SPLASH 151 December 2023-January 2024

Swimming Pools / Leisure / Aquatics / Spas / Health Swimming Pools / Leisure / Aquatics / Spas / Health

Issue 111 April/May 2017 Issue 151 December 2023/January 2024

Pool covers Keeping the customers interested

Selling the green Making the most of your eco credentials Cloud control Made in Australia Crisis management For aquatic centres

The tender trap Are pool managers being taken for a ride?

The art of design Water colours versus digital New ideas In landscaping materials

30 pools in one Commercial Project of the Year

www.splashmagazine.com.au

www.splashmagazine.com.au

Size does matter AutoChlor® is the hallmark of AIS Water, an internationally acclaimed brand of inline chlorine generators that symbolises excellence in the industry. It’s the go-to choice for saltwater, coastline, and seawater pools, especially those with salinity levels between 3,500 - 35,000ppm.

Offering a diverse range of models, from 10 to 5,000 grams per hour, AutoChlor® ensures there’s a perfect fit for you and your customers this summer.

AutoChlor® Pixie Chlorine output: 1 -10 g/h Salinity Range: 4,000ppm - 5,000ppm Designed in Australia to meet the surging demand in the plunge pool and spa market, the Pixie micro chlorine generator inherits the DNA of its bigger AutoChlor® counterparts. With a reverse polarity cell, water flow alarm, and high/low salinity alerts, it also shields your pool or spa from over-chlorination. Say goodbye to risky chlorine dosing and oversized chlorinators intended for larger pools. Pixie delivers peace of mind with its cost-effectiveness, simplicity, reliability, and hassle-free installation.

No Pro Rata No Small Print

AutoChlor® Classic MkII Chlorine output: 15 / 20 / 25 / 36 / 50 / 64 / 80 g/h Salinity Range: 3,500ppm - 5,000ppm

No Pro Rata No Small Print

ALSO AVAILABLE AS A LOW SALT (3,500PPM) VARIANT

Born over 30 years ago, the AutoChlor® Classic™ series reigns as AIS’ flagship, celebrated for its unwavering simplicity, unmatched reliability, and effortless installation. The Classic™ series has continuously advanced, and in its latest iteration, AutoChlor® Classic™ Mark II proudly features an aluminium heatsink, fortifying its durability to excel in the most extreme, high-temperature conditions with unparalleled ease.

51 Millennium Place, Tingalpa, QLD 4173 Australia Phone: +61 7 3396 5222 I Email: info@aiswater.com.au

aiswater.com.au

AR

Download the AIS Water AR app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and scan the AIS Water logo to learn “Why choose AIS technology?”

A 30 year history of innovation and a laser focus in chlorine generation via electrolysis.

AutoChlor® MIDI Chlorine output: 100 & 150 g/h Salinity Range: 3,500ppm - 5,500ppm Say goodbye to juggling multiple residential chlorinators. Elevate your pool experience with the AutoChlor® MIDI™ – the ultimate solution for busy pools. With its industrial aesthetics and unmatched performance, this semi-commercial powerhouse provides the chlorine your pool demands. Operating at a salinity level as low as 3,500ppm, the RP150 model, takes your swimming experience to the next level.

AutoChlor® MIDI™: where reliability, strength, and top-tier functionality meet.

AutoChlor® Commercial Chlorine output: 100 - 5,000 g/h Salinity Range: 4,000ppm - 35,000ppm AIS Water stands as a pioneering force in commercial pool water disinfection, leading the charge in innovative solutions for over 25 years. The awardwinning AutoChlor® commercial range, designed for saltwater, coastal, and sea water swimming pools, is the culmination of 25+ years of relentless research and development. Today, it remains the unrivaled chlorine generator of choice, diligently disinfecting thousands of swimming pools in resorts, hotels, public swimming pools, aquatic centres, swim schools, lagoons, water parks, and schools across more than 55 countries worldwide. AIS Water - setting the gold standard in commercial pool water purification.

2023 Australian Manufacturing Awards

Embracing Innovation Award Winner Queensland

Power Supply and electrolytic cell

THE ULTIMATE COMFORT, PERFORMANCE, & ENERGY-EFFICIENT POOL HEATING

NEW SERIES

EVO EDGE-i

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• 7kw to 19kw models • latest full inverter technology • heating, cooling and automatic modes • LCD touch screen controller • built-in timers • auto defrost • quiet operation • simple installation

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EVO FORCE-i HEAT PUMP Lowest running costs

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• 9kw to 28kw models • latest full inverter technology • lowest operating costs • heating, cooling and automatic modes • intelligent LCD touch screen controller • wi-fi control • built-in timers • auto defrost • quiet operation • simple installation

EVO DHP-R HEAT PUMP Cold climate performance Year round swim season • 9kw to 27kw models • ideal for cold climate performance • heating, cooling and automatic modes • intelligent LCD touch screen controller • wi-fi control • built-in timers • stainless steel cabinet • dual defrost • quiet operation • simple installation

EVO CS-i HEAT PUMP Commercial inverter series

Year round swim season

• 65kw to 250kw models • latest full inverter technology • lowest operating costs • heating, cooling and automatic modes • intelligent LCD touch screen controller • power boost mode • built-in timers • stainless steel cabinet • auto defrost • quiet operation • simple installation

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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) Managing Editor: Chris Maher Phone: 0412 048 639 Email: chrismaher@intermedia.com.au

editorial

There’s nothing quite like diving into a pool at Christmas

Contributors: Veda Dante, Spiros Dassakis, Terry Mwase, Brett Abbott, Daena Bougoure-Latchford.

Advertising Manager: David Stennett Phone: 0404 725 554 Email: david@spasa.com.au Graphic Designer: Leanne Hogbin Production Manager: Jacqui Cooper Subscriptions: 1800 651 422 Email: subscriptions@intermedia.com.au

I had a flashback this edition, when I came across the news that the Sydney Harbour Trust is planning to turn one of Cockatoo Island’s dry docks into a public swimming pool.

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.

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Back in the 80s, I worked in the shipbuilding yard there. The island has a very long history, first as an indigenous meeting place, then a convict-built prison, later a shipbuilding and repair yard, and more recently an art museum.

Chris Maher Managing Editor chrismaher@ intermedia.com.au

It was definitely an interesting place; the morning walk to your post could entail passing almost underneath a raised submarine on the dock, or past giant turbines or propellers hanging in the enormous halls carved into the sandstone cliffs by convicts.

As we’d get closer to Christmas, the weather would often peak near the 40s, and if the Fitzroy Dry Dock was full of water and free of ships, the powers that be would let the apprentices dive in and frolic about. Not being an apprentice, I was sweaty with envy.

The apprentices had quite a reputation of their own, and according to legend claimed a significant role in the mutiny on a harbour ferry after a particularly rowdy Christmas party. The ferry circled under the Harbour Bridge for an hour, before eventually being boarded by the water police. All the island’s Christmas ferries after that had an armed guard, courtesy of the New South Wales constabulary.

So what a joy now to see that, if the Trust’s plan reaches fruition, anyone will be able to have a Christmas swim in the Fitzroy Dry Dock, apprentice or not. After all, what is more quintessentially Australian than a dip in a pool at Christmas?

And as I write this, the long awaited heatwave has arrived, and I can sense many Australian families clambering to get a pool into their backyards as soon as possible.

I hope this bodes well for an uptick to counter the economic slowdown.

Everyone at SPLASH! wishes all our readers the very best of possible holidays: enjoying family, friends and good times. And also to maintain the good sense not to have too good a time, like those mutinous apprentices!

Copyright © 2024 - SPASA Australia.

Proudly supported by

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.

The Intermedia Group takes its Corporate and Social Responsibilities seriously and is committed to reducing its impact on the environment. We continuously strive to improve our environmental performance and to initiate additional CSR based projects and activities. As part of our company policy we ensure that the products and services used in the manufacture of this magazine are sourced from environmentally responsible suppliers. This magazine has been printed on paper produced from sustainably sourced wood and pulp fibre and is accredited under PEFC chain of custody. PEFC certified wood and paper products come from environmentally appropriate, socially beneficial and economically viable management of forests.

The cover

The cover shows a pool at Alba Thermal Springs, the project that won the 2023 National Commercial Project of the Year for Aquarius Pools and Paul McQuillan Landscapes. There is more on this project on page 27. Image: Alba Thermal Springs, Photography: Chris McConville

December 2023/January 2024 SPLASH! 7

Energy efficient Award winning, super quiet pool pump with variable speed control

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16 Rights and remedies in pool building contracts

32 Selling the green revolution

Spiros Dassakis outlines some information to help ensure pool builders know their contractual rights and obligations.

Veda Dante looks at how pool and spa businesses are highlighting their environment-friendly credentials to the industry, and ultimately to the consumer.

21 Update on WHS amendments

47 Cloud control

HRAnywhere updates us on the significant amendments made to workplace health and safety laws in every Australian jurisdiction during the third quarter of 2023.

22 Make sure your water

sanitisation claims are real Terry Mwase clarifies some important legal and ethical issues surrounding marketing in the pool and spa industry.

47

26 The amazing 30-pool spa

Our ongoing series on Australian manufacturing takes us to Melbourne, to visit Waterlink, supplier of equipment for both the residential and commercial swimming pool and spa market.

50 The business case for consumer expos Daena Bougoure-Latchford details how pool industry members can take advantage of the opportunities presented by consumer shows.

24 A postcard from Las Vegas

Brett Lloyd Abbott describes his recent trip to the International Pool Spa Patio Expo, co-located in Las Vegas this November with the Deck Expo.

Contents

56 Are natural refrigerants 58

resort at Alba Springs The $100-million-plus wellness resort that won the 2023 National Commercial Project of the Year, shared by Aquarius Pools and Paul McQuillan Landscapes.

the way of the future?

Stefan Jensen offers his ideas on the future of refrigerants in both the refrigeration industry and for heat pumps.

58 Crisis management at communal,

public and commercial swimming pools Veda Dante looks at how to develop plans for managing crises in aquatic centres and how to carry them out.

66 Managing staff across

regulars News. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Commercial news . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Pool DAs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

New products. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Calendar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Ad index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

multiple public pool sites Angus Westaway offers practical advice on using technology to help manage staffing across multiple public pool sites.

December 2023/January 2024 SPLASH! 9

news

Associations

Master Pool Builders program launched to help elevate industry The Master Pool Builder (MPB) program was launched in November.

Chris Samartzis, CEO of Master Pool Builders, says the launch of the program encapsulates a long-standing commitment to excellence as pool builders elevate their skill set and organisation to the next level.

Samartzis says the program opens the door to a distinguished network where skilled pool and spa builders are able to raise their craft, share knowledge and influence industry standards, ensuring a legacy of innovation, enduring quality and excellence.

Following the merger between SPASA and Master Pool Builders, the Master Pool Builder Committee was set up to develop a meaningful and fulfilling program that complements the current offering of SPASA membership.

The resultant program has distinct branding and a range of new offerings aimed at professionally developing the pool builder.

Samartzis believes they have achieved a unique balance to further the professionalism of the industry.

“Now more than ever, our members look to us to provide clear pathways for excellence and to promote high standards and ethical behaviour,” he says.

He says the membership program recognises individual pool and spa builders in their pursuit of excellence, succession planning and

commitment, empowering them to build better pools and spas while providing an aspirational pathway.

“The MPB program provides a flexible pathway designed to represent and support pool builders, and recognise the value they contribute to the industry by focusing on skills, achievements, and professional development at every stage in their career.”

The new MPB logo The program is accessible to any individual pool builder who meets the MPB eligibility requirements and whose company is a member of SPASA. “We invite all pool builders who meet the necessary criteria to consider adopting the Master Pool Builder program as a critical tool to elevate themselves as industry champions,” he says.

Contact: www.mpbaa.com.au

Benefits of the MPB program The MPB program supports the growth of its members to ensure their professional capabilities are continuously developed and recognised through: • A dedicated advisory body tasked with championing the specific needs of the pool building sector at the local and national level.

• Specific MPB award categories.

• Dedicated MPB meetings and specific forums.

• Exclusive co-branded MPB and SPASA approved contracts.

• Enhancement of reputation and credibility among consumers, colleagues and industry partners.

• Elevating oneself in the marketplace through personal brand recognition.

• Increasing recognition with exclusive MPB-branded marketing.

• Highlighting best practice through a professional development framework.

• Demonstrating a commitment to quality outcomes of customer stewardship.

• Adhering to a disciplined strategy that ensures exceptional project management principles are consistently applied.

• A commitment to high standards of quality, craftsmanship and innovation.

Industry moves

Linda Taylor retires after 38 years in the industry Waterco’s Western Australian manager, Linda Taylor, has retired after nearly four decades in the industry.

following up on her word,” says Nottingham.

“This was proven time and time again over the years, and was a virtue of which she was rightly proud, wearing it as a badge of honour.”

Richard Nottingham, Waterco’s WA sales representative, says her departure is a loss for the whole industry.

Taylor was with Waterco, or one of the businesses acquired by Waterco, for almost 39 years. She was with Aquahealth Pty Ltd when Waterco acquired it in April 1988, and then commenced operations at the Waterco WA branch.

After the change from Aquahealth to Waterco, she made her way through to branch manager, and rose to the

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SPLASH!

December 2023/January 2024

Taylor was also a long-time member of the SPASA WA committee, including during the time when the association debated joining SPASA Australia – a decision which was eventually decided in the affirmative.

Linda Taylor saying farewell occasion, making a great success of her role.

“Linda has a reputation for honesty and

After leaving Waterco, Taylor intends to keep herself busy assisting pool shops in the short term, but says the big picture will hopefully include more campervan travel and more walks with her chihuahuas Stella and Audrey.

news

Annual DAs maintain 14 per cent decline Australian Leisure Media Pty Ltd co-directors, Nigel Benton and Karen Sweaney-Benton, with SPASA Australia CEO Lindsay McGrath Publishing

The DA numbers over the most recent three months were down by 24 per cent nationally when compared to the same period last year. The September-November numbers from Cordell show South Australia up by a massive 356 per cent, but all other states were down: Western Australia down by nine per cent, New South Wales by 26 per cent, Victoria by 29 per cent and Queensland by 40 per cent.

SPASA acquires Australasian Leisure Management SPASA Australia CEO Lindsay McGrath says the acquisition augments the association’s growing stable of media brands, which includes the assets of this title, SPLASH!, in print, digital and the SPLASH! Pool & Spa Trade Show; as well as consumer-facing Pool & Spa magazine, website and lifestyle events.

“Our mission is to protect, promote and grow the industry,” he says.

“Acquisition of the ALM assets positions us to better deliver on that promise, dovetailing into our existing media portfolio and enabling us to further our reach.”

“We share a common goal with SPASA,” he says. “To effectively communicate what is best0about this industry.

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“The global media landscape is changing rapidly. In the B2B space, access to SPASA’s extensive resources will allow us to expand in new Year old Year new directions – and at a scale we couldn’t achieve as an independent 8000 publisher.”

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ALM editor and Australian Leisure Media Pty Ltd co-director, Karen 6000 Sweaney-Benton says the move is a win for the industry, noting 5000 that SPASA’s backing means they can take advantage of emerging 4000 technologies, develop new partnerships and move on with new initiatives 3000 to better serve the industry.

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“With the support of SPASA we can deliver more editorial content 1000 to benefit readers and the wider industry along with developing new 0 industry-relevant research resources,”WA she says. SA NSW and information VIC QLD

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ALM publisher and Australian Leisure Media Pty Ltd co-director, Nigel 500 Benton, says it is an incredibly exciting move.

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1500 “Australasian Leisure Management provides SPASA with the perfect communication tool to work more closely with other associations and groups to help promote and grow1000 the aquatics, recreation and leisure sectors.”

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2000 success since going national in 2017 is due to McGrath says that SPASA’s a collaborative approach with industry partners.

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Yearly comparison by month

Year old

The Swimming Pool & Spa Association of Australia Ltd (SPASA Australia) has acquired Australasian Leisure Management (ALM) magazine and the ausleisure.com.au website.

Year old

Comparing the available pool DA figures for the 12 months to November with the same period last year, annual applications were down by 14 percent nationally. The is the same percentage of decline as the last reported period.

South Australia was up by a massive 126 per cent and Victoria was up by six per cent, but all other states were down: New South Wales and Western Australia by 23 per cent, and Queensland by 28 per cent.

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 1300 734 318.

Contact: www.ausleisure.com.au; www.spasa.com.au December 2023/January 2024 SPLASH! 11

news

Support

In the pink

Sponsorship

Turning up the Heat The sponsorship is Poolwerx is sponsoring synergistic for both parties the Brisbane Heat this summer in their bid to claim the Big Bash League trophy.

The sponsorship will see the Poolwerx brand lit up across major in-stadium LED signage and the Heat’s social media channels and website.

Even the pool shells turned pink when Glenn McGrath visited the Compass Pools factory in Newcastle At the time of writing, Compass Pools Australia was only $20k shy of their milestone of raising a whopping $1 million for the McGrath Foundation.

Brisbane Heat CEO Terry Svenson welcomed Poolwerx as their newest partner.

After six years of dedicated support, Compass Pools is set to surpass the milestone supporting the foundation, a vital organisation dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by breast cancer.

“There are some great synergies between Poolwerx and the Brisbane Heat and we are proud to welcome the team on board.

Compass Pools’ journey with the McGrath Foundation began in 2017 when founders Ian and Kerri Mewett were inspired to give back to the community as a way of saying thanks to the tens of thousands of Australian families who have helped Compass Pools grow into a household name.

McGrath Foundation ambassador and director, Tracy Bevan, says that it is through the support of partners like Compass Pools that they can continue to fund the McGrath Breast Care Nurses.

“It’s incredible the Compass Pools team is so close to the one million dollar donation mark and we can’t thank them enough for their support,” she says. “This partnership has allowed us to fully fund one of our McGrath Breast Care Nurses, so they truly are making a significant impact”.

As a way of celebrating the ongoing partnership, all Compass Pools are now finished with a pink exterior.

“So next time you see a truck carrying a load of pink pools smile,” says Compass Pools Australia CEO Anthony Cross.

“Each one of those pink pools is working to support someone in your community when they need it the most.”

“As a Queensland-born organisation performing on the national and international stage, and with a focus on summer and families, we see a great correlation to the Brisbane Heat and our purpose of Bringing Families Together,” says Svenson.

“The Big Bash League and families enjoying time in the pool are synonymous with summer in Queensland and Australia, and we are excited to work with Poolwerx to grow their brand and profile among our fanbase and followers for what promises to be a huge BBL season.”

Poolwerx CEO Nic Brill is also excited to join forces.

“We are looking forward to embarking on a new partnership with Brisbane Heat as we continue to weave ourselves into the fabric of the great Australian summer lifestyle,” he says.

“Brisbane Heat is a formidable force in the Australian sporting landscape and we are eager to align with a brand that shares our passion for creating family memories and daring to succeed.”

He says the partnership will be fuelled by the energy of summer, bringing families together in the heat of the season, both on and off the field.

Contact: www.poolwerx.com.au; www.brisbaneheat.com.au

Contact: www.compasspools.com.au; www.mcgrathfoundation.com.au

Keep informed by subscribing to the free online newsletter.

Waterco signs two deals to strengthen offering Waterco expanded its portfolio by partnering with blower manufacturer Esam and filter manufacturer LiqTech.

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SPLASH!

Top five online news stories

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

IRLearning launches course to introduce participants to the pool and spa industry The Institute of Research and Learning launched a new eLearning course – Introduction to the Swimming Pool and Spa Industry.

December 2023/January 2024

Council investigating allegations in relation to pool safety inspections Lane Cove Council is investigating serious allegations made by a whistleblower employee and published by the Sydney Morning Herald.

Children and pool drowning numbers show improvement The National Drowning Report 2023 found there were 281 drowning deaths over the past 12 months, which is 17 per cent lower than last year.

Make sure your water sanitisation claims are real Terry Mwase clarified some important legal and ethical issues surrounding marketing in the pool and spa industry.

news

Per x Safe & Clear For a Healthier Swimming Experience

Upcoming events 2024 Jan 16-18

ISSA International Swim School Spectacular, Dubai

Feb 2-4

Melbourne Pool & Spa Show

Feb 17-18

Perth Pool & Spa Lifestyle Expo

Mar 2-3

Sydney Pool & Spa Lifestyle Expo

Mar 23-24

Adelaide Pool & Spa Lifestyle Expo

May 10-12

Asia Pool & Spa Expo 2024

May 11-2

New Zealand Pool & Spa Expo 2024

May 15-16

Country Pool Managers Conference, Club Forster, NSW

May 18-19

Brisbane Pool Spa and Lifestyle Expo

June 15

SPASA Awards Gala Evening, Qld

June 21-23 Perth Home Show June 22

SPASA Awards Gala Evening, SA

June 29

SPASA Awards Gala Evening, NSW

July 20

SPASA Awards Gala Evening, WA

July 27

SPASA Awards Gala Evening, Vic

Aug 1

SPASA Awards Gala Evening, Tas

Aug 2

SPASA Awards Gala Evening, NZ

Aug 20-22

Australian Swim Schools Association National Conference, Gold Coast Convention & Exhibition Centre

A unique blend of salts to keep your pool water safe & clear all year round Highly effective water sanitiser with minimal by-products Works with your existing salt chlorinator

Aug 21-22

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

Effective treatment and control of biofilm

Aug 21

SPASA Awards Gala Evening, Nationals

Reduces chlorine consumption

Aug 23-25

Melbourne Home Show

Sep 27-29

Brisbane Home Show

Eliminates chlorine odour (chloramines)

Oct 18-20

Sydney Home Show

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.

Creates extra sparkle to the pool water

SPASA awarded Gold awards for Innovative Product of the Year, Product of the Year, New Product of the Year and was highly commended five times in the different states.

December 2023/January 2024 SPLASH! 13

news

Industry moves

BWT acquires Austral Distributors NZL Austral Distributors NZL has become part of the Best Water Technology Group (BWT) following its 100 per cent acquisition, effective December 1, 2023 Austral is a leading distributor of pool and spa products in New Zealand, and the company will continue to trade as Austral Pool & Spa Products.

The directors Mike Rippon and Jonathan Poole will continue their roles as company directors, which they say will ensure the core values of the business are upheld.

“We will continue to provide the extensive range of quality and innovative products to the industry with the level of service it is renowned for,” says Rippon. “We’re excited for our staff and the opportunities this acquisition brings – being part of a family of companies focused on making the world a better place.”

Andreas Weissenbacher, CEO of BWT Group, is also enthusiastic about the acquisition.

“I am very pleased that Mike and Jonathan enabled us to invest in Austral Pool & Spa Products,” he says.

Jonathan Poole and Mike Rippon “Together with Mike, Jonathan and their experienced team, the business will be further developed with the existing valuable customers and suppliers, and with the additional support of our international BWT organisation.”

Contact: www.bwt.com

Industry moves

AIS Water appoints new sales chief Lee Moore was appointed chief of sales and marketing for AIS Water in October, and has already hit the ground running. He has set his sights on the Brisbane Olympic Games, with the aim of making sure AIS disinfection systems are on all the commercial swimming pools that will feature in the 2032 Games.

as a Brisbane based business, our technology is already in so many commercial and residential swimming pools across Australia, including many where our Olympic athletes are training hard to bring home gold in 2032.”

Moore has 15 years’ experience working in senior management in Australia’s pool and spa industry.

He says his focus will be on streamlining business processes for the existing customer base, and ensuring the Australian and international pool industries understand the benefits of AIS’s world-class products.

“My new role at AIS Water is exciting to me for a lot of reasons,” he says. “Not least because,

Moore says he was inspired to join AIS on the back of their commitment to use the

Lee Moore business to make a difference to the world, and to work with CEO Elena Gosse.

“Her passion is inspirational and her commitment to excellence permeates every aspect of the business.”

Contact: www.aiswater.com.au

Industry moves

Hayward rebuilding their team A new era began for Hayward Australia following the appointment of Rob Emmett as managing director in March 2023.

hiring will lay the foundation for Hayward’s organisational success.

further bolstered their relationship-building strategies and improved post-sale engagement as New South Wales customer care officer.

Another recent appointment is Joseph Tatapudi, who joined Hayward as an IT analyst, signifying the company’s focus on digital transformation.

“Efficient warehouse operations are equally pivotal to Hayward’s growth strategy,” says Emmett. “And the recent appointment of Robbie Robertson as warehouse manager in Melbourne signifies our commitment to timely and accurate order fulfillment.”

For five-and-a-half years prior to his elevation he was Hayward marketing manager, and before that he Hayward managing “This transformative journey director Rob Emmett had accumulated extensive transcends the adoption of technical and marketing new technology; it represents experience. He is now leading Hayward on a a cultural and organisational shift permeating transformative voyage, backed by a slate of every facet of the company,” Emmett says. new appointments.

“The digital transformation is poised to

14

“The first step in this strategic hiring process involved filling the role of HR business partner with the addition of Dielle Gujral to the team," he says.

enhance the efficiency of business processes, streamline communication, and enable Hayward to operate with greater agility and speed in delivering value to its customers.”

Gujral is keen to create an environment where shared purpose and commitment thrive, and Emmett says that approach to

Paul Carroll and Jeremy Ashton now spearhead sales efforts in Victoria, Tasmania and South Australia, while Tamara Gamack has

SPLASH!

December 2023/January 2024

Robertson is tasked with integrating and leveraging technology to enhance efficiency, accuracy and overall warehouse performance nationwide.

“Our strategic hiring decisions reflect a holistic approach to organisational success – every appointment contributes to the company’s ongoing journey toward excellence, and positions the company for sustained growth and innovation in the dynamic future of the industry.”

Contact: www.hayward-pool.com.au

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feature

Rights and remedies in

pool building contracts

SPASA has put together an article to help ensure pool building businesses know their rights and obligations in contract arrangements. SPLASH! published some of this information as an addenda to a story on fixed price contracts in Edition 149, but now presents the full article.

By Spiros Dassakis

S

PASA recommends that all pool building businesses and associated contractors take the time to review their contractual agreements, specifically what rights and remedies are available to them during the life of a project.

SPASA contracts outline processes that allow for delays, extensions of time and circumstances that are outside the control of the builder. The contracts are designed to ensure that the builder is better protected and understands what they are building; and the homeowner fully understands what to expect, and what they are getting.

Managing the contract

Correctly managing a construction contract can save a pool builder thousands of dollars on every job.

Managing the contract process ensures the smooth flow of a project and helps control costs. It also provides a mechanism to resolve disputes between parties if they arise.

Construction contract management also provides processes that provide clear resolution of all matters regarding the project including scope, cost, time frame, and risk allocation.

Contractual process: Parties to a contract must understand what processes they are required to follow in certain situations.

It is critical that pool builders take time to read and understand their contract and the processes they must follow for matters relating to delays, notices, variations and breaches.

Failing to properly observe and manage your contractual obligation may place you at unnecessary risk as well as add significant costs and exposure to loss of profit.

Contracts clauses and notices

Exercising contract clauses and servicing notices under a building contract is crucial for maintaining clear communication, managing risks, resolving disputes and ensuring the successful completion of a construction project.

These actions help to establish a structured framework for the parties involved to fulfill their obligations and deal with potential issues that may arise during the project’s lifecycle.

Below are some key reasons why exercising contract clauses and servicing notices is important.

Clarity and communication: Contract clauses outline the rights, responsibilities, and expectations of each party. By exercising these clauses and serving notices, parties ensure that all stakeholders are on the same page and understand their obligations. This helps prevent misunderstandings and misinterpretations that can lead to disputes.

Risk management: Building contracts often include provisions that allocate risks among the parties. Exercising relevant clauses and issuing notices, when necessary, allows 16

SPLASH!

December 2023/January 2024

ABOVE: A selection of SPASA contracts

parties to address potential risks and take appropriate actions to mitigate them. For instance, if there are delays due to unforeseen circumstances, proper notices can trigger discussions on how to manage the impact on the project schedule and costs.

Dispute resolution: Building contracts typically include mechanisms for resolving disputes, such as mediation, arbitration or litigation. Properly exercising contract clauses and serving notices can be a prerequisite for triggering these dispute resolution processes. By following the prescribed procedures, parties enhance their ability to resolve conflicts in a structured manner.

Contractual compliance: Exercising contract clauses and serving notices is often a contractual obligation. Failing to adhere to these requirements can lead to claims of breach of contract, potentially resulting in financial penalties, delays or even termination of the contract.

Preservation of rights: Some contract clauses may require parties to take specific actions within a certain timeframe to preserve their rights. For example, if a contractor encounters unforeseen site conditions that impact the project’s scope or cost, they may need to provide a notice within a specified period to claim additional compensation or time.

Project control and management: Contract clauses and notices help maintain control over the project by providing a mechanism to track progress, changes and issues. This allows parties to proactively address any deviations from the original plan, ensuring that the project stays on track and within the agreed-upon parameters.

Documentation: Exercising contract clauses and serving notices creates a paper trail that documents the project’s evolution, changes and challenges. This documentation can be invaluable in the event of disputes or claims, providing evidence of each party’s actions and intentions.

Exercising contract clauses and servicing notices under a building contract is a fundamental aspect of effective contract management. It establishes a structured framework for communication, risk management, dispute resolution and overall project success.

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Parties should carefully review their contract, understand the specific requirements for exercising clauses and issuing notices, and diligently follow these procedures throughout the project’s lifecycle.

Rise and fall clauses

SPASA contracts include a rise and fall clause (also referred to as a cost escalation clause).

This is a provision within the contract that allows the builder to be paid an increased or decreased sum if certain costs rise or fall from a prescribed point in time.

Notes: In Victoria* and Western Australia#, cost escalation clauses (also known as a “rise and fall” clause) are prohibited in domestic building works contracts for works valued under $500,000.

• *VIC: Section 15 of the Domestic Building Contracts Act 1995.

• #WA: Section 13 of the Home Building Contracts Act 1991.

An increase under a rise and fall clause does not require customer approval in the same way as a cost variation, however the customer MUST be notified, and the builder may be asked to demonstrate how the increase was determined.

The builder MUST also notify the customer of any decrease under a rise and fall clause. The customer can terminate the contract where any one increase under rise and fall clause equates to more than 10 per cent of total contract price.

Delays and extension of time

SPASA contracts have provisions that allow for the parties to agree and include specific time frames within the project completion period for projected delays.

Examples include: • Civil commotion or industrial dispute affecting any of the trades employed on site or the manufacture or supply of materials for the works.

• Delays by the relevant approval authority in granting a necessary consent or approval.

• Unavailability of materials necessary for the continuation of the work.

• Any other matter, cause or thing beyond the control of the builder including latent conditions, where the event or circumstance is outside the reasonable control of the builder and where builder has taken all proper steps to minimise the effects of the delay.

All delays and extension of time claims must be made in writing and contractors should give notice of the delay event as soon as the delay becomes evident.

Contractors should ensure claims and the notification of claims (where triggered) are consistent with the contract for them to be considered valid.

Compensable causes

If an eligible delay is a compensable cause, the contract price may be able to increase by the costs incurred by the builder as a consequence of the eligible delay.

Compensable damages for delay in reaching completion: Pool builders should also consider completion dates and costs for delays that may be relevant in specific circumstances.

Variations: If a contract is delayed, a contractor may also be able to claim for delay damages through a validated variation process.

The SPASA contract has a comprehensive variations process on how and when a variation could apply in certain circumstances.

These include but are not limited to the following: • Changes to the project by customer.

• Circumstances beyond the builder’s control.

• Urgent work to protect the works or people.

Single clause reliance

Reliance on a single clause or provision in a construction contract is not a comprehensive or effective strategy for ensuring the success of a project.

Pool builders and contractors must diligently observe and manage every aspect of the contract to mitigate risks, prevent disputes, and ensure the project’s smooth execution.

Here’s why.

Holistic understanding: A construction contract is a complex document that outlines various rights, responsibilities, obligations and procedures for all parties involved. Focusing solely on one clause could lead to overlooking other critical aspects that are equally important for the project’s success.

Risk management: Construction projects involve numerous inherent risks, such as delays, design changes, unforeseen site conditions, and supply chain disruptions. Builders need to actively manage these risks by monitoring the project’s progress, identifying potential issues and taking proactive measures to mitigate them.

Clear communication: Effective contract management involves open and transparent communication between all parties. Pool builders must communicate any changes, delays, or deviations from the original plan to the client, subcontractors, suppliers and other stakeholders to ensure everyone is on the same page.

Compliance and documentation: Strictly adhering to the terms of the contract and properly documenting all actions and decisions are crucial. This documentation can serve as evidence in case of disputes or claims and can help establish that parties acted in accordance with their contractual obligations.

Change management: Construction projects often undergo changes due to evolving client needs, design modifications or unexpected issues. Properly managing these changes, including obtaining written approvals and adjusting timelines and costs as needed, is essential to prevent conflicts later on.

Quality assurance: Pool builders are responsible for delivering a quality product that meets the specifications outlined in the contract. This requires careful monitoring of workmanship, materials and construction methods throughout the project.

Payment and cash flow: Pool builders need to track payments, invoices and cash flow to ensure that they receive timely payments for the work they’ve completed. This involves submitting accurate progress reports, documenting completed milestones and managing any payment disputes.

Dispute resolution: While no one anticipates disputes, they can arise. Pool builders should be proactive in resolving potential conflicts through negotiation, mediation or other agreed-upon dispute resolution mechanisms specified in the contract.

Adaptation to changes: Contracts can sometimes be affected by external factors such as legal or regulatory changes. Pool builders need to be aware of such changes and ensure that their contractual arrangements remain compliant and relevant.

In essence, successful contract management requires a holistic and proactive approach that considers all aspects of the project and the contract itself.

Pool builders should continuously monitor, assess and adapt to the evolving dynamics of the construction project to ensure its timely and successful completion while safeguarding their own interests and maintaining positive client relationships. n Contact: www.spasa.com.au December 2023/January 2024 SPLASH! 19

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Update on WHS amendments HRAnywhere updates us on the significant amendments made to workplace health and safety laws in every Australian jurisdiction during the third quarter of 2023.

National

• Increased maximum available fines and jail times for a breach of the WHS Act. • Recommended penalties for industrial manslaughter.

• Clarification of the operation of Category 1 offences to give regulators more confidence to pursue reckless or negligence company officers.

• Changes to the Commonwealth WHS Act banning insurance against penalties, adding negligence as a fault element to the reckless conduct offence, and enhancing Comcare’s powers to acquire information.

• Safe Work Australia Act was amended to enhance their information-gathering powers.

• The Australian Human Rights Commission released a suite of resources to help employers satisfy the new WHS-style positive duty in the Sex Discrimination Act. • Laws were introduced to implement a key recommendation from the Sex Discrimination Commissioner’s review of parliamentary workplaces.

• Many additional workers gained access to paid family and domestic violence (FDV) leave.

• Provisions protecting FDV victims from workplace discrimination were included in the Closing Loopholes Bill.

ACT

• Adopted the national model WHS regulations explicitly requiring persons conducting a business or undertaking (PCBUs) to manage psychosocial risks through risk management provisions, while joining a subgroup of jurisdictions prescribing the use of the hierarchy of controls for these risks.

• Introduced WHS Codes of Practice on managing psychosocial hazards at work, and on managing the risks of airborne crystalline silica.

• WorkSafe reminded PCBUs of their new WHS duty to notify it of actual or suspected incidents of workplace sexual assault.

• WorkSafe also reminded PCBUs of their WHS duty to tackle workplace sexual harassment.

NSW

• Introduced a WHS Amendment Bill tripling the maximum penalty for Category 1 breaches like recklessness, increasing all other WHS fines by 40 per cent, introducing “prohibited asbestos notices”, and giving police powers under the WHS Act. • SafeWork launched a WHS planning tool for extreme weather and commenced reviewing seven old Codes of Practice.

• Resources Regulator warned against over-relying on WHS technologies like collision-avoidance systems.

NT

• WHS Regulations further amended to require PCBUs to apply the hierarchy of controls when complying with their duty to tackle psychosocial risks through a risk management process.

• Introduced new WHS Code of Practice for tower cranes, made changes to 11 existing WHS Codes, and postponed the start date of its new WHS-style electrical safety laws.

• WorkSafe announced a 6 month trial whereby inspectors would wear body cameras to help them collect evidence.

Queensland

• New WHS Code of Practice for amusement devices to support regulations.

• Introduction of 18 sleep hygiene guidelines for shift workers that addressed unique shift-work challenges overlooked by traditional advice.

SA

• Introduced WHS Amendment Bill creating the offence of industrial manslaughter with maximum penalties of 20 years’ imprisonment for individuals and $18 million for bodies corporate.

• WHS Regulations explicitly requiring PCBUs to manage psychosocial risks through the risk management process and mandating the use of the hierarchy of controls for this.

• WHS amendments expressly prohibiting the uncontrolled processing of engineered stone and updating a number of references to Australian Standards.

• SafeWork announced its inspectors were being provided with body-worn cameras to encourage respectful interactions, allow complaints to be easily investigated and provide transparency.

Tasmania

• Introduced WHS Amendment Bill to adopt 10 changes made to the national model WHS laws, including those banning insurance against safety penalties, and adding gross negligence as a fault element to the reckless-conduct offence.

• Introduced Bill adding nine types of cancer, including three female-specific diseases, to the list of cancers that were presumed to be caused by firefighting duties for workers’ comp purposes.

• Recommended introducing a “points system” for traumatic exposures, where workers are allocated points when exposed to certain incidents, and automatically referred for psychological assessment when they reach a designated number.

Victoria

• Employers that collected covid-19 “vaccination information”, in accordance with special OHS Amendment Regulations, were instructed to destroy the information, with the legislative instrument expiring.

• The Industry Standard for the safe use of elevating work platforms was amended to include more stringent spotter and guarding rules.

• The latest Australian Dangerous Goods Code commenced in the State.

• A Greens Bill expanded the list of cancers presumed to be caused by firefighting for workers’ comp purposes.

WA

• Launch of a “speak up” campaign and other programs aimed at tackling bullying, sexual harassment and gender inequality in the resources sector and elsewhere.

• A draft WHS Code on managing electrical risks was released for feedback.

• Presumptive workers’ compensation laws for certain workers with PTSD were extended to an additional class of workers. n Contact: www.hranywhere.com.au December 2023/January 2024 SPLASH! 21

feature

Make sure your water sanitisation claims are real SPASA’s member service officer Terry Mwase clarifies some important legal and ethical isues surrounding marketing in the pool and spa industry.

By Terry Mwase

A

dvertising and selling practices in the swimming pool and spa industry have evolved rapidly and now include the use of digital marketing platforms in the promotion of goods and services. This article has been prepared to provide awareness to the industry about good sales practices that lead to customer satisfaction and sustainable, long-term business success.

SPASA frequently receives information from consumers and industry stakeholders regarding marketing claims and compliance requirements for products that are either imported or manufactured locally and sold in the marketplace.

To ensure concerns are tabled and addressed in line with its Code of Ethics, SPASA engages members when such concerns are raised. This process also provides members with valuable feedback on how others may be interpreting their products and claims in the marketplace.

Advertising of swimming pool and spa water sanitation systems

Recently SPASA has received concerns about marketing claims associated with the advertising and selling of swimming pool and spa water sanitation systems.

Examples of such marketing claims include inference to swimming pool and spa water as being “chemical free”, “chlorine free”, and in some cases being of “drinking water quality” and “safe to drink”. Different variations of this messaging have been used, which may lead consumers to form the view that their pool or spa water requires no chemicals, no maintenance and is safe for human consumption.

Is it safe to drink water from a swimming pool or spa?

Any claims relating to pool or spa water 22

SPLASH!

December 2023/January 2024

Even tap water contains chlorine

being “like tap water” and “safe to drink” should not be made unless if they are supported by scientific evidence and comply with the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines.

Unlike marketing puffery, which involves exaggerated, boastful, subjective claims that are used to entice customers into making purchases, any claim that impacts consumers’ health is a safety concern and requires anyone making it to provide compliance and other substantiating data in the event of someone falling ill.

Chemical-free and chlorine-free

Poorly maintained swimming pools and spas can create health risks for users. There are many illnesses that are transmitted by pool and recreational water that is contaminated with germs when it is swallowed or when people have contact with it or breathe it in as mist. These come from bacteria, viruses and parasites carried by people within their bodies and on their skin.

This requires proper disinfection and filtration of pool water to kill harmful microorganisms and remove other contaminants such as body fats, sunscreen, and soil, and is the reason why pool water needs to be adequately maintained to ensure that it is safe for swimmers.

As an innovative industry, consumers have a genuine demand for alternatives to traditional forms of sanitation like chlorine. However, claims relating to “chemical free” and “chlorine free” sanitation systems require scrutiny and transparency. For example, the following questions should be asked: • Does the product, system, or technology use in either isolation or combination, chlorine, bromine, ioniser, UV light or any other primary sanitisation product?

• Does the product, system, or technology comply with the Australian Standard AS3633: Private Swimming Pools — Water Quality, and relevant Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) requirements?

Alignment of industry marketing in advertising of water sanitation systems

Under Australian Consumer Law legislation, it is illegal for a business to engage in conduct that misleads or deceives or is likely to mislead or deceive consumers or other businesses.

This law applies even in instances where there was no intention to mislead or deceive, and where no one has suffered any loss or damage attributed to the businesses’ conduct.

Examples of misleading or deceptive conduct include: • Promotions or advertisements that include false or inaccurate information.

• Statements that fail to disclose important information.

• Information that conveys a false impression.

To ensure compliance, companies should consider the validity of claims being made in marketing messaging, whether direct or indirect, which infer that pool water is “safe to drink” or “chemical or chlorine free”.

This involves undertaking a scientific audit of relevant material to avoid the risk of misleading or deceptive conduct claims. As part of that review, companies may wish to refer to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s Advertising and Selling Guide. n Contact: www.accc.gov.au; www.splash.online/articles/links150

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A postcard from Las Vegas Pool Builder Marketing’s Brett Lloyd Abbott updates us on his recent trip to the International Pool Spa Patio Expo, co-located in Las Vegas this November with the Deck Expo.

By Brett Abbott

I

love sharing the titbits I pick up from the annual PSP/Deck Expo every year – but this year, I’m going to relay them backwards. I can’t explain why; it just feels right.

Day 3 (Wednesday): Formula One takes over

“The crowd floods in as the expo opens.

The show floor seemed as big as ever, and full of excitement, end-to-end.”

Regular streets have been converted to race tracks, and access to some of the hotels becomes a nightmare. Uber, Lyft and taxi drivers are in full panic mode, because no-one (apparently not even the event coordinators) know exactly how this is going to work.

Evidence: On Wednesday evening, during practice runs, the world learned that these lowslung F1 race cars could suck the 12-inch manhole covers up off the ground and into the street.

Hugely embarrassing for the city, and seriously bad for the F1 car behind you.

Fortunately, most everyone from the PSP/Deck Expo was out of town before the gridlock hit.

Day 2 (Tuesday): The Sphere

All I can say is: mind-blowing!

The massive outside is hilarious when it changes from any number of exceedingly complex animated images to a simple round ball with eyes that follow the cars as they drive by. (You can see it from just about any hotel in the city.)

And while I expected to be blown away by the inside, I was not expecting to be literally blown away inside by wind when we experienced what looked and felt like a real hurricane. I cannot say more other than go see it. And get the good seats.

Meanwhile, classes continued, and from my observation, the show floor traffic remained relatively strong. There’s usually a big drop-off after lunch on day two, but I still saw plenty of people roaming the aisles and chatting with suppliers. That’s good news for everyone.

Day 1 (Monday): The Expo

We kicked off at 8:00 am with the Builder Power Panel.

(Special thanks to Mike Church, Charlie Claffey, Tony Campbell, Greg Howard and Krissy Adams).

Tons of great insights from these icons in the industry. To hear them all, you had to be there.

24

SPLASH!

December 2023/January 2024

But I will share one tip that I heard over and over again, consistently, from all of them: “Know your numbers!”

9:15 am: We had Anthony Robles as our keynote speaker. Entertaining, inspiring and heartwarming, he was delightful, youthful and energetic, and I think he put a little boost in all our steps with his message.

10:30 am: The crowd floods in as the expo opens. The show floor seemed as big as ever, and full of excitement, end-to-end.

Lots of great exhibitors, but one had me scratching my head just a little bit. It was an international fiberglass manufacturer who would take his fiberglass shells and convert them to “all-tile” pools. In Brazil. Then he would put them on a boat and ship them up to the US. He had one there on the show floor, and it looked absolutely perfect. But wow, that sure seemed like a lot of trouble to sell a pool. I hope it works out for him.

5:30 pm: The Welcome Party begins at the AYA Day Club. Gorgeous poolside event. I’m not sure how we pulled this off, but we were amongst the first 50 people into the event. So we got great seats, and first shot at the food. And while I’m not a huge fan of chicken tenders, I must say the tenders on the buffet line were absolutely delectable. Better than any chicken tenders I’ve ever had at any restaurant, ever. Someone was doing something right.

DAY 0 (Friday-Sunday): Genesis, WU and Carecraft

I was surprised at how many different multi-day classes were going on over the weekend.

Lots of smart people getting even smarter with some of the best education in the industry.

And as luck would have it, they were all right around the corner from the Carecraft welcome party, which not only had great food and free drinks, but a live band and some actual breakdancing from the industry’s finest. (And a perfect view of The Sphere, I might add.)

The next IPSPE event will be held in Dallas Texas, November 12-14, 2024, before returning to Las Vegas in 2025. n Contact: www.poolbuildermarketing.com; www.poolspapatio.com

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The amazing 30-pool spa resort at Alba Springs At the 2023 National Pool & Spa Awards of Excellence, one of the most exciting awards presented was for the Commercial Project of the Year, shared by Aquarius Pools and Paul McQuillan Landscapes.

T

ABOVE: Alba Thermal Springs is one of the most significant projects on the Mornington Peninsula.

Image: Alba Thermal Springs, Photography: Chris McConville 26

SPLASH!

he astounding scope and incredible detail in the Alba Thermal Springs project elicits admiration from all quarters.

The $100-million-plus wellness resort is the largest of its type in Victoria, with 30 dedicated pools dotted across an undulating 16-hectare landscape in the popular spa region of the Mornington Peninsula, a 90 minute drive from Melbourne.

The combined efforts of Aquarius Pools and Paul McQuillan Landscapes (PML) earned them both the award for 2023 National Commercial Project of the Year.

Both companies were instrumental in this project coming to beautiful fruition. Aquarius was critically involved from the very beginning of the project, while PML had 30 staff working at the site for two years, and were the most heavily involved of the contractors.

December 2023/January 2024

Like Alba Thermal Springs, both Aquarius Pools and PML are located on the Mornington Peninsula.

The pools at the highly luxurious immersive bathing destination feature salt baths, geothermal pools, cold plunge pools, five traditional chlorinated pools and a whirlpool.

The layout of the pools creates a sensory journey: their appearance is paced to elicit a sense of suspense, with the pools scattered throughout the native landscape, seeming to disappear and emerge as the guests move through the property.

Creating the vision

Both Aquarius Pools and PML were instrumental in the vision coming to life, based on the breathtaking landscape design by Mala.

“Aquarius came to the project in its infancy, back when it was first being planned with the developers,” says Aquarius Pools director Chris Jackson.

“Mala designed the landscaping, and we offered advice on seat heights and pool sizes for the geothermal pools, and designed and constructed the filtration systems for the traditional swimming

feature

RIGHT: The whirlpool.

Image: Alba Thermal Springs, Photography: Chris McConville BELOW:The 25 metre pool is one of the traditionally treated pools. Image: Alba Thermal Springs, Photography: Chris McConville BELOW RIGHT: The rainfall feature at night.

Image: Alba Thermal Springs, Photography: Chris McConville

“Aquarius came to the project in its infancy, back when it was first being planned with the developers.”

pools. And we were a helping hand in the rest of the project, with the experience we bring in that field.”

Seasoned hydraulic engineer David Iles has worked as an employee and consultant for Aquarius Pools for more than 20 years. He originally worked on the Daylesford Day Spa and Hepburn Springs, and his expertise helped Aquarius Pools get the contract for Peninsula Hot Springs, where they worked for 12 years.

“We have expertise in thermal spa projects over a long period of time, and we brought those learnings to the table,” Jackson says.

Alba had an aquifer water allocation that would have been exceeded had all the pools used the thermal water.

To overcome this, Aquarius built five swimming pools in the traditional way, with recirculated treated water.

“There’s a limited amount of water you can take out of the ground. So what

we did was make five swimming pools with commercial filtration systems. This resulted in a greater variety of bathing experiences than many other spa facilities – on top of the thermal pools, salt baths and flotation baths,” he says.

The geothermal pools don’t require sanitation and filtering in the same way as a traditional pool because it is only used once before being returned to the aquifer.

“It is not recirculated, it is single-use water,” he says.

“A traditional pool re-circulates the pool water, whereas geothermal pools have a constant injection of geothermal water while in service, which overflows to the underground storage tanks to be treated and re-injected to the geothermal aquifer,” he says.

“We helped specify the geothermal hydraulics with Alba. We put connection points inside the ponds and helped with that side of it, and then Alba ran the

plumbing on the geothermal pools. We built the shells, and also had huge input with the swimming pools,” he says.

This included all the dosing equipment, filtration and in-floor cleaning on the traditional swimming pools. For the other 25 pools, Aquarius built the structures and had an input in how they would all work together.

The project was of a huge scale, with considerable investment, meaning there was pressure from the get-go to achieve tight timelines and get the facility operational.

“Right from day one there were ambitious timelines on the project. We had no issue with that, but it was a challenge.

The ambitious timelines were met through everyone going pretty hard at it.”

Jackson says despite the tough timelines, it was a harmonious project.

“PML had their expertise with landscaping and paving, and had an December 2023/January 2024 SPLASH! 27

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feature

FAR LEFT: There is a great variety of pool types.

Image: Alba Thermal Springs, Photography: Chris McConville

The traditional pools

The non-geothermal pools are heated via a 120kW AstralPool AHP-95 commercial heat pump with titanium heat exchanger and a Dontek solar/heat pump controller, with Sunbather solar also installed on the 25 metre family pool.

A massive amount of form, steel and concrete went into the project. The 25 metre pool alone had 460 bars of reinforcement and 54m3 of concrete.

Other equipment includes two 1400mm-diameter sand filters, three 1050mm-diameter sand filters, two 4hp Waterco pumps and three 3hp Waterco pumps, plus a Paramount PCC 2000 in-floor cleaning system from Pool Water Products on the 25 metre pool and indoor pond.

The traditional pools are sanitised via Aquarius Technologies Ultima pH ORP controller.

incredible team down there and did a great job with that. And we dealt with the pools using our expertise. We worked sideby-side to bring together a great project.”

An enormous project

PML principal Paul McQuillan says the scope of their work on the project was massive.

“It included excavations for the entire landscape site, supplying and installing all paving across the site, providing and installing internal paving for all pools, as well as handling the supply and installation of handrails throughout the project,” he says.

They also supplied and installed the robe stations, roof garden beds, internal water features, the complete construction of both the rapids water feature and the front water feature, as well as attending to the change room garden beds and decking board walls at the front entrance.

To quantify the tremendous amount of work carried out by PML, you only need to look at the time their staff worked on the project: a remarkable 332,000 hours across two years.

McQuillan also mentions the demanding timeline – which was satisfied thanks to adept project management and the use of up to 80 staff on site at certain points.

He says PML’s primary challenge was

translating the architect’s design intent into reality.

“Many elements of this project were bespoke, involving unique and unprecedented features,” he says.

“This presented a challenge as there were limited pre-existing projects or instances available for us to draw upon when formulating our approach.

Successfully navigating these uncharted waters required a careful and innovative approach to ensure the seamless execution of the project in alignment with the architect’s vision.”

Customisation was required for many of the specified materials, especially the internal paving around the radial pools.

“To address this, we proactively generated detailed shop drawings and collaborated closely with our suppliers.

This meticulous process ensured that the materials met the precise dimensions required for installation, thereby overcoming the challenge of adapting to the unique design elements of the radial pools,” says McQuillan.

The whirlpool

Jackson says Aquarius also had to deal with bespoke elements, especially in relation to the whirlpool – a geothermal pool that acts exactly like its name: a constant rotating flow of whirling water.

LEFT: The water is naturally heated to between 37 degrees and 43 degrees.

Image: Alba Thermal Springs, Photography: Chris McConville BELOW: The Rapids won the 2023 National Commercial Water Display Award for PML. Photography: Lee Sanders, leesanders.com.au

“We had to think creatively,” says Jackson. “Even making custom in-house designed and manufactured return outlets needed to enable the complex hydraulics on the whirlpool.”

Aquarius Pools director and construction manager, Jonathan Edrupt, solved the problem by 3D-printed the required fittings for the whirlpool.

“Jonathan has a 3D printer and he is very clever with product design and development,” says Jackson. “He knew what he needed to do.

“It was impossible to get a proprietary fitting to go around a round pool, where you’re trying to direct water at an angle.

There was nothing available on the market, so Jonathan had to think outside the square and then manufacture it.”

Aquarius also did all the jets and the hydraulics on the whirlpool, which features Spa Electrics jets and a 4hp pump, as well as Filix LEDs.

Healthy mineral-laden water

Alba Thermal Springs wanted to create a unique luxurious and sustainable bathing experience. Their aim was to set a new standard in wellness tourism in Australia while having a positive impact on the community.

For centuries, people across the globe from all cultures have sought the relaxation and restorative benefits of soaking in naturally heated water.

The springs feature geothermal water that contains naturally occurring minerals including sulphur, calcium, magnesium and potassium and is classified as a “sodium chloride bicarbonate spring”.

The therapeutic benefits of these waters are said to include the alleviation of neuralgia, bruising, articular rheumatism, stiffness of the shoulders, and recovery December 2023/January 2024 SPLASH! 29

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2023 Commercial Project of the Year recipients Aquarius Pools was founded in 1979 by the Jackson family. Directors Chris Jackson and Jonathan Edrupt focus on premium builds, constructing a limited number of bespoke architectural concrete swimming pools each year.

Founded by Paul McQuillan in 2010, PML undertakes a diverse portfolio of projects annually, encompassing both individual residential properties and large-scale commercial sites, specialising in both soft and hard landscaping works.

from fatigue and muscular complaints.

The water is naturally heated to between 37 degrees and 43 degrees in underground aquifers 550 metres below the surface and used to fill all but five of the pools each day.

The water reaches the surface at 43.6 C and is pumped to Alba’s pools control room. Here, the water passes through a sanitation system before being diverted to individual pools. The wastewater from the pools is collected in underground storage tanks and pumped to the treatment facility, where it is cleaned and tested again before being re-injected underground, ensuring the long-term sustainability of the geo-thermal aquifer.

They cool the water for the cold plunge pools, and then reheat it before returning it underground, maintaining the heat integrity of the aquifer.

Both Aquarius Pools’ and PML’s experience with geothermal water significantly aided their work on this project.

“Given our experience on prior projects involving thermal water pools, we were acutely aware of the unique challenges associated with geothermal water,” says McQuillan.

“The harsh nature of this water required a meticulous approach in selecting and utilising materials to ensure both sustainability and longevity for the construction, and our team applied their expertise to navigate these complexities.”

Jackson says Aquarius’s experience on previous thermal spa projects also helped them work with the mineralladen water.

“What we learned on previous projects is that those minerals have their 30

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difficulties and do create some unique challenges, and we have experience at designing serviceable plumbing that is easy to clean – ensuring the visitors have the experience they expect.”

Working together on a landmark project

McQuillan says that one of the key triumphs of the Alba Thermal Springs project lies in the meticulous control exercised by the architects and the project team.

“Weekly meetings were conducted to scrutinise and align with the design intent. To ensure precision, we adopted a systematic approach, providing detailed shop drawings for every material and item destined for the project, including pavers, pool tiles, robe stations, handrails and drains.

“Throughout the construction of Alba, our collaboration with architects Hayball/Mala and Aquarius was characterised by regular and structured communication. This ongoing dialogue allowed for real-time adjustments and a seamless integration of their design intent into the construction process.

“From the initial quoting stages, it was evident to us that this project would be a milestone, a truly unique endeavour that could never be replicated,” says McQuillan.

“Recognising its significance, we approached the project with a deep sense of respect and a commitment to intricate detailing throughout the entire build.

As a collective team, we take immense pride in the seamless culmination of this project and firmly believe that its impact will endure over time.”

McQuillan adds that receiving the award stands as a testament to the

ABOVE LEFT: The Rapids conclude with a waterfall, creating a visual treat for diners at the adjacent high end restaurant. Photography: Lee Sanders ABOVE: PML had up to 80 staff on site at certain points. Photography: Lee Sanders TOP: 25 of the 30 pools are fed by the thermal aquifer. Image: Alba Thermal Springs, Photography: Chris McConville

unwavering dedication and collective efforts of the entire team.

Jackson says this is a very significant project for the region, the state and the industry.

“It’s the biggest investment I can think of on the Mornington Peninsula, certainly on a single site. Even as an investment on lifestyle projects in Victoria, it probably doesn’t get much bigger.

“What is really unique about Alba Thermal Spring is that they didn’t want it to be a replica of any other thermal spa, especially Peninsula Hot Springs across the road,” says Jackson.

“They were quite keen to present a different vision and a different feel – and there’s no doubt that the modern, clean lines of the project provide that.

I recently bathed at both facilities with my wife as an exercise – as we’re looking at another project – and both sites have a very different feel. The lines are very cutting edge and unique. I think it speaks for itself in terms of the quality that has been achieved.

“Alba Thermal Springs was very special for all involved and we are so privileged to have been a part of this amazing project.” n

Contacts:

www.albathermalsprings.com.au www.aquariuspools.com.au www.mcquillanlandscapes.com.au

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Selling the

green revolution It is one thing to do right for your end-users and the environment by producing and selling energy efficient and environment-friendly products.

But how do you highlight those advances to the benefit of the brand and, ultimately, the consumer?

By Veda Dante

C

onsumer attitudes have undergone a tangible transformation in recent years, as a growing number of individuals actively prioritise sustainable and socially responsible products and services. Many more are becoming aware of the impact their choices can have on the environment, on society as a whole, and in the workplace.

Many companies, recognising the changing consumer landscape, are adapting their strategies to align with these evolving values. Businesses are now integrating sustainability into their core operations, adopting eco-friendly practices, and offering products and services that meet higher ethical standards. This can include efforts to reduce carbon footprints, package products with recycled materials, ethically source ingredients,

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and abide by fair labour practices, amongst other actions.

The rise of social media and increased connectivity has also contributed to the dissemination of information about a company’s practices, making it easier for consumers to scrutinise and choose products that align with their values. As a result, businesses are not only motivated by ethical considerations but also by the potential for increased brand loyalty and positive public perception.

Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) considerations have become integral to business operations and are increasingly influencing consumer choices.

It’s not just about marketing or slapping a “Green” sticker on your product; it involves a fundamental shift in how businesses operate,

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LEFT: Consumers love relaxing in an environment-friendly pool RIGHT: Lazing in a pool whose heat energy has been retained by a Daisy pool cover BELOW: Australia’s first Climate Care Certified pool was announced in 2020, built by Brisbane Prestige Plunge Pools

especially in an industry that once used significant volumes of water and energy, and is making committed efforts to reduce both water and energy usage.

Looking to the future

In 2018, to help future-proof the industry and strive for best-practice solutions, the Swimming Pool and Spa Association of Australia (SPASA) launched an accreditation program called Climate Care Certification (CCC).

“The goal,” explains SPASA chief policy officer Spiros Dassakis, “is to give power back to the consumer who is concerned about using less water and saving money.”

With greater power demands and frequent drought-related water restrictions, SPASA seeks to influence the discussion about sustainable water use and energy efficiency.

“Looming expensive and regulated energy supply along with water restrictions can make swimming pool and spa installations, products and solutions less desirable,” says Dassakis.

“Without change, many industries will have to overcome significant commercial, consumer and regulatory barriers.”

The risks have driven SPASA to think creatively and collectively to meet future industry needs.

“Overcoming existing and future sustainability barriers requires a new approach, with all of us having an important role to play in futureproofing our industry,” he says.

The CCC program runs across Australia and New Zealand and has approximately 55 products and systems registered as well as 15 CCCaccredited pool builders certified for installations.

“Participants of Climate Care Certified must provide independent third-party testing and/ or verification documentation to verify claims being made as part of their application,” Dassakis explains.

While every application is different, a typical application will provide the following: • A description of the product, system or installation.

• Types of savings they are claiming (water, energy, noise, etc.).

• Confirmation of compliance (Standards, legislation, etc.).

• How the product, system or installation is sustainable.

“While there have been instances where CCC has not been awarded, certification is achievable if you can sufficiently demonstrate claims being made in the marketplace,” he says. “CCC will provide proactive guidance to applicants as to what is required and how they may satisfy requirements.”

Now more than ever, consumers are seeking assurance that the products, systems and installations they invest in are sustainable and responsibly made. As such, a more sustainable brand is often considered a more desirable brand.

To avoid misleading or deceptive greenwashing December 2023/January 2024 SPLASH! 33

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ABOVE: Bondi Icebergs pool painted with white Luxapool premium swimming pool paint

“Overcoming existing and future sustainability barriers requires a new approach, with all of us having an important role to play in future-proofing our industry.”

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practices, Dassakis says consumers should consider asking the following questions: • A re the claims clear and easy to understand?

• C an the sustainability claims be backed up?

• H ow does the product, system or installation reduce cost and waste, and improve outcomes?

• H ow does the product, system or installation meet regulations, standards or other certification testing?

“When making comparisons, it’s important to assess products that can be reasonably compared,” adds Dassakis.

Swimming pools with a conscience

Australia’s first Climate Care Certified pool was announced in 2020. It featured Waterco’s energy saving Hydrostorm 100 Eco-V variable speed pump and water-saving MultiCyclone technology. It was praised as a significant step for the industry and a compelling option for consumers who value water and energy as precious commodities.

“This Climate Care Certified pool was an industry first and reflects the philosophy of SPASA Australia to provide sustainable solutions so consumers can love their swimming pool and the environment at the same time,” says SPASA CEO Lindsay McGrath.

Since then, Waterco has included a suite of products sporting the CCC logo, ranging from the latest energy efficient pool pumps and water saving centrifugal, cartridge and media filters, to technologically advanced chlorinators. While highly efficient individually, these products enable pool owners to reach the highest levels of environmental sustainability when combined and operated in the correct way.

COO Bryan Goh says that families are becoming increasingly environmentally conscious, which is why Waterco is continually focused on designing and manufacturing water and energy saving products.

December 2023/January 2024

“Our overall goal is to help our customers reduce their environmental impact and save money on their utility bills,” he says.

Goh says third-party certification like SPASA’s Climate Care Certified initiative authenticates a product’s green credentials while providing confidence for eco-conscious consumers.

“Meeting the stringent requirements of this program shows that you can experience the lifestyle benefits pool and spa ownership brings and do so without compromising the environment,” he says.

Released on to the Australian market in 2007, Waterco’s multi-award-winning MultiCyclone Dual Filtration System, which also has the CCC stamp of approval, has revolutionised the pool and spa industry as a water-saving concept.

“Engineered to reduce water consumption and maintenance, this innovative technology uses advanced centrifugal water filtration, meaning there are no moving parts and no filter media to clean or replace.

“The installation of a MultiCyclone as a prefilter to a cartridge filter can reduce cartridge maintenance to approximately once per swimming season, resulting in significant savings of water,” says Goh.

Core standards

EvoHeat general manager, Tim Martin, says environmental standards are at the core of their business model, representing a commitment to sustainability and responsible business practices.

“As a company that prides itself on innovation and progress, we recognise that environmental responsibility is a critical element of our overall diligence, reflecting our values and resonating with our customers,” he says.

“We believe that taking a proactive stance on environmental standards is not only the right thing to do for the planet but also a strategic advantage in today’s marketplace.”

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com cific. ttepa .lamo www

When the company was founded more than 15 years ago, its heat pump technology was driven by the global shift away from unsustainable products with pollutants and high CO2 emissions.

Martin says they have met this challenge with sustainable heat pump technology that is extremely energy efficient, producing low carbon emissions and using durable and recycled materials, while limiting harmful pollutants and chemicals in its products.

“Our research and development teams work tirelessly to ensure that our heating and cooling systems guarantee the safety and health of both users and the environment,” he says.

“We remain dedicated to reducing harmful emissions and our carbon dioxide footprint via innovative heat pump product design, all the way through to our delivery processes.”

Also, EvoHeat actively integrates renewable energy sources into their operations. They hold carbon-neutral certification and the company’s new head office and warehouse in Bundamba are equipped with state-of-the-art technology.

“This includes EvoHeat’s energy efficient hot water and space heating systems, alongside 40kW of PV panels that significantly reduce the energy consumption of the site while also providing energy for EV charging stations,” says Martin.

Waste reduction is another cornerstone of EvoHeat’s environmental strategy. They understand the importance of responsible waste management and take deliberate steps to minimise waste in the warehouse and head office processes.

“Through the use of sustainable materials and efficient operational methods, we aim to lead by example, demonstrating how businesses can minimise their ecological impact,” he says.

“By utilising clean and sustainable energy in our operations, we not only reduce our carbon footprint but

ABOVE: The first Climate Care Certified pool featured Waterco’s Hydrostorm 100 Eco-V variable speed pump and MultiCyclone pre-filter December 2023/January 2024 SPLASH! 35

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also inspire our customers to do the same. This commitment is reflected in the design and operation of our products, demonstrating the practicality and benefits of renewable and energy efficient solutions; and our implementation of internationally certified ISO9001 Quality Management Systems.”

Eradicating harmful substances

Another example of how companies can eliminate harmful chemicals and materials from their processes comes from Luxapool paint manufacturer, Colormaker, who eradicates plastic microbeads from its paints and coatings to ensure they don’t make their way into rivers and oceans.

Colormaker Industries Australia managing director David Stuart says these microbeads function like miniature sponges, absorbing pesticides and chemical runoff.

“Clouds of discarded microbeads make up a toxic debris that settle on river and ocean floors,” says Stuart.

“Marine organisms ingest these toxins and then, when they’re eaten by fish or other predators, the fish gobble up microbead poisons along with the organisms. If people eat those poisoned fish, they are at serious risk of falling ill from the toxic residue.”

Additionally, Colormaker’s low-VOC paints contain lower volatile organic content (typically solvents) than traditional paints.

“VOCs are released into the atmosphere as the paint dries and can contribute to poor indoor air quality and health problems,” he explains.

“Low-VOC paints have VOC levels of 50 grams per litre or less, while conventional paints can have VOC levels of 100 grams per litre or more.”

In addition to improving indoor air quality and reducing exposure to harmful chemicals, low-VOC paints also reduce the carbon footprint.

“A paint is considered more environmentally

friendly if it is made using renewable energy rather than energy from fossil fuels,” says Stuart.

“There’s also the longevity of the coatings. The technology of eco-friendly coatings is continually improving for durability and longevity, so now there is little difference between traditional paints and eco-friendly paints.”

Another advantage of using eco-friendly waterbased paints over solvent based paints is that they are much easier to clean up with just water.

While some of the raw materials used to produce eco-friendly paints and coatings are more expensive – requiring an increase in price to cover this expense – growing consumer demand is seeing economies of scale start to favour some of the more mainstream water-based technologies.

“We use 100 per cent renewable energy, mainly from our 100kW solar array, which is far more cost effective than using coal-fired power. Over the past four years, we’ve gone from a carbon footprint of plus 77 tonnes to minus 92 tonnes of greenhouse gases,” he says.

A 2023 Regional Winner at the Business NSW Awards for Excellence in Sustainability, Colormaker believes honesty is the best policy when educating customers about a product’s environmental claims.

“Sharing the innovations we’ve developed and the various sustainability awards we’ve won with local publications and relevant trade press helps get our message across to end-users,” says Stuart.

“We also keep our trade customers up to date with our latest product innovations and our sustainability initiatives via Mailchimp e-newsletters.”

Reducing global warming potential

To meet increasing consumer demand for high-quality, innovative and energy-efficient swimming pool solutions, Sunlover Heating directed its R&D team to pave the way for a more sustainable future.

Managing director Steve Rickard says they were thrilled to unveil their ground-breaking PV- ready

ABOVE: Colormaker proudly sports the Plastic Bead Free logo LEFT: MD David Stuart with Colormaker’s ReVolve battery BELOW: Colormaker won three sustainability awards in 2023, including the Northern Beaches Business Sustainability Award

“We believe that taking a proactive stance on environmental standards is not only the right thing to do for the planet but also a strategic advantage in today’s marketplace.”

December 2023/January 2024 SPLASH! 37

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Oasis iX Rapid Heat this September. He says it was launched on the back of surging demand for heat pumps across the country, coupled with the ongoing trend of solar PV adoption – where consumers aim to maximise self-consumption of PV power.

“This heat pump serves as an outstanding environment-friendly alternative,” he says.

“It not only surpasses conventional gas heating methods with their significant environmental footprint, but also outshines the current pool heat pump market. Its unique ability to operate directly from PV panels sets it apart, tapping into free solar energy for pool heating.”

Rickard says that Sunlover’s dedication to sustainability and eco-friendly heating solutions is evident in the responsible manufacturing of its heat pumps.

He also says their adoption of the lower GWP R32 refrigerant has reduced their global warming potential footprint.

Fairness in the workplace

For Daisy Pool Covers, “going green” is built into its business model, given it manufactures a product that makes it easy for pool owners to reduce water usage and heating costs.

“We also make our products from at least 30

per cent recycled content and actively recycle all post-industrial waste back into solar pool covers,” says Daisy Pool Covers managing director Derek Prince.

“All of our solar pool covers are potable compliance so there is no harmful pollutants or chemicals that leach out.”

Daisy is registered by the Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO), which actively records and reduces packing waste in all aspects of the business – incoming and outgoing.

“As part of our importing process, we check to ensure supply chains abide by anti-slavery and anti-deforestation international requirements,” he says.

ABOVE: EvoHeat’s new head office and warehouse in Bundamba are equipped with energy efficient hot water and space heating systems, alongside 40kW of PV panels that reduce energy consumption while providing energy for EV charging stations

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 2023/January October/November 2023 2024

VIC Branch: 13 Lieber Grove, Carrum Downs VIC 3201

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Daisy is also an equal opportunity employer that actively and openly discusses appropriateness and fairness in the workplace.

“Our workplace behaviour policy states we are an equal employment opportunity employer that is committed to providing a workplace free from all forms of unacceptable and unlawful behaviours such as discrimination, harassment and bullying,” he says.

“We take all practicable steps to ensure these behaviours are eliminated from the workplace.”

However, even with the best of intentions to create a robust ESG framework, challenging incidences can and do occur.

“Approximately three years ago, we had a sexual harassment case in the workplace. We took the opportunity to engage the SPASAaffiliated human resource consultants AB Phillips to look at all our policies and completely overhaul and implement new ones.

“This included everything from employee contracts and workplace behaviour to health and safety, and employee onboarding.

“It was a great opportunity to take a fresh look at all our policies and procedures to make sure we were up to date with current regulations and social expectations.”

www.shop.abg

VS cost and eco benefits

Switching from single speed to variable speed (VS) pool pumps is one way pool owners can reduce energy consumption and reliance on fossil fuels, because VS pumps allow users to adjust the speed to meet specific flow requirements.

Traditional pumps operate at a constant high speed, consuming a significant amount of

ABOVE LEFT: AstralPool’s P320 variable speed pool pump ABOVE RIGHT: Hayward’s Energyline Pro inverter heat pump

al.com.au/aqua lu

xrenovation

richards@abga

l.com.au December 2023/January 2024 SPLASH! 39

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LEFT: One of Colormaker’s stable of electric vehicles being charged at their plant BELOW: Colormaker uses 100 per cent renewable energy, mainly from their 100kW solar array

energy even when a lower flow rate is sufficient.

Variable speed pumps, on the other hand, can be programmed to operate at different speeds, optimising energy usage based on the pool’s needs at any given time.

As Rohit Chitre, Fluidra senior equipment category manager explains, VS pumps bring a host of financial and environmental benefits.

“One of the primary advantages of variable speed pool pumps is their remarkable energy efficiency. By running the pump at a lower speed during periods of lower demand, such as filtration or circulation, substantial energy savings can be achieved,” he says.

“In fact, variable speed pumps can use up to 70 per cent less energy compared to single-speed models. This not only reduces electricity bills but also lessens the overall environmental impact associated with energy consumption.”

He says that while the initial cost of a variable speed pool pump may be higher than that of a traditional pump, the long-term savings quickly justify the investment.

“The energy savings realised month after month translate into significant reductions in operational costs. Homeowners can recoup the initial cost of the pump within a relatively short period, making variable speed pumps a financially savvy choice in the realm of pool maintenance,” he says.

Running a pump at a lower speed not only saves energy but also contributes to the longevity of pool equipment.

“The reduced stress on the pump motor and other components means less wear and tear, leading to fewer maintenance issues and longer life expectancy,” he says. “This translates into additional cost savings and less frequent replacements, further emphasising the economic and environmental benefits of variable speed pool pumps.”

In an era where environmental consciousness is paramount, the reduced energy consumption

of variable speed pool pumps aligns with sustainable practices.

“By minimising energy usage, these pumps contribute to lower greenhouse gas emissions and help conserve natural resources. Homeowners who prioritise eco-friendly choices can take pride in knowing that their pool operation is more environmentally responsible.”

Upholding ethical practices and fostering inclusivity

Hayward Australia’s managing director Rob Emmett says the company takes immense pride in its unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability and social responsibility.

“We firmly believe that a healthy environment forms the bedrock for the wellbeing of our people and the success of our business,” he says.

“Moreover, it serves as the cornerstone for building a sustainable and robust economy. Our dedication to our ESG values is at the heart of everything we do.”

As a global leader in the pool industry, Hayward recognises the vital role it plays in reducing its environmental impact.

“The world is witnessing an increasing concern for energy efficiency and sustainability.”

Six types of ESG classifications Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) – the framework that helps businesses make decisions, boost share prices and bolster corporate reputations – can be divided into the following six classifications: 1. A nimal welfare: cage free, cruelty free, not tested on animals.

2. E nvironmental sustainability: compostable, eco-friendly.

3. O rganic positioning: an indication of organic certification.

4. Plant-based: plant based, vegan.

5. Social responsibility: fair wage, ethical.

6. S ustainable packaging: plastic free, biodegradable.

December 2023/January 2024 SPLASH! 41

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RIGHT: ProMinent Fluids Controls has installed a 74.5kW Solahart PV system at their pool dosing equipment factory in Belrose, NSW, saving $27,000 and nine tonnes of carbon emissions per year

“By utilising clean and sustainable energy in our operations, we not only reduce our carbon footprint but also inspire our customers to do the same.”

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“The world is witnessing an increasing concern for energy efficiency and sustainability,” says Emmett.

“Australia, in particular, faces the harsh realities of climate change through extreme weather events, which serve as a stark reminder of the importance of our commitment to environmental responsibility.”

Emmett says Hayward is dedicated to developing innovative products that not only enhance the pool experience but also contribute to energy conservation.

“Our team in Australia works diligently to bring eco-friendly pool products to the market while actively reducing the carbon footprint associated with pool ownership,” he says.

“Our goal is to lead the industry in creating sustainable solutions for the future.”

Beyond its environmental initiatives, Hayward Pool Products is equally committed to social responsibility. Human resources business partner at Hayward Australia, Dielle Gujral, firmly believes that ethical supply chains and fair work practices are essential to maintaining the wellbeing of suppliers and workers.

“Consequently, we are dedicated to ensuring responsible sourcing and production practices across our operations. Safety is a paramount concern for us, and we consistently uphold high workplace standards while complying with all relevant work regulations,” Gujral says.

“Our employees are the lifeblood of our business, and it is our responsibility to ensure their well-being.”

In recent years, Hayward has made significant investments globally in people and culture, recognising that its people are at the heart of the company’s success.

“In Australia, this investment has been instrumental in creating an inclusive workforce where diversity is celebrated and encouraged,” she says.

“We believe that by developing the people and culture aspect of our business, we can achieve our wider business objectives and contribute to a more inclusive and diverse society. Our commitment to environmental and social

December 2023/January 2024

responsibility is not just a part of our core values but also a promise to our customers, employees and the communities we serve.”

Sustainability is on every consumer’s mind, regardless of age, income and geographic location.

Retail and consumer goods businesses are being advised to take a strategic approach to becoming more sustainable to benefit from this consumer trend. As we are entering a time of higher inflationary pressures in the post-covid era, consumers are likely to face trade-offs between sustainable choices and low prices.

Retail and consumer goods businesses that can offer both will have a strategic advantage throughout this period and beyond. n

Contacts: www.abphillips.com.au

www.astralpool.com.au www.colormaker.com.au www.daisypoolcovers.com.au www.evoheat.com.au www.fluidra.com www.luxapool.com.au www.spasa.com.au www.sunloverheating.com.au www.waterco.com.au

Is natural the way of the future?

Governments and international bodies have played an ongoing role in regulating refrigerants for the protection of the environment. On page 56 we look at the history and possible future of these regulations.

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LEFT: Craig O’Neill working on a unit BELOW: The hot and cold pools at Allianz Stadium features three Tere’o installations and three Synergy AOPs

Cloud control

As part of our ongoing series on Australian manufacturing, SPLASH! visits Waterlink Equipment Pty Ltd, supplier of equipment for both the residential and commercial swimming pool and spa market.

C “All of the equipment we make is cloudbased and monitored remotely.”

raig O’Neill is managing director of Waterlink Equipment Pty Ltd (Waterlink), the Melbourne-based manufacturer of automated pool and spa sanitation products.

These include chlorine generators, probebased chemical controllers, sanitation systems that combine AOP and UV, and standalone UV sanitisation systems as part of their residential and commercial swimming pool and spa range.

O’Neill is also the exclusive distributor for Syclope’s range of chemical controllers from France. These include the Hydro Touch, an ORP pH controller for residential pools and spas up to 160,000 litres; the Tere’o, a temp, pH and free chlorine controller for residential and commercial pools and spas; and the ODI Touch, a temp, pH and free chlorine and optional total chlorine controller.

“All of the equipment we make is cloud-based and monitored remotely,” says O’Neill.

“We’ve built our own platform that allows pool operators to be fully in control of their facility through our remote monitoring platform.”

One of the products made at their Carrum Downs facility is the Envirogen salt chlorinator.

“It includes all our own circuit boards that are assembled in our cleanroom. We get a company in Rowville to manufacture the circuit boards, and we assemble them all in-house” he says.

“We build the Synergy here as well, and that is either UV-only, or ozone and UV. We build them as low pressure and medium pressure units, and they’ll do pretty much any size pool – they’ll treat Olympic pools, and we’ve got them running on pools that have 4500 kids per week going through them.”

As its name implies, the Synergy creates a synergy from using both ozone and UV together, utilising the consequent advanced oxidation process (AOP) to reduce chloramines and other by-products in the water.

O’Neill says the Envirogen pairs really well with the advanced Synergy.

“The Envirogen does the chlorine generation and looks after the water quality, and the AOP is the secondary disinfection taking care of the swimmer wastes and chloramines. Those two go hand in hand.”

Waterlink also manufactures a range of mechanical sub-boards and has the capability of manufacturing them to a customer’s specific requirements. These control the equipment of a commercial pool, automating the backwash and controlling the disinfection systems.

Waterlink has supplied a lot of these mechanical sub-boards for schools and private learn-to-swim schools where they don’t want to touch anything.

“They just want the filters to backwash automatically; they want the pumps to run automatically, and they want a sort of hands-off plant room.”

O’Neill says these operators want the computer to run the whole plant by automating the day-today processes.

“Then we’ll just go in once a month and make sure that everything is running properly and calibrate the system.”

December 2023/January 2024 SPLASH! 47

feature

Commercial plant

In addition to manufacturing and servicing, O’Neill runs a construction business through Commercial Pool Systems (Construction).

When asked what type of plant construction they do, he answers, “What don’t we do?”

“We do a lot of 25 metre pools,” he says. “We do the plant for learn-to-swim.”

They also just finished the plant for the pools for St Kilda’s new luxury residential development, the St Moritz, including the phenomenal rooftop pool.

“In the basement there’s a 25-metre pool, there’s two communal hot pools and in the gymnasium there’s a hot plunge and a cold plunge. And there’s a VIP spa in a champagne room.

“They’ve all got the most amazing secondary disinfection systems. Our supply-only price for the mechanical boards and the dosing was nearly $700,000. It’s just at a whole other level.

It’s phenomenal and everything is back-to-base.

“After we’ve done the plant construction, we hand over to the maintenance department. And it’s all remotely handled, using equipment we’ve built here.”

The combined businesses are very vertically aligned.

“Ultimately that’s the sort of workflow: Waterlink builds the equipment, sells it to Construction. Construction builds the project for the client and then hands over to Service, and then Service gets the maintenance contract.

“It doesn’t always work that way, but that’s kind of the flow.”

He says their focus in the next couple of years is a real push to get Waterlink known in other states, and get some brand exposure and acceptance.

As a local manufacturer, Waterlink has to overcome the tendency to specify foreign manufactured products.

“It’s all built here in Australia. And I mean there are some really good Australian manufacturers as well, you know Aquarius and Brauer. But traditionally a lot of this kind of equipment specified at that upper level is Prominent or German or Siemens.”

He says they also try to get all their components made in Australia, but sometimes it’s just not possible, largely due to economies of scale.

“Sometimes we have to get our titanium products made overseas because I just can’t find anyone that will make them

Waterlink Hydro Touch The Waterlink Hydro Touch is a high-performance residential dosing unit that simplifies backyard and entry level commercial pool and spa water treatment.

It comes in a variety of models, including models designed to read pH, ORP with an optional Free Chlorine probe, and can either be used Waterlink Hydro Touch pH and ORP controller is suited to with an existing chlorinator residential and commercial pools or used to dose both liquid and spas up to 160,00 litres chlorine and acid.

The optional Free Chlorine version is the first residential probed Free Chlorine controller available in the market.

The Hydro Touch comes with an intuitive touch screen and onboard peristaltic dosing pumps, which keep both capital costs and maintenance to a minimum.

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December 2023/January 2024

National sales manager Jacob Mansfield at the Country Pool Managers Conference

here at a reasonable cost. You know, we need to buy things in lots of 100 not 1000. So it can be difficult.”

For the love of manufacturing

O’Neill started in the swimming pool industry through his father’s business.

“I’ve been in the pool industry for a while. My first paid day in a pool shop was when I was seven. I think I got five dollars a day to do water tests. So I’ve always been around the industry. And I worked for the pool shop at the end of the street when I was 13, fixing pumps and that sort of thing.”

He started a domestic service company at 18, which he built up before selling for a profit. Then he did a stint with Poolrite, before deciding it was time to build some equipment himself.

“I worked for Poolrite in 2004 under Chris Papa, here in Victoria,” says O’Neill. “Then about 2006 I moved more into the R&D side, and started commuting to Brisbane for work. From 2010 we moved up there.”

At this time Poolrite’s then-owner Ross Palmer had bought commercial water treatment manufacturer Aquarius Technologies, and O’Neill worked on that side of the business as well.

When he moved back to Melbourne, O’Neill had an idea to create a company that could make products that were all cloudbased, with everything working together.

“We did a bit with the Blue-I from Maytronics. Then we just grew from there.”

O’Neill says the service and construction arms of the company were a necessity to get the product to market.

“We started to manufacture our own range of equipment aimed at the commercial swimming pool and spa market,” he says.

“Then we began the process of approaching industry members to let them know we manufacture our own range of equipment in our Melbourne-based warehouse, only to be told ‘That’s great, but we’re going with this other one.’ And so CPS Servicing and CPS Construct were born.

“So it probably took six or seven years to get to get the product out into the Australian market, installed onto key sites across the country, and then to refine it. That was all a lot easier to do when we had the service contract as well. Because then we could see directly how to refine the products.”

O’Neill says that the focus moving forward is the manufacturing of quality products for the Australian pool and spa market both residential and commercial.

“The long term goal is to just build and sell equipment,” he says. n Contact: www.waterlink.com

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feature

The business case for consumer expos SPASA’s Pool & Spa brand manager, Daena Bougoure-Latchford, details how pool industry members can take advantage of the opportunities presented by consumer shows.

SPASA Australia’s Melbourne Pool & Spa Lifestyle Expo was held over the weekend of February 4-6 at the Melbourne Showgrounds, with thousands of eager buyers attending over the three days.

By Daena Bougoure-Latchford

I

n the dynamic landscape of the pool and spa industry, strategic business decisions can drive significant growth.

The Pool & Spa Lifestyle Expo presents a unique avenue for businesses to connect with highly engaged audiences, elevate brand visibility, capitalise on emerging trends and forge lucrative connections.

The 2024 season kicks off in February with 10 expos now operating under the consolidated consumer brand Pool & Spa Lifestyle Expo including The Home Show partnership which is now in its third year, giving exhibitors the opportunity to exhibit in the second half of the year in Perth, Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney.

The 2024 portfolio of expos will be the first year that we’re promoting a consolidated, consistent and unified message to consumers under the Pool & Spa brand.

The benefit to industry is immeasurable with one voice talking directly to consumers and directing them to a platform that’s been created to educate and inspire. Investing in a pool or spa is a big decision and the consumer is hungry for information to help navigate through the process which can be overwhelming.

Previously, expos had worked in isolation with no central information hub to continue communicating with the consumer beyond the show. There hadn’t been a dedicated platform for consumers to visit until poolspalife.com.au was launched in February 2022.

Over the past 18 months, we’ve connected our consumer touchpoints as a fully integrated multi-channel platform which has seen more than 350,000 unique users utilising the Pool & Spa website as a resource and as a marketing platform that reaches millions of consumers. We can now efficiently and effectively communicate the value of pools and spas through a trusted information source that’s rich in content and focused on sales outcomes for industry.

Pool & Spa Lifestyle Expo

The Pool & Spa Lifestyle Expo is not just an event; it’s a gateway to a thriving business landscape and opportunity for industry leading businesses to engage with homeowners who are actively seeking the latest trends and innovations in pool and spa solutions.

An exciting addition for exhibitors is that they can now leverage the Pool & Spa audience through tailored marketing campaigns that are targeting highly engaged audiences. These campaigns place brands on high traffic websites to qualified consumers who are actively looking to invest in pools, spas and outdoor living products, ensuring your brand presence is optimised in the right places and to the right audience.

Here are a few reasons why the Pool & Spa Lifestyle Expo is good for business: 50

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• New audiences – 83 per cent of expo visitors have not previously attended.

• Buyer intent – 54 per cent of visitors have already decided to purchase before attending.

• Highly qualified – 91 per cent of visitors will have purchased at the show or intend to purchase within the next 12 months.

Why should your business be part of this exciting opportunity?

1. National market penetration: Showcase your products and services to a diverse, national audience, solidifying your brand as a prominent force in the pool and spa sector.

2. Precision targeting: connect with a highly qualified demographic actively seeking pools, spas and outdoor living products and services. By participating in the Pool & Spa Lifestyle Expos, your brand gains significant brand exposure to a focused audience keenly interested in investing in toptier pool and spa offerings.

3. Strategic networking: forge critical connections with industry leaders. Expos serve as an invaluable platform to establish strategic alliances, exchange industry insights and stay abreast of market dynamics.

4. Innovative showcasing: showcase your commitment to innovation by unveiling new products and cutting-edge technologies. Expos are an optimal setting to captivate an audience and position your brand as a trailblazer.

5. Educational thought leadership: leverage the opportunity to share your industry expertise through a targeted seminar.

This positions your brand as a thought leader, engaging with an informed audience eager to absorb insights on the latest industry advancements.

6. Marketing and sponsorship opportunities: capitalise on tailored marketing campaigns that will drive your reach even further to the right audience, promoting and positioning your brand as an industry leader.

Spaces are limited, so act now. n Contact: poolspalife.com.au; daena@poolspalife.com.au; 0452 366 856

Key expo dates Pool & Spa Lifestyle Expo

Melbourne: 2-4 February Perth: 17-18 February Sydney: 2-3 March

Adelaide: 23-24 March New Zealand: 11-12 May Brisbane: 18-19 May

Pool & Spa Lifestyle Expo at The Home Show Perth: 21-23 June Melbourne: 23-25 August

Brisbane: 27-29 September Sydney: 18-20 October

commercial news

Industry moves

Commercial & Aquatics Brimbank wins sustainability award ����� 54 In brief ������������������������������� 55 Are natural refrigerants the way of the future? ��� 56 Crisis management at commercial swimming pools ������������� 58 Using technology to manage staff across multiple public pool site ��������������������������� 66

Reece Rackley appointed ASSA president The Australian Swim Schools Association (ASSA) has appointed Reece Rackley as its new president. Rackley has served as vice president on the ASSA Board since its inception in 2016.

Rackley has a strong background as a swimming and triathlon coach, and as CEO of City Venue Management, which he took from a single swim school in Burleigh to a multibrand organisation responsible for several aquatic-based leisure facilities. He also has a family legacy spanning three generations in the aquatic industry.

ASSA extended its gratitude to outgoing president Wayne Pollock for his dedicated leadership over the past six years. Pollock will now serve as vice president.

Reece Rackley

Developments

Sydney to get new harbour pool The Sydney Harbour Trust is planning to transform the harbour’s largest island, known as Wareamah or Cockatoo Island, into an arts and tourist destination.

The island has a long indigenous, colonial and industrial history, including as a jail and as a shipbuilding and repair yard. It has long been part of Sydney’s working harbour.

As part of this transformation it plans to turn the Fitzroy Dry Dock on the island into a permanent harbour swimming pool. The Fitzroy Dry Dock is Australia’s only surviving dry dock built by convicts, built to service ships in the Royal Navy. When it was completed in 1857, it was the largest dry dock in the southern hemisphere and one of the largest in the world.

“Our aim is that by improving public access, and the range of experiences you can have, we can attract more people to this UNESCO World Heritage site,” says the Harbour Trust’s executive director, Janet Carding.

According to the Harbour Trust, which manages the island, current visitor numbers are relatively low compared to other tourism and heritage sites across Australia. Accommodation proposed in the draft plan would cater to a wider range of budgets, including those of families with children, and the campground would move to the western side of the island and the existing site would be turned into a park.

Artificial reefs would be created to boost the harbour’s biodiversity and rehabilitate the waters around the island.

LEFT: An artist’s impression of how the converted dry dock will look

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commercial news

The dynamic city of Dubai

Conferences

International Swim Schools Spectacular heads to Dubai this January The International Swim Schools Association (ISSA) is hosting the International Swim Schools Spectacular from January 15 to 19, 2024.

ISSA is encouraging everyone in the space to “Dive into Knowledge and Adventure”.

They promise this event, their third edition of the spectacular, will be a unique blend of world-class swim education, networking opportunities, and unforgettable experiences in the dynamic city of Dubai.

ISSA was founded in 2017 with the goal of connecting swim schools around the world and being the global voice for the swim school industry. Since then, it has been fostering the growth and excellence of swim education on a global scale.

The event will offer the opportunity to: • Learn from world class speakers: gain insights and knowledge from industry leaders and experts in the field of swim education.

• Network with industry leaders: connect with swim school owners and operators from across the globe, sharing experiences, best practices and innovative ideas.

• Explore vendor exhibits: discover the latest products, services and offerings in the swim school industry.

• Experience all Dubai has to offer: immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and beauty of Dubai, from the iconic Burj Khalifa to thrilling desert safaris.

The ISSS kicks off with the educators seminar on January 15 and is followed by a three-day business conference and exhibition from January 16-18.

The business conference will focus on the key pillars of success: People, Product and Process, presented by world-class speakers whose invaluable insights will educate, inspire and motivate you to propel your swim school on to better things.

The event concludes on January 19 with an optional day of adventure including an exciting Arabian desert safari experience.

ISSA has tailored conference packages, so you can select one that suits your own needs and budget.

The ISSS will be held at the luxurious Fairmont The Palm resort, offering breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf and the Dubai skyline, placing attendees in the heart of the world-famous Palm Jumeirah, with easy access to Dubai’s hotspots.

Contact: https://assa.eventsair.com/issa-dubai-2024/ December 2023/January 2024 SPLASH! 53

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news

Awards

Brimbank Aquatic and Wellness Centre wins sustainability award Now in its 21st year, the Premier’s Sustainability Awards are Victoria’s most prestigious annual environmental awards program, recognising the success of businesses, local governments and communities in this area.

Brimbank City Council has won the Community Champion Award in the Sustainable Places category for the Brimbank Aquatic and Wellness Centre – billed as Australia’s first 100 per cent renewable energy-powered, zero greenhouse gas emissions aquatic centre.

A spokesperson for Brimbank City Council said that winning the award goes a long way to recognising all the hard work, technology and investment that has gone into building and operating the facility.

“We could have built the standard energy intensive aquatic facility, but we decided to do something better,” they said.

“The Brimbank Aquatic and Wellness Centre will provide a sustainable place for fun, recreation, exercise and wellness for future generations to come.”

ABOVE: Brimbank Aquatic and Wellness Centre

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news

In Brief CVM Academy has been rebranded to Ampd Academy. CVM Academy was originally founded in 2020 to meet the specific training requirements of City Venue Management’s own operations, upskilling nearly 1000 employees in the aquatic and leisure industry.

It achieved the status of an independent private RTO provider in 2022, and since then has served more than 40 businesses around the country and more than 50 schools in Queensland. Ampd Academy inherits the reputation and knowledge garnered by CVM Academy, boasting more than 7000 hours of training and 78 per cent known employment outcomes.

The Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) has released an ambitious action plan to tackle the shocking underrepresentation of women in coaching roles across the Australian high performance sport system. With less than 10 per cent of the top 36 funded high

The original &

performance sports led by women, the Women in High Performance Coaching Action Plan aims to advance gender equity in coaching and drive cultural and systemic change. Matti Clements, executive general manager of AIS Performance, says female coaches exit the high performance sport system at different career stages, resulting in a leaky talent pipeline and a deep gender gap. We need a systemic approach to embed sustainable change so that by 2032 we won’t be talking about women coaches – just coaches.

The $89 million reimagining of North Sydney’s 1936 Olympic pool has suffered a further setback after the steel roof frame for the project’s 25-metre indoor pool had to be disassembled following the discovery of a significant design and construction problem.

North Sydney Council mayor Zoe Baker says the council launched a review into the

matter and is confident the project will be completed, with a revised date of July 2024.

The redevelopment has already seen cost blowouts and delays on top of a controversy after $10 million of its funding was caught up in the previous federal government’s pool rorts affair.

48-year-old swim coach Paul Douglas Frost has been given a maximum jail sentence of 32 years, with a minimum of 24 years, after being found guilty of grooming and sexually abusing 11 young swim students at a swimming school in Sydney’s southwest between 1996 and 2009. Judge Sarah Huggett said the coach deliberately created a culture that facilitated his offending, including normalising talk of sex among those he was teaching, encouraging sexual activity both with and between students, and engaging in graphic acts in the school’s changing room and storage room.

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December 2023/January 2024 SPLASH! 55

feature

Are natural refrigerants the way of the future?

S

tefan Jensen is managing director of Scantec Refrigeration, and he offers his ideas on the future of refrigerants in refrigeration and heat pumps.

While his expertise is largely in industrial and commercial refrigeration systems and supermarket chilling, his observations on refrigerants are worth considering as they also apply to some degree any systems using refrigerants, including commercial heat pumps.

“Conceptually, there is no difference between a refrigeration system and a heat pump,” he says.

“In a heat pump, the focus is on the heat output.

The heat is emitted from the condenser, which condenses the refrigerant.

“In a refrigeration system, the focus is on refrigerating a space by means of the cold side of the system. The cold side is often referred to as the evaporator. The heat emission from a refrigerating system is mostly rejected to the general environment where it sometimes causes heat islands in built-up areas.

“In aquatic centre applications there are opportunities of utilising both the cold and the warm side of the refrigerating system/heat pump.

For example, the cold side can be used to cool exercise areas/offices, and the like. It can also be used to extract heat from humid exhaust air.

“Aside from warming the pool water, the warm side can be used for showers, therapeutic pools, and for regeneration of dehumidifiers, if these are applied.”

The International Institute of Refrigeration says there are approximately three billion refrigerating systems in the world.

“In Australia alone there are approximately 56 million,” says Jensen.

“It is obvious that even small leakage rates of <1 per cent of the refrigerant inventory per annum add up to very large global emissions of harmful gases.”

He adds that if there was no leakage, there would be no need for the Montreal Protocol which was introduced around 1987 to limit CFC refrigerants and foam blowing agents from depleting the ozone layer. Thanks to that protocol, evidence shows that the ozone layer is now recovering.

The evolution of refrigerants

“The successors of CFC refrigerants became HFC or hydrofluorocarbon refrigerants,” he says.

Jensen says these are global warming agents, with one of the most commonly used in supermarket refrigeration, R404A, having a global warming potential (GWP) of around 4000 56

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December 2023/January August/September 2023 2024

(100-year basis). This means that is has a global warming effect 4000 times greater than CO2.

In 2016, the Kigali Amendment was made to the Montreal Protocol. Its purpose was to phase down HFC refrigerants, and most countries including Australia are signatories. The Australian HFC phase-down started in January 2018 and is now in its sixth year.

The Australian phase-down only applies to bulk imports of HFCs such as in cylinders, and will not apply to gas imported in pre-charged equipment such as air conditioners and heat pumps.

However, issues may arise when pre-charged units need to be recharged.

Jensen says the phase-down is in the form of an import quota based on CO2e (CO2equivalent), applying to bulk imports of HFC refrigerants. By 2036, the quota will have reduced to around 15 per cent of what was previously imported in the baseline year.

“The replacements for HFC refrigerants are the so-called HFO refrigerants (hydrofluoroolefins) or blends of HFCs and HFOs. These are referred to as fourth generation refrigerants by the synthetic refrigerant industry.”

He says that while many of the HFOs are low GWP, many can break down into PFAS or “forever chemicals”.

The European Chemicals Association ECHA has recently proposed a total ban on all HFO refrigerants that are classified as PFAS substances.

This proposal has passed the first of three votes in the EU-commission with an overwhelming majority of around 80 per cent. If the proposal is accepted, there will be a ban on the use of HFO refrigerants in all new systems in Europe from 2027 onwards.

ABOVE: The phase down of HFCs in Australia

“The strength of their carbonfluorine chains becomes a problem when they enter the environment, as the bonds cannot be broken apart by natural processes.”

feature

In light of that, Jensen sees the long term future for refrigerants in “natural” products.

According to Jensen, the only future-proof refrigerants are ammonia (NH3), carbon dioxide (CO2), hydrocarbons, water and air.

“The three first fluids are relevant to aquatic centres. All are classified as natural refrigerants.”

PFASs are everywhere

In a recent Nature article, per-and polyfluoroalkyl (PFAS) substances are described as extraordinarily useful chemicals that are all around us. They coat non-stick cookware, protect phone screens, and keep some clothing waterpoof and stain-resistant.

“Their fluorine-swaddled carbon chains let grease and water slide off textiles, and they protect industrial equipment from corrosion and heat damage,” says author XiaoZhi Lim. But the strength of their carbon-fluorine chains becomes a problem when they enter the environment, as the bonds cannot be broken apart by natural processes. Several PFASs are known to be toxic, even though most have not yet undergone toxicology or been linked to health harms.

The concern is that, because they cannot be broken down, if those not currently identified as toxic are identified as toxic later, it will be extremely difficult to remove them from the waterways and the general environment.

HFOs, when they break down, can form a PFAS called TFA (trifluoroacetic acid). While TFA has not been linked to any health issue, it is extremely difficult to remove from water.

The only option would be expensive reverse osmosis.

Mark McLinden, a chemical engineer at the US National Institute of Standards and Technology in Boulder, Colorado, told Lim that CFCs brought airconditioning to the masses, because unlike ammonia they are non-flammable and are not irritants.

But CFCs were phased out because they were ozone-depleting, replaced by HFCs which are being phased out because they are greenhouse gases. Their replacement in the synthetic refrigerants are HFOs, or natural refrigerants such as ammonia or hydrocarbons which are flammable, or CO2 which suffers efficiency losses, especially in hot weather.

The ECHA proposal gives the air conditioning industry 12 years to switch to hydrocarbons, but it grants a permanent exemption where safety codes prohibit the use of flammable refrigerants.

The transition to natural refrigerant technology requires new skills and competencies, and research into expanding the safe application of hydrocarbon and other flammable refrigerants is currently being undertaken.

Another avenue is cracking down on leaks, as McLinden told Nature, calling it a common-sense approach. If a manufacturer could assure there were no leaks, the type of refrigerant would be less relevant in terms of environmental damage. n Contact: www.scantec.com.au References: Nature, Vol 620, 3 August 2023

Australia’s HFC phase-down This information from the Federal Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water explains Australia’s HFC phase-down

What is the HFC phase-down?

An international phase-down of hydrofluorocarbons (HFC) was agreed under the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer in 2016.

Australia started a gradual phase-down of HFC imports from 1 January 2018.

The HFC phase-down is contributing to Australia’s 2030 greenhouse gas emissions reduction target and is encouraging industry to move to alternative technologies using lower or zero global warming potential gases. The phasedown is being managed through an annual import quota that will gradually reduce over 18 years. The end point of the phase-down, 15 per cent of the baseline level, will be reached on 1 January 2036.

What are HFCs? HFCs are synthetic greenhouse gases, primarily used in refrigeration and airconditioning equipment, but also in fire protection, foam blowing and aerosols and for medical and veterinary uses.

What effect do HFCs have on the environment?

HFCs do not deplete the ozone layer, however they generally have a high global warming potential.

What does the HFC phase-down cover?

The phase-down applies to all commonly used high global warming potential HFCs, either alone or contained in a blend with other chemicals. The phasedown only applies to bulk imports of HFCs such as in cylinders, and will not apply to gas imported in pre-charged equipment such as air-conditioners or refrigerators. Under the Montreal Protocol, HFCs contained in imported equipment are accounted for in the country of manufacture.

What alternative gases can replace HFCs? Several suitable alternatives with no or very low global warming potential are available in Australia, including ammonia, carbon dioxide, hydrocarbons and hydrofluoroolefins (HFOs). These gases are not regulated under the Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas Management legislation unless they are in a blend containing an HFC.

Who will be immediately affected by the phase-down?

Importers of bulk gas containing HFCs.

Who else will be affected by the phase-down?

• T echnicians - Technicians will still be able to purchase HFCs to maintain equipment.

• HFC equipment importers and retailers - There will be no quota for HFCs in pre-charged equipment, such as air-conditioners and refrigerators.

New equipment using alternatives to HFCs will be developed and enter the market over time.

• O ther industries and applications that use HFCs, including foam blowing, aerosol propellants, fire protection and medical devices – the gradual phase-down and 15 per cent residual will provide certainty in the transition to alternatives.

• C onsumers - There is no requirement to replace the HFC in existing equipment. New equipment containing alternatives to HFCs will be developed and enter the market over time.

Contact: www.dcceew.gov.au; www.splash.online/articles/links151

December 2023/January 2024 SPLASH! 57

feature

Handle the crisis before it gets out of control

Crisis management:

exploring risk at communal, public and commercial swimming pools Having a plan for managing crises is essential – and carrying them out properly is just as important.

By Veda Dante

E

very business must be prepared for when — not if — things go wrong.

For the aquatic industry, that means facing potential chemical spills, water contamination, troublesome patrons, natural disasters, accidents and drownings.

Implementing comprehensive risk and crisis management plans are crucial for aquatic facilities to effectively respond to and mitigate various emergencies or unexpected situations.

Well-prepared plans help ensure the safety of patrons, staff, and the facility itself while also minimising potential damage to its reputation.

and developing a plan to mitigate them, they can help reduce the likelihood of negative outcomes and protect their assets and reputation. Similarly, by preparing for potential crises, a facility can respond quickly and effectively, minimising the impact of the crisis and reducing the potential for long-term damage.

In essence, while risk management addresses a broad range of potential hazards, crisis planning focusses on specific, critical events that may require a swift, specialised response. Together, these practices contribute to a facility’s resilience and ability to navigate challenges successfully.

Risk management versus crisis management

Guidelines for Safe Pool Operations

Risk management is the process of identifying, assessing and managing potential risks that may negatively impact an organisation’s objectives.

This includes both internal and external risks, such as financial risks, operational risks, compliance risks and reputational risks.

Crisis management, on the other hand, involves preparing for potential crises that may occur, such as natural disasters, data breaches or public health emergencies. This includes developing a plan of action to respond to these crises, as well as training staff and stakeholders on what to do in case of a critical incident or emergency.

Both risk management and crisis management are critical components of an aquatic facility’s overall strategy. By pre-empting potential risks 58

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December 2023/January 2024

Under a variety of legal standards and frameworks, facility designers, owners and operators are charged with the responsibility of ensuring public and worker health and safety arising from the business and/or undertaking of aquatic facilities and their activities.

For 30 years, Royal Life Saving has written the Guidelines for Safe Pool Operation (GSPO), which compiles and contextualises these standards and frameworks, making them easier to understand and apply to aquatic facilities.

“The GSPO is the recognised national industry standard that describes and makes recommendations as to the appropriate minimum standards of safety that should be attached to the design, ownership and operations of aquatic facilities thereby providing a recognised

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standard of care in a particular area of design and/or operations,” says RJ Houston, the general manager for capability and industry at the Royal Life Saving Society Australia.

Although published by Royal Life Saving, the GSPO represents the collective opinion of the aquatic industry across Australia, through an extensive and consultative development and review process undertaken by the National Aquatic Industry Committee (NAIC).

“As such, the GSPO is written and authorised for industry by industry, leveraging a formal network of collaborators both nationally and internationally,” he says.

The NAIC is chaired by Royal Life Saving and includes members from organisations such as ARI, ARV, ASSA, Austswim, SPASA, Swimming Australia and LIWA, as well as representatives from councils, facility management organisations and state-based lifesaving entities.

The GSPO provides step-by-step guidance on managing risk, developing emergency management plans, and responding to critical incidents, among many other items.

All aquatic facility designers, owners and operators are strongly recommended to access and understand the GSPO in order to meet their obligations under the respective state and/or territory health and safety legislation. The GSPO can be accessed via the Royal Life Saving website for a modest subscription.

Prevention is better than cure

Publicly accessible pools, including council-owned aquatic centres, commercial fitness centres, university and school pools, and commercial learnto-swim centres, offer a safe place to swim and learn water safety skills. Royal Life Saving says this safety net provides an estimated $174 million in avoided child drowning costs per year in Australia.

Tragically, despite the design expertise and skilled management of these spaces, child and adult drowning deaths at publicly accessible pools do occur.

“In 2022, the Royal Life Saving National Drowning Report found there were five drownings in public pools,” says Houston.

“There were 11 drownings in temporary residence communal pools such as caravan parks, resorts, hotels and motels. While the majority of these drowning incidents occur over summer, they are spread across the full lifespan of ages.”

Royal Life Saving provides services to pool owners and operators to assist in discovering key risks before they eventuate, hopefully leading to a strengthening of prevention measures so that incidents do not happen in the first place.

“In the event of a critical incident at your facility, without delay reach out to your local Royal Life Saving branch,” he says.

“We have been through the process many times and can assist you in navigating the next steps, looking after the health and wellbeing of you and your team, and learning as much as possible from the incident so that it does not happen again.”

11 steps to managing a critical incident

Getting on the front foot can help facility operators and their employees better prepare for and manage critical incidents. From ensuring certifications are renewed and regularly testing water to developing an action plan and preparing for media scrutiny, these actions can keep swimmers safe and aquatic facility operators out of legal hot water.

1. Up-to-date record keeping. Ensure certification records and relevant documentation for lifeguards are on file and easily accessible, and that health codes regarding water quality and sanitisation are strictly followed. Once investigators are called in and start digging around, everything will be factored into their findings. Here’s a breakdown of the key aspects to consider.

ABOVE: Planning is essential BELOW: The GSPO can be accessed via the Royal Life Saving website

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Lifeguard Certification Records a. D ocumentation storage: i. Store lifeguard certification records in a secure and organised manner ii. Consider a digital database for easy, remote access b. Regular updates: i. Ensure certifications are regularly updated and renewed ii. Set up reminders for upcoming expiration dates c. Training documentation: i. Keep records of lifeguard training sessions, including dates and topics covered ii. Include any additional certifications or specialised training Health codes and water quality d. Adherence to health codes: i. Regularly review and stay updated on health codes related to water safety and sanitisation ii. Develop a checklist to ensure compliance with all relevant codes e. Monitoring water quality: i. Implement a routine water testing schedule to maintain quality ii. Keep detailed records of water testing results, including dates and corrective actions taken if necessary f. Maintenance logs: i. Retain logs for equipment maintenance, such as filtration and sanitisation systems, and chemical treatments ii. Document any repairs or adjustments made to ensure ongoing compliance Compliance and investigations g. Documentation transparency: i. Ensure that records are transparent and easily accessible to authorised personnel ii. Designate specific staff responsible for providing information during investigations, preferably someone who has had professional media training h. Consistent documentation practices: i. Train staff on consistent and thorough documentation practices to minimise discrepancies during investigations ii. Keep a timeline of events related to water quality, lifeguard certifications, and any incidents i. Emergency response plans: i. Include a detailed, step-by-step process on how the facility responds to emergencies in the documentation ii. Regularly review and update emergency response plans j. Communication protocols: i. Establish clear communication protocols for informing relevant authorities, staff, and management in the event of an investigation k. Media relations: i. It’s common for reporters to ask questions you’d rather avoid but saying “no comment” is not an option because it can suggest you are hiding something. Instead, be prepared and

LEFT: Include a detailed, step-by-step process on how the facility responds to emergencies in your documentation

equipped with key messages by pre-empting the types of questions a journalist is likely to ask and practise how you will respond l. Legal consultation: Have a plan in place for seeking legal advice if needed during an investigation.

2. Be prepared. If you don’t already have one, develop an emergency action plan that includes policies and procedures regarding, among other things, which employees should be responsible for which tasks in the event of a critical incident.

3. Review the location and proper use of on-site emergency equipment. This includes first-aid kits, fire extinguishers, personal protective equipment, automated external defibrillators, oxygen resuscitation equipment, spinal boards, and emergency blankets. Ensure that employees know where the mechanical room is located and how to gain entry and operate controls. Easy access to Material Safety Data Sheets is critical, too. A full collection should be stored in the main office, with additional copies for every chemical used on-site kept in the mechanical room. Facility inspections, such as checking for slippery spots on decks and loose or sheared bolts on diving boards, should become regular habits.

4. Provide adequate supervision. Ensure that a dedicated lifeguard is rostered with suitable backup for when patron-to-lifeguard ratios exceed minimum recommended guidelines or to provide emergency response. Lifeguards need to be able to see every patron in, on and below the water. And, although all staff members may be familiar with first-aid procedures, trained lifeguards should be the ones to administer aid to victims – even in nonemergency cases.

5. Call emergency services. In an emergency, call triple zero straight away. Do not delay. If you are unsure as to the nature of the emergency or treatment, triple zero can provide some advice in the moment to connect you with the correct emergency service.

6. Handle crowd control and evacuation. An employee not directly responding to the victim should step in to perform crowd control, move bystanders away from the scene and assure

“By implementing these practices, you can enhance the overall safety and compliance of your facility while also being wellprepared for any investigations that may arise.”

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Emergency care While every aquatic facility should have an emergency action plan in place in the event of a serious incident such as a drowning or respiratory impairment caused by a seizure, Royal Life Saving Society says there is no standard template to follow if this occurs.

“It’s too organisation-specific,” explains Houston. “We have an incident review process we follow if engaged, which is a no-blame look at the system.

I’d recommend engaging us to walk you through the process. It is complex and, if not executed properly, can lead to significant ramifications.”

them that the situation is under control.

The decision to evacuate depends on the severity of the situation. If it is a life-anddeath matter that is taking all lifeguards on duty away from their posts, the facility should be cleared immediately.

7. S ecure the facility. The extent of this measure depends on the nature of the incident. If it involves a standard rescue, you may only need to block off the immediate surroundings. That will allow ample room for lifeguards and emergency personnel to provide care to the person, while other lifeguards can take their usual posts around the facility. If the incident resulted in a fatality or perhaps involves a chemical leak, full evacuation should be considered. Designated employees should be in charge of ensuring that all patrons have left the premises, and that the facility’s doors, gates, cash registers, locker rooms and concessions areas are secure.

8. Notify supervisors. As soon as the person has been stabilised — or situation deescalated — a designated employee should notify any supervisors, facility managers and other relevant officials not on-site at the time that a critical incident has occurred.

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9. Gather everyone for a de-briefing meeting.

This allows staff members to share their initial reactions, express their fears or frustrations and provide a support system for each other. It’s also an opportunity for people to discuss what they saw and make sure you have all the information you need for the incident report: date, time, location, who provided care, etc.

10. Appoint a media spokesperson. A designated media contact, such as an external public relations agency familiar with issues and crisis management, will ensure clear, consistent communication.

And while, “no comment” is never an option, everyone else should be instructed to stay silent on the matter if approached by the media.

11. Fill out the incident report. This should be done as soon as possible and include as much information as possible. It can include data such as who was involved, what happened, when it happened, where it happened, what caused it to happen, and any other relevant details. This documentation helps facilities identify risks that need to be addressed to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.

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By implementing these practices, you can enhance the overall safety and compliance of your facility while also being well-prepared for any investigations that may arise. Regular training and communication with staff are also crucial to maintaining a culture of safety and responsibility.

You can download a copy of the RLSS’s Guidelines for Safe Pool Operations, Incident Management at https://www.royallifesaving.com.au/my-account.

When to call the authorities

At this year’s Country Pool Managers Conference, Snr Constable Kath Madden from NSW Police spoke to the delegates about safety around their aquatic centres, and the role the police can play.

“If you find someone has committed a crime in your pool, call the police. If it’s an emergency, call triple zero. Don’t hesitate,” Madden told the audience.

“My advice is to never ever interact with people physically, don’t ever go hands-on with people.”

No matter how trivial you think the situation is, Madden says to reach out to the authorities.

“While you may think it’s minor, it may actually be part of a much bigger crime, so don’t hesitate to call us,” she says.

When you do contact the police, they’ll visit the facility to obtain key information, including

details from witnesses and people of interest, and potentially an official statement.

“A statement is a court document and if you give one, you may be required to attend court for the matter,” she explains. “Police will also contact you after the incident and issue an event number, which we also call a court number.”

ABOVE: The Bizsafe brochure can be downloaded from the NSW police website

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A delegate speaking from the floor noted that while that it is good advice to call the police, sometimes the nearest police station is an hour or so away from small, rural pools.

The pool managers have the right to ask the troublemakers to leave the pool, and Madden assured the delegate that if they are still there when the police arrive, they can and will make them leave the pool.

The issue of conflict and anti-social behaviour within the aquatic and recreation industry is becoming increasingly significant and widespread. This can lead to genuine industry concerns regarding the potential risk to aquatic staff posed by aggressive or anti-social behaviour.

“Anti-social behaviour can range from excessive noise such as screaming, intimidation, threats of violence, and assault, all of which you don’t need to tolerate,” she explains.

Aquatic Facility Safety Assessment In 1996, Royal Life Saving introduced the Aquatic Facility Safety Assessment (AFSA) which provides an expert and comprehensive assessment of the operations of an aquatic facility against the provisions of the Guidelines for Safe Pool Operation, Australian Standards and relevant State and Territory legislation.

The AFSA is the easiest and most effective way to gain a true assessment of the level of safety and compliance within an aquatic facility and for pool owners and operators to ensure that their facility is being managed in line with current expectations and standards. So, how often should you conduct assessments for your facility?

• Assessment frequency is recommended to be conducted on a risk exposure basis • Facilities with over 100,000 visits per year are recommended to conduct assessments at least annually

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“Getting in your face is intimidation. Saying, ‘I’m going to hurt you’ is intimidation. And that not only relates to lifeguards and facility staff but also members of the public.”

Harassment, be it racial profiling, swearing, name calling, vilifying and verbal abuse are also valid reason to ask patrons to leave the premises and, if they don’t, legitimate cause to call the police.

“You have the power to ask people to leave the pool and you also have the right to issue banning notices. And if they come back after you issue a banning notice and still won’t leave, you need to call the police and we’ll issue a move on direction,” she says.

If you come in contact with a victim of crime, be it a colleague, guest, or customer, be aware that they may be left in a vulnerable state and find it difficult to provide the information you need.

“The experience may leave them crying or unable to answer your questions, so there may be tension, anxiety, discomfort or depression,” she explains.

“If you do come in contact with a victim of crime, be compassionate where you can and consider how you would want to be treated.”

Bomb threats are another issue that aquatic facilities potentially face.

“If you receive suspicious mail, don’t open it, don’t handle it, and don’t photocopy it — just call police,” says Madden.

“If you receive a threatening telephone call, the most important thing is, don’t hang up. Even if they hang up on you. Get all the details such as where the bomb is, take note of how they sound, and call police.”

If you find a suspicious package on the grounds, again don’t touch, or move it, don’t make phone calls near it nor use your radio around it.

“Simply call the police and consider evacuating,” she says.

If underage drinking is an issue, Madden recommends speaking to your legal representative before you take measures such as confiscating alcohol.

“The police are only able to confiscate alcohol from under 18s drinking in a public place,” she explains.

While any number of risk factors can derail the best risk management plans, creating a robust safety and compliance framework for your facility can certainly put you on the front foot.

Remember that commitment from leadership and active engagement from all employees are crucial for the success of these initiatives. n

Contacts:

www.countrypoolmanagers.com.au

• Facilities with less than 100,000 visits but more than 20,000 are recommended to conduct assessments at least every two years

www.police.nsw.gov.au

• Facilities with under 20,000 visits per year are recommended to conduct assessments at least once every three years

www.splash.online/articles/links151 to download NSW Police’s Bizsafe brochure

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www.royallifesaving.com.au

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Using technology to manage staff across multiple public pool sites Angus Westaway spoke at the Country Pool Managers Conference earlier this year about using technology to help manage staffing across multiple pool sites. Here he explains some of his ideas, including the benefits of apps to streamline management processes.

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ABOVE: L+R team members who attended the Country Pool Managers Conference, held earlier this year in Goulburn: Ashley Clegg, Sam Thompson, Angus Westaway, Fiona Falconer, Monique Tippler-Dawson and Eric Spargo 66

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ngus Westaway’s pool management business, the Leisure and Recreation Group (L+R), had their first contract at West Wyalong, and was headquartered there for ten years before relocating to Cootamundra in 2021.

Over that time, the business grew from managing two pools to managing seven facilities.

“I registered and had the business setup back around 2007 when I was still in Sydney, as operations manager at San Souci Leisure Centre.

But it took me until 2011 to be awarded our first contract.”

Bland Shire was the first council to show faith in them and give them a go.

“We were in the predicament of being a company with no experience, so we had no history behind us. Bland Shire was our first contract, the first council that gave us go with two pools. Then with we’ve progressed with Cobar and Lachlan Shires, and Coota-Gundagai Council as well.”

With the recent addition of Cowra and Condobolin, L+R now manages seven facilities. Westaway says while that is good, the business is not at the size yet to start benefiting from economies of scale.

“Not at the current size, because we’re still in a quite a growth stage. And as we scale, there’s more business expense – especially with staffing –

December 2023/January 2024

that we need to incorporate with more admin and middle management to help take the load off me,” he says.

“And you just start to find out the difficulties of recruitment and employment as well. Running a couple of pools yourself is a lot different to overseeing and assisting staff to run the facilities,” he says.

“It’s been a big learning curve about really developing and keeping our staff. It’s not really about running pools myself anymore, it’s about mentoring and developing my staff so they can run it well, accordingly to our processes and programs and activities.”

Westaway says while it adds complexity to his role, he finds it a great experience to bring young staff members on and see them improve and gain confidence.

“It’s very, very rewarding,” he says. “And we really like to develop and mentor our good young workers.

“We’ve got a lot of professional development and we are putting in a lot of time and effort personally with the guys as well. And it is a hard industry. There’s a lot of moving parts. And as I said in the presentation, you can really get eaten alive in this industry. But I spend a lot of time to support my guys to make sure they get the best chance of success.”

Help from Google systems

Westaway’s presentation at the conference was about taking advantage of apps and software systems, including those that come for free under the Google umbrella.

“This was a project over the covid period, because all the facilities were shut down. I like

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to keep up to date with technology, and I’m conscious of how much software is out there in the business landscape.

“We were already using Google a little bit but I just didn’t realise the potential. So once I did a deep dive and did some research into all the possible software, I realised that we could implement a lot of really good tools and customise them to our processes and our industry.”

Westaway says it is all quite user friendly and can be customised to specific facilities or areas of operation.

“It’s helped us a lot to have an easy-to-use platform for our managers and it’s easy for me to log in and check compliance and keep all the staff up to date.”

Westaway says the thing that used to keep him up at night was his responsibility to manage compliance in the industry.

“Everyone needs a qualification. You know, there’s working with children checks, police checks, food safety, supervisory requirements, fitness qualifications – there’s so many things to stay on top of.

“I feel a lot of pressure to be able to manage that effectively and ensure my staff are trained and current. Because I know how much of an effect that has on our insurances if we’re not maintaining proper qualifications or compliance.”

He says that the complexities of managing those issues flow into recruitment as well.

“We can’t just recruit anybody; we need to recruit people who can potentially complete qualifications. Lifeguards are classic: not everyone wants to get into the water and swim

200 metres. So I can’t just recruit anybody, we have to be quite selective on recruiting, which just reduces our recruitment pool as well, which makes it a challenge.”

He mentioned iClassPro in his presentation. It is a cloud-based business management solution with features such as class management, attendance management, staff scheduling and online payments.

It allows attendees to schedule their classes online, and when a class booking is made, it reflects in trainers’ calendars in real-time. The app also allows online credit card payments for class fees and merchandise purchases; and features automated email and text messages which allow users to manage marketing campaigns and student communications.

ABOVE: Westaway explained how to use Google to advantage at the conference

Canyou can help you

Another software application Westaway was enthusiastic about is Canyou, which enables a manager to collect and co-ordinate documents, forms, licences and certificates for businesses and their teams, and store and sync them in one spot.

“Canyou is great software. Again, I was doing a deep dive with my research on the internet, and

“There’s working with children checks, police checks, food safety, supervisory requirements, fitness qualifications – there’s so many things to stay on top of.”

December 2023/January 2024 SPLASH! 67

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networking and talking to people in the industry, when I came across Canyou. We actually tried to get the founder Frank to come to the conference and do a presentation, but it didn’t work out.

“But that’s been a great piece of software, where we can build all our qualifications and compliance requirements for our staff. We set up a staff profile and just attach all the requirements for the staff, and they upload their qualifications or we upload the qualifications as they get qualified,” he says.

“It’s a great platform – it will actually show what level of compliance they are. So if they’re at 80 or 85 per cent, and we can just click in to see what’s yet to be completed.”

He says using Canyou has been a bit of a game changer to help keep businesses on track.

“Previously, we were literally just using Google Spreadsheets or Google Sheets. But since we have up to about 80 staff now, it just got to a point where it wasn’t manageable. So Canyou is a really user-friendly, efficient piece of software to manage certifications. You can also attach simple workflows, and that helps with recruitment and onboarding.”

Westaway says that not only does it give him peace of mind that he’s on top of things, it also saves time in his busy schedule.

“It’s very time efficient. If we need to audit or check compliance, it’s very simple to quickly log in and see exactly who has what qualifications.

Whereas previously it was trying to trust that the sheets were updated or trying to filter through sheets with 80 staff. And you know, there’s potentially 20 different types of qualifications that people need ticked off. Canyou has made that a very simple process.”

ABOVE: The Canyou app enables a manager to stay on top of staff’s documents, forms, licences and certificates

“It’s a great platform – it will actually show what level of compliance they are, and we can just click in to see what’s yet to be completed.”

From Sydney to the Riverina

When asked what the main differences are between managing pools in the city and managing them in the regions, Westaway says overall the differences aren’t huge.

However, the biggest difference between the city and regions is recruitment and staffing.

“For example, West Wyalong is a town of 3500 people. So trying to find and recruit employees from a population of 3500 people is difficult.

“Also a lot of the country towns that we are in – for example we’re in Cobar – have a couple of big mines as well. So we’re fighting against really big employers to find people in a town with a very small population.”

One way Westaway addressed the problem of recruiting from a small population base was to look outside the area – and he has actually employed some people all the way from Adelaide.

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[See Issue 148 for the story of Ashley Clegg and Sam Thompson, originally from 900 kilometres to the west in Adelaide, who now manage the Lake Cargelligo pool for L+R. They were recommended for the job by Angus’s nephew, Eric, who works at the West Wyalong pool.]

“We have incentives internally, like a finder’s and spotter’s fee, for our own staff to become recruiters for us. It costs us a lot of money to advertise and go out to recruitment agencies – so I’m more than happy to give that to our staff if they go and find and recruit people for us.

“They’ll go out to friends and family, and even just talking to the general public. If someone shows any signs of interest, they’ll actively try to recruit the person for us and we’ll give them some type of financial incentive for that.

“Because like I said, we’d be paying that to an advertiser or to a recruiter anyway. So I’m happy to give that to our staff if they’re actively doing that role.”

He also points out that L+R do all their own internal training, which enables them to quickly train people up.

“Myself and my wife have the Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, and we present the courses for Royal Life Saving, Swim Coaches and Teachers Australia, and Swim Australia. So that has helped a lot – that we can actually run in-house courses, get people qualified quickly and maintain their qualifications efficiently.

Because we can run the courses whenever we need to run them, and we’re not relying on external providers.

“And we can recruit unqualified people and quickly get them qualified. So that’s helped us with our recruitment issues.”

He says another major difference between the city and country is maintaining customers.

“At San Souci, in the metropolitan space, we had a large population base where you constantly have

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ABOVE: iClassPro is a cloud-based business management solution with features such as class management, attendance management, staff scheduling and online payments

EST SOFTWARE “We want the community to be of the facility to ensure that OOLproud SHOPS & they’re continually attending and supporting it.”

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new customers feeding into the centres. In these small towns,

if youpool lose the customers or they lose interest at the centre, or the industry you don’t necessarily have a new customer to replace them, because it’s such a small population base.” he pool industry Given the small population and general shortage of new

faces in town, it’s vital to maintain the interest of the existing client base.

“We really push the importance of customer service, and programs and activities. Our catchphrase is ‘managing facilities that the community loves’. So we want the w . b u community ff e r z otonbeeproud . i noff the o facility to ensure they’re continually attending and supporting it.”

He reinforces the importance that, with such a small population base, they really have to work hard to keep the customers’ interest high and keep them coming back.

Westaway says they see themselves as a small family-run business.

“A little boutique management company,” he says. “All we want to do is support and develop the facilities that we manage. We form partnerships with the councils, and I just want to share and inspire people with my passion for the industry. And I put that onto my staff, which then hopefully filters down into the actual management of facility itself.

“I want the community to really love and enjoy the facility that they have – I think they’re very important facilities, and I want to make sure they’re running appropriately.” n

Contacts:

THE BEST SOFTWARE FOR POOL SHOPS & SERVICE BUSINESSES Built for the pool industry by the pool industry

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December 2023/January 2024 SPLASH! 69

new products

Neutral coloured breeze blocks making a comeback According to Jason Hodges, Adbri masonry ambassador, breeze blocks are the perfect fusion of function and style.

Supreme Heating’s new Vortex-ProPlus Supreme Heating says their new Vortex-ProPlus achieves an impressive coefficient of performance (COP) of up to 20, made possible by a trio of innovative technologies: the state-of-the-art 3D Titanium heat exchanger, the reliable Mitsubishi twin-rotary compressor, and the intelligent TurboSilence inverter control system.

The Vortex-ProPlus delivers 32 kW of heating with single-phase power and a 40 kW with three-phase power.

Furthermore, the Turbo Heating mode amplifies heating capacity by 120 per cent, while the Smart and Silence Modes allow precise heating capacity control from 20 per cent to 100 per cent, maintaining pool temperatures at optimal COP levels.

Contact: www.supremeheating.com.au

Hodges says part of their appeal is the neutral concrete colours and finishes which serve as a blank canvas. Adbri’s coloured breeze blocks now offer modern neutral options such as ebony, ivory and steel.

Alternatively, homeowners can paint the blocks to match or contrast with the surrounding décor, making them versatile and adaptable to any design preferences.

They are excellent for partitioning a space while letting air through, and are ideal for screening a pool that faces onto a neighbour’s yard or a public space.

Contact: www.adbrimasonry.com.au

Receive regular updates on new construction activity

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

Discover upcoming construction projects in your area with Cordell Connect to help you secure your next opportunity.

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new products

Sunlover Heating’s new Rapid Heat Pro heat pump Sunlover Heating says their latest heat pump, the Rapid Heat Pro, achieves a coefficient of performance (COP) of up to 20, delivering 32 kW of heating with single-phase power and 40 kW with three-phase power.

Operating up to 20 times more quietly than traditional pumps, homeowners can say goodbye to noise and hello to serene pool moments while embracing swift and efficient warmth with up to 20 per cent faster heating.

The heat pump features a TurboSilence inverter control system, while the 3D Titanium exchanger boasts 30 per cent more heat transfer area and efficiency, and the Mitsubishi compressor minimises vibration, achieving a remarkable 20 per cent noise reduction.

Contact: www.sunloverheating.com.au

Swapping snags for a slice Instead of the summer snag on a barbie, you can now indulge in a poolside slice, cooked in your own pizza oven.

Cozze has launched a new range of their electric and gas pizza ovens in Australia for the summer. These 13-inch and 17-inch gas pizza ovens and 13-inch electrical pizza oven are perfect for quickly getting a meal for the kids up and ready.

All three models are supplied with a solid LFGB-approved cordierite pizza stone which will heat up in 20 minutes, and once pre-heated, can cook a pizza in just two minutes.

The ovens can also be used to cook tortillas, flatbread, calzones and other food.

Contact: www.cozze.com.au

sales@aussieundercover.com.au December 2023/January 2024 SPLASH! 73

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Aqua-Quip. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Mastercard

Visa

Amex

Aussie Under Cover. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 Brauer Industries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40, 65 Bufferzone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Cardholder Name: _____________________________________________________ Expiry Date: __ __ / __ __ Signature: ________________________ Name: ___________________________________________________________________

BWT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Colormaker Industries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Cordell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 DAB. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Job Title: ________________________________________________________________

Daisy Pool Covers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Company: _______________________________________________________________

Davey Water Products. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Address: _________________________________________________________________

Evo Industries Australia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Suburb/Town: _______________________ Postcode: ______________________

Evolution Water & Lighting Solution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Fluidra . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Ph:_______________________ Fax: _________________________________________ Email: ____________________________________________________________________

Hayward Pool Products (Australia) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 LaMotte Pacific . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Mg2Plus. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Yes! I wish to receive SPLASH! magazine Within Australia * $AUD65.00 – 1 year, 6 issues $AUD104.00 – 2 years, 12 issues – Save 20% $AUD136.50 – 3 years, 18 issues – Save 30% * Prices quoted include GST

Overseas Rates New Zealand $AUD75.00 – 1 year, 6 issues Asia Pacific $AUD80.00 – 1 year, 6 issues All Other Countries $AUD90.00 – 1 year, 6 issues We are committed to handling your personal information in accordance with the privacy act.

Please Select one of the following: Yes

No - Please send me information about special

offers and or events from SPLASH! The Intermedia Group Pty Ltd ABN 94002583682 PO Box 55 Glebe NSW 2037. Fax back your subscription to: (+61) 2 8580 6312

Naked Pools. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Pentair Aquatic Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OBC Pool & Spa. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Pool-Water Products. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC Poolwerx Australia. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 PSQ. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Rainbow Pool Products. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Reece . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Remco Australia. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Spa-Craft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Spatex. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 SPLASH! Pool & Spa Trade Show. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 Sunlover Solar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Swimart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Waterco. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13, 53

www.intermedia.com.au or call 1800 651 422

Westmead. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 74

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