incorporates a mechanism to lock the axle into position. It can be folded for storage and transport.

The ability to cart cables and pay them out without tangling or twisting improves productivity and speed of installations. It is available online in a bright yellow or galvanised steel finish and can be shipped anywhere in Australia.

Contact: www.adeptdirect.com.au

The Eco-therm panel is manufactured by Aquatherm Industries in the US, who have been manufacturing pool heating panels for over 30 years, and its fluted design gives more surface area to achieve one of the highest heat transfer ratings in the Australian market.

The strategically placed slots in the webbing prevent moisture build up under the collector and allow pressure relief during high winds.

Of all the options available to heat your pool, solar energy is the most cost effective and environmentally friendly method available.

To find out more visit our website.

IF YOUR CLIENTS HAVE A COOL POOL, WE HAVE A WARM SOLUTION

p 1300 688 828 e info@ecosolarpoolheating.com.au

ecosolarpoolheating.com.au December 2018/January 2019 SPLASH! 57

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Waterco Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11, 45 58 SPLASH! December 2018/January 2019

PARAMOUNT IN-FLOOR CLEANING SYSTEMS THE WORLD’S NUMBER 1 IN-FLOOR CLEANING SYSTEM BROUGHT TO YOU BY POOL-WATER PRODUCTS

Paramount’s custom built in-floor cleaning systems are engineered to automatically clean any pool you design, including floors, steps, benches and spas.

Minimising maintenance and maximising enjoyment.

Aquarius Pools – Mornington VIC

AUSTRALIA’S LEADING POOL BUILDERS CHOOSE PARAMOUNT

Pool-Water Products | P: 03 9873 5055 Email: info@poolwaterproducts.com.au www.poolwaterproducts.com.au