Gala night invitation front coverBookings are now open for our Awards of Excellence Gala Night Dinner on Saturday 13th July 2019.

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Where: The Melbourne Room, Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre, 2 Clarendon Street, Southbank
Time: 7pm
Dress: Formal

Come Along to See Who Wins in 2019

Please join us for sumptuous food and be entertained by the irrepressible Sam Kekovich as Master of Ceremonies. Dance to cover band Unlimited and be serenaded by Elvis!

Don't Miss Our Industry's Night of Nights!
Network. Be Seen. Receive recognition. Support Your Association.​
 
Witness the best work from within our industry. We look forward to seeing you all there and celebrating together.
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SPASA Victoria's 2019 Awards of Excellence are proudly brought to you with thanks to our generous sponsors:
Remco 2019
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cooke industries logo  tptc logo cropped pool box logo  haywardbevellogo
women s forum spasaAll are invited to come along to our first ever 'Women In Industry' panel event and hear from our panel of experts about the challenges and successes of their experiences. 
 
Ask questions and get advice on important issues such as climbing the corporate ladder, marketing your business and finding that perfect work-life balance.
 

Special Guest Panellists:

Katrina McCarter - Founder and CEO of Australian company 'Marketing to Mums'. Katrina is a marketing strategist who specialises in understanding mothers as a powerful market sector, through experience and research.
 
Katherine Grace - Passionate about effective, low-cost marketing for small and medium businesses. Speaker and webinar presenter for organisations including the HIA and the AIPP. Award winning Business Coach (Asia-Pacific and Global awards for Best Client Results).
 
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. - Kirsten is an experienced non-executive director with substantial business skills and experience within Australia and internationally.
 

MC:

Pat Panetta - On the air since his community radio days as a 17 year old, Pat's sense of fun and warm style has always appealed to audiences.  With an honest approach and a creative mind, Pat is sure to entertain as the MC of this inaugural SPASA Victoria event.

Champagne on arrival.
Finger food lunch provided.
 
This event is FREE to SPASA Victoria Members
Non-Members $45
 
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Kirsten Mander cropped Katherine Grace Marketing Strategist and Director of Elemental Solutions 

2017 Pool and Spa Logo low resDid you know that SPASA Victoria recently invested heavily in a publicity campaign to generate awareness of our Pool & Spa Expo + Outdoor Living event?

This was done in various ways across multiple platforms, specifically by securing editorials in the Victorian media as the State's must-attend event for anyone who is:

  • considering installing a pool and/or spa in their outdoor living area
  • improving their outdoor living area
  • looking for inspiration for their outdoor entertaining area

This investment achieved a return in media coverage of 1,862,228 print, 6,259,345 online and 446,390 social pieces totalling a cumulative audience of 8,567,963 exposures!

Our publicity campaign ran between November 2018 and February 2019 and focussed on driving event awareness by:

  • securing online and print event listings in Victorian media outlets and 'What's On' titles
  • securing online and print competitions for tickets (and prizes with exhibitors) in Victorian media
  • securing features/interviews on key event stakeholders
  • securing picture opportunities in key Victorian news titles

As a result, 43 pieces of media coverage was received along with key commentary in Domain and The Australian Financial Review.

Your association believes that this was money well invested to generate greater consumer interest and engagement in our events which ultimately leads to more pools and spas in Victoria, ensuring that you - our valued members - continue to have work in a busy and sustained industry!

VBA CMYKReforms to Victoria’s building legislation are occurring between 2016 and 2019 as part of the State Government’s building industry reforms program.

The Victorian Building Authority is responsible for implementing these reforms as amendments to the Building Act, the Regulations and other relevant legislation commence. The reforms are designed to achieve compliance and transparency in the building industry, as well as increased consumer protection, so that anyone engaging a building practitioner can do so with confidence.

Regarding the issuing of a building permit number by the VBA, the relevant building surveyor must apply to the VBA for a building permit number for the proposed building permit and include:

  • the information required by the VBA to accompany the application for a building permit number
  • the cost of the proposed building work estimated
  • the estimate of the amount of building levy payable; and
  • prescribed information relating to the proposed building permit and building work to which the permit relates

The VBA must issue a building permit number for a proposed building permit on receiving an application from the relevant building surveyor if:

  • the relevant building surveyor has given to the VBA all of the information required in relation to the proposed building permit; and
  • the VBA has been paid the whole amount of the building permit levy determined in relation to the proposed building work

The VBA may refuse to issue a building permit number if:

  • the relevant building surveyor has not given the VBA all of the information required in relation to the proposed building permit; or
  • the VBA has not been paid the whole amount of the building permit levy determined in relation to the proposed building work.

Once all information and the building permit levy has been provided, the VBA must decide to issue or refuse a building permit number within five business days.

  • If the building permit number is refused, the VBA must notify the applicant with the reasons for refusal and the applicants right to apply to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) for review of the decision
  • The VBA must give a copy of a notice to the relevant building surveyor

The VBA must notify the relevant council, without delay, of the building permit number and the information given to the VBA by the relevant building surveyor in relation to the application for the building permit number.

Changes effective from 1 July 2019 – At a glance:

For more on the VBA's 2019 Building Industry Reforms see HERE

Cutting edge design FINALAre you working on something completely new and innovative at the moment?

We’re interested to hear about current trends and influences in swimming pool and spa building and design. So if you are - please let us know!

SPASA Victoria is often approached by the media for current trends within the industry. By providing us with this information, you could potentially benefit from FREE media exposure!

Please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with a few sentences about what you are working on that is either ‘cutting edge’, new and/or different and include any relevant pictures.

Spa Industry Think Tank edm headerSPASA Victoria were delighted to host a Spa Industry 'Think Tank' session for our Spa Industry members on Friday 29th March 2019. This involved a lively discussion of topics such as:

  • Fencing
  • Promotions / Marketing
  • Brand development
  • Involvement at expos
  • Standards

The critical strategic issues were identified as:

  • Marketing for the industry
  • Competition in the lifestyle area
  • Cheap/easy entry into the market / foreign imports
  • Energy costs
  • Regulations on a retail level
  • Fencing regulations – lockable barriers are acceptable in NZ and NSW
  • Standards – Hydraulics

The key goal to come out of this 'Think Tank' session was to 'Grow the Spa Industry for Members' with the key objectives being to:

  • Work with the VBA for a sustainable approach to barrier regulations in Victoria
  • Develop a 12 month marketing campaign specific for the spa industry
  • Increase the percentage of sales in the market by members through increased SPASA Victoria Brand Recognition

There was agreement that there is a greater need to emphasize the health benefits of owning a spa whilst educating the consumer on various elements of spa ownership. The Think Tank was a welcome initiative and we will pursue the objectives over time to deliver sustainable outcomes for the spa industry.

Building permits in Victoria hit almost 40 billionThe total value of building permits in Victoria has hit a record level of almost $40 billion in 2018, according to data released by the Victorian Building Authority (VBA).

The cost of works in permits reported to the VBA for the 12 months was $39.6 billion,  up 10.7 percent - or $3.8 billion - on the previous year’s record $35.8 billion. There’s a corresponding rise in the number of building permits for the calendar year at 113,287, up 0.4 percent over last year’s record 112,882 permits.

VBA’s building permit data for 2018 also shows that the value of building permits exceeded $3 billion in 10 of the 12 months; August at almost $4 billion was the highest monthly total ever.

The value of building permits increased across all seven building use categories and all seven regions of Victoria.

The Domestic (houses) category was responsible for more than half of the total value of building permits at $20.2 billion, up 8.8 percent over the previous year.

Read this article in full HERE

Eleven municipalities in Victoria reported building permits with a value of more than $1 billion in 2018:

Eleven municipalities in Victoria reported building permits with a value of more than 1 billion in 2018

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.What happens in the event that your tools and/or equipment are stolen from your site or office/factory carpark or the driveway of your personal property?

A tools of trade policy will provide you with cover if your portable tools are stolen from a vehicle or locked worksite. This policy requires that any vehicle used to carry the goods or worksite used to store the goods be securely locked when unattended.

This policy can be extended to cover electronic items such as laptops, tablets and mobile phones and can also be upgraded to settle claims on replacement value rather than indemnity value.

Got questions? Call Sarah at AB Phillips today on 1300 242 136 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

AB Phillips banner

Protrade logoIf you pay attention to current media and economic commentaries, you will hear opinions of a slowdown or correction in the economy, particularly within construction and related trades. Have you prepared yourself for this correction after four years of continuous double-digit growth?

The reality is, those in business for over 20 years will recognise that good times do not last forever, just like the seasons of the year. Businesses with longevity realise that there will always be a winter and prepare accordingly throughout spring and summer.

Far too often people in business expect spring and summer to be indefinite without a correction or even a downturn to bring things back into equilibrium. Here are some points (perhaps a few unconventional) to consider when a potential slowdown or correction in the marketplace impacts your industry:

Build cash reserves

Many trade and construction business owners are only one bad month away from running out of cash and having to close the doors. Building a cash reserve that gives you a financial cushion and peace of mind, is essential to surviving a correction however, it also allows you to take advantage of opportunities that show themselves at this time in the cycle. You may have a chance to purchase a similar business in your industry to expand your offering, or to confidently fill your calendar with quality work by investing more into your marketing and sales processes. Building a cash reserve is preparing for an unknown opportunity in advance.

Increase your marketing spend

When the economy starts to slow down, it is not the time to cut back on every expense in your business. In many cases, if done correctly, extending your marketing expenditure will be an investment that will bring you a return to every dollar that you spend.

Ensure that you are clear with your target audience, test and measure all your marketing channels, and maybe even refine the audience that you are serving. This is an opportunity to niche your offering and specialise in one key area, versus being all things to everyone.

Associate with positive business owners

Jim Rohn, one of my favourite business philosophers, once said, "Don't wish that life is easier, wish for better skills." There are things in life that you can do something about and things you cannot do anything about. Find the wisdom to know the difference. Many people focus on and complain about things that they have no control over, and this consumes them. This negativity will consume you too if you let it. Focus instead on associating with positive, solution-finding peers. Being amongst like-minded individuals with a view to the future will not only keep you in the right frame of mind, but can provide support and fresh ideas to continue moving forward.

Train your team to deliver great value

During corrections or tightening of the market, money still flows, however people become more discerning in where they spend it. You just need to ensure that your company is the one that people are prepared to spend their money with. Invest time educating and training your team to communicate effectively, deliver great value, educate the customer, and represent your business in the best way possible. It has been proven that those companies who invest in learning and development of their team, regardless of the economic cycle, produce a higher profit margin and improve staff loyalty at the same time.

Seek a mentor

Your industry is full of older, wiser and more experienced business owners who have been through many economic cycles. Make sure you have someone from your industry or similar trade who has not just survived but thrived in downturns and corrections. They are often only too happy to share how they manage their own personal well-being, thinking and actions during this uncertain time. Your mentor should be someone not afraid to ‘tell it to you straight’ to ensure your efforts are headed in the right direction.

Remember to trust the process, manage yourself wisely and pay attention to the points above, and we will see you when spring and summer come around next time.

Read this article on the PROTRADE United website HERE

For more information on creating consistency in your business, contact the PROTRADE United team on 1300 767 774.

Written by Jon Mailer, CEO of PROTRADE United
www.protradeunited.com.au

AGL LOGOThe AGL Group was established in 1969. We are a busy, friendly, family-run business dealing in both construction and service.

The AGL Group is looking for an experienced Service Technician to join their team.

The majority of their service work is located in Melbourne CBD and surrounding suburbs.

Your role would include:

• Pool cleaning / maintenance
• Installation of pool / spa equipment, maintenance and repairs
• Sand changes
• Water testing / balancing
• Identifying sales opportunities

You must have:

• Excellent communication skills
• Excellent time management skills
• Current driver's license
• Extensive knowledge of commercial or domestic pool / spa plant room equipment
• Ability to work autonomously

Benefits & perks:

• Company car & mobile phone
• Bonus incentive scheme - paid quarterly basis

To apply for this position, please send your resume to Alison Jencke alison@theaglgroup.com.au
For more information contact Alison on 9588 0355.

Commercial Aquatics logo no tag RGBCommercial Aquatics Australia have an excellent opportunity for a Service Technician to join their Victorian team. The ideal candidate will have completed a plumbing, electrical or mechanical trade certificate and have a background in mechanical or waste water/chemical treatment systems, along with problem solving skills, a willingness to learn and an ultimate desire to continue to grow and develop the service and maintenance division.

Daily duties include:

  • Maintenance/ service of mechanical pool operations
  • Water testing and calibration
  • Assisting in the pursuit of new service and maintenance opportunities
  • Maintaining accurate service records and enhancing client relationships.

To be considered for the role, candidates must have:

  • Aquatic industry, mechanical or waste water background
  • Strong written/ verbal communication skills
  • Willingness to participate in an on-call roster (additional pay) one week a month
  • Flexibility to work on rural sites during the week
  • Valid driver’s licence and white card

CAA are offering an attractive hourly rate with a fully maintained vehicle and phone to the successful candidate. CAA is a vibrant business with unique opportunities for bright and enthusiastic individuals who wish to succeed in their career.

If you hold the above skills, we welcome your resume. Please send through your resume with cover letter to hr@commercialaquatics.com.au

memberbenefits Apr2019Member Benefits - Available to all Members in 2019

  • AB Phillips - SPASA’s Risk Management, Insurance & Financial Services Provider
  • Jeremy Johnson & Associates - One Hour of Free Expert Legal Advice
  • Career Dressing – Preferred Workwear & Corporate Clothing Supplier
  • Online White Card Training with Aveling
  • Houzz and SPASA – Free Profile-Building Website
  • myhronline - HR Advice and resources, discounted for SPASA members
  • FCA - Offering exceptional value and wide-ranging vehicle choice 

See the full details of your Member Benefits here

 

calendar

2019

Awards of Excellence Gala Dinner Bookings Open – Friday 3 May BOOK HERE

Basic Chemistry Training - Tuesday 14 May 9am - 4pm FULLY BOOKED

Advanced Chemistry Training - Thursday 16 & Friday 17 May 9am - 4pm This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Women In Industry Panel Event - Thursday 30 May 2019 11am - 2pm This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

OH&S Materials Made Easy - Action OHS - Wed 19 June 9.30am - 12.30pm BOOK HERE

HR Essentials - Wednesday 3 July 9.30am - 12.30pm BOOK HERE

Awards of Excellence Gala Dinner – Saturday 13 July BOOK HERE

Planning Your Business Future - Wednesday 24 July 9.30am - 12.30pm BOOK HERE

Pool Construction Essentials Training - Thursday 1 August 8.30am - 4.30pm - BOOK HERE

Domestic Builder Contract Training - Wednesday 7 August 11.30am -1pm BOOK HERE

Hydraulics Training - Thursday 22 & Friday 23 August 9am - 4pm - BOOK HERE

Spa & Pool Show at MCEC (Winter Show) - Saturday 10 & Sunday 11 August - Co-located with the Backyard & Garden Show

Basic Chemistry Training - Monday 16 September 9am - 4pm - BOOK HERE

Advanced Chemistry Training - Wednesday 18 & Thursday 19 September 9am - 4pm BOOK HERE

2020

Pool & Spa Expo + Outdoor living - Friday 7 - Sunday 9 February

Spa & Pool Show at MCEC (Winter Show) - Saturday 8 & Sunday 9 August

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