SPLASH October-November 2018

Swimming Pools / Leisure / Aquatics / Spas / Health

Issue 120 October/November 2018

Retail strategies to outbox the big boys

www.splashmagazine.com.au

Tips for paving Around swimming pools Latest stats from The national drowning report Teaching safety At swim schools

Embrace the Chlorination Revolution

Wondering how?

Talk to our experienced staff

Our technology is used worldwide by: • FINA-standard Swimming & Diving Facilities • Municipal Pools & Leisure Facilities • Water and Theme Parks • Lagoons & Water Features • Hotels, Resorts and Spas • Schools & Universities

• Home Swimming Pools • Plunge Pools • Swim Schools • Architects & Product Specifiers • Councils & Body Corporates • Industry Professionals

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Inline chlorine generation via electrolysis is revolutionary AIS’ award-winning technology is a Simpler, Safer and Smarter way to disinfect pool water, even at low TDS. It’s time to make the switch from conventional chlorine dosing. Watch these videos to understand why.

Why Choose AIS?

AIS is passionate about transforming the future of pool water sanitization.

Inline chlorine generation via electrolysis delivers all the benefits of clean and bacteria free water without the risks and hassles associated with conventional chlorine dosing.

About AIS

Australian Innovative Systems Pty Ltd (AIS) is an award-winning industry influencer with a 25+ year history of innovation and excellence in the design, production and supply of inline chlorine generation technology via electrolysis.

Content of this page allows you to view Augmented Reality video on your phone. Download the free UnifiedAR app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. To view, launch the app and point your phone camera at the images.

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

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

with

THE SMART POOL ANALYSER

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

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

extra

features

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Blue App

Platinum Probe

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Step-by-step Assistant

The Smart pool analyser with Blue Connect app

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Blue Connect accurately measures and analyses your pool

Follow the step-by-step guide and save time and money

Blue Connect is for all pool types (chlorine or bromine) where the device will be placed freely in the pool.

Blue Plus App

Gold Probe Blue Fit50

Virtual Pool Care

More advanced features: 20 daily measurements, view history and multiple users

Includes the Gold premium measureme nt probe

Web platform for pool professionals to remotely monitor your swimming pool

Tapping saddle to install Blue Connect in the technical room

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

Find out more about Blue Connect at

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

editorial On the sunny side

Contributors: Cal Stanley, Izzy Grace, Duncan Blyth, Ros Ronning, Emma Lawrence, Tim Gledhill Advertising Manager: David Stennett Phone: 0404 725 554 Email: david@spasa.com.au

The Bureau of Meteorology is predicting a hot, dry summer, thanks to the arrival of the “little brother”, El Nino, and the associated positive Indian Ocean Dipole. Chances are high for a drier than normal summer west of the range, and a hotter than normal one over large parts of the country.

Senior Designer: Leanne Hogbin Production Manager: Jacqui Cooper Head of Circulation: Chris Blacklock For Subscriptions Call: 1800 651 422

Chances of a warmer three months are greater than 80 per cent over most of the mainland. Nights are also likely to be warmer than average across Australia, except for southeast WA, southern SA and western Victoria, where it should remain average.

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.

Chris Maher Managing Editor chrismaher@ intermedia.com.au

Hot summers are the lifeblood of the swimming pool and spa industry.

That’s when the kids nag their parents to get a pool, and sweaty mums and dads start to think it’s a good idea. And if they already have a pool, it’s when they start using it all day every day, and invite their friends over for an almost endless pool party.

The flip side, of course, is that hot weather usually goes hand in hand with drought, which affects the whole country, most especially rural communities. That means harder times for farmers, and consequently the towns they support. It also can mean discussions about how much water pools use, and has in the past led to water restrictions.

The good news for the pool industry is that manufacturers, suppliers, builders, retailers, governments and industry associations have all played their part in helping minimise water use in pools, or to help bring more water into the equation. New products, better practices, initiatives like SPASA’s Climate Care Certification Program all play their part, as do various governments efforts to shore up water security though infrastructure development such as desalination plants.

Full page ad

So, with any luck, the combination of environmental awareness and a hot summer should see a good season ahead.

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

Copyright © 2018 - SPASA Australia.

SPLASH! contains NO advertorial.

Proudly supported by

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

This Beecraft home features a pool and landscape designed by Peter Glass and paved with Sareen Stone’s Cathedral Limestone.

There is more on this project, and tips on handling poolside paving and coping, on page 50. Photography by Maree Homer.

October/November 2018 SPLASH! 5

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Contents 30

50 24

50

Getting started in the concrete pool business Asked for tips about getting into concrete pool construction, Cal Stanley recalls his own entry into the business 38 years ago, which included a fair share of challenges.

Handling stone around pools Duncan Blyth offers expert advice on how to choose, install and treat stone around swimming pools, using the example of a prestige swimming pool project in Sydney.

55

World pool vision Architect Lionel Thabaret talks about his aesthetics and the projects that helped propel him into the limelight, including the pool project in a French spa that won him a pool vision award in 2016.

26

The 120 year history of Pierce Pool Supplies David Lloyd discusses the long, long history of Pierce Pool Supplies, which started way back in 1898 with a trader on a horse and buggy travelling around rural New South Wales.

62

28

Global pool and spa advocate Tom Lachocki to retire We look at the career of influential swimming pool and spa advocate Tom Lachocki, who is moving on from heading the National Swimming Pool Foundation to focus on mind, body and spirit.

30

55 64

Outboxing the big players Izzy Grace looks at how pool retail stores and mobile service operators can compete against big box retailers and online-only suppliers by leveraging expertise and enhancing the customer experience.

42

The National Drowning Report 2018 We look at all the relevant pool and spa data from the latest annual report into water safety from Royal Life Saving Australia. It shows improvements on all swimming pool drowning indicators.

64

Taking responsibility for mental health Tim Gledhill looks at how to support staff and patrons of aquatic centres to improve the wellbeing and mental health of young Australians.

66 Sound solutions for a sustainable aquatic centre A purpose-built Western Australian aquatic facility includes a custom-designed tension member strategically positioned to offset noise in the pool.

41

Enhancing resilience in the workplace Ros Ronning helps build the resilience of individuals in the workplace by leading them towards thinking for themselves and embracing who they are. She offers simple tips that are easy to follow.

Water safety skills in swim programs As part of an ongoing series, Emma Lawrence looks at how to develop water safety skills and provide water safety education to underpin formal learn-toswim programs.

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

Chemistry tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

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

Commercial news . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

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

New products. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Spa tech tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

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

Industry moves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

October/November 2018  SPLASH!  7

news

Manufacturing

Complete Poolrite business now up for sale While expressions of interest were requested in June this year to identify joint venture partners and equity investors for the Poolrite business, Evolve is now offering the entire business for sale.

Scan Capital Pty Ltd has been retained by the Evolve Group to manage the sale of the Poolrite business and assets, and says that given the level of interest and to enable their client to focus on its core business, the Evolve Group has decided to offer all of Poolrite’s assets for immediate sale.

Poolrite is presented for sale for offers over $2.5 million plus stock with a targeted contract date of 30 November and settlement in December 2018.

Evolve focussing on core business

Evolve Group managing director Ty Hermans say he is extremely passionate about Poolrite’s future opportunities but has several competing priorities and needs to focus on his core business of plastic and composites manufacturing which is growing at a very rapid pace.

“My initial intention with Poolrite was to invite a strategic investor to work alongside me to continue to grow the brand,” says Hermans.

“This was as much about allowing me to focus on my core business as it was about the cash.

“We received strong interest from the first round of the campaign but it wasn’t what we had planned. The investors who expressed interest were less strategic and hands-on than we expected – they were financial investors who liked Poolrite’s cashflow and potential but wanted me to continue to run the business, which wasn’t my objective.”

Hermans says they also had substantial interest from industry players who wanted to purchase Poolrite outright and didn’t need him to be involved at all.

“Given the interest we had for an outright sale I’ve decided to offer Poolrite for sale. This will mean that I will be reluctantly stepping out of the pool industry, but it will allow me to focus on my core business which is where my real passion lies in product development and manufacturing since 2006.

“I expect the successful buyer will grow Poolrite into a major national and possibly international brand which I’m genuinely excited to see occur.”

Evolve recently settled a patent dispute with Zodiac relating to the formulation of the Revive mineral pool product, with the result that Poolrite is still able to offer its mineral pool products to the market with a new formula. See story on this page.

Scope of sale

Scan Capital has provided the following information on the sale.

Poolrite manufactures and distributes the following range of swimming pool products to distributors, pool builders, retailers and pool owners: pool pumps, filters, chlorinators, skimmer boxes, lights, filtration media, minerals and spare parts.

Poolrite owns an extensive range of Intellectual Property including patents, licenses and trademarks for its products. The entire Poolrite range is currently manufactured in Australia but can be relocated at the acquirer’s discretion.

Investment highlights

Investment in Poolrite includes: • All established products within the Poolrite product family – representing over 40 years of development • Product development pipeline including a suite of products ready for imminent commercialisation – including VSD pumps and a complete chlorinator range • All Intellectual Property associated with the Poolrite products • All tooling and associated equipment • Customer databases and the existing revenue stream from Australia and New Zealand with potential for international revenues.

Poolrite offers several compelling investment benefits:

• Revive – Balanced Multi-Minerals: Poolrite is one of few companies in Australia with the legal and intellectual property rights to distribute pool minerals • Successful product range: Poolrite’s recently launched products such as the ‘innoSkim’ skimmer box are winning significant market share and supplementing its trusted range of pumps, filters and spare parts • Extensive tooling: Poolrite has an extensive array of tooling across its broad product range, in good working condition and likely to be sold well below replacement cost • Established Brand: inter-generational brand recognition, established for 40-years with an excellent reputation for reliability • Online Presence: potential opportunity for an Industry Participant with small or no online presence to introduce a trusted brand without compromising their existing channel sales • IP Protection: various forms of IP protection including design registrations, patents, licenses, international trademarks and website domains • Durability: reputation as one of the most reliable pool pump and filter ranges on the market with historically low levels of warranty issues • Tangible Growth Potential: ongoing organic growth with proven range and recently commercialised product opportunities (including a new skimmer and Revive Mineral products) To register interest or to obtain further information, contact Ned Petrovic at ned.petrovic@scancorp.com.au or 0438 853 852.

Litigation

Zodiac settles with Evolve Group Zodiac has settled its patent infringement proceedings against Evolve Group over the makeup of Evolve’s mineral product. Zodiac has released a statement on the settlement saying: “Zodiac Group Australia Pty Ltd, a Fluidra Company, would like to announce that the Federal Court proceedings instituted by Zodiac against the Evolve Group for its patent infringement of Zodiac’s MagnaPool mineral patents by the Poolrite branded Revive minerals has concluded with a satisfactory out of court settlement.

8 SPLASH! October/November 2018

“Under the terms of the settlement, it was determined that Zodiac’s patents stand and remain enforceable and that Evolve’s infringing products would be reformulated to no longer be within the patented range of the MagnaPool mineral blend, thereby strengthening the market position of Zodiac’s MagnaPool Mineral products as a truly unique, market leading and patent-protected product, unrivalled by others in the market for the treatment of mineral pool and spa water. Zodiac remains committed to defending its rights and those of its dealers where those rights are challenged.”

news

Quarterly dips but year flat

Aquaria

The wondrous world of jelly fish

The available three-monthly pool DA numbers for the three months of July-to-September showed a decline of three per cent compared to the same period last year. Over the three months, South Australia was up 20 per cent and New South Wales was up two per cent, with Victoria and Western Australia both down nine per cent and Queensland down 11 per cent.

The annual figures comparing the 12 months to August showed no noticeable change nationally and were basically level. South Australia was up 12 per cent and New South Wales was up four per cent while Victoria stayed level. Western Australia and Queensland were both down eight per cent.

Yearly comparison by month

Guests can get an up-close look at and be able to learn about a variety of local Australian species such as the Blue Blubber

Year old

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The state-of-the-art facility places Griffith University at the forefront of jellyfish research internationally Year old

Year new

Griffith University has teamed up with Sea World to showcase the 1200 diverse and beautiful life of sea jellies in purpose-built aquaria.

Sea Jellies Illuminated features an array of sea jelly displays and educational elements600to take Sea World guests on an illuminating journey as they delve into the fascinating underwater world of 300 these aquatic animals.

900

This unique and exciting exhibit incorporates a working research 0 Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul laboratory allowing guests to view Griffith University researchers undertaking research into the fascinating world of jelly fish.

Aug Sept

Three-monthly comaparison

Griffith University head of marine science, associate professor Year old Year new Kylie Pitt, says the new5000 Griffith Sea Jellies Research Laboratory is a state-of-the-art facility, which places Griffith University at the 4000 forefront of jellyfish research internationally.

3000an amazing opportunity for the public “The laboratory provides to see research being done and to gain greater understanding of 2000 what scientists do, why research is important and how research benefits the environment 1000 and society.”

Apr May Jun

Guests can get an up-close look at and be able to learn about a 0 NSW such as VIC the Blue QLD Jul Aug of Sept variety local Australian species Blubber WA (Catostylus sp.), the Moon jelly (Aurelia aurita), Upside Down jellies (Cassiopea sp.) and many more in illuminated displays.

In addition to the exhibit Griffith University have a working research centre on the top-floor of the exhibit which will allow scientists to learn more about the species.

There is also Surf Life Saving Queensland information within the exhibit to educate guests about symptoms of stings and what to do if stung while using the marine environment.

Yearly comparison by State

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While these figures give an indication of the way the market is trending, they are not comprehensive and don’t include all pools built or even all DAs lodged. By some estimates, the total national numbers including all types of pools could be almost double these figures. They do not include pool projects that are approved as part of a new home, smaller projects under the cost threshold, renovations that don’t require a DA, or some aboveground pools. Additionally, not all councils are forthcoming with data or report on time; councils in some states such as Queensland and Victoria are particularly reluctant. For further information, call Cordell Information on 1800 80 60 60.

October/November 2018 SPLASH! 9

0

news

Safety

Annual drowning report shows improved swimming pool safety Royal Life Saving Australia’s annual report into water safety, the National Drowning Report 2018, has shown improvements on all swimming pool drowning indicators.

The report shows 33 drowning deaths in swimming pools in Australia in 2017/18, which is a 25 per cent decrease compared to SPASA's Stefan Ossenberg 2016/17 and a 20 per cent and Spiros Dassakis at the decrease against the 10 launch of the report year average.

These figures include both public and private swimming pools, with public swimming pools accounting for nine per cent of pool drowning deaths.

Children under five-years-old continues to be the most worrying age group for drownings, accounting for 36 per cent of all swimming pool drowning deaths in 2017/18, and swimming pools remain the main location for drownings of under-fives. However, the 12 deaths over this period represent a 20 per cent decrease over the 10-year average.

There were no swimming pool drowning fatalities among those aged five to 24 years.

Overall, the under-five age group shows a total of 18 drowning deaths, down by 36 per cent against the 10-year average across all locations.

In total, most drownings occurred in rivers, creeks and streams (61), followed by beaches (46) and oceans and harbours (40). Pools (33) were fourth on the list.

SPASA director, Stefan Ossenberg and SPASA COO, Spiros Dassakis were invited to the launch of the report. While there is still much to be done, Dassakis credits improved pool safety and increased supervision for the declining swimming pool drowning figures and supports water safety initiatives around swimming pools and spas that minimise the potential for accidents to occur.

Keep informed by subscribing to the free online newsletter.

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

Safety guidelines

The following guidelines assist in the safe use of a swimming pool or spa: 1. S upervise – always keep watch of your child and in arms reach when around water. Supervision is the key to preventing toddler drowning, adequate supervision means a responsible adult is supervising at all times.

2. Restrict access – restrict unsupervised access to water at all times.

Understanding the importance of a compliant safety barrier and its maintenance ensures that access to the pool or spa is limited and provides a deterrent.

3. Education – teach your child to be water confident. Ensure children are taught swimming, survival and lifesaving skills at an early age, set rules for children near water and ensure those rules are enforced.

4. Respond – learn CPR. In the event of an emergency, every parent and pool owner should have learnt first aid and CPR. 5. H ealthy pool or spa – keep your pool/spa water healthy. A healthy pool or spa ensures that you and your family can swim and enjoy your pool and/or spa all year round by keeping the chemistry right.

Go to page 42 for comprehensive coverage of the report.

Top five online news stories

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

2. Six people hospitalised after pool chemical mixup in Sydney CBD A hotel worker incorrectly mixed chemicals at the swimming pool of the Pullman Hotel, resulting in dangerous gas entering the hotel’s ventilation system.

10 SPLASH! October/November 2018

3. Video: What is different about the new “One Pentair” Carsten Andersen and Bipin Gangadharan explain the structural changes at Pentair, what One Pentair means, and what is different about the structure in Australia/New Zealand.

4. Dreamworld employees suing theme park as inquest continues Four Dreamworld staff are suing Ardent Leisure for psychological trauma in the wake of the Thunder River Rapids ride tragedy in 2016.

5. Swimart appoints executive officer in new strategic approach Pool and spa franchise group appointed Rick Graham as executive officer, less than a year after appointing a franchise development manager and a marketing manager.

news

Upcoming events 2018 Nov 14

SPASA Victoria AGM

Nov 12-16

IAAPA Expo, Orlando Florida

Nov 13-16

Piscine Global Europe, Lyon, France

Nov 16-Dec 2 World Lifesaving World Championships, Adelaide Nov 30

WA Sundowner, Elizabeth Quay, Perth

Dec 8-10 FINA World Aquatics Convention, Hangzhou, China

2019 Jan 29-31

Spatex, Coventry UK

Feb 26-28

IAAPA Conference, Abu Dhabi/Dubai, UAE

Feb 26-Mar1

Tecnova Piscinas, Madrid, Spain

Mar TBC

Pool Spa & Outdoor Living Expo, Perth

May 3-5 New Zealand Pool Spa and Outdoor Living Expo, ASB Showgrounds, Auckland May 9-11 Asia Pool & Spa Expo 2019, Guangzhou, China May 20-22

AALARA Conference, The Star Gold Coast

July 13

SPASA Victoria Awards Dinner

Aug 2 SPASA Leadership Convention 2019, Adelaide Hilton Oct 15-18

Piscina, Barcelona, Spain

Nov 4-11

Aquanale, Cologne, Germany

Nov 5-8

FSB, Cologne, Germany

Nov 6-8

SETT, Montpellier, France

2020 July 29-30 SPLASH! Pool & Spa Trade Show, Gold Coast Convention & Exhibition Centre More details at splashmagazine.com.au. Dates are subject to change and should be checked with the relevant organisation. Send calendar submissions to info@splashmagazine.com.au.

October/November 2018 SPLASH! 11 Hydroxzone Ozone Generator Ad 270mm x90mm.indd 1

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news

Safety

Victorian barrier legislation passes parliament Spa Tech Tip October is “spa heater element” month. Every October more than double the elements are sold compared to any other month.

This is probably caused by the fact that most spa owners don’t use their spas through the winter months and many actually shut it down, falsely assuming that a drained spa requires no maintenance.

Unfortunately, any imbalanced water/moisture in the pipes continues its corrosive effect during this time, particularly on electric heater elements.

Ideally, portable spas should never be left empty or turned off. But if the spa owner wants to do so, it’s best to ensure the water is perfectly in balance with minimal sanitiser remaining prior to draining. The heater and pumps should be physically removed from the plumbing and drained/ flushed with fresh water, and left disconnected from the plumbing.

If that precaution is taken, then seals may need to be inspected and replaced prior to re-installation, but the heating element is likely to survive.

Contact: Spatex Tech Support: 1300 772 839

Mandatory barrier inspection legislation has passed the Victorian parliament.

The decision comes after a long-running campaign by SPASA Victoria and other industry stakeholders and was passed with the support of the opposition and the community.

“It was only one year ago that SPASA Victoria – along with many other industry stakeholders – were surprised at the Government’s announcement of proposed new legislation which would have forced thousands of pool and spa owners to endure the inconvenience and expense of re-fencing their pool and/or spa areas for no guaranteed improved safety outcome,” says SPASA Victoria CEO, Chris Samartzis.

“It is with great delight that the decision to implement a mandatory barrier inspection program in Victoria has been made by the government. To their credit, the Andrews Government saw the logic and reason behind our advocacy,” he says.

Kidsafe launches safety campaign

Meanwhile, Olympian Matt Welsh joined Kidsafe Victoria to help save lives over summer at the launch of their Safe Barriers Save Lives campaign, in collaboration with SPASA Victoria.

The safety campaign calls on all pool and spa owners to check the safety and compliance of their pool or spa barrier at the beginning of summer.

Samartzis says that while safety barriers can be effective in reducing the risk of drowning incidents,

evidence suggests that a large number of drowning deaths are the result of barriers that are faulty or non-compliant with Australian standards.

“Pool and spa barriers are exposed to the extremes of weather all year round which can lead to rust, loose or missing bolts or screws, and wear and tear over time. It’s critical that pool and spa owners regularly check and maintain their barriers to ensure they are safe and fully compliant,” he says.

“Common faults or non-compliance issues include gates and doors that are no longer selfclosing or latching, gates that are propped open and climbable objects near the barrier,” says Kidsafe ambassador Welsh.

“There is no better use of 15 minutes of your time than checking the safety of your pool barrier in preparation for the warm summer months ahead.

By doing so, you could save a life.”

Training

SPASA expands industry qualifications The Swimming Pool & Spa Association of Australia (SPASA) has added the nationally accredited Pool Safety Inspector Course (10660NAT) to its training scope of registration, and started with a course delivered to eighteen students in Queensland.

“Our aim as the peak industry body is to engage and work with regulators in each region to deliver an agreed and accepted licencing pathway for pool barrier inspectors,” says SPASA RTO manager, Peter Holland.

“Delivering the course in Queensland is a major SPASA milestone which will be followed by advocacy efforts in other states that are considering or are rolling out pool barrier inspection programs.”

12 SPLASH! October/November 2018

Paul Shannon, Life Saving Victoria; Chris Samartzis SPASA Victoria CEO; Matt Welsh, Kidsafe ambassador; Jason Chambers, Kidsafe Victoria

Principal trainer Jacqui Pascoe is a well-respected trainer and safety advocate with more than eight years’ experience in pool barrier training.

She has worked with SPASA to ensure the development and delivery of the pool safety inspector’s course meets the needs of industry and regulator expectations.

“I am proud to work alongside SPASA, as the peak industry body who are spearheading changes to pool barrier Australian Standards and has been a strong advocate for pool and spa safety over many years,” she says.

The course runs over three days, starting at 8am and finishing 4pm each day.

Contact: Jacqui Pascoe on 0411 461 432 or email jacqui@spasa.com.au.

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news

Industry moves

Industry moves Anthony Grice has been appointed CEO of Clark Rubber Franchising. This appointment is part of Clark’s planned succession strategy and recognises Grice’s depth of experience across all areas of retail operations gained from his four years at Clark Rubber and from his previous employers. He will focus on the clear positioning of the Clark Rubber brand, delivery to customers, the store network and on driving profitable sales.

He will transition into his new role as a replacement merchandising general manager is identified.

Remco is looking for an installation/service technician to join the current Sydney team in the installation and service of their full range of market leading pool cover and swim jet products throughout NSW. Remco will provide paid training.

Industry leading installation fees and service rates are offered. Applicants should possess: mechanical installation experience; experience with power tools; low voltage wiring experience is desired but not essential; high level of fitness/health; full driver’s licence; excellent customer service skills.

Ross McNeil has been appointed Laticrete Australia’s new national sales manager, reporting directly to general manager Emma Tschannen. McNeil will focus on developing sales strategies and formulating business plans to drive the company forward.

14 SPLASH! October/November 2018

Swimart appoints executive officer in new strategic approach Pool and spa franchise group Swimart has appointed Rick Graham as executive officer.

This comes less than a year after appointing franchise development manager Alex Johnson and marketing manager Nathan Hallahan.

Graham’s impressive resume boasts previous roles as managing director of Gloria Jeans, head of retail for Optus and national sales director of OPSM. He says his new position marks a change in charter, seeing the company take on a more strategic approach in a dynamic retail landscape dominated by technological disruption.

“When I met with the Swimart team and we discussed a growth agenda, the idea of increasing our current performance alongside the company’s reach and distribution was very appealing to me,” he says.

Graham believes that great companies which have a growth agenda “invest in their brand and invest in their people to make it even bigger and stronger”.

“Swimart has built a great foundation based on knowledge, expertise and trust and there is more we can do to better engage with our customers and extend our reach into new markets,” he says.

“For me, it’s now a matter of charting out what that looks like over the next few years.”

Graham is impressed by Swimart’s success in keeping long-standing Swimart executive franchisees such officer Rick Graham as Bob Tully, Reg Blue and Murray Lonie, who have been with the franchise for up to and over 30 years.

“That is very rare, especially for a franchise model,” he says. “Many last five to 10 years but very few go well beyond that. It certainly is a strength of the brand in terms of knowledge, tenure and expertise. You only stay in a long-term franchise relationship if it has served you well.”

He says that stopping to smell the roses, so to speak, is also crucial to the longevity of a brand that operates in a retail landscape increasingly disrupted by technological advancements.

“Not enough companies stop to acknowledge their successes or achievements,” he says.

“Building a strong sales culture underpinned by rewards and recognition is very important to a company’s long-term growth and success.”

Swimart is owned by Waterco, and has 74 franchise outlets across Australia and New Zealand, and a fleet of more than 250 mobile service vans.

Industry moves

Changes at SPASA SPASA veteran Vicki Taylor, who has spent the past 23 years with the organisation, is taking some time off before moving on to her next challenge. Since joining SPASA in 1995, she has witnessed various association changes firsthand and occupied a number of varied roles encompassing accounts, membership, events and training.

Lindsay McGrath, SPASA CEO, says that Vicki leaves behind an impressive contribution to the association and the membership.

“On behalf of the board and the membership, I want to thank Vicki for her peerless performance, as we congratulate her on the journey ahead.”

Event coordinator Megan McElhinney is also moving on after spending more than five years working with SPASA. She has decided to bid farewell to the association to further her career in event management.

During her time with SPASA SA and more recently with SPASA Australia, her contribution and dedication in her role and to the membership has been one of steadfast professionalism.

Vicki Taylor

Megan McElhinney

McGrath says she made significant improvements to the association’s events.

“Megan has been instrumental in evolving our events to a new and improved level based on member feedback.

We all wish her the very best with her future growth.”

Meanwhile, Nicole Daws has joined SPASA’s training division as RTO training administrator.

Nicole’s experience includes working as a survey administrator for a major project home building company and as the qualifications administrator for one of Australia’s largest construction-based associations. She will be based in New South Wales.

SPASA’s RTO manager Peter Holland says he is thrilled she will be bringing her industry training experience and enthusiasm to her role at SPASA. Contact:1300 021 482; training@spasa.com.au.

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if weyou toldwe you we could increase revenue by 30-40%, reduce When you add a Remco product to your construction at What if we told could increase your your revenue by 30-40%, reduce your yourWhen you add a Remco product to your poolpool construction you you can can earnearn up up What we told you we could your revenue by 30-40%, When you addrevenue a Remco product to you can earn up customers and energy costs to 70% and guarantee areduce head your to 40% more by increasing thepool scope of project. the project.

Your customers omers waterifwater and energy costs by increase upbytoup 70% and guarantee a head to 40% more revenue by increasing theyour scope ofconstruction the Your customers

customers water and energy up entire toneigbourhood 70%neigbourhood and guarantee a head will also to 40% revenue by increasing theabout scope the project. turning finished product that will costs have their talking. will also get to enjoy all good the good things about a pool far customers less cleaning ing finished product that will have their by entire talking. get more to enjoy all the things aofpool withwith farYour less cleaning turning finished product that will have their entire neigbourhood talking. and heating will also get to enjoy all the good things about a pool with far less cleaning and heating costs and can rest assured they have one of the safest costs and can rest assured they have one of the safest Remco has been manufacturing high quality covers for over 30 years, mco has been manufacturing high quality pool pool covers for over 30 years, and heating and can rest assured they have one of the safest products oncosts the market. products on the market.

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Disinfection

Five years on, Zodiac celebrates MagnaPool purchase

MagnaPool has become one of Zodiac’s highest selling products year after year

Zodiac Fluidra is celebrating the five year anniversary of its fastest growing brand, MagnaPool.

Jonathon Bristow, senior category manager for watercare and chemicals, says there are many reasons why this milestone deserves recognition.

“Through a dedicated network of dealers advocating for MagnaPool, the brand has become one of Zodiac’s highest selling products year after year,” he says.

“Zodiac’s skilled and passionate sales and technical support teams have contributed to the growth of MagnaPool’s reputation with builders, retailers and end-users impressed with Zodiac’s level of reliable after-sales support, product knowledge and expertise.”

He also attributes its success to an increased interest in wellness and a consumer desire for alternatives to sodium and dosed chlorine, combined with the publicised benefits of magnesium and minerals.

“Marketing initiatives have been very successful in building the MagnaPool brand,” he says. “With an increased interest in MagnaPool products being generated at industry trade shows and retail open days as well as in retail stores.”

High profile advocates include Australian country music legend Lee Kernaghan who actively promotes MagnaPool through Captain Nemo Pool & Spa Suppliers in Queensland, as well football stars and teams in all codes.

“And MagnaPool is inundated with requests from all over the world,” he says. “From the Maldives to Chicago; from New York to Thailand.”

Manufacturing

Kreepy Krauly wins national family award Second-generation Australian-owned and operated family business, pool cleaner manufacturer Kreepy Krauly, has been inducted into the Family Business Australia (FBA) Hall of Fame.

The FBA awards recognise the achievements of family businesses that positively impact the community, economy and culture.

Kreepy Krauly’s original product was ground breaking when it began production more than 40 years ago, and led the development of automated pool cleaning.

Founded by the Jackson Family in 1976, Kreepy Krauly has become a household name, with its technology renowned for reliability, performance, and low maintenance requirements.

Current Kreepy Krauly directors Andrew Jackson and Sarah Davis say the business was honoured to be celebrated on a national level.

“Our focus has always been on quality which has seen the Kreepy Krauly business maintain its reputation for reliability and performance for over 40 years,” says Jackson.

Initially devised in South Africa, the production and development of the popular and dependable version of the cleaner has always been in Western Australia, originally engineered by

Andrew’s father Terry Jackson. The first Australiandesigned Kreepy Krauly technology was launched Kreepy Krauly directors in 1976 and has Andrew Jackson maintained its and Sarah Davis home roots, with all model design and manufacturing run out of its Western Australian facility.

Davis says the Kreepy Krauly is designed and built to suit Australian conditions, especially the Western Australian sand and the Queensland heat.

“We have always believed Australia should have a strong innovation and manufacturing industry, which is why we proudly still manufacture locally,” she says. “Every Kreepy Krauly has been designed to be a truly automatic, reliable, built-to-last Australian-made product.

“AutoPool are our sole national distributors which is a win-win for Autopool and Kreepy Krauly.”

Not only have Kreepy Krauly developed into a second-generation family business but Davis says they are already preparing the next generation to take over when the time comes.

Chemical Tips The hidden bugs lurking in your pool system Chlorine is added to pools and spas principally to kill any bacteria that may be introduced to the water, usually by bathers and external sources. However, it is estimated that only one per cent of the bacteria is present in the water itself. The other 99 per cent is lurking in the pipes, filter, skimmer box and on the surface of the pool equipment. As it colonises, it forms a protective layer of biofilm – allowing it to multiply and grow.

This biofilm is further increased by sunscreen, sweat and other contaminants shed by bathers.

Biofilm is highly resistant to normal sanitisers such as chlorine and bromine and further adds to the sanitiser demand of the water.

Removing biofilm can be extremely difficult as much of it will be within the pipework or other pool equipment. The only chemicals effective against biofilm are chlorine dioxide and some selective enzymes. These products may not only remove biofilm but also assist in preventing it from re-occurring.

Pools should be treated for biofilm at least once per year, preferably when opening the pool before summer.

Spas, because of the heated water and heavy bather load, should be treated for it every time the water is renewed – and commercial spas at least monthly.

These tips are supplied by pool industry pioneer and chemistry expert David Lloyd.

For more information call International Quadratics on (02) 9774 5550.

October/November 2018 SPLASH! 17

news

Reading

The secret of gardens Safety

Tradies urged to protect their hearing Tradies across the country are at risk of developing permanent hearing loss due to noise hazards on the job, and are being urged to listen to the latest guidelines on how to protect their hearing health by wearing hearing protection devices.

According to academic research (Beach, Gilliver & Warwick) hearing loss due to excessive noise from machinery and power tools is one of the most widespread yet preventable workplace injuries. The good news is that recent findings show tradies who use hearing protection devices at work are also more likely to use them during noisy leisure pursuits.

A national survey of more than 8000 Australian adults conducted by the National Acoustic Laboratories (NAL), the research division of Australian Hearing, reveals that workplace users of hearing protection devices are five times more likely to use them at leisure. Men were significantly more likely than women to use hearing protection in 10 out of 20 leisure activities.

“It’s heartening to see that use at work predicts use ‘at play’,” says Dr Elizabeth Beach, Senior Research Psychologist at NAL. Dr Beach, who co-authored the report on hearing devices, says there are several signs you might have a hearing problem.

“If you’ve worked with noisy machinery or tools and have noticed that you can’t hear the television or phone as well as you used to, or if you’re noticing you need to ask people to repeat themselves, you might have sustained some noiseinduced hearing damage,” she says. “It’s important to seek help to determine the extent of the damage and consider solutions.”

Fast facts for risk-averse tradies:

• Cumulative damage: lasting damage can result from a one-off exposure to excessively loud noise or from repeated exposures to moderately loud sound over an extended period of time.

• Power tools and permanent damage: Power tools often exceed 100 decibels so even if they’re only used for a short time, the damage to hearing can be permanent. Common culprits are pneumatic hammers, drills and saws.

Preventative steps include:

• Buy quiet to save your hearing: One of the most effective ways of reducing noise is to “buy quiet”. Next time you need to purchase a new saw or drill, check the manufacturer specifications and choose a model with a lower noise rating.

• Choose well-fitted hearing protection to keep industrial noise below harmful levels.

• Choose hearing protection that’s comfortable to wear for long periods – whether earmuffs or ear plugs, disposable or reusable – it’s critical to find a style that works for you.

• Remember: 85 decibels is considered the Safe Noise Threshold – if the sound of your tools is loud enough that you need to raise your voice to be heard, appropriate hearing protection should be worn.

Contact: www.hearing.com.au 18 SPLASH! October/November 2018

Secret Gardens is a beautifully presented, 375-page hardback coffee-table book. Featuring stunning photography by Nicholas Watt, it portrays some of Matthew Cantwell’s favourite projects and is the perfect gift for green-fingered, landscapeloving Australians.

“As each of our clients is different, each of the gardens we create for them is equally as unique,” says the Cantwell.

“Every garden photographed in the book is accompanied by detailed stories of how each came to fruition as well as how our talented team overcame the challenges presented with each one.”

A visual feast of contemporary residential landscaping, Secret Gardens features compact gardens and rambling grounds, offering a rich resource of inspiration. It showcases a variety of gardens, each highlighting perfect harmony between the built elements and planting and the balance of form and function.

Contact: secretgardensbook.com

Industry moves

Spatex is moving Spatex, the trade division of Australian Spa Parts, is moving from Yeppoon to Brisbane. The new location is at 3B/242 New Cleveland Road, Tingalpa, which is five minutes off the Gateway motorway.

Managing director Adrian Lacy says there will be a transition phase while they move stock from Yeppoon but they will be able to accommodate most orders direct from the Brisbane warehouse from early November, with the transition expected to be completed by the end of November with minimal interruption to supply.

“Ensure you note the address change,” he says. “Parts for repairs sent to Yeppoon after mid-November can’t be received or automatically transferred to Brisbane.”

Contact: 1300 772 839

Open your eyes to mineral fresh water The first time you and your family swim in a 100% salt-free MagnaPool it’s a real eye opener. The water, especially for little ones, feels purer, fresher and silkier thanks to our unique mineral formula. You’ll also notice it’s kinder to the eyes, softer on the skin and you’ll emerge from the pool feeling like you’ve just stepped from the shower.

Health

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Environment

Visit magnapool.com

news

Industry moves

In Brief Hundreds of jobs have been lost following the collapse of central Queensland building company, JM Kelly, and many subcontractors are owed money following the collapse of the Rockhampton-based company.

JM Kelly had 230 workers and had built major government projects over the past 60 years. Eight of its companies are now in liquidation. JM Kelly is the second builder to collapse in Rockhampton this year.

Controversial share economy outfit Swimply, known as the “Airbnb for pools”, is launching in Australia. It enables users to rent out their swimming pools at an hourly rate and has been a success in the United States. While there are a number of positives, serious questions remain over safety and owner’s liability.

Daisy’s Ultradome pool cover has met the stringent requirements of the SPASA pool cover certification guidelines and is now Climate Care Certified as well as being certified by Smart Approved Watermark.

After years of development, a revision has been released of ANSI/APSP 16-2011: American National Standard for Suction Outlet Fitting Assemblies (SOFA) for Use in Pools, Spas, and Hot Tubs. The new standard, ANSI/APSP/ ICC 16-2017, incorporates updated requirements and methodology for the testing, documentation and application of suction outlet fitting assemblies (SOFAs) that are used in recreational water facilities.

20 SPLASH! October/November 2018

Inspirational speaker joins Leadership Convention Among the list of high profile presenters, the second edition of the highly successful SPASA Leadership Convention will feature Major Matina Jewell (Retired) CSP, one of the most sought-after speakers in the country.

Jewell is one of the most highly decorated women in Australian military history, with eight military medals. She is the only Australian to be awarded two Republic of Lebanon War Medals.

from helicopters, boarded ships smuggling contraband, served with elite American Navy Seals in the Arabian Gulf and helped track down a notorious militia leader in the Solomon Islands.

She speaks four languages, holds a Masters in Project Management, was a prime ministerial advisor, a national mental health forum member and an ANZAC centenary commissioner. She has been named Telstra Women in Business 2016 NSW Finalist and one of CPA Australia’s Top 10 Thinkers’ who shaped 2015.

“It takes leaders who are Her career culminated with a courageous, who have the vision to coveted posting to serve as part take an organisation in a direction of the United Nations Truce where they may not be 100 per Supervision Organisation (UNTSO) cent sure about how things in the Middle East. She was thrust will look on the other side…”

She is now a mum with two into the middle of the war between young daughters which she jokes, Israel and Hezbollah – as the only Australian and the “makes commanding 500 soldiers seem easy!” only woman on Patrol Base Khiam.

Nicole Hatherly from Commbank says: “Matina Her story is one of inspiration – of authentic leadership, of resilience in the face of crippling adversity and of thriving through changes across a trail-blazing military career – and beyond.

At the age of 23, she was head of the army department aboard HMAS Kanimbla, then Australia’s largest navy ship. She was the first woman in the army to complete the physically demanding navy diver course, and has fast-roped

is hands down the best speaker I’ve experienced.

Her inconceivable circumstances, raw courage, storytelling and rare ability to package her lessons in risk and leadership into a realm that we could digest was a gift.”

The SPASA Leadership Convention 2019 will be held at the Hilton Hotel Adelaide on Friday August 2, and will include the SPASA National Awards of Excellence Gala.

Export

Middle East learns about Aussie technology Australian Innovative Systems (AIS) CEO Elena Gosse says her trip to Dubai has strengthened the company’s regional business connections and generated more potential export opportunities for Australian water disinfection products.

AIS was the only representative from Australia’s water disinfection industry exhibiting at The Leisure Show at the Dubai World Trade Centre as part of its commitment to showcasing Australian technology and promoting industry and consumer education.

Additionally Gosse made a special presentation as part of the event’s swimming pool and spa conference, in which she highlighted the safety and other benefits of electrolysis over conventional chlorine dosing.

Gosse says that while AIS exports to more than 50 countries worldwide and already has some of its systems operating in the Middle East, The Leisure Show offered a terrific opportunity to grow AIS’ business further and bolster Australian export markets.

“This was a significant event for AIS to attend and reinforces the global direction of our company to focus on our core Elena Gosse delivering a offer of designing and manufacturing presentation during The Leisure Show at the Dubai quality water World Trade Centre disinfection technology while collaborating with other industry professionals as required.

She says the strong interest in their products from the show demonstrates opportunities to further grow the total Australian water disinfection and pool industry business The show was attended by 5000 industry professionals including 150 international suppliers.

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news

Jim’s Pool Care owner and general manager Brett Blair with some of Jim’s 100 franchisees

In Brief

Retailt

Jim’s reaches the ton Jim’s Pool Care has reached the milestone of 100 franchise owners. Owner and general manager Brett Blair credits the success to meeting growing pool service demand while also helping meet franchisee’s goals.

“The Jim’s Pool Care concept is a true mobile pool shop that not only provides pool maintenance but sells a full and complete range of pool equipment and chemicals,” says Blair.

“This means our franchisees can charge for their time and earn great margins on lucrative chemical and pool equipment products.”

Jim’s has locations in all major cities around Australia and is now growing into large regional centres. The business began 14 years ago in Western Australia as one of the 50 divisions within the Jim’s Group. Since then Blair has seen the franchisor grow from around 30 to 100 franchisees, plus 13 regional franchisors over his nine years in the role.

“I am very proud of the team and the individuals who have invested in our business and invested in themselves,” he says.

“Their reward is that they are in a business that has no limits on growth, they have full flexibility over their lifestyle choices and they are in fact their own boss. It is not easy for any new business to start up and it takes hard work each time, but my team are always here and committed to be there for their journey.”

Jim’s winners

Meanwhile, Jim’s Pool Care announced the 2017/2018 winners at their gala awards ceremony in Port Douglas, held as part of their 10th annual conference.

“The Jim’s Pool Care team had a wonderful time celebrating the achievements of our outstanding franchisees and franchisors,” says Blair. “We look forward to seeing everyone again at the next gala event and wish everyone the best of luck in working towards winning next year. Keep up the good work!”

Franchisee of the Year: Scott Baumle (Noosa) Rookie of the Year: Mathew Massimissa (Kewarra Beach) Entrepreneur of the Year: Paul Couchman (Coomera) Franchisee Mobile Highest Gross Turnover Month: Chris Newman (Caringbah) Franchisee Regulars Growth within 12 months: Scot Baumle (Noosa) Franchisee Mobile Highest Gross Turnover: Chris Newman (Caringbah) Franchisor of the Year: Jason Catanzariti (Gold Coast) Franchisor Sales & Support: Adam Post (Victoria East) Franchisor Entrepreneur: Mike Steltenpool (Newcastle) Franchisor Highest Turnover: Mike Steltenpool (Newcastle)

Drought

Help a farmer – buy a pool cover Supreme Heating is helping Australia’s farming communities who are struggling through the devastating drought – the worst one on record in some states.

Supreme will be donating $10 from every pool cover purchased between now and December 31, 2018 to Rural Aid’s Buy A Bale Campaign.

They say that with Aussie farmers suffering through one of the worst droughts Australia has ever seen, water conservation is more important than ever.

The pool and spa industry is helping farmers face this tough drought

Supreme says that the best way to save water around the pool is with a pool cover, which can reduce water evaporation by up to 97 per cent.

Smart Approved WaterMark and Daisy Pool Covers have also got on board with the Buy a Bale appeal, with Daisy pledging up to $5000 to match the donations made to Smart Approved Watermark’s fund.

You can also make direct donations to Buy A Bale.

Contact: www.buyabale.com.au

PebbleTec has been acquired by New Yorkbased investment firm Graycliff Partners, purchasing the company from a small group of individual shareholders for an undisclosed price.

Pebble swimming pool interiors were originally developed and patented by NSW builder Mutual Pools from the 1970s after the technology was developed from driveway coating in the 1960s. The principals took the technology to the USA under the banner of Pebble Technology Inc. (Pebbletec) and the company expanded rapidly and reinvested its profits into R&D. Pebbletec is widely credited for transforming the pool finish market.

The New Zealand Pool Spa and Outdoor Living Expo is a combined one-day trade and two-day consumer event, which will generate hundreds of leads for exhibitors over the three days. It will be held over May 3 to 5 at Auckland’s ASB Showgrounds. Contact Sue Ryman-Kiernan for more at spasa@ wiseconnections.com.au or on (03) 9885 6566.

SPASA Australia moved into Auckland with a full day of training in October.

There were 61 students in attendance completing the two-part course on Pool Equipment Maintenance and Water Quality, delivered

by Lindsay McGrath and David Stennett.

Attendees reported that the course was well worth the investment of time. More training is scheduled in 2019 after the summer rush.

October/November 2018 SPLASH! 23

feature

Getting started in the concrete pool business

By Cal Stanley

R

ecently a reader sent me an email telling me that after some years in the pool service business, he wants to start building concrete pools. He asked for some tips and here is my response.

In 1980 I went into an equal partnership with a key employee of the business as I could not afford the full cost of it on my own.

We purchased a pool construction business in WA called Aquatic Concrete Pools.

We purchased the goodwill, all the assets and took on a specified list of liabilities. We did not purchase the corporate entity. It didn’t take long for me to realise I had been dealing with a very shady character.

After the sale, about 30 creditors – not on that specified list – came out of nowhere demanding to be paid. I referred them all back to the vendor who had very quickly taken our money, stripped the corporate entity and made himself very difficult to contact. They all lost out.

I did inherit a pretty good bunch of sub-contractors, a construction manager and a partner who was to handle the sales. My job was administration. I did not plan on leaving the office at all.

There was a lot of work in progress and within three months we had completed and handed over about 75 swimming pools. Sounds good doesn’t it?

But it was too good to be true. Most of the contracts has been sold at very low prices and I soon realised this had been done to make the business look attractive for sale. The bank account had gone backwards not forwards.

When a further three months passed with comparatively little new business, I knew something had to change. I called my partner in on a Friday afternoon before a long weekend and asked, “Why are sales so low?”

He said: “You put the price up!”

I said: “We worked hard over the past six months and have nothing to show for it because all those pools were sold too cheaply. Without selling at the right price we will be broke within weeks.”

I told him we had both made a bad investment, that there was not enough in the business for the two of us, and he could either sell me his half for $1 or he could purchase my half for the same amount.

We agreed to meet again after the long weekend and determine a way forward.

I never saw that “partner” again. He had come into the office over the weekend, pulled a blank cheque out from the back of the book where I would not easily notice it, gone to the bank on the Tuesday morning and cashed it for $10,000 leaving $166.80 in the bank account. He left his wife at the same time and to the best of my knowledge she has never seen him since either. He is believed to have left the country.

Ultimately this would turn out to be the best $10,000 I ever spent.

It turned out that his wife owned 25 per cent of the business, didn’t want it and sold it to me for that $1. That gave me enough control to sell the business to another entity that I owned 100 per cent of.

Things had to change

Things had to change and this is what I did.

24 SPLASH! October/November 2018

I decided to set out a plan for the kind of pool business I wanted for myself and wrote down the following: 1. I would learn all I could about every facet of concrete swimming pools including: design, engineering principles, water flow through pipes, filtration and chemical water treatment as well as sewers, electrical requirements and what the local councils would and would not permit. One of the things this led to was a library of over 40 Australian Standards that impacted on the industry.

2. Every pool would be built to the highest standard I could give within the constraints of the contract.

3. My customers would always be right.

4. My warranty on every pool would be the best in the industry. If something went wrong that was not caused by normal “wear and tear”, it would be fixed regardless of age.

5. I would own every mistake made and fix them without delay.

6. I would sell at the highest price I could reasonably obtain.

With this in mind I then: • Increased prices by a further 25 per cent.

• Went to the bank and arranged an overdraft facility.

• Determined that I would handle all future pool sales.

• Terminated the construction manager. To the extent required, I would do his work as well.

• Found that Aquatic Concrete Pools had an unsavoury reputation to say the least. I changed the trading name to Neptune Pools.

• Moved the business out of the commercial premises we were renting to my three-hectare home property and began operating from a shed and the dining room table.

• Got a truck licence so I could deliver materials to the job site in the old eight-tonne Bedford truck.

• Sold my car and purchased a utility.

• Began working 12 to 15 hours per day.

• Never having sold anything in my life, I started selling pools!

Oh! And pretty soon after this I got divorced, moved to another four-and-half-hectare property with the wife of my electrician, (he didn’t want to work for me any more so I had to then find a new one for the business), went further still into debt building a house (with an office), pool (of course), a larger shed for the business, got married again, kept working those 12-hour to15-hour days, and sold pools.

In case you haven’t figured it out yet, running a pool construction business is not a 35-hour per week job. Of even more importance is that my new wife turned out to be so damned good I am lucky enough to still have her after 33 years.

Find out in the next edition of SPLASH! how things went from there. n For these columns, Cal Stanley draws on his experience and success in pool construction, having run award-winning Neptune Pools in Western Australia for three decades, and sitting on many standards committees and industry body boards. More recently he has worked as a pool consultant and trainer and delivers hydraulics courses for the swimming pool industry.

If you have a question regarding his columns or have a topic you think he should delve into, email him at neptunepools@westnet.com.au.

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• Control two lighting zones independently, with a wireless handset that has extended range.

• Choose from 7 fixed colours and 6 colour shows, or choose and save your own fixed colour.

• No need to replace your existing cables and transformers.

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Ph: 02 9643 8338 • E: aqua@aquaquip.com.au • W: www.aquaquip.com.au

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David Lloyd, managing director of International Quadratics, being interviewed at the SPLASH! Pool & Spa Trade Show

The 120 year history of

Pierce Pool Supplies

I

n the latest of our series of interviews from the SPLASH! Pool & Spa Trade Show, David Lloyd, managing director of International Quadratics, talks about the long history of Pierce Pool Supplies, also known as AH Pierce, going back 120 years.

A trader in a horse and cart

Albert Pierce, who is the A in AH Pierce, started the business back in 1898.

And he actually started really as a trader. He used to get a horse and sulky – he’d catch a train into the country and he’d have a horse and sulky waiting for him at the station, and then he just travelled around all the farmsteads.

Basically whatever they wanted, he’d just go and buy it and sell it to them. And that’s how AH Pierce started the business. And the fortunes of the company

“He became a conduit to pass information around, at the same time supplying the necessary algaecides and chlorine for those pools.” went up and down over the years. The Pierce family were actually original board members of the Bank of New South Wales [now Westpac] when it first started up.

Albert did this for many years, then his son Harold got into the business – I guess in the early 1900s – 26 SPLASH! October/November 2018

and continued doing what Albert did except he used the charabanc – the new motor vehicle – to do the same job. And gradually they began trading things from baling hooks to sacks to anything people wanted.

Harold was an engineer and he got into the sewage business. He became quite an expert in sewage works and started supplying chemicals to the sewage industry – to councils basically. In the 1930s, towards the end of the depression, the government gave incentives to businesses to try and re-stimulate the economy – a bit like Kevin Rudd did. They offered money to councils to either put new sewage works in – and in those days I think it was pretty basic, the dunny in the backyard when they actually started putting sewer lines through – or they could put swimming pools in, though I think the pools came a little bit later.

Pioneer of Australian aquatics

Harold was actually the first one to bring in dry chlorine from the UK, which was used in the sewage works at that time.

When the swimming pools started to get built, nobody really knew how to operate them. As Harold was working his way around the country, one town would have a problem with a pool and somebody would work out how to fix it, then he’d go to another town and they’d have a similar problem and he’d be able to tell them how to fix that problem. He became a conduit to pass information around, at the same time supplying the necessary algaecides and chlorine for those pools.

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“Aquatic centres are now becoming entertainment centres, so that’s where we see our longer term future.”

He was also instrumental in commencing the ARI, the Aquatic & Recreation Institute, which in those days was called the country pool managers association or something like that. They gradually developed more and more pool related products from equipment and swimming suits to chemicals. They did a bit of business in the domestic market with pool blankets, but mainly it was in the commercial end of the market.

Our family bought into International Quadratics in 2000, and IQ had been going since the mid-1970s, so it was a pretty well established spa chemical business at the time. But we’d always wanted to get into the commercial side of the business. In the early 2000s we started bringing in the dry chlorine feeders for the large aquatic centres.

Pierce came up for sale in the mid-2000s – 2006, 2007 – they ran out of family members who wanted to continue the business. I approached them and as a result we ended up buying Pierce Pool Supplies, as AH Pierce had become. We continue to run Pierce Pool Supplies really as our commercial division. To be honest, when we first bought the business we had intended to kill off the name and it all become International Quadratics. But with a hundred-odd years of history, everyone used to ring up and say “Is that Pierce Pool Supplies?” So they can call me anything they want to, as long as they want to do business with us [laughs].

The growing commercial market

As a consequence I believe Pierce Pool Supplies has been reinvigorated and we once again have a very close connection with the ARI. The commercial side of our business is about 40 per cent of our total business, 60 per cent domestic. Ask me again in five years’ time if I’m still around and hopefully it will be 60 per cent commercial and 40 per cent domestic, because the commercial side of the business is a very strongly growing side of the business. The domestic side is fairly flat, whereas the aquatic centres are now becoming entertainment centres, so that’s where we see our longer term future.

I’ve been in the pool side of the business since the mid-1980s and as I’ve said before, I’m a chemical salesman. But we’re not selling chemicals anymore, we’re selling technology. And more and more young people are coming in, they’re better trained, it’s becoming more professional. You need more qualifications to run a pool, either domestic or a commercial pool. So I think the commercial side will definitely grow – as I said earlier it’s got strong growth in it – but it does need younger people with good technical skills. And I ain’t gunna be one of those people to be honest [laughs]. My seven-year-old grandson switches my telephone on for me in the morning. So my two sons who are very capable and very aware of the new technology are now running this business in real terms.

Hopefully we’ve got another 120 years to go. I won’t be there to see it, but hopefully they will.

Contact: www.interquad.com.au n

“We’re not selling chemicals anymore, we’re selling technology.”

October/November 2018 SPLASH! 27

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Global pool and spa advocate Tom Lachocki

to retire T

om Lachocki, CEO of the influential US body, the National Swimming Pool Foundation (NSPF), will retire in 2019 after leading the foundation since 2003.

Over the intervening 15 years, Lachocki has become an internationally recognised and respected authority on swimming pools and water immersion in all its various forms, and has been a relentless advocate for swimming and aquatic activity as a pathway to improving the health of populations across a growing number of countries.

Under his leadership, NSPF has grown from offering one product, Certified Pool & Spa Operator Certification, to becoming a market leader, delivering education and promotion to the residential construction, pool service, and commercial pool operation segments via classroom and online learning.

In 2018, NSPF and Genesis training programs reached more than 40,000 professionals.

It was Lachocki who envisioned and led the creation of the highly successful educational symposium, the World Aquatic Health Conference (WAHC), which in 2018 celebrated its 15th year of exploring scientific advances and bringing together the leading aquatics thinkers and influencers. A WAHC symposium was also hosted in Australia in 2014 during SPLASH! Week.

Lachocki is in demand as a speaker, advocating to the commercial and residential pool industries the benefits of aquatics, scientific advancement, and reasonable legislation and policies.

Lachocki was also instrumental in founding the Step into Swim campaign (SIS), which serves to create swimmers and reduce drowning, increase healthy activity and build demand for a health-focused aquatic industry.

SIS has impacted more than 36,000 families to date.

Prior to leading NSPF, Lachocki had been director of product development at BioLab for six years, following on from being a senior research scientist at the same company and a senior research chemist at the Vista Chemical Company. In 1988 he gained his PhD in organic chemistry from Louisiana State University 28 SPLASH! October/November 2018

ABOVE: Tom Lachocki will be retiring from his position at NSPF after a managed transition

“The graveyards are filled with people who were supposedly irreplaceable.

I’m confident there are people in our field who will step in and help lead for the next fifteen years.”

to add to his bachelor of science from the Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania.

He is a member of the National Drowning Prevention Alliance board of directors, The Pool Spa & Aquatics Alliance and the California Pool & Spa Association board of directors, on the board of trustees of the NESPA Foundation for Advancement of Professionalism and is also on the drowning prevention expert panel for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Rob Butcher, chair of the NSPF board of directors says they have been fortunate for and appreciative of Lachocki’s leadership.

“Tom brought nearly two decades of organisational stability and growth, and most importantly, respect and goodwill toward NSPF,” says Butcher. “Our intent is to select a successor CEO in 2019 to support the transition process, and then allow Tom a much-deserved sabbatical.”

Fifteen years of achievement

Lachocki says he is honoured to have served beside NSPF’s innovative staff and their hundreds of instructors and faculty, whom he credits for the organisation’s success. However, he says it is time to move on and focus on the next stage of his life.

“It’s been fifteen years. I saw some pictures of myself from the early days and thought, holy cow, I was a lot younger then!

“Like anyone, the time comes to connect with your lifetime goals and I feel that the organisation is in a place where it can continue to go forward, and I want to focus on my mind/body/spirit and on where to go next.”

When asked what achievements define his time helming the NSPF he answers pre-eminence and service.

“We wanted to have pre-eminent science-based programs tailored to specific market segments. To be the best,” he says.

“And for service, our mission is to encourage healthier living by increasing aquatic activity through education and research. But we have to recognise that we are not the people who are teaching the people at the pools to keep people safer, or the people who teach how to design,

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Lachocki delivering one of his highly entertaining and informative seminars at SPLASH! New Zealand

engineer and build better pools, or to service pools and keep them clean – they’re our faculty, our instructors. So service has to be our endgame because we’re helping them become successful by fulfilling our mission.”

NSPF has now trained people in more than 104 countries.

“In the last year alone we trained people in more than 75 countries.

When I started we were reaching just over 20,000 individuals every year.

In the past 12 months, more than 40,000 people attended one of either the NSPF or Genesis training programs.”

In those 15 years, the NSPF’s mission-based revenue has grown more than fivefold, with most of the revenue coming through their education programs: certification programs and genesis training programs for design, engineering and construction; the World Aquatic Health Conference for people engaged in the public sector; and the advanced service technician courses – which actually satisfy some of the requirements for the Cert III and Cert IV in Australia.

In fact, Lachocki has a long association with the Australasian industry through SPLASH! “Between myself and my team members, we’ve been to Australia six or seven times. We’ve been happy participants at SPLASH! in Australia a few times, and also in New Zealand and in Singapore.

“I’ve always cherished the relationship with you and Simon and I look forward to seeing Lindsay and Spiros here at Las Vegas at the International Pool & Spa Expo. I think the US and Australia have a similar culture and Australia should be proud with the successes they’ve had with creating consistency throughout the states, and with time we hope to see progress in that direction here.”

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Search for a new leader

The board is initiating a search for a new CEO. “In probably three to six months I’ll move on, exactly when depends on when the board finds the right person – and they seem committed to find the right person,” he says.

“The good news is that when I interact with my board members and staff, the commitment to pre-eminent education remains the same.

The commitment to help people have a happy healthy life through this industry, and the commitment to good policy remains the same. I’m sure there are a lot of people who will continue to carry the torch and I encourage them to do so.”

About the potential of him leaving a problematic void at the top of the association, he is philosophical and humble.

“The graveyards are filled with people who were supposedly irreplaceable. I’m confident there are people in our field who will step in and help lead for the next fifteen years.

“You know, it’s hard to change an organisation’s culture. And if you have a poor culture, then that’s bad. But ours is a good culture and the good culture will continue beyond me leaving.”

Lachocki says when he leaves the NSPF he will take a couple of months to do some hiking and get some silence in his life. Beyond that he has no plans.

“It would be a shame to get to the end and think you hadn’t really considered how to spend your precious time on this planet. That’s not to diminish what we’ve achieved, but to look at where I go next.” n

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October/November 2018 SPLASH! 29

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Outboxing the

big

players

By Izzy Grace

ABOVE: Digital strategies can help pool shops counter the threats from online-only and big box retailers

T

he online revolution and the mass market retailers are seen as a significant threat to traditional retailing. In this article we look at how pool retail stores and mobile service operators can compete against big box retailers and online-only suppliers by leveraging expertise and enhancing the customer experience.

Turning wary consumers into customers for life

Swimart regional franchise manager Ernie Sumner says there are three key categories of pool owners. The first is a “hard core group” that simply want the cheapest, irrespective of quality of products or service, so they can look after their own pool.

“It’s not a large group, but the reality is they are unlikely to be swayed to shopping at a dedicated pool store,” he says. “Having said that, some people use a pool shop to get their water tested, and then go to

“Earn trust and you should be able to turn that wary customer into a customer for life.”

Bunnings to purchase chemicals. Some pool shops find it frustrating to continue to provide free water testing for these customers. But in my view, correct merchandising and outstanding service will mean a pool shop can still have an opportunity to make sales and be the destination pool shop if and when something does go wrong with their pool. So, smile and continue to offer an outstanding customer experience.”

Some pool shops have the view they don’t want this type of customer anyway, but Sumner reckons they are wrong.

30 SPLASH! October/November 2018

“Retailers spend billions on just trying to get customers to come into their store. My view is, if these potential customers are walking in for their free water test, then one day they may need more than just chemicals to balance their pool,” he says.

And when they do, Sumner want them to remember the pool shop that has always been there, smiling and helpful.

The second group is often wary of pool shops because they may have had either a bad experience or don’t believe they are receiving the type of value offered by big box outlets like Bunnings. A pool shop, says Sumner, has a real opportunity to gain these customers through outstanding customer service.

“What that means is providing advice, a smile, a greeting, all the things a good retailer should do. But most importantly, the shop needs to understand the customer,” he says.

“A pool shop must earn the respect and loyalty of pool owners. They must not abuse the trust of the pool owner, and they must demonstrate that is the culture of the shop. The pool shop has the opportunity to sway that pool owner into becoming a customer if they follow those basic rules.”

That said, Sumner agrees that the loyalty is heavily influenced by a pool shop’s sales team.

“They need to look professional and smile, and ensure the stock is clean and the store properly merchandised,” he explains. “You want the pool owner to have an enjoyable experience. For this group of customers, price is not the primary concern, it’s trust. Earn trust and you should be able to turn that wary customer into a customer for life.”

The third group values and recognises the qualities of a pool shop professional, where price reflects the quality of the service.

“This customer doesn’t want the cheapest; he or she wants value,” Sumner says.

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“And commensurate with that is the quality of the people within the store – it’s always about people.”

Optimising the customer experience

Andrew Pullen, CEO of Vortex Leisure – owner of Spa World – says his company adheres to a very concise set of values called The 5Cs, with the first being Caring for Customers.

“We are completely committed to the 5Cs and giving 5-star customer service,” he says.

“As an award-winning retailer, Spa World can offer a level of customer care that no big box retailer can match. For example, for most spa owners keeping their spa water clean and safe for their family is extremely important. As such, most customers seek the specialist advice from us that isn’t offered by the big boxes.”

Pullen says that all of Spa World’s new retail stores optimise the customer experience by careful use of space, branding and styling. The aim is to create a consistent and cohesive look, while offering exceptional customer service across all of the stores.

“Our customers need to be able to sit in and experience the different spa options for what is often the third biggest purchasing decision of their lives, after buying a house or car. This type of customer experience is unique to specialist retailers like Spa World.”

Pullen believes social media is the preferred method of communication for much of the population.

“If a business has not embraced social media, they are failing to communicate with a considerable percentage of their potential customer base,” he says. “We have a sophisticated social media presence with 65,000 people following us on Facebook alone, and we have high engagement across all our channels.”

The company also invests in ongoing training to remain ahead of the curve.

“We’re currently introducing an online learning management system and our team will be able to earn qualifications in various parts of our business operations including sales, customer care and technical support,” he says.

ABOVE: Pool shops are helping a customer’s family remain safe and better enjoy their leisure time

He says to look out for the biggest sign that your business is struggling to compete against big box outlets: not being able to pay your bills.

“There is a great saying: ‘sales are vanity, profit is sanity, but cash is king’!”

Using social media to broadcast your best assets

Impactiv8 social media consultant Loren Bartley says consumers prefer to buy from people they know, like and trust.

“Large retailers can often provide an impersonal experience, where the level of service and advice can vary significantly based on whose shift it is at the time.

Smaller retailers have the advantage of being able to develop relationships with their customers over time and position themselves as the go-to-resource when it comes to pool care and maintenance,” she says.

LEFT: The expertise and knowledge of pool shop technicians is valued by consumers – and extends well beyond water testing October/November 2018 SPLASH! 31

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rather than an investment in the growth of the business.”

While using social media to broadcast your best assets – be it people, products or services – saturating your page with desperate call-to-actions will only turn potential customers and followers away.

“I see way too many businesses using social media to scream ‘buy my stuff ’,” says Bartley. “This is not an effective strategy. Social media provides an opportunity to educate, entertain and inspire your audience in a way that will make them feel more positive about your business.

“It is through these activities that you will start to convince your prospective customers that you are the people they should be doing business with.

This is also the way that you will be able to provide a point of difference and position yourself above the larger retailers who have much bigger national marketing budgets.”

Andrew Pullen, CEO of Vortex promotes “caring for customers”

Digital showcasing the industry’s positives

“Going head-to-head and competing solely on price with the big players is not the answer.”

BELOW: The spa night experience – an innovation at the Spa World Dandenong store, designed to give consumers an engaging look into spa ownership RIGHT: Impactiv8 social media consultant Loren Bartley says consumers prefer to buy from people they know, like and trust

“Pool retail stores and mobile service vans should be using this to their advantage by using social media and email marketing to highlight their team members, demonstrate their expertise and provide a compelling reason why customers should be doing business with them over the competition.”

While social media provides the perfect vehicle for promoting your business to potential customers, Bartley says the strategies that were most effective last year may not necessarily work quite as well this year.

“Therefore, it is important that businesses either invest in ongoing training to keep themselves up-tospeed with the latest best practice, or outsource it to the experts,” she says.

“Failure to do one of these will most likely result in social media being a drain on business resources,

32 SPLASH! October/November 2018

Hayward Pool Products marketing coordinator Rob Emmett says he trusts pool retail stores and mobile service technicians can demonstrate the benefits of buying through them rather than through a big box retailer.

“We at Hayward do everything we can to equip our channel partners with everything they need to do the best job they can with the best products available,” he says.

“This puts us in a really strong position when going up against the big box retailers. There’s huge value in this for the customer. Fortunately most customers do realise this and appreciate that they’re receiving a premium service.”

He says that using social media to build engagement and trust with consumers is a powerful way to show Hayward’s company personality to consumers.

“When it comes to digital marketing I think the industry can do so much more to show off just how good we are,” he says.

“The SPASA awards really threw the spotlight on some fantastic work that the pool industry has produced over the last year. In my opinion, this work should be all over the internet.

2018-SPLASH-IRIS A4 1HALF-20180606.pdf 1 6/06/2018 10:12:43 AM

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Rob Emmet of Hayward suggests using social media to build engagement and trust with consumers

“I think we need to make sure that the people producing this incredible work have the ability to get it online and really show off the skill, innovation and imagination that the pool industry has to offer,” he says.

“It was great to see digital marketing workshops being offered at the SPLASH! show, and through this SPASA is continuing to lead the way in educating the industry. Hopefully through their continued work we will see beautiful images of gorgeous Australian pools every time we log on to the net.”

C

M

Y

CM

MY

Service, advice and expertise

CY

While Clark Rubber CEO Anthony Grice says Clark always offers its customers competitive ranges and pricing, he believes the company’s “service, advice and expertise” is what really sets it apart from the big box retailers.

“Pool and spa maintenance can be complex, with many different products available for a wide variety of purposes,” he says. “Our in-store pool experts are well placed to help customers navigate their way through their pool care challenges.”

He says that Clark Rubber also offers best-in-class pool and spa water-testing facilities in every store, producing test results with a level of accuracy that the DIY testing systems at big box stores can’t hope to match.

“In addition, Clark Rubber’s Onsite Pool Care Service is a ‘doit-for-me’ option for customers, and something that the big box retailers cannot compete with,” says Grice.

Clark Rubber was the recipient of the Gold Award for Education & Training at the recent SPASA National Awards, following the national roll-out of its comprehensive Certificate III Pool & Spa Servicing training program.

“This training program has ensured that Clark Rubber has team members nationally who are well-qualified to take care of our customers’ pools and spas,” he says.

Like many pool and spa retailers, Grice believes social media in its various forms has become another channel to be considered as part of the mix for marketing campaigns.

“Used correctly, it can provide significant audience reach at a relatively low cost,” he says. “Social media has also developed into a customer service channel, providing customers an easily accessible avenue to contact Clark Rubber.

“The fact that franchise and independent pool stores continue to thrive is indicative that they are doing something right to take the challenge to the big box retailers.”

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ABOVE: Some pool shops are frustrated by customers who only want free water testing, but Ernie Sumner says keep them happy and you’ll be their go-to shop if and when something goes wrong with their pool RIGHT: Pool retail stores and mobile service technicians can demonstrate the benefits of buying through them rather than through a big box retailer

The product knowledge advantage

Pool Systems commercial manager Anthony Ramsay believes pool and spa retailers can easily compete with the likes of Bunnings, simply by providing personal interactive experiences, support, unique products and value.

“The lack of product awareness among Bunnings staff retailers actually represents a major competitive advantage,” he says. “Going head-to-head and competing solely on price with the big players is not the answer. Pool retailers offer service and high-quality goods they won’t find on Bunnings shelves and people remember that.

“Big box stores usually don’t have much of a personality,” he adds. “They all look the same and are designed to be an in-and-out type experience. Take the opposite approach by creating an atmosphere where customers like to go and spend time.”

He says that as consumers get in the habit of making purchases from their smartphones instead of choosing big box stores, traditional retailers will have to get creative.

“Pool retailers offer service and high-quality goods they won’t find on Bunnings shelves and people remember that.”

“The shopping experience needs to be convenient and at similar price point to online competitors – a challenge in itself – but also need to provide an experience that lures shoppers out from behind a screen,” he says.

Furthermore, presentation and the interior design of a store matters.

“Take from Apple – you can create a professional looking store environment on a small budget.

Everything you do must be executed to the highest standard and your brand should be visible everywhere,” says Ramsay. “You and your staff should be well presented and customer-centric.”

34 SPLASH! October/November 2018

Using technology to stay in control is another way pool and spa retailers can enhance the customer experience.

“The industry has evolved massively in the last four years thanks to cloud-based CRM software that allows you track and interact with inactive customers,” he says. “You can also take advantage of your database and reward regular customers on a periodic basis, which is something big box retailers can’t do.”

Ramsay also suggests using social networking to create the impression your business is actually larger than it really is by creating an engaging platform.

“We are in the leisure industry so it’s important to have some fun, be lively and, most importantly, be different when regularly posting on Facebook and other social platforms,” he says.

“Get your employees in your marketing material and reward then for thinking creatively about how best to serve customers. Allowing customers to see the human aspects of your business will create loyalty and lasting customer relationships. Build a presence in the community so local customers recognise your business and have additional incentives to support your store.”

The US experience

In Virginia, USA, way back in 2001, new college graduate Marcus Sheridan stumbled into his first business with two friends and started River Pools and Spas.

Nine years later, as the GFC started to bite in a serious way Stateside, they managed to overcame the collapse of the housing market to became one of the largest US pool installers and – not coincidentally – have the most visited swimming pool website in the world. In fact, it was the online content marketing that prompted his company’s success, and led him to start The Sales Lion, his now highly successful sales and marketing blog.

Sheridan says these comments taken from his blog won’t win him many fans in the swimming pool industry.

“But I’m frankly OK with that,” he says. “A few years ago, I was driving through our town with my wife and we passed by a movie rental store called The

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Movie Gallery, which at the time was one of the largest chains of its kind in the country. Notwithstanding, as we passed this particular store I told her with a slight frown that I knew they would be out of businesses within just a few years.”

Fast forward a few years and the Movie Gallery had closed all of its stores, with other video outlets following suit.

“I do not mention this little story here to infer that I’m any smarter than the average Joe. I only say that because of innovations like Netflix, the movie rental industry is no longer viable. It can’t work the way it used to and that’s just the facts, which in many ways mirrors the swimming pool industry.”

He says times have changed and he believes there are five reasons why the industry may struggle in the future. Bear in the mind he penned these ideas based on his observations of the US market – where more consumers typically shop in big box stores than in Australia, and where salt is a relatively new form of chlorination. However, his perceptions definitely have some resonance for Australia as well.

1. Big box stores “One of the biggest hits swimming pool retailers have taken over the past 10 years has been the shift of consumers to do practically all their shopping at stores like Walmart,” he says. “Yep, despite their lack of service and knowledge, the big box stores are able to offer pool chemicals at prices that are often times 30 per cent less than what a normal pool retailer could.

For consumers, the choice between Big Box vs Joe’s Pool Shop comes down to a debate between spend more and get much better help and service or spend less and get no service at all.

“Sadly, especially with the difficult economy, big box often wins,” he says. “Heck, I’ve had scenarios where customers come in our retail store to have their water tested and then drive directly to Walmart to buy their chemicals – ouch!”

2. The Internet “Just like the big box stores, online swimming pool stores have the ability to sell pool products for much less than a normal brick and mortar store can.

“Despite the fact that online companies typically have practically no hands-on service, their growth over these last 10 years has been unbelievable, making it

harder and harder for the mom and pop pool stores of the world to survive.”

3. Salt “The popularity of salt chlorine generators has scared some pool retailers for many years.

“In fact, there have been quite a few chemical manufacturers that have tried their best to hurt the image of salt water systems by spreading bogus claims regarding their negative impact on swimming pools,” he says. “But regardless of this, salt chlorine users have almost no need for chemicals other than salt and a few water balance chemicals – hence the major concern of their introduction to the US market a few years back.”

He says that despite this, salt water systems have had a major positive impact on the swimming pool industry.

“Consumers are spending less time fooling with chemicals and maintaining their pool than ever before, which is leading to a great and positive image shift for swimming pools throughout the world.”

LEFT: Service, advice and expertise sets pool shops apart from big box retailers ABOVE: Big box retailers aren’t going to be able to sort out plant room problems

“Retailers spend billions on just trying to get customers to come into their store…if these potential customers are walking in for their free water test, then one day they may need more.”

LEFT: Anthony Ramsay of Pool Systems says personality is an asset to help see off the big box retailers October/November 2018 SPLASH! 37

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ABOVE: Marcus Sheridan learnt from his experience promoting his pool company online, and has now developed into an international online guru RIGHT: Knowledge, training and experience are valuable assets

BELOW: The pool or spa is one of the bigger purchases a family will make, so it is worth protecting it with good service and maintenance

4. Increased regulation “More and more, chemical manufacturers are having to deal with huge amounts of environmental and safety red tape from government agencies.

“With such red tape, the overhead for chemical production just keeps going up, forcing retailers to increase their prices and causing consumers to save money wherever they can.”

5. Brick and mortar don’t equal sales “When River Pools and Spas opened, it was the company’s goal to have as many retail stores as possible, which management figured would correlate directly with more in-ground pool sales.

“But within about six years, we realised two very important realities: in-ground swimming pool shoppers now do their research online, not by physically going store to store. Just look at the biggest in-ground pool builders in the country: Anthony Sylvan Pools and Blue Haven Pools. Neither one of these companies has much of a retail division at all, yet they have installed way more pools than any other company over the last few years.

And, it’s extremely difficult to turn a profit in retail due to overhead costs, staffing, building expenses, etc.”

Sheridan says these two realities forced River Pools and Spas to completely change its business model.

“Today, we realise that consumers view a company’s ‘store’ as its website, not what’s found behind actual brick and mortar,” he says. “Also, our retail division, which once consisted of two substantial stores, is now being phased out.”

While Sheridan says he feels bad for the “mom and pop” swimming pool retail stores that may not be around in just a few years, he also sees this as a

great opportunity for pool companies to make their businesses better, stronger, and more consumer friendly.

“I envision more and more companies investing the money they used to spend on retail and instead inverting it into their company websites, thus creating better content for consumers and a stronger learning environment for anyone considering ownership of this wonderful product we call a swimming pool,” he says.

Why pool builder websites fail

David Krauter from Websites That Sell shares his top tips with SPLASH! He says that traditional “brochure” websites don’t work.

“They don’t generate the number of leads and enquiries they should,” says Krauter.

He says a high converting pool builder website must have calls-to-action in the right places, proof elements, trust-building elements and multi-device functionality.

Krauter recommends sourcing exact traffic stats for all major Australian cities from Google’s Keyword tool, which outlines how many people search for pool builders every month in different areas. Specialists also provide examples and tips on the best ways to use Google’s paid ads system to get in front of this traffic.

He also says you should look at how to scale the Google opportunity (without having to keep paying for ads) while generating the same traffic.

“Start by breaking down what the first page of Google looks like and get data outlining where users click on the first page of Google. Tips and strategies can then be explored to get a pool builder’s website found in these areas of the first page of Google.” n

Contacts: Clark Rubber: www.clarkrubber.com.au Hayward: www.hayward-pool.com.au Impactiv8: impactiv8.com.au Pool Systems: www.poolsystems.com.au River Pools and Spas: www.riverpoolsandspas.com Spa World: www.spaworld.com.au Swimart: www.swimart.com.au The Sales Lion: www.thesaleslion.com Websites That Sell: www.websitesthatsell.com.au

38 SPLASH! October/November 2018

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Enhancing

What’s one thing I know I can accomplish today that helps me move in the direction I want to go?

resilience in the workplace

By Ros Ronning

R

os Ronning is the managing director of performance management specialist C-Change Potential. Over the coming weeks she will bring SPLASH! readers useful insights on improving their working potential.

Accepting change

To find your inner self and build your resilience strength, you must first think for yourself and embrace who you are. These simple tips are easy to follow and will work; if and only if, you commit to applying them on a daily basis to make them a lifelong habit for enduring physical and spiritual health.

Avoid seeing crises as insurmountable problems. You can’t change the fact that highly stressful events happen, but you can change how you interpret and respond to these events. Try looking beyond the present to how future circumstances may be a little better.

Change is inevitable, learn to live with it. When change happens, your goals and aspirations may no longer be attainable because of adverse situations. Accepting what you can’t change can help you focus on what you can change.

Create a strong support network. Good relationships with family members, friends and colleagues are vital. Accept help and support when it’s offered because it gives permission for others to care. Knowing you’re being listened to without judgement strengthens resilience. Being able to assist others in their time of need also benefits you.

Where are you aiming?

Find a way to achieve your goals. Develop some realistic goals. Do something regularly – even if it seems like a small accomplishment – that enables you to move toward your goals. Instead of focusing on tasks that seem unachievable, ask yourself: “What’s one thing I know I can accomplish today that helps me move in the direction I want to go?”

Be proactive. When adversity strikes, stand up and take action. Consider options and take decisive actions, rather than detaching completely from problems and stresses and wishing they would just go away. Avoid procrastination because ultimately it diminishes resilience.

Commit to lifelong learning and self-discovery. People often learn something about themselves and may find that they have grown in some respect because of their struggles. We learn more about ourselves and our reactions when we are most vulnerable. It can lead to better relationships, a greater sense of purpose and inner strength, an increased sense of self-worth, a more developed sense of awareness and heightened appreciation for life. You’re never too old to learn something new.

Nurture a positive view of yourself. Developing confidence in your ability to solve problems and trusting your instincts helps build resilience. Learn to be kind to yourself.

Face your fears. Confronting your fears makes them less frightening and you can learn from the experience. It develops courage, self-esteem, confidence and a sense of achievement that “you can do it”. If you face your fears, you can face anything.

Keep things in perspective. Even when facing extremely stressful situations, try to consider the situation in a broader context, focusing on future potential. Don’t allow yourself to become a victim – avoid the victim mindset.

Look on the bright side

Maintain optimism. An optimistic outlook enables you to explore what is possible.

Focus on what you want, rather than worrying about what you fear.

Take care of your mind, body and soul.

Acknowledge and accept your own feelings and responses. Good diet, regular exercise and quality sleep is important. Taking care of yourself helps to keep your mind and body primed to deal with situations that require resilience. Don’t forget to incorporate some ‘me time’ into your day.

Learn the art of mindfulness: Acknowledge and accept your own feelings and responses. It’s important to give yourself permission to cry when you need to cry.

Too many people focus on being strong and bulletproof.

Don’t try to fight your emotions and feelings. It’s much easier to swim with the tide than against it lest you end up drowning.

Back yourself. Reward yourself and celebrate success, no matter how small the achievement. Create good press when goals are achieved. Practice self-disclosure: it’s not a sign of weakness it’s a mark of authenticity, moral courage and strength of character.

The key is to identify ways that are likely to work well for you as part of your own personal strategy for developing resilience. n Ros Ronning is the managing director of C-Change Potential, a performance management practice specialising in organisational performance and engagement through effective leadership and management practices. The company provides human resource consultancy, executive coaching and facilitation services to commercial corporations and small to medium enterprises. Areas of expertise include performance management, leadership development, strategic planning, organisational behaviour, policy development, change management and organisational development.

October/November 2018 SPLASH! 41

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The National Drowning Report 2018

R

oyal Life Saving Australia’s annual report into water safety, the National Drowning Report 2018, has shown improvements on all swimming pool drowning indicators.

The report shows 33 drowning deaths in swimming pools in Australia in 2017/18, which is a 25 per cent decrease compared to 2016/17 and a 20 per cent decrease against the 10 year average.

These figures include both public and private swimming pools, with public swimming pools accounting for nine per cent of pool drowning deaths.

Children under five-years-old continues to be the most worrying age group for drownings, accounting for 36 per cent of all swimming pool drowning deaths in 2017/18, and swimming pools remain the main location for drownings of under-fives. However, the 12 deaths over this period represent a 20 per cent decrease over the 10-year average.

There were no swimming pool drowning fatalities among those aged five to 24 years.

Overall, the under-five age group shows a total of 18 drowning deaths, down by 36 per cent against the 10year average across all locations.

In total across all age groups, most drownings occurred in rivers, creeks and streams (61), followed by beaches (46) and oceans and harbours (40). Pools (33) were fourth on the list.

RIGHT: Royal Life Saving Australia’s annual report into water safety, the National Drowning Report 2018

Supervision

The report also highlighted the analysis of causal factors for drowning of children under five in NSW private swimming pools between July 2002-June 2017.

It highlights a lack of supervision as the primary factor in the drownings. And that in 88 per cent of cases, the pool barrier was faulty, absent or the gate was propped open.

• Supervision was completely absent in 64 per cent of cases • A further six per cent of children were left to be supervised by siblings or other children • Supervision was absent for 5-10 minutes in 35 per cent of cases and 3-5 minutes in 24 per cent of cases • In 71 per cent of cases the child drowned in the pool located at their primary residence The most common means of access were: – 38 per cent faulty fence or gate – 26 per cent lack of fence – 24 per cent gate propped open While there is still much to be done, SPASA Australia COO Spiros Dassakis credits improved pool safety and increased supervision for the declining swimming pool drowning figures and supports water safety initiatives around swimming pools and spas that minimise the potential for accidents to occur.

42 SPLASH! October/November 2018

Figure 1: Unintentional Drowning Deaths and Death Rates, Australia 2002/03 to 2017/18, 10 Year Average

Figure 2: Drowning Deaths by State and Territory, 2017/18, 10 Year Average

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Aim of 50 per cent drowning reduction by 2020

In 2008, the Australian Water Safety Council (AWSC) set an ambitious goal of reducing drowning by 50 per cent by 2020. This target has served as a focus for drowning prevention efforts and a driver for collaboration between different drowning prevention organisations across Australia.

With 2020 only two years away, the AWSC has begun to track progress against the goal of reducing drowning by 50 per cent, to identify areas where interventions have been successful and those where additional effort is urgently required. A range of factors have impacted the achievability of the 50 per cent reduction target.

These include changes in the size and make-up of the Australian population, which is increasingly older and features larger numbers of tourists and overseas born residents.

In order to partially adjust for the changes in the target population, Figure 1 shows progress in the rate of drowning per 100,000 people.

To avoid overstating the effects of one year peaks and troughs, these figures compare three-year averages from the start (2002/03-2004/05) to the most recent data (2015/16-2017/18) for the four key life stages outlined in the Australian Water Safety Strategy 2016-2020.

The reduction in drowning rates achieved so far is shown as a percentage. This interim analysis shows an overall 26 per cent reduction in fatal drowning since 2002/03. This reduction equates to approximately 102 fatal drownings averted per year. This population-

“Overall, the under-five age group shows a total of 18 drowning deaths, down by 36 per cent against the 10-year average across all locations.” based approach takes into account changes in the size of the population being protected, and is consistent with how most other public health outcomes are monitored.

Factors impacting achievement since 2002/03 include a: • 28 per cent population increase • 55 per cent population increase in people aged 65+ • 71 per cent increase in people born overseas • 71 per cent increase in overseas inbound tourism • 100 per cent increase in international students

Who drowns?

Of the 249 drowning deaths in Australia in 2017/18, 72 per cent were male. New South Wales recorded the largest number of drowning deaths with 87, followed by Queensland with 60 drowning deaths.

As a rate per 100,000 population, Tasmania recorded the highest drowning rate, with 1.91 drowning deaths per 100,000 head of population. Victoria recorded the lowest fatal drowning rate with 0.63 drowning deaths per 100,000 population.

The largest number of drowning deaths last year occurred in the 35-44 years age group. The 18 drowning deaths this year of young children under five years of age represents a 36 per cent reduction on the 10 year average of 28 drowning deaths.

When do these drowning deaths occur?

Drowning deaths occur throughout the year with the largest proportion taking place in summer (42 per cent).

Fatal drowning peaked in December with 40 deaths, followed by January with 38 deaths.

Sunday was the most common day for fatal drowning, accounting for 23 per cent of all deaths. 51 per cent of all drowning deaths in 2017/18 occurred in the afternoon hours.

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Where do these drowning deaths occur?

Rivers, creeks and streams were the location with the largest number of drowning deaths, accounting for 25 per cent of all drowning deaths in 2017/18. The location categories of swimming pools and lakes/dams/ lagoons both recorded a 20 per cent reduction on the 10 year average.

Swimming and recreating was the leading activity being undertaken immediately prior to drowning (25 per cent), followed by boating-related incidents (15 per cent).

Location in focus: swimming pools

There were 33 drowning deaths in swimming pools in Australia in 2017/18. This represents a 25 per cent decrease compared to 2016/17 and a 20 per cent decrease against the 10 year average.

Public swimming pools accounted for just nine per cent of all drowning deaths in swimming pools in Australia in 2017/18.

Children under five recorded the largest number of drowning deaths in swimming pools, accounting for 36 per cent of all swimming pool drowning deaths in 2017/18. There were no swimming pool drowning fatalities among those aged 5-24 years.

Falls into swimming pools were the leading activity immediately prior to drowning, accounting for 55 per cent of all swimming pool drowning deaths. Drowning

Figure 3: Drowning Deaths by Time of Incident, 2017/18

deaths as a result of swimming and recreating have declined in 2017/18 by 20 per cent when compared to the ten year average.

Under-fives drownings in NSW private pools

Children under the age of five are at the highest risk of drowning, with home swimming pools the leading location for fatalities. Strategies for the prevention of child drowning include active adult supervision, restricting a child’s access to water, water awareness and resuscitation.

Between 1 July 2002 and 30 June 2017, 91 children aged 0-4 years drowned in NSW private swimming pools.

• Peak drowning times

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• • • •

•

- 41 per cent in summer - 42 per cent on weekends - 45 per cent during the afternoon Supervision was completely absent in 64 per cent of cases A further six per cent of children were left to be supervised by siblings or other children Supervision was absent for 5-10 minutes in 35 per cent of cases and 3-5 minutes in 24 per cent of cases In 71 per cent of cases the child drowned in the pool located at their primary residence The most common means of access were: - 38 per cent faulty fence or gate - 26 per cent lack of fence - 24 per cent gate propped open In 67 per cent of cases the parents of the child were the ones to commence CPR

Source: Mahony, A, Peden, AE (2017) NSW Child Drowning Report: A 15 year analysis of causal factors for drowning of children under 5 years in private swimming pools 2002/03-2016/17, RoyalLife Saving Society – Australia. Sydney

Drownings in communal pools

A 10 year analysis of drowning in communal pools has been conducted, which includes hotel/motel pools, apartment complex pools and retirement village pools.

Figure 4: Drowning Deaths by Location, 2017/18, 10 Year Average

Fatal drowning • Males accounted for 79 per cent of deaths, with adults 25-34 years the leading age group (19 per cent) • Among deaths involving children 0-14 years, there was no parental or carer supervision in 75 per cent of cases • Those who drowned were most commonly first observed by a resident or guest (24 per cent), or a family member or friend (24 per cent) but often retrieved from the pool by hospitality staff (29 per cent) • In almost all cases emergency services were contacted (95 per cent), most commonly by hospitality staff (33 per cent) and treatment was administered in

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almost three quarters of drowning cases (74 per cent) • People of all skill levels drowned, including poor (12 per cent), competent (12 per cent) and strong swimmers (7 per cent) • Coronial recommendations were not made in any drowning cases Non-fatal drowning • There were 105 cases of non-fatal drowning in communal swimming pools • The leading age group for non-fatal drowning was children aged 0-4 years (45 per cent), followed by children aged 5-9 years (25 per cent)

Drownings in public and commercial swimming pools

A 10 year analysis of drowning in public and commercial swimming pools has been conducted.

The public and commercial category includes public pools, aquatic centres, school pools and fitness centre pools.

Fatal Drowning • Males accounted for 81 per cent of drowning deaths, with children aged 5-9 years the leading age group (19 per cent)

ABOVE: Under-fives is a crucial age category, especially for swimming pools where it has shown a 20 per cent decrease over the 10-year-average

• A mong deaths involving children 0-14 years, there was no parental or carer supervision in 78 per cent of cases • Those who drowned were most commonly first observed by an adult bystander or witness (39 per cent) but often retrieved from the pool by staff (44 per cent), including lifeguards • In two thirds of drowning cases at least one lifeguard was present (67 per cent), while other pools were either not required to have one or did not have one due to the prevailing operating conditions • In the majority of cases emergency services were contacted (89 per cent), either by pool staff (eight per cent) or a bystander (eight per cent) and treatment was administered in the majority of drowning cases (86 per cent) • People of all skill levels drowned, including non (14 per cent), poor (eight per cent), competent (22 per cent) and strong swimmers (22 per cent) • Coronial recommendations were made in 17 per cent of cases, referencing swimming ability, safety standards and features, supervision and education Non-Fatal Drowning • There were 257 cases of non-fatal drowning in public and commercial swimming pools

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• The leading age group for non-fatal drowning was children aged 0-4 years (45 per cent), followed by children aged 5-9 years (21 per cent) Source: Mahony, A, Peden, AE, Roberts, C, Barnsley, P (2018) A 10 year analysis of drowning in Aquatic Facilities: Exploring risk at Communal, Public and Commercial swimming pools, Royal Life Saving Society – Australia. Sydney

National Aquatic Industry Safety Awards Six representatives from Australia’s aquatics industry have been recognised in the National Aquatic Industry Safety Awards. Presented by Royal Life Saving Society – Australia, the group of individuals and organisations have been recognised for their significant contribution to aquatic safety within their community.

The 2018 award winners were: • Excellence in Public Education – YMCA Casey RACE • Excellence in Supervision – Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre (pictured) • Excellence in Customer Service – Christine Mitchell • Excellence in Incident Management – YMCA Victoria • Excellence in Staff Development – City of Greater Geelong • Excellence in Facility Management – Cockburn Aquatic and Recreation Centre The awards are an initiative of the National Aquatic

Figure 5: Drowning Deaths by Age Group, 2017/18, 10 Year Average

“In 88 per cent of cases, the pool barrier was faulty, absent or the gate was propped open.”

Industry Safety Committee to acknowledge the achievements of aquatic facilities and individuals towards improving health and safety outcomes.

Between 1 July 2005 and 30 June 2015, there were 293 drowning incidents in public and commercial pools across Australia. Thirty-six of these were fatal (12 per cent).

A series of videos have been produced of each winner, showcasing their work and contribution to their community through their aquatic health and safety initiatives. You can view the winner’s videos at youtube.com/RoyalLifeSavingAust

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October/November 2018 SPLASH! 47

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Private swim schools for children 13-15

This research follows on from the report ‘Benchmarking Australian children’s swimming and water safety skills: swim school data part one’, which presented the swimming and water safety skills of primary school children aged 5-12 years attending private swim school lessons. This report analyses the skills of secondary school children aged 13-15 years (teenagers) attending private lessons.

A total of 2860 secondary school aged children (13-15 years) (N = 2,844) attending private swimming lessons in Victoria, South Australia and New South Wales. Lesson cost ranged from $15.00 to $21.83, with 70.4 per cent being charged $15.50 per lesson. Teenagers were most commonly in lessons for the duration of one swim school level or the equivalent of 25 lessons over a period of 5.8 months.

Very few teenagers enrolled in lessons are achieving the minimum competencies outlined in the National Swimming and Water Safety Framework.

Approximately 40 per cent were being taught skills that were described as “basic”, “introduction”, “beginner” or “water familiarisation” skills.

Overall, 30 per cent were able to swim 50m or more of any stroke and 76 per cent could swim a distance between 10 and 25m. Only seven per cent could swim over 200m. Of those competent in treading/sculling water, 31 per cent could stay afloat for at least two minutes and an additional 19 per cent could tread/scull water for at least two minutes wearing clothes.

These results suggest that many teenagers attending private lessons are achieving well below the expected benchmark standard for their age, and that they may have had little, if any, swimming and water safety education previously.

Source: Pidgeon, S., Larsen, P., Barnsley, P., Scarr, J., Peden, A. (2018) Benchmarking Australian childrens’ swimming and water safety skills: swim school data part 2 beyond primary school. Royal Life Saving Society – Australia. Sydney.

Economic benefits of Australia’s public aquatic facilities

Many Australians are physically inactive, putting them at risk of death and disability and leading to burdens on Australia’s health care system. Aquatic facilities provide Australians with opportunities for safe, low impact physical activity, and can generate significant health benefits for Australian society.

Key findings • The average aquatic facility creates $2.72 million a year in value to the community • The average Australian visits a public aquatic facility 4.4 times a year • Every year in Australia physical inactivity costs the health system $3.7 billion and leads to death and disability costing $48 billion • Insufficient physical activity is responsible for five per cent of all death and disability in Australia • Nearly 40 per cent of the Australian population is classified as “physically inactive” according to the World Health Organization’s physical activity scale • A weekly visit to a pool is enough to take most 48 SPLASH! October/November 2018

Drowning Deaths of Children 0-4 Years by Location, 2017/18, 10 Year Average

people out of the “physically inactive” category • Increased risk of disease is heavily concentrated among the “physically inactive” category • As a result of these health benefits, every aquatic facility visit creates economic benefits worth an average of $26.39, in addition to the leisure value gained by users Estimating the dollar value of health gains, Royal Life Saving used the Australian government’s Value of a Statistical Life Year to estimate the dollar value of the costs of physical inactivity – $48 billion a year – as well as the health care costs and reduced productivity stemming from physical inactivity.

Overall, RLS estimates that the additional ill health someone who falls in the “physically inactive” bracket can expect costs society an additional $4576 each year, compared to $1185 for people in the low activity group. This means that additional exercise which moves someone from inactive to low activity leads to health gains worth $3,391 in that year alone.

Based on a data-set provided by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare showing exactly how much Australians currently exercise, we simulated the effect of an average pool visit’s worth of exercise to a randomly selected person. Calculating the average impact on health burden over millions of simulations,

LEFT: Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre won the Excellence in Supervision category at the National Aquatic Industry Safety Awards ABOVE: Results suggest many teenagers attending private lessons are achieving well below the expected benchmark standard for their age

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we found that, on average, a swimming pool visit leads to health benefits worth $26.39.

Results Based on the dollar value of these improved health outcomes, the report shows that an extra swimming pool visit by a randomly selected Australian is worth, on average, $26.39, meaning that Australia’s aquatic facilities produce $2.8 billion in health benefits each year, over and above their value as sources of recreation, community and aquatic education.

Source: Barnsley, P. Peden, A. Scarr, J. (2017) Economic Benef its of Public Aquatic Facilities, Royal Life Saving Society – Australia, Sydney. n We have included extracts of the report relevant to the swimming pool and spa industry, but to view the full report got to splashmagazine.com.au/links

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Handling

stone around pools

By Duncan Blyth

W

hen selecting stone materials for your pool, there are many factors to take into account – suitability of the material for the application, colour, surface finish, tile size, coping profile, porosity and slip rating to name a few.

All these points are very important in achieving the desired result for the home owner. On this project, Beecraft along with Sareen Stone worked closely with the client to take them on a journey through the decisionmaking process in asking them all the relevant questions to determine the best material choice for their home.

Once there is a full understanding of the desired result the client wants to achieve, we work through the process of selecting the material based on their brief.

That is – selecting the type of stone, the finish on the stone, the size of tile or paver, the finish around the pool edge, the look and feel underfoot, and a slip rating suitable for wet areas around pools.

50 SPLASH! October/November 2018

Coping selection

Selecting the appropriate coping for a project will be determined by the design, pre-existing site factors, price and timing.

Some options are a 30mm coping (pencil round or bullnose profile), an L-shaped coping with a drop edge (e.g. 75mm drop), to give the appearance of a thicker stone around the pool edge, or a custom size coping imported from overseas.

For this project, 40mm thick custom size pieces for the pool coping edge and large format tiles (900mm x

ABOVE: For this project, 40mm thick custom size pieces for the pool coping edge and large format tiles (900mm x 600mm) were selected by the client, ordered in from overseas and installed by the experienced tradespeople at Beecraft to achieve the end result Photographer: Maree Homer

“Each piece of natural stone is unique, which is the beauty of natural stone as the variation ensures that every installation is unique.”

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The Future of Water Testing “When installing natural stone tiles, it is recommended to ‘blend’ tiles from all crates prior to fixing.”

600mm) were selected by the client, ordered in from overseas and installed by very experienced tradespeople at Beecraft to achieve the end result. All these options are available to the client given time and planning.

In this case with the Beecraft project, careful planning and a great deal of discussion were had to achieve the desired result for the customer, which is an absolutely stunning pool and we are very proud to say we were a part of this team.

Handling stone around pools

As natural stone is a quarried product, each piece of stone will display the markings of its formation history. As a result each piece of natural stone is unique, which is the beauty of natural stone as the variation ensures that every installation is unique.

As part of the installation process with a special project like this, careful thought needs to go into planning the installation – from handling the material on site, using the correct adhesives and getting all the levels correct. Being that these custom pieces are 40mm thick (pool copings) and large format tile, handling

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“It is recommended that all natural stone is sealed to guard against surface staining and to make cleaning easier.” and setting out the installation was the key for the Beecraft team and their trades.

In using material of this size and format, it’s a two-person lift with each piece – from handing it out of the crates on site right through to the installation process around the pool, which is not something every project can accommodate due to time, cost and the experience of the tradesperson.

When installing natural stone tiles, it is recommended to “blend” tiles from all crates prior to fixing to ensure a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing result. Always view stone as a family. It is a natural product and therefore the range of colour can vary within a tile and from tile to tile.

To look after your pool coping and tiles, it is recommended that all natural stone is sealed to guard against surface staining and to make cleaning easier.

Depending on the stone being installed always check with the stone supplier to ensure you are using the most suitable sealer and how many coats to apply. n

Duncan Blyth is the managing director of Sareen Stone, suppliers to the landscaping and swimming pool construction industries. Sareen Stone offers a customised design and sourcing service ensuring access to individually cut pieces of natural stone in various sizes and finishes.

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Project Panel Home architect: David White Builder: Beecraft Pool: Peter Glass and Associates Stone Supplier: Sareen Stone The Beecraft team has provided a sophisticated look and feel, resulting in a stunning outdoor space.

Beecraft specified Sareen Stone’s Cathedral Limestone for the terrace, pool area and surrounds. Custom sized pieces of Cathedral Limestone were made for the project including tiles, treads, pool coping and paving.

Beecraft specified Sareen Stone’s stylish Cathedral Limestone for the terrace, pool area and surrounds resulting in an absolutely stunning outdoor space

Cathedral Limestone is an extremely versatile, large format stone, now available in an Alfresco finish. Sareen’s Alfresco finish provides the surface of the stone with a lightly textured feel, while remaining smooth underfoot, and provides excellent slip resistance. Cathedral Limestone Alfresco comes with a tumbled edge to give it an aged look and feel.

Reminiscent of European cathedral floors, hence its name, this “aged” limestone gives an expansive, classic appearance. Cathedral is extremely durable making it suitable for residential and commercial design projects alike.

Cathedral Limestone Alfresco pool coping and step treads with an extra deep profile of 40mm were sourced specifically to provide this beautiful outdoor space with a highly sophisticated look and feel. Available in 900mm x 600mm x 20mm and 900mm x 400mm x 30mm pool coping pencil profile.

Other sizes and finishes are available on custom order.

CONTACTS Beecraft: www.beecraft.com.au Sareen Stone: www.sareenstone.com.au; 02 9666 9222 Peter Glass Architects: www.peterglass.com.au

Photographer: Maree Homer

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October/November 2018 SPLASH! 53

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Les Sources du Haut-Plateau in Saint-Bonnet-le-Froid, winner of the International Pool Vision Award in 2016 Image: Cent7 Architecture

Piscine’s world pool vision

T

he International Pool Vision competition awards will again be presented at Piscine Global, Lyon, being held at Lyon-Eurexpo from November 13-16, 2018.

The previous competition, held in 2016, saw Lionel Thabaret, Architect at Cent7 Architecture, win the award for The Most Beautiful Tourism and Leisure Pool for his project called Les Sources du Haut-Plateau in Saint-Bonnet-le-Froid, in south east France.

Here, he talks about his processes and highlights some of his projects.

Pools are increasingly important

“Today, pools have become genuine living spaces for relaxing and resting, and they are built in keeping with the architectural project that incorporates them,” says Thabaret.

“The ideal solution is to build the project around the pool. With plots of land becoming smaller and smaller, pools are becoming increasingly important features of the architectural design. Indeed, architectural techniques are used to showcase them: water plays with light, transposes it, filters it. For example, if we can add a window looking out onto the pool and create an interaction between liquid and solid elements, we don’t hold back!”

“All our projects tell a story; we try to draw on existing features and reinvent them. For example, we designed some large vertical door pulls and bronze door handles and had them custom-made for the Sources du Haut

Wellness and style going hand in hand Image: Cent7 Architecture

BELOW: Private residential projects are becoming more about giving your friends and family a place to gather and have fun together Image: Cent7 Architecture

Plateau spa. These unique items help to create a sense of identity. There is a hidden dimension that means you either feel at ease in a place or you don’t,” he says.

Although there is constantly increasing demand to place pools at the heart of architectural projects, budgetary and planning issues often make that impossible. In the area of public pools, for hotels in particular, demand has also changed.

“Spas are becoming a lot more widespread,” says Thabaret. “Pools are become more and more versatile and covering an ever wider variety of uses”.

Leisure pools becoming the norm

For Thabaret, the concept of a wellness pool has shifted towards that of a real leisure pool.

“Buying yourself a pool is a means of giving your friends and family a place to gather and have fun together,” he says.

“Private residential pools have changed both in terms of their size and their functions. Today, there is

“The ideal solution is to build the project around the pool.”

October/November 2018 SPLASH! 55

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a real market for high-quality, less standardised pools designed by architects in collaboration with pool and spa professionals,” he says.

He says designing a pool involves thinking more generally about issues such as its exposure to sunlight and ensuring that its outdoor surrounds are in harmony with the interior design of the home to which it is attached.

He believes there should be a genuine “complementarity” between the pool and the house.

“When we build a home, we imagine it around the pool and consider the interactions between the two.

Sometimes our customers have specific requests in terms of the outdoor pool surrounds, but usually they just trust us. Designing an architectural project involves finding a solution to reconcile the customer’s wishes with the technical constraints of the plot and the project. Generally speaking our customers know what they don’t want, but find it hard to express what they do want. So it is our role to guide them!”

Marshalling trades

He says for pool renovation projects, the approach is often more complicated and constrained. Architects are rarely called on for such projects, unless an entire property is being renovated.

He is adamant that teams working on architectural projects concerning private homes or public facilities

ABOVE: Thabaret says there is a hidden dimension that means you either feel at ease in a place or you don’t Image: Cent7 Architecture

RECOGNITION FOR INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS Become SPASA Certified or SPASA Accredited to enhance your ability to: » » » »

Increase sales and productivity Gain a competitive edge in the market place Demonstrate your commitment to quality Attract and retain the best quality professionals

T 1800 802 482 E training@spasa.com.au W spasa.com.au

56 SPLASH! October/November 2018

featuring pools must include pool specialists among their key members. He says this collaboration is vital and requires all parties to be aware of each other’s professions and constraints.

For the “Sources du Haut-Plateau” project in SaintBonnet-le-Froid (SE France), a public project awarded following a call for tenders, Cent7 Architecture

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facility – the spa, swimming pool etc – by appointing contractors specialising in each type of equipment.”

However, he says with private residential projects, the relationship between architects and pool specialists is more direct.

“We consult them and ask them to estimate the cost of the project we have thought up. The relationship is not always straightforward because our requests can be out of the ordinary, but their expertise regarding watertightness, networks and filtration is very important”.

These different trades dovetail but must learn to work in synergy to think today about the designs of the pools of tomorrow.

Seminars and awards

submitted a proposal in a joint venture with an engineering consultancy specialising in water treatment.

“During the tender procedure, we were selected as the lead firm of our joint venture to design and build the entire establishment,” says Thabaret.

“We prepared the specifications and the design office managed all aspects relating to the pools in the

heliocol splash half 082017.indd 1

ABOVE: Even if customers don’t know what they want, the architect has to work out how to deliver it Image: Fotolia

Architects attending Piscine Global Europe from November 13-16, 2018, will have the opportunity to obtain specific, leading-edge information on the pool and spa sector, while meetting pool builders and specialists to discuss their specific needs and constraints.

Seminars dedicated to design include “Pool Staging: Axis of the Future?” and “Inspiring Design: Presentation of an Award-Winning Project at the Pool Design Award.”

The Pool Design Awards were created to reward the creativity and technical prowess displayed by architects. It is open to all architects, pool designers and landscapers from around the world. n Contact: www.piscine-global-europe.com

8/1/17 10:05 AM

October/November 2018 SPLASH! 57

commercial news

Public pools

Commercial

news VR enables disabled guests to ride share. . . 60 Aussie innovation drives London revitalisation. . . 60 Sports centre foyer awarded. . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Tenders. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Water safety skills for swim programs. . . . 62 Taking responsibility for mental health. . . . . . 64 Aquatic centre sound solutions. . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Floating pool proposed for Perth’s Swan River A consortium of Western Australian professionals, including developers, architects, engineers and planners with years of experience on significant projects, has proposed a floating pool and extensive deck for the Swan River in the heart of Perth city near Elizabeth Quay.

The deck would be a 100-metre long floating facility featuring a swimming pool/lagoon filled with chemical-free filtered river water, public open space and venues for events and exhibitions.

Swan River Deck director Grant Oldfield says the team has been working on the idea for a few years with the aim of leveraging the value of the Swan River.

He says that today, people are looking for a fusion of the urban environment with the natural environment.

“It’s not just about being in a city, it’s about how you experience nature in the city,” he says.

He says they have submitted the deck proposal to the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions’ Perth Water Precinct Plan for public consultation and have liaised with government and industry authorities.

The state tourism minister says that while they haven’t received a formal proposal yet, an in-river swimming pool on the city’s doorstep would add to the variety of experiences available to locals and tourists.

The 100-metre floating facility features a swimming pool/lagoon filled with chemical-free filtered river water

Oldfield urged people to visit the Swan River deck website and share their thoughts on the project.

“The key thing to emphasis at this time is that we are seeking feedback and support from the public on the proposal. Formal feedback can be submitted using a short survey at survey monkey.”

Go to splashmagazine.com.au/quicklinks to access the survey.

Safety

Waterpark workers acquitted of obstructing case into boy’s death Following the death of Caleb Schwab on the Verruckt waterslide at Schlitterbahn Waterpark in Kansas City in 2016, five people had been charged with a variety of offences ranging from obstruction to second degree murder.

The first of the trials was held in October, with a jury acquitting two Schlitterbahn maintenance workers David Hughes and John Zalsman. The pair had been charged with lying to investigators to obstruct the investigation.

They were accused of lying about a brake pad on the Verruckt waterslide that prosecutors suggested was meant to slow the movement of the raft as it climbed a hill after the initial 17-storey descent.

Prosecutors said Zalsman and Hughes told agents from the Kansas Bureau of Investigation in separate interviews that the brake pad was only on the slide during testing phases, but not while it was open for customers. Prosecutors suggested this was a lie to cover for them not replacing the mat.

Hughes and Zalsman let their attorneys speak on their behalf after the proceedings, with the comments published in the Kansas City Star.

Chris Joseph, who represented Zalsman, said he was relieved for his client.

“I think John really was innocent. I think he went there to try and help out. There’s no way he went there to try and throw off an investigation. I don’t believe it for a second,” said Joseph.

Jurors said the prosecutors never produced evidence that any requests to

58 SPLASH! October/November 2018

fix the brake mat ever reached Zalsman or Hughes. Prosecutors produced lifeguard reports indicating the brake pad was peeling or had come off, but could not prove that those reports ever made it to the defendants – only that the reports made it to the park’s operations department.

“If something is not fixed over and over and over again, it’s not the maintenance guys who are lazy,” Joseph said. “If their bosses told them to go do it they would have gone to do it. These guys are not in charge of anything. They do what operations tells them to do. If operations had told them to do it, they would have done it.”

Winter Prosapio, corporate director of communications for Schlitterbahn, issued the following statement after the verdict: “We have maintained our belief in the integrity of our staff and respect the process and decision by the jury.”

Cases remain pending for other defendants associated with Verruckt.

A grand jury in April indicted Schlitterbahn co-owner Jeff Henry and Verruckt lead designer John Schooley with seconddegree murder and a host of other felony charges for lacking the qualifications to design a ride like Verruckt and then ignoring warnings about its safety.

Tyler Miles, a former director of operations for the water park, is charged with involuntary manslaughter and other counts related to accusations that he covered up the poor maintenance of the waterslide.

Their trials are not yet scheduled.

commercial news

In Brief A 29-year-old surfer in the United States died from an infection of Naegleria fowleri – a rare but deadly amoeba. He complained of a headache after surfing at the BSR Cable Park in Waco, Texas, and in the morning was unable to be woken. He was rushed to hospital and initially diagnosed with bacterial meningitis, but didn’t respond to treatment. By the time his cerebrospinal fluid tested positive for the infection, it was too late to administer any effective drugs, and he was later pronounced brain dead as a result of the amoeba. The infection has a 97 percent fatality rate, according to the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and just four people infected in the past 55 years have survived.

The surf park voluntarily closed pending a CDC investigation.

Six people have been hospitalised after a pool chemical mix-up in Sydney’s CBD. On September 19, a hotel worker incorrectly mixed chemicals at the swimming pool of the Pullman Hotel, resulting in dangerous gas entering the hotel’s ventilation system, affecting guests and staff. A total of 30 patients were treated by paramedics and six were transported to hospital, all of whom were deemed to be in a very stable condition. Peter Holland, SPASA Australia RTO manager says the maintenance required by hotels, motels and public pools are a complex logistical undertaking that requires careful planning and challenging work by the maintenance team. Visit spasa.com.au to learn about nationally accredited swimming pool and spa courses.

Epic Waters is the largest indoor water park under a single retractable roof in the United States

Waterparks

WhiteWater wins award for indoor waterpark WhiteWater has won a Leading Edge Award for its Epic Waters indoor waterpark in Grand Prairie, Texas. Judges said WhiteWater’s work at Epic Waters showcased an impressive slide complex that is home to firsts both in the United States and the world. Amongst some of the park’s most iconic features is their Constrictor + Boomerango fusion – a combination of two slides into one – which is the world’s first inner tube fusion slide.

Epic Waters is also home to the 23 metre high LassoLoop, the tallest indoor AquaLoop in the United States, and the AquaNaut, North America’s first two-person inner tube AquaSphere. To top it off, at 7500 square-metres it is the largest indoor water park under a single retractable roof in the United States.

October/November 2018 SPLASH! 59 Electrochlor Mineral Chlorinator Ad 270mm x90mm.indd 1

10/9/18 1:27 PM

commercial news

Global

Aussie innovation at the heart of London revitalisation London’s historic docks in Wapping once played a critical role in the city’s international trade of luxury commodities like coffee and cocoa.

Closed to shipping since 1969, the area has attracted a series of new developments, the latest being mixed-use “destination” development London Dock, neighbouring world-famous landmarks including Tower Bridge, the Tower of London and the River Thames.

The Health and Fitness Suite at London Docks is billed as “a place where you can get in shape or soothe away the stresses of the day”. It includes a number of purpose-built amenities, such as a squash court, fully equipped gym, and fully tiled 20-metre indoor swimming pool. The pool features a vitality spa located at one end comprising of a number of spa jets and two stainless steel neck massagers.

Designed and built by Aqua Platinum Projects in conjunction with its supplier Paramount Pools, the swimming pool and vitality spa needed a robust and reliable filtration system that would maintain crystal clear, healthy pool water year-round for residents.

“Being a prestigious development in the heart of London, the pool equipment had to be of the highest quality and that’s why Waterco was

Waterco filtration and pumps are at the heart of this prestige UK development

our preferred choice,” says Aqua Platinum Projects managing director Ryan Fronda.

“Knowing Waterco equipment has been manufactured and supplied for over 30 years all over the world and in many different applications, and has a base in the UK, meant that we have full confidence in both the supply, quality of the product, and service.”

Aqua Platinum Projects installed a number of Waterco products including two Micron commercial sand filters and two 6HP Hydrostar commercial pumps for the main pool. For the 12m3 vitality spa they installed two SMDD1200 Micron commercial sand filters and two 4HP Hydrostar commercial pumps, along with two Hydrostorm 1.5HP pumps for the neck massagers and two 2HP Hydrostorm pumps to operate the spa jets.

Contact: www.waterco.com Design

Accessibility

VR enables disabled guests to ride share Sometimes a disability makes it impossible to physically experience some types of park rides. In those cases, an answer may be experiencing them virtually.

Efteling, a fairytale Thanks to virtual reality, guests with theme park in the south disabilities can share the experience of Holland, has launched of the ride with their friends a new virtual experience on one of the park’s main attractions, the dark ride Droomvlucht, making the ride accessible to disabled visitors. For safety reasons, Droomvlucht was the only large attraction at Efteling that could not be experienced by guests with a physical disability.

Virtual Droomvlucht will replicate the original ride, offering guests the same experience by connecting disabled visitors with their friends on the ride through headphones and microphones so that they may see and even feel the same sensations.

Fons Jurgens, president and CEO of Efteling, says that until now, VR had been used for individual experiences.

“With the use of other techniques such as audio equipment, we have created a group experience that completely stands in line with Efteling and the theme park’s values,” he says.

Annemarie Verbunt is a regular Efteling guest but her disability made it impossible for her to experience the dark ride Droomvlucht.

After experiencing the VR ride her response was enthusiastic.

“I am so happy to be able to experience this,” she says. “I’ve been looking forward to the day that I could experience Droomvlucht for 25 years. Virtual Droomvlucht really is a complete sensory experience, thanks to the smell and wind effects but also the contact with my friends who are on the gondola. What a beautiful attraction!”

60 SPLASH! October/November 2018

Sports centre “street” foyer awarded The Gold Coast Sports and Leisure Centre (GCSLC) has picked up three prizes at the Australian Institute of Architects Queensland Architecture Awards, including the prestigious GHM Addison Award for Interior Architecture.

The jury said although the facility was designed for the Commonwealth Games, it also had to consider its legacy beyond the Games.

“The interiors therefore are very flexible and agile, able to adjust to its various uses – community and major events.”

Commending the main entry to the building as “a three-storey void defined by a sparkling ribbon of tiles which is a continuation of the gold external building veil,” the jury found that this space described as a public street, “is filled with natural daylight and allows crossventilation reinforcing its connection to the outside and the sub-tropical climate.

“The void is fluid and sculptural in form and the ceiling is punctuated by golden skylights which add to the fun and informality of the ‘street’.”

The other prizes given to the GCSLC were the Colorbond Award for Steel Architecture and a The Gold Coast Sports State Commendation in and Leisure Centre Public Architecture.

commercial news

Tenders

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

Monash Health Request for Tender: TEN-18-0000056 Hydrotherapy & Swimming Pools Maintenance Services Monash Health is seeking a suitable contractor to service the hydrotherapy and swimming pools currently operating at the following locations: Monash Medical Centre, Clayton: Level 2 (hydrotherapy pool) Adolescent Psychology Ward (swimming pool) Kingston Centre – Ward B39 (hydrotherapy pool) Dandenong Hospital – Level 1, Main Building, West Block (hydrotherapy pool) All questions in relation to this tender should be addressed to: Aimee Hall (03) 95947656 Aimee.Hall@monashhealth.org Ishmeet Singh (03) 95941723 ishmeet.singh@monashhealth.org For further information and to download documents please visit: http://www.tenders.vic.gov.au Closing: Mon, 12 Nov 2018 11:00 AM AEDT Melbourne, Victoria

Contract Value: $100,000-$500,000 Documentation and further information is available from http://regionalprocurement.com.au/tender-opportunities/ Regional Procurement Ph: 02 4978 4017 http://www.regionalprocurement.com.au Closing: 16/11/2018 10:00 a.m. NSW

Hume City Council Expression of Interest: Broadmeadows Aquatic and Leisure Centre – 25m Pool Associated Facility – Major Upgrade – Broadmeadows EOI Number: 30 18 2909 Council invites submissions from suitably qualified contractors.

Documents: //www.hume.vic.gov.au/About_Us_Contact_Details/ Your_Council/Tenders Closing: 22 November 2018 at 2.00 p.m.

Toowoomba Regional Council Request for Tender Tender No: TR-0469 Tenders are invited for the Provision of Pool Maintenance.

Tender enquiries and documents are available by download at www.lgtenderbox.com.au Closing: 2.00pm Tuesday 13 November 2018.

Coonamble Shire Council Regional Procurement Initiative/Coonamble Shire Council Request for Tender: SPT291819COO Supply & Installation of a Splash Pad Coonamble Shire Council is seeking tenders for the supply and installation of a Splash Pad at Gulargambone Swimming Centre.

Invitation: Any person/company willing to fulfil the requirements of the proposed contract is invited to submit a tender to Regional Procurement via the TenderLink Electronic Tender Box (see below) before the deadline at 10.00am on 16 November 2018. For evaluation purposes, a hard copy must also be submitted to the Tender Box at Strategic Services Australia 59 Bonville Avenue Thornton.

Tenderers must ensure they follow the Instructions and Lodgement Method in the Invitation to Tender document. Responsibility for lodgement of completed tender documents by the deadline lies solely with the Tenderer. Tenderers are advised that Coonamble Shire Council are not bound to accept the lowest Tender or any Tender submitted.

Applicable tender documents can be downloaded via TenderLink until the submission close date for a non-refundable fee of $50 including GST. All enquiries are to be directed to the TenderLink Forum applicable to this tender.

General enquiries may be directed to Mark Kentish Key Account Manager Regional Procurement on (02) 4978-4017 or markk@ regpro.com.au

October/November 2018 SPLASH! 61

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Developing water safety skills in your swim program

By Emma Lawrence

I

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

Water safety in swimming lessons

Developing water safety skills and providing water safety education should underpin all formal learn to swim programs. Many water safety components will be taught during the development of foundation swimming skills as we work towards teaching the competitive strokes. For example, floating is the basis of all strokes and is essential to develop good technique but it is also extremely important for self-preservation and survival swimming. Therefore, great swimming programs will not only develop good technique in their swimmers but also teach water safety skills and help to develop safe behaviours and attitudes around the water.

Creating opportunities to educate parents will also be extremely important for swimming teachers and swim schools. This education is vital and easy to achieve during parent and child classes. Here, instructors are in direct contact with the caregiver but as children move into classes without the parents it becomes a little bit more challenging to maintain this direct communication. At this stage, the swim school’s signage around the pool, newsletters, emails, social media updates and contact with deck supervisors and administration staff become key.

What are we trying to achieve through swimming lessons for kids?

• Parent education • Encourage safe attitudes and behaviours around water • Develop water safety skills • Develop quality swimming strokes 62 SPLASH! October/November 2018

Swim lessons are a great opportunity to educate parents

• Teach children about their capabilities and boundaries • Identify and respond to an emergency situation • Reduce the risk of drowning

Hazards facing children

There are many potential water hazards for children and these dangers may change as children grow and are exposed to a variety of different environments.

Some potential hazards include: • Backyard swimming pools • Public pools • Lakes, rivers and dams • Beaches and coastal waterways • Aquatic recreation like fishing and boating While swimming lessons for kids provide a very controlled environment we can still use this time to help instil safe attitudes and behaviours in children.

Swimming lesson scenarios

Swimming lessons will give children confidence in the water and expose them to water safety skills such as safe entries and exits, floating and treading water. During classes, we can also create awareness of potential water dangers in a variety of different environments by using games and scenarios that excite their imagination.

These activities are great as a warm up or final activity during weekly swimming lessons and are also perfect to incorporate during special water safety weeks, like Learn2Swim Week, or events at your swim school.

Remember to teach children the following concepts: • Read signage • Swim between the flags • Stick with a buddy • Signal for help (internationally recognised signal is one arm raised/waving above the head) • Send for help/call emergency services

Water safety skills

Is it safe to enter the water? Educate parents and their children to check for, and read signage before entering any water environment. These signs may read things like: • No swimming • No lifeguard on duty

commercial feature

Laurie Lawrence teaching the “Do the Five” song to the immense enjoyment of the audience at the National Awards Gala on the Gold Coast

Self-preservation is vital

It’s extremely important that children learn the importance of self-preservation. It’s very easy to get into difficulty while trying to help a mate. For this reason, we should instill the following values in our swimmers: • Send for help • Use Reach or Throw rescues first • If you must approach someone in trouble, approach with a buoyant aid • Always approach a person in difficulty with extreme caution and adopt a defensive position

Kids Alive – do the five!

• • • • •

Swimming not recommended at this time Submerged rocks No diving Tropical marine stingers Crocodiles inhabit these waters Once they decide if it’s safe to swim, they then need to understand how to enter and exit the water safely. Learning to check the depth of the water will be very important.

During the swimming lesson, it’s very easy to practice the following skills: • Different ways to enter the water • Returning to the pool edge • Monkey around the side of the pool • Climbing out of the pool Encourage parents to translate these skills into any new aquatic environment they encounter with their children.

Floating is the basis of all learn to swim but also vital for survival swimming.

Floating skills are great to practice during the warm up for progressive teaching and following a building block approach. However, these floating skills are perfect to revisit when children get fatigued during the class. This is also a perfect activity to achieve maximum practice time as the entire group floats and relaxes together.

Learning to feel the water is also an important component for efficiency and speed in swimming. Therefore, simple sculling activities where children learn to sweep their hands outward and inward becomes important for stroke development. Once again sculling is important for survival swimming because this motion will create an uplift force which will support floating skills during survival swimming.

Once children become comfortable we can introduce deep water activities.

Learning to monkey around the side of the pool, edge or rail should be easy to achieve. Remember some children may be nervous with this activity so provide plenty of encouragement and support. Learning to bob underwater and push off the bottom of the pool will be the next step. Again, this is a great warm up activity to establish good breath control and breathing rhythm. You can then progressively move towards floating and treading water before returning to safety at the side of the pool.

Underwater skills like removing clothing and untying knots could be extremely useful particularly in communities where boating is a way of life. Swimming teachers should consider the age of children and their swimming ability to determine when these activities are appropriate to include into lessons. Basic underwater skills like picking up rings from the bottom of the pool and swimming through hoops will be the prerequisite skills. Again, these activities are great to do during the warm up or final activity of the swimming lesson or during designated water safety weeks at the swim school.

Sidestroke and survival backstroke are used for recreation, recovery, rescue and survival swimming. These strokes require very little output in comparison to competitive strokes. Many foundation skills for these strokes will be taught during the teaching of freestyle, backstroke and breaststroke. Things like floating, sculling, scissor kick, underwater pull and natural rhythmic breathing will all be introduced during the learn to swim phase for swimmers. Therefore, once children move into stroke development groups these survival strokes will be instinctively and easily mastered. Giving a good visual demonstration of the survival strokes will be the easiest way to teach these concepts. During swimming training, you can use these survival strokes for recovery after sprint sets. You can see that water safety skills can be easily paired with formal swimming teaching to prepare children for safe experiences around water.

There are many community service messages presented to families to remind them of water safety and help prevent drowning. The Kids Alive do the five message is a well-recognised program and has a lot of free resources for swim schools to use to educate families who attend swimming lesson.

The Kids Alive message has a catchy song and poem that encourages parents to: • Fence the pool • Shut the gate • Teach your kids to swim – it’s great • Supervise – watch your mate • And learn how to resuscitate The Kids Alive website has free animations, music videos, and interactive books which can be downloaded.

Swim schools can also hire the Kids Alive mascots to use within their centre or to visit local community groups to help promote water safety messages in a fun and engaging way.

Professional Development Academy

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

RLS

Surf Life Saving and Royal Lifesaving can also provide other support materials to swim schools wishing to further educate families that attend their centre.

Remember water safety is the responsibility of all adults caring for children. As swimming and water safety professionals it’s our role and responsibly to regularly engage with parents to remind them of the potential dangers and give them ideas on how to enjoy safe and happy aquatic recreation with their family.

Great swimming programs will not only develop good technique in their swimmers but also teach water safety skills so that their students can go on to display safe behaviours and attitudes around the water. As a swimming teacher, it is a wonderful gift to teach children a love for and respect of the water. n

Contacts: World Wide Swim School: worldwideswimschool.com Do the Five: www.kidsalive.com.au

October/November 2018 SPLASH! 63

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Aquatic centres taking responsibility for mental health

By Tim Gledhill

F

rom R U OK? Day to Man Up, we’ve seen a surge of mental health awareness campaigns and initiatives in recent years. In August, beyondblue’s national Mental Health in Education programs started rolling out in schools across Australia, enabling the education system to support the wellbeing and mental health of young Australians.

With one in five Australians suffering from a mental illness, these programs are crucial to demonstrate the increased value we’re placing on supporting better mental health for our communities.

But the onus of recognising the signs and symptoms of mental health shouldn’t just be left to mental health organisations.

We believe we all need to be doing our part to support one another – and at Peninsula Leisure, we know that the physical health and mental health of our staff and centre members goes hand in hand. Within the community we serve in Frankston, 16 per cent of people experience high levels of psychological distress – and it can affect people anywhere, whether in the workplace, out at a social function or while hitting the gym.

Further, Australian youth aged 18 to 24 have the highest prevalence of mental illness, more than any other age group. With the majority of our 320 staff members at the Peninsula Aquatic Recreation Centre under the age of 25, it’s essential that we address mental health issues in our community by first engaging and supporting our youngest employees.

First aid approach

But how can you learn what it looks like when someone is suffering from mental and emotional distress? And how can you understand the right way to approach and talk to someone about it?

These questions spurred us to send five of our employees to participate in Mental Health First Aid training via Mental Health First Aid Australia. We wanted to equip them with the tools to recognise red flags among their fellow employees, to identify those 64 SPLASH! October/November 2018

ABOVE: Peninsula Leisure’s mental health first aiders (from left): Stewart West, Rebecca Hill, Kara Edwards and Marc Mackellin

who may be experiencing emotional distress and to better support employees who are affected by mental health issues.

The two-day training course included participants from corporations to small businesses to government entities. It’s clear organisations across the public and private sectors are realising that mental health affects every industry in Australia.

Our staff learned how to recognise the signs and symptoms of mental health problems and how to approach someone who might be in emotional distress, focusing on not being judgmental or asking direct questions. They learned to be calm when speaking with someone who may be suffering and how to act in a crisis situation, such as a panic attack or stress reaction to trauma. They also learned about resources to steer people in the right direction to seek professional help when necessary.

“Australian youth aged 18 to 24 have the highest prevalence of mental illness, more than any other age group.”

If someone at one of our leisure centres sprains an ankle or breaks their leg, they can count on us to provide physical first aid – but it’s important that among rising mental health issues, we’re equipped to provide mental health first aid as well. We want them to know that their safety within our leisure centres isn’t just about their physical wellbeing. It’s about their mental wellbeing too.

As empowering as it is to know that you can help someone around you who may be struggling with their emotional and mental health, the mental health first aid training also teaches individuals the importance of being more mindful with themselves. We all know that trying to juggle the demands of family, social and work life can be barriers to achieving a healthy balance. The training demonstrated simple steps to support your own mental and physical wellbeing, ensuring your ability to assist others with theirs.

commercial feature

Safe Work Australia’s psychological H&S Safe Work Australia has published national guidance on workrelated psychological health and safety. For employers and workers, the guide describes how to build a psychologically healthy and safe workplace by identifying, assessing and controlling risks to workers’ mental health.

Dr Peta Miller, special adviser for Safe Work Australia, says that while work-related psychological injury is expensive, we know what causes harm and that taking preventative action works.

“Poor psychological safety costs Australian organisations $6 billion per annum in lost productivity. This is primarily because psychological injuries typically require three times more time off work than other injuries.

“Additionally, workplaces with poor psychological working conditions accrue 43 per cent more sick days per month.”

Dr Miller explained that work-related psychological injury can be caused by excessive time pressures, unreasonable deadlines and poorly managed organisational change.

“Interpersonal conflict, harassment and bullying, and exposure to occupational violence are also critical causes of work-related injury.

“Most importantly, however, you can prevent workers becoming ill by taking preventative action and by intervening early.”

Dr Miller says that identifying the hazards to good mental health, assessing how severe the risks are, and taking steps to eliminate and control the risks are essential steps to building a healthy and safe workplace.

“You can prevent your workers becoming ill or sustaining a psychological injury by responding to early warning signs and incidents – an increase in unplanned absence, uncharacteristic behaviour and workplace conflict are all clues that things aren’t quite right,” she says.

“Most importantly, workers will offer the most valuable insights – they know what causes them harm, and will have ideas about how to most effectively address the dangers to their mental health.

“My advice is to listen to the people doing the work.”

Work-related Psychological Health and Safety - a Systematic Approach to Meeting your Duties is available on the Safe Work Australia website or via splashmagazine.com.au/quicklinks.

As operators of sports, recreation and leisure facilities on behalf of the Frankston City Council, it is our responsibility to support our community by providing opportunities to take care of and improve their physical health, and we believe this extends to holistic support for mental health. Mental health first aid training has been the perfect tool for us to live up to this responsibility, so we know we’re doing everything we can to support our employees and our community with the tools and guidance they need to lead healthy lives. n Tim Gledhill is the chief executive officer of Peninsula Leisure

Contacts: Beyondblue: www.beyondblue.org.au Peninsula Aquatic Recreation Centre: peninsulaleisure.com.au

October/November 2018 SPLASH! 65

commercial feature

Sound solutions for a sustainable aquatic centre The design features a custom-designed tension and an ‘acoustic band’ at the end wall to reduce noise, hidden behind the mural The centre takes architectural cues from the coastal environment

Natural light enhances the ambience and saves money

L

akelands south of Perth, has a new WestSwim aquatic centre designed by global architectural firm Buchan.

The purpose-built facility’s specially designed features include a pool with built-in teaching ledges and a changing area designed to offer enhanced parental supervision and safety.

Buchan was appointed on behalf of Peet Ltd to provide architectural, master-planning and interior design services to the project, which was completed in May. WestSwim is a business unit of Swimming WA – a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to growing the sport of swimming in Western Australia.

Buchan associate director Anna Meszaros, from Buchan’s Perth studio, says the centre was designed specifically for WestSwim’s highly credentialed learn-to-swim program, and its aqua aerobic and adult fitness programs.

Inclusions

The 724m2 facility includes: • A pool hall featuring a five-lane, 25 metre graded-depth swimming pool, with specialised in-built teaching ledges. The pool is heated to 32 degrees to maintain user comfort all year round.

• On-deck shower facilities.

• Best-practice safety in design offers enhanced parental supervision within family-orientated change and amenities areas.

• Accessible facilities include a para-mobility hoist, accessible shower, change and toilet facilities.

• Reception, retail space and office facility.

• Storage and state-of-the-art advanced filtration systems.

• An additional 48m2 outdoor entertainment area.

Meszaros says the pool hall’s aesthetics reflected a coastal palette with emphasis on a selection of light, natural wall and ceiling colours which enhance indoor light distribution and perceived lighting levels while reducing energy consumption.

When selecting materials, special consideration was given to ensure noise reverberation was minimised and the pool hall’s highly corrosive indoor environment – with high levels of heat and humidity – was accommodated.

“The solution was to install a custom-designed tension member to fit 66 SPLASH! October/November 2018

the structural ceiling system and strategically position it directly over the pool to offset and diffuse the mid-high frequency reverberation,” she says.

“We also worked with WestSwim’s graphic consultant and signage contractor to further reduce noise reverberation by introducing a 3D wall mural which provided an ‘acoustic band’ at the end wall,” she says.

“This provided further acoustic balance, while adding a fitting decorative element to the space.”

Sustainability

Sustainability initiatives incorporated into the centre included: • Passive solar design • Optimisation of natural daylighting and daylight distribution • Use of energy efficient lighting • Water efficient fixtures • Automated, insulated thermal pool blankets to maintain water temperature and reduce evaporation out of hours. This has the added benefit of reducing humidity in the pool hall.

• Use of low maintenance durable materials • Measures to reduce air conditioning load by minimising uncontrolled air movement between spaces with differential temperatures and humidity levels • Insulated building envelope from the outside which is a costeffective strategy to reduce energy • Use of water-wise drought tolerant landscaping.

WestSwim Lakelands is located on the corner of Mandurah Road and Lake Valley Drive in the new Lakelands town centre. The purpose-built facility is part of the vibrant urban hub complementing the main street shopping precinct, library and early learning centre in Lakelands, Western Australia.

About Buchan

Buchan is an acclaimed Australasian architectural, interior and graphic design firm, operating across 11 locations in Australia, New Zealand, China, UAE and the UK for more than 125 years. Buchan traces its local history back the opening of the Geelong practice in 1896.

Contact: buchangroup.com.au

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

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

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

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

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

29-30 JULY 2020 Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre

SAVE THE DATE For more information visit www.splashexpo.com.au or call 1300 789 845 Owned By

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new products

Ikonic spa design says goodbye to the boxy look Vortex is expecting their new Ikon spa pool to change the way people view portable spas, saying that while the health, restorative and relaxation benefits of spa pools are well-documented, some spa-goers aren’t huge fans of the conventional “big, square plastic box” look.

“It is inspired by modern architecture, that special feeling when stepping onto a yacht and ultimate relaxation. Using these key concepts, it quickly manifested into a clean faceted exterior, grand entrance and simplified interior landscape.”

The sculptural good looks come from New Zealand-born product designer Alain Brideson, who took his experience in designing exceptional cars to change the perception of the spa pool, saying he wanted to create a spa pool that architects wouldn’t want to hide away.

The Ikon is exclusively available through Spa World stores in Australia and Vortex Spas in New Zealand.

Contact: www.vortexspas.com.au

Play equipment to stimulate curiosity

Waterplay’s new Waterway product collection encourages continuous skill-building play through interactive elements designed to encourage exploration and discovery.

“When conceptualising the Waterways product collection we wanted to explore how we could create endless play value in an inclusive, compact, easy-to-install, modular design,” says Waterplay president Jill White.

“During the process, we engaged external experts to consult in play theory and strategy, and also met with the design community to better understand the challenges they face when working with traditional play tables. The group of Waterplay product testers ranged in age from two to 12 and each age group engaged with the product in such creative ways.

They investigated, they pushed, pulled, and plugged, they splashed, they spun, they used their knees, hands and even elbows to block water, they helped each other reach and stretch their bodies to engage in elements that were just out of grasp, and they squatted down to get in close to investigate elements that are nearer to the ground.”

Contact: www.waterplay.com

October/November 2018 SPLASH! 69

new products

Island style for urban outdoors

The Island Collection from fenton&fenton boasts classic lines, comfortable styling and weather resilience. The collection includes the Kera outdoor sofa, a timeless classic that will be loved for years to come.

Crafted from UV-stabilised all-weather wicker, this outdoor daybed is both practical and stylish. The perfect go-to addition for any contemporary or classic garden setting, the Kera sofa comfortably seats two adults. Designed for family and friends to lounge away the hot summer afternoons.

Contact: www.fentonandfenton.com.au

Perfect panels for al fresco spaces

Tricoya is a new high-performance wood-based panel product with outstanding durability and dimensional stability in the most extreme and challenging environments – both exterior as well as interior, for wet and high moisture applications.

Manufacturer Gunnersens says it is the only cabinetry board product with a 50-year aboveground and a 25 year in-ground warranty.

It can be cut, coated, sanded, glued, machined and fastened the same as any other high performing wood fibreboard – allowing users all the freedom normally associated with MDF but in extreme applications. The Tricoya panel is delivered with a 150grit sanded finish and can be sanded with fine sandpaper to achieve a smooth finish.

Conventional water-based paint coatings may be used to decorate the panel.

Contact: www.gunnersens.com.au

70 SPLASH! October/November 2018

new products

New reagent disc for magnesium mineral pools Tough Aussie-made Suntube

For the first time, there is a locally made rigid panel system designed for tough Australian conditions.

Sunbather says their new Suntube-2 panel system has been made super tough to be rugged and durable enough for Australia’s harsh climate – saying it is the toughest solar system made anywhere in the world.

Every component in the system has been redesigned for greater strength and durability, and new technologies have been developed for every connection to eliminate any potential points of weakness.

Sunbather’s says the Suntube-2 has raised the bar to become the new benchmark for all rigid solar pool heating systems worldwide.

LaMotte Pacific says testing mineral pool water requires a closer examination of water quality, especially for factors such as hardness, and the answer is their new reagent disc for the WaterLink Spin Touch photometer. It allows checking for a higher range of total Calcium hardness – up to 2000 ppm instead of 800 ppm. This makes the new disc ideal for the growing number of magnesium mineral pools.

The other new test added to the 104 and 204 discs is Salt. This has been added to Total Chlorine, Free Chlorine, Combined Chlorine, Alkalinity, pH, Cyanuric Acid and Copper; with the 104 version of the new disc able to test for Iron and the 204 version for Phosphate.

Test results of up to 11 factors only takes 60 seconds, saving time and frustration, with results displayed on the WaterLink Spin Touch screen.

Contact: (02) 9624 2754; sales@lamottepacific.com

Contact: www.sunbather.com.au; 1800 228 437

Clearing pipes with the new water jetter

Ridge Tool Australia’s new KJ-5000 GEN III portable water jetter gives you 5075 psi actual working pressure with a water flow rate of 23 litres per minute to handle commercial and industrial pipe clearing applications.

This jetter propels a highly flexible and lightweight hose through 50mm to 250mm lines – blasting through sludge, soap, grease, and sediment blockages. As you pull the hose back, it power scrubs the line flushing debris away and restoring drain lines to their full, free-flowing capacity – all without the use of harmful chemicals.

Contact: www.ridgid.com.au; 1800 743 443

GOLD MEDAL FLOORING… FOR POOL SURROUNDS, LEISURE FACILITIES & SWIM SCHOOLS Swimming and aquatic sports are at the core of the Australian lifestyle and aquatic centres face a number of flooring challenges — picking the right finish for each part of the site can be a tricky prospect.

Our Flowsports Aquatic flooring systems are designed to combat these challenges and provide staff and patrons with a safe, durable and welcoming environment.

ARRANG

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FREE FL YOUR QLD +61 7 3205 7115 CONSU OORING NSW +61 2 4648 0397 LTA TODAY! ION VIC +61 3 9578 5959 australia@flowcrete.com www.flowcreteaustralia.com.au

October/November 2018 SPLASH! 71

new products

Timeless outdoor dining

Satara Australia says their new Maxum outdoor arm chair is a timeless outdoor dining piece.

Available in either a black or white finish, it comes with outdoor seat cushion made from Sunbrella fabric and quickdry foam. The black version comes with Coal Sunbrella fabric and the White version comes with Spectrum Dove Sunbrella fabric. It is suitable for both indoor or outdoor use.

The Maxum is one of their extensive range of high quality outdoor dining and arm chairs which Satara says are virtually maintenance free.

Contact: www.satara.com.au

Brickworks Building Products acquires Urbanstone

Brickworks Building Products (BBP) has added another prestige brand to further diversify its already extensive portfolio.

BBP says the introduction of Urbanstone cements its commitment to delivering the best possible building products to the Australian market.

Founded in Western Australia in 1993, Urbanstone manufactures premium commercial and residential stone and concrete paving, pool copings, pier caps, wall claddings and walling solutions.

Urbanstone joins BBP’s full suite which includes clay bricks, masonry blocks, retaining walls, pavers, roof tiles, metal roofing, specialised building systems, precast concrete panels and terracotta façade systems.

Contact: brickworksbuildingproducts.com.au

72 SPLASH! October/November 2018

new products

The light-heavyweight loader

Semco says their new Takeuchi TL6R compact track loader is an all-round performer providing small size and reliable power for moving earth.

The latest model from Japanese manufacturer Takeuchi is a significant advance compared with earlier models. The radial-lift Takeuchi TL6R compact track loader is small enough for easy truck- or trailer-loading and despite its compact design, it packs a punch in the power department.

Its cleverly designed cabin easily accommodates generously proportioned operators, while its low-profile cabin height of 1975mm is low enough to allow the loader to be driven through the door openings in most residential carports and garages.

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

KIH1025/0811/SC KIH1025/0811/SC

Contact: www.semcogroup.com.au

Spin out of a mess

Rigid’s new Power Spin Plus with Autofeed means all you have to do is pull the trigger and turn the drum for a clean drain without the mess.

It cleans drain lines from 12mm up to 38mm in diameter and features kink-resistant Maxcore cable, designed for drill-powered operation up to 500rpm. The Autofeed trigger technology allows the cable to self-feed down the drain, and the cable is positively retained in the drum to prevent cable pull-out. It includes eight metres of 6mm Maxicore cable.

Contact: www.ridgid.com.au

October/November 2018 SPLASH! 73

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