Attached is some background information on the Sydney Story Factory project, a list of works required, and the architects' images and plans.

The inaugural ASOFIA Future Summit was a resounding success with in excess of 500 attending the national speaker event in major capital cities throughout Australia.

The event commenced in Brisbane on 23 August and concluded on 13 September in Melbourne with stops along the way in Sydney, Perth and Adelaide. 

The speaker, Steve Tighe, a leading consumer foresight specialist, provided audiences with an interesting perspective on how the environment is influencing consumer attitudes and future trends.  To learn more about Steve you can visit his website http://www.chasingsunrises.com.au/ and for those that want to revisit his presentation you can view it here.

Special thanks go to all sponsors both at a national and state level who generously supported this event.   The 3 national sponsors were; Westfield as Event Partner, Cbus as National Breakfast Sponsor and New Age Veneers as National Speaker Sponsor.

Take the time to learn more about each sponsor and utilise their services.  Click here to read an overview of sponsors.

Event Partner & Sponsors

As you are aware the devastation of the Queensland floods has been far reaching with many of our member companies being seriously affected. We are currently contacting all members in flood-affected areas to ascertain their level of damage or loss.

ASOFIA is committed to helping affected members as much as possible. We are implementing the following important strategies and we ask for your support.

Please consider donating to our fund and support your fellow industry members.

Email us on national_office@asofia.com.au with your pledge.
                                             
Warm regards

Gerard Ryan
CEO

Dates are as follows:

NSW - 3 August
VIC - 10 August
SA - 16 August
WA - 19 August
QLD - 25 August

Each State will also conduct its Annual General Meeting at the conclusion of the Roadshow. Hear how your State is travelling and who your elected representatives will be for the 2010-2011 year.  Sponsored Presentations to be advised.

Your attendance will earn you ASOFIA CPD points. Members are both welcome and encouraged to bring key staff or prospective members.

Cost: $40.00 per person (canapés & drinks provided)

To register, please click here.

For more information about the Framework and the approval process refer to the Workplace Rehabilitation Providers page on the WorkCover WA website or contact Lyn Anderson, A/Manager Regulation on 9388 5653.

An average net distribution of 5265 per issue has proven Interior Fitout to be a valued publication amongst all areas of the interior design and shopfitting industry.

The magazine has gone through another major redesign to better reflect the industry.  It tracks the newest products and trends to hit the industry.  The News section captures important changes and advances in the profession.  Project Reviews offer critical appraisal of new designs and fitouts, while features delve into the  issues that affect the industry such as training, education, legislation and government initiatives.  Other regular sections include product features and events calendar.

For rates and deadlines for the Interior Fitout Magazine for 2012, click here.

Members should contact Mark Pointer, Advertising Manager for member rates mpointer@intermedia.com.au   Editorial enquiries should be directed to Marion Gerritsen, Editor marion@intermedia.com.au

The Association is pleased to announce it will again support the Westfield Community Golf & Tennis Invitational 2010 being held in September.  The Westfield Community Program has been established  to provide support for children with disabilities and their families.

Whilst on Westfield's it is exciting to see that they are planning to start $1 billion worth of development projects this year as global retail markets continue to recover from the economic crisis.   Read more >

This year’s awards program will determine the very best projects completed within Australia over the past 18 months.  Entries must meet one of the designated categories as defined within the entry form.

Entries are open to all ASOFIA Financial Members.

Entry forms can be located in the members only area of this website.

A record number of entries have been received. 

       Entries are now closed for these awards.

Read More

Read More

Let’s make no mistake; JRB Shopfitting and John Ryding are in my opinion institutions and legends within this industry in many ways. Renowned for extremely high quality joinery and metalwork and having been in operation for 27 years, those who have worked for or with this company have been well trained and would be a commodity for any shopfitting outfit seeking employees.

A decision to close this facility and make 53 staff redundant is extremely tough. I understand this will have an impact on them and their families’ lives, and possibly even a flow-on effect to some suppliers and contractors. It may seem callous to some; but you have to recognize my responsibility to the remaining 250 odd staff, our clients, all the contractors and suppliers who undertake work for ONE Group Retail Experience is equally important and I am certain that this is the right decision.

I remain optimistic about the future of this industry and our business, although I am aware that when we come through this and take a glance back over our shoulders, what we see will be a very different animal. I think the saying is something like ‘what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger’. It is a tough pill to swallow especially if you have just been made redundant, but to all those of you who are tasked with the responsibility of making the tough decisions, I know how you feel. Don’t allow complacency to send you broke!

ASOFIA Accreditation is a professional development program used to monitor, assess and evaluate the standards and quality of businesses. The accreditation system measures the competencies of members against the ASOFIA’s Charter of Professional Conduct. Accreditation provides members with documented proof that they uphold the best practices and highest standards expected in the shop and office fitout industry.

Accreditation gives you:

1. An edge on your competitors
   The ability to display the Accredited Member logo on any marketing material
   Puts you in the upper-echelon of shop and office fitters in Australia
   Free promotional opportunities with ASOFIA, the website and associated publications
   A quality control system for your staff and clients.   

The most recent ASOFIA member to receive accreditation was retail fitout specialists ONE Group Retail Experience. They were granted ASOFIA Accredited Member status after proving their commitment to quality, safety, efficiency and educational progression in their submission. A well-respected player in the industry and now part of ONE Group Retail Experience, Focus Shopfitters was also the recipient of the Interior Fitout Award 2010 for National Interior Fitout of the Year.

Other recently accredited members are

• Alexander Interiors
• Comace
• Liquid Lines
• A.Broadley - Bringing Life to Design
• Thomas Brown Shopfitters
• Krueger Shopfitters & Commercial Interiors

Accredited members are also featured here!

Become an Accredited Member! It is a great step for your business.

Find out more

Worldwide, the travel sector is growing at a fast pace; new mobile technologies such as smart phone apps enable a new travel convenience. The business traveller is presented with many new opportunities meaning the tourism spend is predicted to rise. This puts all related industries, such as hotels, travel agents and airlines in a good position for 2011. In addition, the emerging recommendation services market – making the life of a traveller easier – is one to watch.

A taste of luxury in economy

Luxury products are no longer reserved for the well-off. In the past couple of years shoppers have become more conscious with their money spend. However, this situation hasn’t deterred people from indulging; they have instead become smarter by making use of discounts and sales. At the same time, more and more top notch brands have launched affordable ranges of products that are of comparable quality to the exclusive brands. This trend is predicted to continue in 2011.

Affordable health and fitness

Staying fit and healthy is on the top of many people’s New Year’s resolutions list, but our time-poor lives make it increasingly difficult to achieve. So convenience is becoming increasingly important, next to affordability. The rise of home-style gyms has been observed, with 24 hour access and cheap membership fees, where busy people can train whether it is 4am or 11pm. Group training is also winning popularity while people can share the costs of a personal trainer without cutting on quality.

Want to read about more trends?

Read more

With a great mix of benefits, such as discounts on lifestyle, leisure and professional services of up to 75%, footy tipping competitions and wine privilege programs, you will provide a point of difference to your employees by enhancing your workplace culture.

Receive discounts of up to 75% on over 1,200 products and services available in over 82,000 locations Australia-wide, including:

- Accommodation, Travel and Holidays

- Entertainment, Leisure and Attractions

- Food, Beverage and Eating Out

- Shopping

- Health, Fitness and Beauty

- Home and Garden

- Motoring

- Insurance and Financial Services

Don’t miss out – it’s this easy:

STEP ONE: Take a tour of the ASOFIA Member Benefit website. To see for yourself the savings you will receive, visit www.apilifestyle.com.au (API Card Number: asofia, Password: tour)

Step TWO: Go to the Members Only area of the ASOFIA website, log in, download the form in Member Discount Benefits and send it back to us.

Step THREE: Enjoy the savings!

At only $150+GST per annum, the ASOFIA Member Benefits Card will make a big difference to your bottom line. Contact us for more information.

Gerard Ryan, CEO, ASOFIA was heading up the charge to support ASOFIA members affected.

“Many ASOFIA members have been hit by the devastating floods in January. We wanted to show them our concern and support by doing something practical to help seriously affected member companies.

“The shop and office fitting community of Australia is a close and supportive group. Many of our friends were directly affected and we needed to help,” said Ryan.

Further still, Queensland shop and office fitters are now pivotal in the rebuild of damaged commercial property, and their survival helps retail and corporate offices to speed up the process and to continue business.  

ASOFIA thanks all the members who have made contributions to the fund or have helped via their own initiatives. It is very important that we as an industry stick together and show support to those who are in need.

Over the past 12 months ASOFIA has been working closely with Zadro Communications starting with the establishment of a strategic marketing plan.

This plan identified ASOFIA’s mission and more importantly, a road map to turn this mission into reality. Regular media coverage, advertising, a website refresh, new sponsorship packages and the relaunch of the member newsletter are examples of the work that has been produced to achieve ASOFIA’s objectives.

The roll-out of the ASOFIA Life Cycle – presented at the conference last year, is a major goalfor the Association over the next 12 months. This will involve shaping ASOFIA’s offering to each career stage of a shop and office fitter; from the school leaver to apprentice, tradesperson, new and established business owner and industry icon. Look out for the new developments. If you have any suggestions on how to promote ASOFIA, please let us know!

Some of the Borders issues may be specific to the book sector; however it is interesting to look at the lessons other retailers could take into consideration when doing their business planning.

Read more

With this in mind, you want to make sure you attract top-quality energetic and enthusiastic people – people who have long term goals that your company is able to fulfil. The average tenure for generation Y employees is decreasing so you need to show then a career path.

In addition, elite employees are looking not only for reputation, but also for authenticity. They want to work for companies that are genuine and engage with corporate social and environmental issues.

Representatives of the HR Coach network are working with ASOFIA to offer support to member companies in these areas. Developed by HR professionals with the support of legal advisors, their eLearning Modules deliver a cost-effective training solution that will add real value to your business. Contact them for more information:

 VIC/SA:  Deborah at deborah@hrstaffnstuff.com.au or on (03) 9546 1735 or 0402 447 448

NSW/WA/NT/QLD: Belinda at Belinda@hrfocus.com.au or on 0438 464 787

ENews Issue 09

Christmas Function

For those who braved the elements on Friday night, 25 November, a fantastic night was had by all at the NSW Division Christmas party at Old Government House, Parramatta. Guests were treated to an historical tour of the premises before being guided out to a lavishly decorated marquee located on the grounds of Parramatta Park. Guests mingled and enjoyed canapés and champagne before indulging in a sumptuous buffet. After dinner guests danced the night away to live band ’40 Plus’ who entertained the crowd with songs from the 60’s, 70’s & 80’s.

Annual Golf Day

After days of rain, the weather gods looked favourably upon the NSW Division as it held its Annual Golf Day at Cumberland Golf Club on Monday, 5 December. No one is too sure exactly when this tradition at Cumberland started but it is in now closing in on its 25th Anniversary. 

The rain had cleared by 6:00am and stayed fine just long enough for another successful NSW golf day. An enthusiastic group of members, suppliers and sponsors turned out for another great day on probably what is one of the most underrated courses in NSW.  Cumberland was again in magnificent condition and the scoring was keen with just 4 shots separating the top 9 teams in the Ambrose event and 3 shots separating the first 3 place getters in the individual event.

Taking out the major prize was a composite team from Forbo and Positive Energy with an impressive 9 under off the stick. They narrowly defeated the Premier Displays team on a count back.

A buffet style lunch followed play and members were entertained by Jack Black, surely one of Australia’s very best Magician/Comedians. The NSW Division would like to extend its thanks to those sponsors of the day including The Laminex Group, Biesse Australia, Polyflor Australia, Dynamic Closures, Monarch Group, Asset Flooring, Design Build, Adis, Westfield, Nationwide Insurance Brokers and Lumley Insurances who all kindly sponsored the day and/or provided prizes.

ENews Issue 08

General Meeting

The NSW Division General Meeting held on 25 October was well attended and provided members with relevant business information includingguest speakers from the Commonwealth Bank, NSW Office of Trade and Enterprise Connect.  If you are interested in receiving the speaker presentations from the meeting, contact the ASOFIA National Office for copies.

Christmas Function

The NSW Division Christmas party will be held this coming Friday evening, 25 November at Old Government House, Parramatta. It’s time to get your RSVP in and come along and enjoy the splendor of Old Government House, which is situated within 260 acres of Parramatta Park with sweeping views over Parramatta River.   There’s live entertainment and fabulous food on offer. 

Celebrate Christmas in style!

http://www.asofia.com.au/events/new-south-wales/nsw-christmas-function.aspx

Annual Golf Day

The annual golf day will be held on Monday, 5 December at Cumberland Golf Course, Old Prospect Rd, Greystanes with a 7:00am breakfast and registration.  Play in either the individual Stableford event or the Four-Ball Ambrose team event.  There are also some great sponsorship opportunities available. 

For full details, to register or find out more about sponsorships visit http://www.asofia.com.au/events/new-south-wales/nsw-annual-golf-day.aspx

New Member Welcome

The Association would like to welcome the following recent new members to the NSW Division:

ENews Issue 07

Industry mourns the passing of Don Attenborough

The shopfitting industry was saddened to learn of the passing of Don Attenborough earlier this month.

Don and his brother Keith were actively involved in the shopfitting industry for a longperiod of time, and were foundation members of the NSW Shopfitters Association when it was established back in 1967. They worked together as KD Joinery until the business closed in the early 90’s. In 2007 Don was recognised as an Industry Icon by the NSW Division.  

Don was in his early 80’s at the time of his passing, and had been ill for some time.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.

General Meeting

The NSW Committee is providing a fantastic opportunity for members to attend a General Meeting – 25^th October, 2011 at 5:30pm, with guest speakers from the Commonwealth Bank, NSW Office of Trade and Enterprise Connect offering expert knowledge and advice for your business. This is a meeting not to be missed! Don’t forget, with our Special 2 for 1 Offer this opportunity is extremely cost effective. 

For details view the attached.

Christmas Function

The annual Christmas party will be held on Friday evening, 25 November at Old Government House, Parramatta.  You will receive your invitation shortly, in the meantime save the date and come along for a night of fine food, great entertainment and festive celebrations with your industry peers. Bring along your staff, work colleagues, family and friends.

Enjoy the splendor of Old Government House, Australia’s oldest public building which is situated within 260 acres of Parramatta Park with sweeping views over Parramatta River.

Annual Golf Day

The annual golf day is set for Monday, 5 December at Cumberland Golf Course, Old Prospect Rd, Greystanes for a 8:00am tee-off. 

With two competitions; an individual Stableford event and Four Ball Ambrose team event, you don’t need to be a great golfer to enjoy the day! We cater for all participants. The invitation and registration forms will be available soon, so lock the date in and make some time at the ‘range’ to practice your golf swing!

WorkCover NSW

To learn more about the model work, health and safety laws that come into effect on 1 January 2012 visit WorkCover NSW.

Long Service Corporation

From the 18^th October through to the 21^st of November 2011, the Long Service Corporation will be issuing approximately 220,000 annual statements to employed workers and working directors. Statements for self employed workers will be issued in February 2012.

The Long Service Corporation continues to promote to employers the benefits of using their online reporting system. For the 2010/11 returns lodged, 77% of employers lodged online, which was consistent with the previous year.

Overall, 92% of employed workers have their service lodged online. This is an encouraging result and the Long Service Corporation will continue to inform employers of the simplicity of using their online services to meet legislative obligations.

For more information

New Member Welcome

The Association would like to welcome the following new members to the NSW Division:

ENews Issue 06

Future Summit Wrap Up

The Future Summit – Inspiration for Industry has wrapped up for 2011. The event was strongly supported; demonstrated by the strong attendance levels. Steve Tighe, who was the key note speaker at the event and leading foresight strategist, explained to all who attended that the world is heading towards a post-materialist state. The shift in the fundamental values of our society is having a major effect on the trajectory for consumption and hence business leaders and owners would do well to understand those changes and quickly respond. 

The breakfast event held on August 24^th, at the Waterview in Bicentennial Park (Sydney Olympic Park), offered an insight into the future trends facing today’s society. Steve Tighe gave an enthralling presentation on the shift in consumer behaviour and how it will impact the economic activities within the business community. He explained the effect differing value systems’ have on the way we live our lives and the implications and opportunities for a myriad of businesses.

“The rise of materialistic values has had the greatest impact on social change in Australia over the past 30 years.

“The impact of these values is evident in the philosophy that growth is good, and bigger is better, which we can see in the size of our houses and wardrobes and the busyness of our lifestyles today.

“And like every industry, shop and office fitting has been heavily influenced by the rise of materialism. But just as materialistic values have risen, they can surely decline, the question is what’s next,” said Steve Tighe.

“In business, it is very easy to be consumed by the day-to-day activities that need our attention; however it is really important that no matter what industry you’re in, every so often, stop, look around and hear what others are saying about the future.

“The Future Summit was born from an aspiration to provide the industry with one such opportunity. We threw open the invitation to the industry at large and got a myriad of people in the room to hear what Steve Tighe believes is coming. We might not all like the changes a foot, but it is important to know about them,” said Gerard Ryan.

Whilst shedding light on the new social economic change and how it could directly affect business, Steve Tighe also discussed what businesses could think about and do to approach the future with greater confidence.

General Meeting

A general meeting will be held on Tuesday, 25 October at Dedes Restaurant, Sydney Rowing Club, Abbotsford. It will feature guest speakers from the Commonwealth Bank, NSW Office of Trade and Enterprise Connect.

To encourage members to attend the meeting, the NSW Division Committee is offering a 2 for 1 Special.  Come along, bring a colleague, client or staff member and only pay for one person. Advance bookings by the RSVP date are essential.

To find out more view the invitation, complete the RSVP form and return to ASOFIA National office.

ENews Issue 05

Ever wondered what the industry has in store for the future?  Or how to best make decisions in an unstable environment?

Join us at The Future Summit and find answers to these questions! Steve Tighe, a leading consumer foresight specialist will present an interesting perspective on how the environment is influencing consumer attitudes and future trends.  This is a great opportunity for you to get exclusive insights for your business or to provide a real learning opportunity to your staff and clients.

ASOFIA NSW Division AGM will be held immediately following the speaker event.  All ASOFIA members are invited to attend.

Read more

Changes to Payroll Tax in NSW

From 1 July 2011, changes will apply to payroll tax in NSW. This includes changes to the tax threshold and the introduction of the Jobs Action Plan rebate scheme.

Read more

Work Health and Safety Bill passed by NSW Government

 National initiative, NSW focus

On 4 May 2011, the NSW Government introduced a Bill to enact the national model work health and safety legislation. The Bill was passed by the NSW Parliament on 1 June 2011.

There are currently nine different work health and safety (WHS) laws across Australia. All states and territories have committed to working towards uniform safety standards across Australia.

The new work health and safety laws will:

• reduce compliance costs and red tape for employers
• maintain NSW’s strong work, health and safety framework
• keep businesses accountable 
• make laws easier to understand while protecting workers.  

Read more

Under the new work health and safety laws:

• An employer is known as a ‘person conducting a business or undertaking’ (PCBU).
• A worker includes an employee, labour hire staff, volunteer, work experience student, contractor, sub-contractor, apprentice, trainee and outworker.
• Certain volunteers have the same responsibilities as a worker.
• A health and safety representative (HSR) plays an important role in the consultation process between workers and PCBUs.
• A member of an employee representative body can apply for an entry permit to enter a workplace.

Read more

Hosting of TVET Students

Blacktown Regional Economic and Employment Development (BREED) Taskforce Inc was established in July 1992 with funding from the then Federal Department of Employment, Education and Training (DEET).  Its aim is to stimulate economic and employment growth.  They cover the Parramatta, Penrith, Blacktown and Hills districts.  BREED is currently coordinating the work placement for year 11 and 12 TVET students completing their certificate II in construction and is currently targeting the Blacktown district.

If you are a shopfitter and interested in participating in this training scheme please contact Kerrie Tindall, Partnership Broker on 02 9853 3289 or ktindall@breedcp.com.au .   Information on the program is attached.

Read More - Employer Poster

Read More - Host-Employer-form

Read More - Host Calender

Read More - Employers Guide

ENews Issue 04

ASOFIA Annual Printed Directory

The ASOFIA annual hardcopy directory will be distributed with the Nov/Dec issue of Interior Fitout magazine. Members will receive an email in July providing log in details to go online and update their current listing. Even if current details have not changed members must still log in and confirm their details. Please ensure you go online and update/confirm your listing when requested. This directory has a distribution list of over 5,000 recipients and is a great marketing tool. Incorrect details could cost your company valuable exposure!

ASOFIA Annual Membership Fees

2011/12 annual membership fee invoices will be distributed by mail on 1 July 2011. Fees can be paid as a one-off payment by credit card, cheque or EFT or by monthly direct debit. Those members currently on a direct debit arrangement will continue with this, unless ASOFIA National Office is advised otherwise. Members wishing to change to a direct debit arrangement should contact admin@asofia.com.au

 Mid-year Golf Day – 7 June 2011 – Wrap-Up

The mid-year sponsor’s day is held each year to further recognise the support that the national sponsors offer the association. Played at the well-suited Castle Hill Golf Course, the day offered an extra attraction when two former industry-related NSW State of Origin players Phil Sigsworth and Garry Jack were invited to play as guests of members. The boys turned the presentation into a motivational session for members, as they discussed the pros and cons of the current Blues footy team.

Good to see that by far and away the best team on the day won the Ambrose competition, something that does not always happen at corporate golf days. A composite Ryder team with serial winner Michael Rowe thrown in to ‘make up the numbers’ scored an impressive 7 under off the stick but with the well-refined ASOFIA handicapping system only won by 3. Congratulations to Glenn Ryder and the boys for playing good golf and being worthy winners of the major prize.

Thanks to those our national sponsors – The Laminex Group, Polyflor and Biesse Australia – for their continued support of the association and our sponsors of drinks and novelty prizes on the day including Westfield, Nationwide Insurance Brokers, Asset Flooring and Monarch Group.

A special thanks is also extended to committee member Steve Mead who offers so much support on these golf days.

NSW Winning Team (from left): Glenn Ryder, Michael Rowe, Chris Wilkinson, Peter Free

ENews Issue 03

Mid-Year Golf Day – 7 June 2011

Have you registered for the annual mid-year golf day? The Castle Hill Country Club will again host the fully carted Ambrose event. Sponsorship opportunities are still available – please contact Bryan Sidgreaves on 02 8922 3400. 

Golf Notice

Download Registration

Carpentry/Shopfitting and Joinery Graduation – 12 May 2011

The recent Awards Night run by the Nirimba College of TAFE was a successful night of celebration. The event was attended by 350 students and their families and was emceed by carpentry teacher Mathew Goddard.  Bryan Sidgreaves, National & NSW Division Treasurer and immediate Past President, Chris Hookham attended and presented awards on behalf of ASOFIA.  80 students who completed their Certificate III in Carpentry (11 classes) or Certificate III in Off-Site Construction (Shopfitting) (3 classes) were presented with their TAFE certificates. 

Other awards presented were:

1. *   Peter Farkas Award (named after a staff member who used to work in the section and passed away on the job) awarded to Tahmon Zenzmaier for his efforts beyond study marks.

2. *  ASOFIA Awards and Rotary Awards;

3.        *   Aidan Hobbs – 1st Place – Stage 1 ASOFIA Award

   1.        *  Benjamin Jeffery – 1st Place – Stage 2 ASOFIA Award and Rotary Award

   2.        *  Keith Pett – 1st Place – Stage 3 ASOFIA Award

   3.        *  Jarrod Tobin – Rotary Award

   4. 

Bryan Sidgreaves and a student from Nirimba TAFE

Chris Hookham and students from Nirimba TAFE

Lidcombe TAFE Allied Timber Trades Awards Night – 24 May 2011

Members of the NSW Division Committee will again attend and present awards at the Lidcombe College of TAFE’s annual awards night.  Michael Rowe, NSW Division Junior Vice President and Stephen Mead, NSW Division Committee Member will represent ASOFIA on the night.

ASOFIA to showcase Industry at Prominent School Careers Expo – 31 May 2011

The ASOFIA NSW Division will again set up a stand at the St Joseph’s College Hunters Hill annual Careers Expo on Tuesday evening, 31 May 2011.  Bryan Sidgreaves, National & NSW Division Treasurer along with Chris Hookham, NSW Division Immediate Past President and Stephen Mead, NSW Division Committee Member will represent ASOFIA. The Careers Expo allows Years 11 and 12 students from St Joseph’s the ability to gain an insight into particular trades and careers. 

Chris Hookham said, last year’s event was extremely successful. ‘Many students showed an interest in our field of work. Stephen Mead had set up a screen showcasing projects and shopfronts from ASOFIA members and award winners of previous Interior Fitout awards. This proved to be highly enticing for the students, and I believe Stephen will repeat this setup this year.’

Where should claims be served under Security for Payment legislation?

The recent New South Wales Court of Appeal decision in Downer EDI Works Pty Ltd v Parsons Brinckerhoff Australia Pty Ltd [2011] NSWCA 78demonstrates how large organisations with multiple offices should be ever diligent about claims served under the Building and Construction Industry Security of Payment Act 1999 (NSW) (Act) because payment claims mayvalidly be served on any one of their offices and not necessarily to the principalplace of business or a site office.

For more information, see the Security of Payment Case Notice

ENews Issue 02 

Annual Awards Night – Wrap-up

The awards night was a great success with 120 in attendance. Apprenticeship awards were received from students who attend North Sydney, Lidcombe and Nirimba Colleges of TAFE. Both Ron Eadie and Ross Astill received an Icon Award for their outstanding contribution to the shopfitting industry.

North Sydney, Lidcombe & Nirimba TAFE College award winning students

Icon Award recipients – Ron Eadie and Ross Astill 

ENews Issue 01

General Meeting on 22 February

ASOFIA NSW Division held their first general meeting for 2011 on Tuesday 22 February at the Sydney Rowing Club. The evening was generously sponsored by Zip Industries. Special guest speakers included Bradley Wong, National Manager Tenancy Design & Delivery, Stockland, Peter Freeman, Principal, Nationwide Insurance Brokers and Shane Emms, NSW State Sales Manager, Zip Industries.

The evening commenced with pre-dinner drinks which provided a great opportunity for members to network with other ASOFIA members and industry suppliers. Bradley Wong and his team from Stockland gave the members a look at what’s in the development pipeline for Stockland in the ensuing 12 to 24 months. Exciting retail developments are earmarked for North Queensland, with developments ready to deliver in NSW and Victoria. Residential development releases will be coming online in the future for NSW which will include retail centres.

Shane Emms from Zip Industries gave an informative presentation on their range of quality products including energy-efficient, revolutionary Zip Hydro Tap and Touch Free Washroom Systems. Zip Industries’ systems can be found in over 50 countries and is a proudly 100% Australian-owned company. The range of quality products have residential and industry application.

Finally, Peter Freeman of Nationwide Insurance Brokers, who has had a long relationship with ASOFIA and its members, detailed the cost to the insurance industry of the recent disasters in Australia and the ongoing difficulty of defining what is a flood and flood damage. He further discussed the difficulty for insurance companies obtaining reinsurance to cover their policies and client claims. The shop and office fitting industry should prepare for increased premiums over the next 12 months due to the recent floods, bushfires and cyclones across Australia.

The evening was very informative and interesting. Yet again, Dedes Restaurant at the Sydney Rowing Club provided us with a spectacular three-course dinner. These evenings are a great opportunity for receiving the latest industry news, networking and enjoying great food and company.

Building and Construction Industry Security of Payment Amendment Act 2010

From 28 February 2011, if a subcontractor applies for adjudication under the Building and Construction Industry Security of Payment Act 1999, they are also able to issue a payment withholding request to a principal contractor. As a result of that notification, the principal contractor is required to retain the amount of the claim from any money owed to the respondent (the contractor the payment claim has been made against).

Read more

When does “0” really mean something?

The answer normally is - not very often, unless or of course it is the amount of money that people owe you.

But how good would it be if it related to your golf handicap? Well in a good news story that was recently conveyed to me I was informed that well known NSW business owner Michael Sidgreaves has just achieved just that! Now that would be a great achievement for anyone, anywhere but to achieve that at his highly rated home club of Concord makes it even more special.

Well done Michael, staying there might be harder than getting there so we wish you the very best of luck in the future.

Opportunity for finishing apprentices

TAFE NSW - Northern Sydney Institute (NSI) has received government funding to deliver the NEW Certificate IV in Business Sustainability Assessment to apprentices who have finished their Certificate III trade off-the-job training. They are now offering free skills training.

View information on free green skills training

Mid-Year Golf Day – 7 June 2011

The annual mid-year golf day will again be held at Castle Hill Country Club on Tuesday, 7 June. This is a fully carted Ambrose event and provides great sponsorship opportunities. For those interested in sponsorship, contact Bryan Sidgreaves on 02 8922 3400. The golf registration form will be available over coming weeks.

Find more events

If you have any news that you’d like to share with your state division, let us know at national_office@asofia.com.au!

If you have any news that you’d like to share with your state division, let us know at national_office@asofia.com.au!

ENews Issue 09

Christmas Drinks

The trendy Waterloo Hotel, at Newstead in the Valley, was the location of the Queensland Division’s 2011 official Christmas Drinks get together on Friday, 2 December. A private room was the perfect arrangement to enable and promote networking amongst our leading QLD Shopfitters, Suppliers and Subcontractors.

Despite being a low key casual style event, the function presented a fantastic opportunity for everyone to mix and share their stories of the highs and lows of 2011.

All in attendance thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to network with friends and industry colleagues as the industry starts to wind down for the year.

ENews Issue 07

Christmas Function

The QLD Committee has decided that Christmas Drinks at the Waterloo Hotel would be a great low key way to celebrate Christmas.  Drop by for a few drinks on Friday afternoon, 2 December from 4:00pm onwards.  For further details visit http://www.asofia.com.au/events/queensland/christmas-function.aspx

New Member Welcome

The Association would like to welcome the following recent new members to the QLD Division:

ENews Issue 07

New Member Welcome

The Association would like to welcome the following new members to the QLD Division: 

ENews Issue 06

Future Summit Wrap Up

The Future Summit – Inspiration for Industry has wrapped up for 2011. The event was strongly supported; demonstrated by the strong attendance levels. Steve Tighe, who was the key note speaker at the event and leading foresight strategist, explained to all who attended that the world is heading towards a post-materialist state. The shift in the fundamental values of our society is having a major effect on the trajectory for consumption and hence business leaders and owners would do well to understand those changes and quickly respond. 

The breakfast event held on August 23^rd, at The Pavilion, Alan Border Field, Breakfast Creek, offered an insight into the future trends facing today’s society. Steve Tighe gave an enthralling presentation on the shift in consumer behaviour and how it will impact the economic activities within the business community. He explained the effect differing value systems’ have on the way we live our lives and the implications and opportunities for a myriad of businesses.

“The rise of materialistic values has had the greatest impact on social change in Australia over the past 30 years.

“The impact of these values is evident in the philosophy that growth is good, and bigger is better, which we can see in the size of our houses and wardrobes and the busyness of our lifestyles today.

“And like every industry, shop and office fitting has been heavily influenced by the rise of materialism. But just as materialistic values have risen, they can surely decline, the question is what’s next,” said Steve Tighe.

“In business, it is very easy to be consumed by the day-to-day activities that need our attention; however it is really important that no matter what industry you’re in, every so often, stop, look around and hear what others are saying about the future.

“The Future Summit was born from an aspiration to provide the industry with one such opportunity. We threw open the invitation to the industry at large and got a myriad of people in the room to hear what Steve Tighe believes is coming. We might not all like the changes a foot, but it is important to know about them,” said Gerard Ryan.

Whilst shedding light on the new social economic change and how it could directly affect business, Steve Tighe also discussed what businesses could think about and do to approach the future with greater confidence.

Bob Somerville

The Queensland Shopfitting Industry has lost a true gentlemen, devoted family man and supporter of ASOFIA with the death of Bob Somerville on July 30^th.

Bob was 72 at the time of his passing after suffering prostate cancer for many years.

He commenced his apprenticeship as a shopfitter with Christie & Walker, one of the largest shopfitting companies in QLD, in Brisbane during the mid 50’s. From there, Bob moved to Robb & Brown Shopfitters after their merger with Christie & Walker, where he progressed into a management position.

The experience he received from that position equipped him with tools to take up a management role with Intershop Bentley, where he remained until his retirement. During that time, he grew the business from strength to strength and was a key driving force to the businesses successes.

Bob was always a keen supporter of ASOFIA and will be sadly missed by his wife, 5 sons and many grandchildren, not to mention the industry at large. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Somerville family during this time.

ENews Issue 05

Future Summit

Ever wondered what the industry has in store for the future?  Or how to best make decisions in an unstable environment?

Join us at The Future Summit and find answers to these questions! Steve Tighe, a leading consumer foresight specialist will present an interesting perspective on how the environment is influencing consumer attitudes and future trends.  This is a great opportunity for you to get exclusive insights for your business or to provide a real learning opportunity to your staff and clients.

ASOFIA QLD Division AGM will be held immediately following the speaker event.  All ASOFIA members are invited to attend.

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Electrical Goods – Changes for Business

Who needs to display a DIY warning sign?

From 1 July 2011, people conducting a business or selling particular electrical equipment to the public whether as a retailer or wholesaler must not sell such an item unless a Do-It-Yourself (DIY) warning sign is displayed for the item.

This requirement applies to face-to-face as well as online selling, but generally does not apply to garage sales, jumble sales, fêtes - unless a person sells at these events as part of a business or undertaking.

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ENews Issue 04

ASOFIA Annual Printed Directory

The ASOFIA annual hardcopy directory will be distributed with the Nov/Dec issue of Interior Fitout magazine. Members will receive an email in July providing log in details to go online and update their current listing. Even if current details have not changed members must still log in and confirm their details. Please ensure you go online and update/confirm your listing when requested. This directory has a distribution list of over 5,000 recipients and is a great marketing tool. Incorrect details could cost your company valuable exposure!

ASOFIA Annual Membership Fees

2011/12 annual membership fee invoices will be distributed by mail on 1 July 2011. Fees can be paid as a one-off payment by credit card, cheque or EFT or by monthly direct debit. Those members currently on a direct debit arrangement will continue with this, unless ASOFIA National Office is advised otherwise. Members wishing to change to a direct debit arrangement should contact admin@asofia.com.au

 Annual Golf Day – Friday, 10 June 2011 – Wrap-Up

The ASOFIA Queensland Division 2011 Annual Golf Day was held on 10 June at arguably one of the best golf courses in Australia – Brookwater. As a result, the day attracted a near record crowd. Despite an unexpected chilly start to the day, blue skies emerged as the sun rose, and Brookwater turned on a pearler for the big crowd of enthusiastic members and guests. The day was well-supported by plenty of sponsors including Bunnings, Halifax Vogel, Mirage Industries, Nikpol, Austbrokers Premier, Revolution Wood Panel, Surteco, SouthPak, BIL Electrical, Mark Frawley Plumbing, Gunnersen and Dynamic Closures. 

 Winners on the day were:

 1^st Place – Revolution Wood Panel Team

• Greg Adams
• Rick Coleman
• Nathan Davidson
• Shaun Haddrell

 2^nd Place – Amerind B Team

• David McGarry
• Jeff Williams
• James Eddie
• Greg Stockill

 3^rd Place – Amerind A Team

• Jason Brenchley
• Kurt Curran
• Terry Wiseman
• Karl Scobie

 A big thanks is extended to the golf day organising committee, especially Mick McLoughlin.

 Given the success of the day, there is every chance that ASOFIA will be returning to Brookwater again in 2012.

ENews Issue 03

Annual Golf Day – 10 June 2011

Less than one month away – complete your registration form and attend the best annual golf day in QLD! The venue will again be the Brookwater Golf & Country Club, Tournament Drive, Brookwater. If you want to get in early for sponsorship opportunities, contact Mick McLoughlin on 07 3892 2163.

 View Sponsorship Packages 

 Annual Awards Night – Wrap-up

The QLD Division hosted its 2011 Annual Awards Night on Thursday, 5 May in the Grand Ballroom of the Brisbane Marriott Hotel.

It was an outstanding gala dinner with 140 people in attendance to see the presentation of awards to the State’s leading ASOFIA apprentice and Icon status bestowed upon two of Queensland’s most respected shopfitters. The award presentations started in style when our highly-impressive 2009 National ASOFIA Apprentice of the Year, Melissa Hollis, was invited to make a brief speech and announce Tim Bartorillo of Benga Design as the 2010 ASOFIA Queensland Apprentice of the Year award winner. Tim’s acceptance speech was equally inspiring, and there is little doubt with apprentices like Melissa Hollis and Tim Bartorillo coming through the industry in Queensland that it is in very good shape.

The final presentations included the bestowing of Icon status upon Alec Hartley and Thomas Brown. Both gentlemen share extensive experience in the industry over many years and were worthy recipients of this honour. They join Stan Lewis and Les Wilson on the Queensland Icon honour role. Alec entertained the audience with a very candid account of his ascendancy through the industry over the past 50 years. Tom’s career over 40 years included confirmation of his passion and work in promoting and encouraging training – something that he has done with distinction for ASOFIA and the industry for well over 25 years.

The event coincided with the Association’s National Council of Management, and all Councillors welcomed the opportunity to be present at such an important event on the QLD Division’s calendar.

Congratulations are extended to QLD President Michael Casablanca and his committee for organising such a wonderful event. Special thanks also go to the event sponsor Asset Flooring.

Michael Casablanca, QLD Division President (left), Tim Bartorillo, 2010 QLD Apprentice of the Year and Danny Sinclair, Benga Design (employer)

Michael Casablanca, QLD Division President (left) & Tom Brown, Icon

Alec Hartley, Icon (left) & Mal Connell, Asset Flooring (event sponsor)

Queenslanders, take advantage of Government funding and repair and rebuild

With the state government releasing a further round of disaster funding, it is the perfect time to get in and have your damaged home repaired, according to Master Builders, Queensland’s peak body for housing and construction.

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ENews Issue 02

ASOFIA feeds flood victims

With the motto ‘It takes more than a flood to stop us’, Barrett Shopfitting was one of the shop fitters that were seriously affected by the recent floods in Queensland. They were extremely pleased to receive support from ASOFIA when the QLD Division Committee organised and provided lunch for their entire team on Friday 25 February.

Andrew Barrett, Owner of Barrett Shopfitting said, the last weeks had been challenging. “It really lifts the spirits when a kind gesture is put in front of us like ASOFIA QLD did,” said Barrett.

“Personally I think that our staff see that our business is highly regarded by our peers and it is awesome to feel that we are part of a great group of people,” he added.

Further to this initiative, ASOFIA showed support to its members and industry in general with the establishment of its own charity fund, the ASOFIA Queensland Flood Disaster Appeal.

ASOFIA thanks all the members who have made contributions to the fund or have helped via their own initiatives. It is very important that we as an industry stick together and show support to those who are in need.

ENews Issue 01 

Stockland Townsville Development

Seven months into the $180 million Stockland redevelopment that will deliver Myer to Townsville the project is already changing the retail landscape of the city.

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Happy Birthday Stan!

ASOFIA send its very best wishes to Stan Lewis of BSF who has just turned 80. Well known to most within the industry, Stan is a stalwart of the Association in Queensland, a life member of ASOFIA and an inaugural ASOFIA QLD Industry Icon. He has served on the Committee for longer than anyone presently alive can remember. Many happy returns Stan!

If you have any news that you’d like to share with your state division, let us know at national_office@asofia.com.au!