In our last edition for 2013 we take a look at the year that was and provide an outline of what SPASA will be working towards in 2014 to support members. We remind you about the importance in working with safety in mind in the lead up to Christmas, provide some imperative news regarding mandatory portable swimming pool labelling and advise you of our achievements in the membership department - it's a record-breaker!

We hope you enjoy this edition.

SPASA Victoria has an online presence - join the conversation by following us on Facebook and Linkedin.

A Year In Review

Every year at this time, our thoughts vary between previous years' accomplishments and looking ahead. This year has been an eventful, record breaking and challenging year for SPASA.

It began with a bang – the summer Pool & Spa Expo was the largest consumer show in SPASA Victoria’s history – 25% more floorspace and completely sold-out. With the launch of a new television commercial and media buying strategy, the saturation advertising via multiple media channels resulted in near record attendance. While exhibiting members were thrilled (it was quoted as “the best Show in ten years” by some exhibiting members), all members benefited from the improved event branding and the high profile of the association’s considerable advertising spend.

With SPASA’s new Notting Hill premises now feeling like home, the focus over the quieter months switched to conducting other traditional member activities – the annual golf day, our CPD-accredited industry training, Country Chapter and member sector meetings, as well as playing host to important industry stakeholder meetings including the national Demand Response Enabling Device Forum.

Over the winter months Pool Builder Members signed up in droves to use SPASA online contract, and our monthly Member Bulletins transitioned to the new e-newsletter format. We hope you are enjoying receiving a monthly digest of the most relevant and important industry information.

This year’s Awards of Excellence were again an unrivalled success with a record number of members participating. Held for the second consecutive year at the prestigious NGV venue, the largest attendance to date celebrated the entire industry. The event was superbly supported by industry with record levels of sponsorship. As with everything we do, we always strive for improvement and, after listening to member feedback following the 2013 event, the venue and format for next year’s Awards will experience some exciting changes - stay tuned!

Our membership has continued to grow, hitting 300 for the first time in the association's history. Growth has been the highest in areas integral, but peripheral, to our industry— private building surveyors, engineers, landscape designersand pool fencing contractors. The new member branding is being recognised by consumers, backed by 'Use A SPASA Member' advertisements which are now running in industry consumer publications.

SPASA Victoria has continued to receive positive praise from the State Government, our membership collectively received a glowing Ministerial endorsement from Louise Asher on the industry’s resilience through recent hard times. Similarly, Planning Minister Matthew Guy equates using a SPASA member with engaging an expert who will steer the consumer in the right direction.

We continued to promote the best interests of our members and the wider industry via representations to the Victorian Building Authority, CPSISC, Standards Australia and the APVMA. SPASA Victoria also continued to successfully collaborate with our fellow SPASA Australia members (SPASA QLD, WA & SA), achieving improved and transparent governance allowing the one true national industry peak body to focus on issues of national significance. The sharing of goodwill amongst SPASA Australia ensures there is now consistent association and member branding, with a shared http://www.spasa.com.au website URL set to be a powerful future landing page for consumers looking for a SPASA member.

2014 Projection

The message of swimming pool and spa safety will again be at the fore during the coming year. The imminent release of coronial findings into the drowning of three Victorian toddlers will precipitate further changes to safety barrier legislation. SPASA Victoria, together with other stakeholders on the Backyard Pool and Spa Safety Committee, previously formed key recommendations that have now started to reach legislative stage.

The first of which - tighter labelling restrictions on non-constructed product - has just come into effect via a new standard, while a register of all Victorian pools and spas and ongoing mandatory safety barrier audits remain on the horizon.

Despite the frustrating revolving door of chiefs at the Victorian Building Authority, SPASA continues to lobby strongly for reforms within our industry - reforms that will benefit both consumers and registered building practitioners. These include: an increased duration for swimming pool permits, mandatory CPD for all practitioners who build pools and a new inspection schedule for fibreglass swimming pools which incorporates a second inspection.

In July, SPASA Australia is set to host the inaugural SPASA Australia Awards of Excellence Gala Dinner, in conjunction with the 2014 SPLASH! event. This will deliver reward and recognition for the nation’s best while also providing the ultimate bragging rights - the crowning of the first ever SPASA Australia Pool of the Year.

The Board will continue to focus on effective governance and represent members via strategic and representative portfolios to ensure the needs of members are met. Heading into 2014, SPASA Victoria remains positioned to effectively represent our industry and be the first “port of call” for all stakeholders.

We are pleased to report that the broadened member base and continued success of well supported member events has allowed the association to keep membership fees on hold for the fifth successive year.

The SPASA office looks forward to continuing the timely delivery of updates on industry matters of importance, to promoting the value of pool and spa ownership and to serving your best interests as a member.

We wish all members a wonderful festive season and prosperous New Year.

  

Tony Cockerall from WorkSafe’s Construction Unit talks about the high risk pre-Christmas period and asks the construction industry to be extra vigilant during this time.

As a construction inspector and manager of inspectors, I have attended numerous construction sites where workers have died, been injured or there has been a near miss.

Generally, there are always a number of factors which have contribute to an incident occurring. In my experience a common thread across many incidents is workers rushing to get the job done.

While I have heard numerous reasons given to why they needed rush to get the work finished, the end result is always the same taking short cuts.

Whether it’s to knock off early, meet the mates down the pub, start at a new site tomorrow or complete the project before the Christmas break; short cuts can have disastrous consequences.

The six weeks leading up to the Christmas is traditionally a high risk period for the construction industry so builders and sub-contractors need to be especially vigilant to ensure site safety.

Don’t let the pressure to get work completed cause you to take short cuts with safety otherwise everybody may not get to enjoy time with their family over Christmas.

 

Victorian Building Authority (VBA) Chief Commissioner Bill Kusznirczuk has confirmed that senior government executive Prue Digby will commence as acting Chief Executive Officer of the Authority effective from Monday, 25 November 2013.

Ms Digby has resigned as a VBA Board member and will replace Joe Dimasi as VBA Chief Executive Officer. Mr Dimasi has decided to step down for personal reasons. Mr Kusznirczuk said he and the Board respected the decision taken by Mr Dimasi.

We have made significant advancement by enhancing our ability to be a better regulator with additional resourcing and training and by bringing in a more systematic and thorough audit program across both the building and plumbing sectors,” he said.

VBA Chairman and Chief Commissioner said: “We will continue to build on these achievements and meet the many reform challenges still confronting us by focusing on standards, enforcement and the best interests of consumers. “The Victorian building industry is a significant contributor to the State’s economy and I look forward to working with Ms Digby over the coming months to further entrench reforms that support industry growth and jobs,” Mr Kusznirczuk said.  

With the Summer Pool and Spa Expo fast approaching we wish to remind you of the SPASA code of conduct. We ask that all members consider the greater interest of the industry and ensure that they, and their staff are familiar with the standing code. 

1.  To hold inviolate the concepts of free enterprise and unselfish service to the public. 

2.  To operate at all times in a manner that will enhance the reputation of the swimming pool and spa industry in the local community and across the Nation. 

3.  To make the largest contribution possible to the health, safety and welfare of the public in the installation, maintenance and operation of swimming pools and to comply with all applicable laws, ordinances and regulations. 

4.  To support all efforts to improve swimming pool and spa products and service, and to encourage research and the development of new materials and methods. 

5.  To advertise and sell the merits of products and service and refrain from making unwarranted criticism of  competitors or reflecting unfairly on their products, service or methods of doing business.

6.  To advertise only bona fide prices and products and to refrain from using innuendos in advertising and selling that may cause our customers to be misled. 

7.  To ensure we reveal all material facts, to avoid accusations of concealment of information. 

8.  To co-operate and assist where possible all levels of Government in connection with their dealings with the swimming pool and spa industry. 

9.  To fulfil all contractual obligations.  To offer a reasonable warranty on products and service and to perform on such warranty, either written or implied, when and where justifiable claims are in order, and to do so promptly. 

10.  To take no action or make any statement that may be construed to prejudice a pre-existing contract for the construction or supply of goods or services pertaining to the swimming pool and spa industry. 

11.  To act fairly and properly at all times towards fellow members of the Association and, when a member is called upon to advise, consult, rectify or otherwise take any action in relation to products, services or works provided, to carry out such works or action or advice on behalf of the consumer in a professional and unbiased manner.     

  

SPASA Grows, Reaches 300 Milestone

SPASA membership has hit 300 members for the first time in the association’s 52 year history, following three years of sustained growth and high member retention.

This is a fantastic effort given the economic challenges that presently face all Victorians, particularly within the small business sector and wider construction industry.

This strong growth, together with targeted ‘Use A SPASA Member’ campaigns, is helping increase consumer awareness of our SPASA brand, and the virtues of engaging a SPASA member.

The SPASA office has noticed a significant increase in the number of consumers calling to verify member status – we trust that you are experiencing a similar increase in the questioning of your SPASA membership.

If you know of an industry participant who espouses integrity and quality workmanship - but is not yet a member - you’re encouraged to contact Asher on: asher@spasavic.com.au or 9501 2040 to discuss if an approach from SPASA would be welcomed.

Membership rates held steady for fifth consecutive year

SPASA Victoria continues to deliver value for money to members, keeping membership fees on hold for an unprecedented fifth successive year.

 In tight economic times this has been achieved via a broadened member base and the continued success of well supported member events, providing members another year free from membership renewal price hikes.

We thank you for your continued support and look forward to continuing to deliver value for money throughout 2014.

Member survey winners announced!

A big ‘thank-you’ to all members who participated in our annual member survey.

The valuable feedback received from members is vital in ascertaining member satisfaction, sourcing new ideas and highlighting areas for improvement.

We are pleased to announce that this year’s two winners of $100 SPASA credit vouchers, drawn at last month’s AGM, were John Lewis from Supreme Inground Pools and Ian Malkin from All Season Services.

Welcome New Members:
The Board of SPASA warmly welcomes new members to the Association.

New Provisional Members: Protector Aluminium Principals or Directors: Darryl Cardell Membership Category: National - provisional www.protectoraluminium.com.au Pakenham Pool and Spas Principals or Directors: Bradley Meehan Membership Category: Pool Service - provisional www.pakenhampoolandspas.com.au Melbourne Pool Company Principals or Directors: Sam Collie Membership Category: Restricted – provisional http://www.melbournepoolcompany.com.au Malosso Pools & Spas Principals or Directors: David & Laura Malosso Membership Category: Pool Builder – provisional

Upgrade To Full Membership: Maax Australia Pty Ltd Principals or Directors: Dian An Zhu / Lisa Devenish Membership Category:  Spa Industry www.maaxspa.com.au

If you're seeking some inspiration at this time of year make sure you read the following key points which will guide you to achieving success in your professional life. With the new year nearly upon us, what better time to set the wheels in motion! 

1. Proactivity is a secret weapon.
Begin building your proactive habits as soon as possible by seeking out ways to go above and beyond your role every day. This could mean kicking your projects to the next level, finding new ways to impact your company, or even just improving internal processes to make things run smoother. Proactivity is a crucial part of advancing your career.

2. Perfection isn’t attainable. Being a perfectionist and micromanaging others—even if they aren’t your direct reports—can be damaging. People don’t like being told what to do, and good leadership and management doesn’t come from tweaking things to perfection. Instead, live by the 80/20 rule and ask questions to derive answers when it comes to managing others.

3. Great public speaking skills create influence.
It’s important to understand that those who can speak well, be it in a company meeting or at a presentation, typically become trusted leaders. Never stop improving as a public speaker, even if it’s something you initially fear. If you have a strong voice and show confidence, authority will follow.

4. Work isn’t just about cashing your paycheck.
If you’re in it for the money alone, you’re probably not going to get very far. Work is truly about passion - finding and doing what you love. Being driven by passion is an insanely beneficial motivator.

5. Seek out a mentor.
If you don’t already have a mentor, it’s time to go out and find one. You may find a mentor in someone within your company or a person you look up to in your industry. If you don’t already know of someone who would make a great mentor, there are plenty of websites, organizations, conferences and networking events that can hook you up with someone who shares your professional vision and can offer helpful advice.

6. Know what makes you better than the rest.
The days of fitting into a professional mold are dead and gone.Today, knowing what sets you apart from the crowd professionally is the way to build your career. Knowing your top skills and using them to establish your personal brand will catch the eye of employers and maybe even lead you to starting a business of your own.

7. Always risk it.
We all know that risks and rewards go hand-in-hand. If you aren’t open to taking the occasional risk, you’re likely to get stuck in a flow that you can’t break from. This doesn’t always mean starting your own business or quitting your job for something less conventional. Taking risks often means overcoming your fears and reaching for opportunities you may have overlooked with more thinking.

One thing’s for certain: there is never any time to stop learning and growing as a professional. It’s the experiences we encounter that help transform us into better, brighter, and more successful versions of ourselves.

 

Building on Air is an online news broadcast dedicated to the building and design industry – the first of its kind in Australia. 

It is a newly created, 30-minute weekly news broadcast that provides a snapshot of news, product innovations, design trends, sustainability, policy developments and more. 

The weekly segment will be available to view or download every Tuesday from 2.30pm.  Watch the latest broadcast now.

A handy subscription feature, which allows you to register and receive an email notification when each new segment is available by clicking on the box in the top right hand corner of the home page.

Master Builders has partnered with Building on Air to ensure timely information and news is made available to the building and construction industry, and is excited about this new channel for building professionals to keep abreast of the latest innovations and news, just for the building and design industry. 

To view the broadcast go to www.buildingonair.com.au

Featuring profiles on new members to the association. 
Vipac Engineers and Scientists Ltd is an award winning technology powerhouse and multidisciplinary consultancy with over 40 years’ experience. Vipac is active in the automotive, building and infrastructure, defence, transport, railway, mining, power, oil, gas and consumer appliance industries.

With operations in all Australian capital cities, Asia, Europe, the United States and the Middle East, Vipac offers personalised service from a team of 240 staff.

In this edition we catch up with Plumbing Group Supervisor Bryan Dalziel who tells us a bit more about Vipac.

What does your business offer?
Vipac Engineers and Scientists Ltd is a multidisciplinary consultancy and testing laboratory.  Amongst other things, we specialise in mechanical testing of a wide range of products including pool skimmers and outlets, pool pumps and auxiliary systems, pool fences and barriers. We are ISO 9001 compliant and NATA accredited for the majority of the testing we conduct. This year Vipac celebrates its 40^th year of operation.

What are the most exciting & challenging parts of your business?
The best part about the testing work we do is dealing with a diverse range of clients and enjoying the challenge of meeting their varied needs.  This includes seeing the latest, state of the art products that are coming into the market, such as the highly energy efficient pool pump systems, innovative skimmer designs.

What’s a typical day in your world?
Not so long ago, my day consisted of designing test systems, conducting tests and producing reports.  Now my day could also include sitting on standards committees, attending seminars, writing and reviewing technical papers and meeting with clients.

I still try to end each working day with a swim in Vipac’s rooftop pool, which is heated entirely through the energy stored and recycled from our on-site vehicle emissions testing.

What’s something you’ve always wanted to do?
I’ve always wanted to travel to Antarctica – though I’m not sure how I would handle the cold.

5. Who has been your greatest inspiration?
My Dad has been my greatest inspiration, and is probably the reason I became an engineer, to follow in his footsteps.

6. Bonus question... Boardies or Budgies??
Boardies for sure

View Vipac Engineers website for more information.