Connections Nov/Dec/Jan

SPECIALISED TEXTILES ASSOCIATION INC. Vol 12 No 6November • December 2012 • January 2013

STA member newS | induSTry eVenTS | memberS in The SpoTlighT | rTos

All manner ofbaNNers

large market for geomembraNes

Tomorrow’s industry leaders

uNite today

Fabric structures committee sets the standard

www.hvgfabrics.com.au

Blend in with your environment using the Pilbara Canvas outback range

Aussie Tough, Aussie Value,Aussie Made!

Aussie Tough, Aussie Value,Aussie Made!

For more information

on the Pilbara Canvas range see page 44.

NOVEMBER • DECEMBER 2012 • JANUARY 2013 · 1

CONNECTIONS magazine is published on behalf of the Specialised Textiles Association Inc. by CommStrat Limited.

Publisher CommStrat

editor Nicola [email protected]

design & Production Annette [email protected]

national sales Manager Yuri MamistvalovPhone: 03 8534 [email protected]

contributors Jamie Howard, Roger La Salle, Beatrice Moonen, Dhani Narejo and co, and Holly O’Dell.

coMMstrat ABN 31 008 434 802

Level 8, 574 St Kilda RdMelbourne Vic 3004www.commstrat.com.au

sPecialised textiles associationSuite 201, 22 St Kilda Road,St Kilda Vic 3182Phone: 03 9521 2114Local call: 1300 555 787Fax: 03 9521 2116www.specialisedtextiles.com.au

Disclaimer: Except where specifically stated, the opinions and material published in the magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher or the STA Council.

contents

A S S O C I A T I O N

association Matters2 Report by STA President 4 STA office update16 Young Leaders Conference Priming the next generation of industry

leaders 33 Fabric Structures Committee

report by Beatrice Moonen 42 STA welcomes new members

neWs corner8 Members' news

suPerb structures18 Novel and unique structures Showcasing member talent

sPecial Features12 Gargantuan geomembranes The size of the market continues to

expand

26 All manners of banners All that matters: the right ink, print and

timely delivery30 Using geosynthetics to

stabilise soils In a remote Pacific location34 Innovation Roger la Salle uncovers the ‘third eye’ 36 Truck cover and tarp markets

pick up speed Banners on the move

sPotlight on MeMbers44 Members’ products and services

training and eVents48 Industry events and RTOs subscriPtions

to subscribe to Connections for just $75 inc gst annually contact ruth spiegel [email protected]

16

1210

4226

2 · CONNECTIONS

a few words from the President

STAMATTERS

Thank you to

all who put up their hand to be involved in a committee and

thank you to those already working

hard in the already well established

Fabric Structures Committee.”

Another couple of months have flown past since my last

missive in this magazine. A lot has been happening in

STA land and much of it has already been mentioned in

various newsletters from the office or from me.

The most notable event of course was the recent

Young Leaders Conference held in Melbourne during

the middle weekend of October. Nineteen young

leaders attended the event, which was hailed by all who

attended as a great success. This event is fast becoming

a feature of our calendar, an envied one at that.

Recently I was travelling overseas on business and our

Young Leaders Conference and subsequent challenge

was known to my overseas contact (via our STA

e-newsletters) and very favourably commented upon to

me and all I was with.

One comment was along the lines: ‘I wish we had

something like this here.’ It is rare to find any industry

association that does what we do in this regard.

Congratulations and thank you to all who attended,

Young leaders, Legends and members of COM. None

of it would have been possible without all of the work

and organisation of our hardworking and long-suffering

association Manager Ana Drougas. Thank you Ana for

another winner.

Sell out successWhile we are talking of highs, the Super Expo 2013 on

the Gold Coast is selling out fast. Recently an additional

hall was hired to allow for additional exhibitors. We now

have four halls at the Gold Coast Exhibition Centre. At

the time of printing, I understand 85% of the booth space

has been sold. I also understand that all, or at least

all but the sponsorship on offer, has been taken up. It

certainly appears that the industry at large is very keen

on the idea of the combined expo.

Training agreementOther good work has been done (quietly and in the

background) by Kent Williamson in relation to the

agreement with NSW TAFE and their input and training

delivery of the Certificate 2, Installation of Blinds and

Awnings Course. STA has received NWDF funding.

The process took a little longer than expected but with

the agreement in the bag we should be in a position to

commence the first lot of training in February 2013.

Fabric structuresOur Fabric Structures Committee has also been working

busily and now the consumer checklist document has

been finalised it will soon be circulated to members,

along with the licensing document. In addition a letter

to the Queensland Coroner has been prepared and sent

offering technical and expert assistance for the coronial

inquiry into the recent tragic fatality at Lismore involving

a shade structure.

The Young Leaders’ Conference

Much of the work done by the STA is not as high profile

as the expo/convention or the Young Leaders Program

but it does not mean it is any less important or valuable.

We are very fortunate to have a very dedicated

Manager and COM, who work hard to make the

organisation something of value, something to be proud

to be involved with.

We are getting better all the time and much work is

continuing, such as the accreditation program, setting

up of various committees, for example the editorial

committee to give direction and ideas to the editor

who produces the association magazine; and also the

awards committee which is tasked to look at the awards,

categories, judging criterion etc.

Thank you to all who put their hand up to be

involved in a committee and thank you to those

already working hard in the already well established

Fabric Structures Committee.

Remember you only get out of any organisation what

you put into it. Get involved, have your say and reap the

rewards of membership of STA.

N AT I O N A L D I ST R I B U TO R S O F I N D U ST R I A L & CO M M E R C I A L T E X T I L E S

Ricky Richards (Sales) Pty Ltd 16 Park Road Homebush NSW 2140 Phone: 02 9735 3333 Fax: 02 9735 3311 www.rickyrichards.com.au

Contact our team today to find your fabric solution!

For 30 years Ricky Richards has assisted fabricators across Australia with solutions for a

multitude of fabric applications. Our extensive product portfolio, technical expertise and

friendly, efficient staff ensures that Ricky Richards offers the highest quality of service

available to customers today.

Tarpaulins

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Annexes

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Sports Equipment

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fabric solutions foraustralian applications

RR ACASPA ad 2012.indd 1 16/02/12 3:01 PM

4 · CONNECTIONS

Super Expo

The Super Expo has generated enormous

interest and support from sponsors and

exhibitors. Sponsorship was taken up so

enthusiastically that it had to be extended -

and still some may be disappointed. Most of

the exhibition booth space has been taken up,

so an additional (hence fourth) exhibition hall

will be used to cater for the huge demand.

This Expo is shaping up to be bigger than

Ben-Hur and clearly what our industry is

clamouring for.

GreeneFox has been appointed project

manager for SuperEXPO 2013 and will

handle much of the marketing, bookings

etc. In addition to Greenefox, Exponews

has been engaged to organise and manage

registrations, provision of ipad apps, scanners

for exhibitors etc. We are really moving into

the 21st century with some of the initiatives

for next year’s Expo.

A dedicated website for the SuperExpo will

soon be up and running. This is where you

will find all relative information on sponsors,

exhibitors, events, accommodation etc.

During our recent member sessions across the

country, a number of members expressed the

desire for the STA Awards night to continue as

an independent event at next year's combined

expo. This was discussed with the SuperEXPO

committee and all agreed. However, the

overall format may be a little different. We are

establishing an Awards Committee to review the

categories and other administrative details, but in

essence it will be similar to past practices.

The SuperEXPO 2013 program will probably

feature a welcome reception on the Tuesday

night, the awards night on Wednesday, a free

night on Thursday and the Gala Dinner on the

Friday night. A committee will organise the social

side of the expo.

specialised textiles association The STA diary

The Young Leaders’ Conference

The Young Leaders Conference is in its

second year and was an enormous success.

Our young leaders are an integral part of our

industry's future and as an association we are

committed to supporting them and guiding

them along the way.

This year, COM decided to charge a nominal

fee to attend the YLC, with the bulk of the costs

being met by the association. The YLC is an

expensive program to run and we will be

looking at opening the event to sponsorship or

a greater contribution by attendees (members)

in the future. Irrespective of the proportion

of costs met by the association it is a very

worthwhile project and one that deserves the

support of all employer members. It is so very

worthwhile for the young leaders who attend

and is a program that we all can be proud of.

Our two Young Leader groups have now

started working on their challenge which will

be presented at the SuperExpo 2013.

See pages 16-17 for a fuller report

STAMATTERS

Fabric Structures CommitteeThe Fabric Structures Committee is

committed to keeping our industry clean,

transparent and skilled. To this end the

committee is working on a consumer

checklist to facilitate the ‘right’ questions and

comparison of installers.

A properly installed fabric structure is an

investment in lifestyle. The committee is

interested in ensuring that consumers, both

domestic and commercial, who invest a lot

buying a fabric structure, are getting the best

product built by the best installer. After all a

happy customer is the best marketing tool a

fabric shade installer can have and this in turn

reflects well on our industry.

Presenting consumers the right questions

to ask is the critical first step, enabling

consumers to secure a contractor who can

operate and complete work according to

standards, regulations and best industry

practise. And deliver a shade product that will

exceed expectations.

If you would like to know more about the

work of the Fabric Structures Committee or

have any questions, please contact Beatrice

on email [email protected]

See Beatrice Moonen’s report on page 33.

Connections inaugural Editorial Committee

The Connections Editorial Committee is

now on board and was scheduled to meet in

late October.

The Committee will determine major

themes and supporting articles to appear in

each issue. The 'new look' Connections is to

become effective from issue 1, 2013 and will

set the tone for Connections for future years.

Our young leaders are an integral part of our industry's future and as an association we are committed to supporting them and

guiding them along the way.”

A recap on recent and upcoming association activities.

Sydney – (02) 9669 3333 • newcaStle – (02) 4957 7766 • Melbourne – (03) 9545 5588briSbane – (07) 3387 8500 • adelaide – (08) 8260 1055 • Perth – (08) 9376 2666

darwin – (08) 8981 1555 • www.NolanUDA.com.au

We’ve always got you covered!

• Blinds & Awnings • Covers & Tarpaulins • Marquee & Tenting • Banners & Billboards • Shade Sails & Structures

• Architectural Fabrics • Motor & Marine • Solar Protection • Sporting Equipment

• Fasteners, Fittings & Accessories

Looking for a supplier to solve your industrial fabrics requirements...

the answer is

6 · CONNECTIONS

STAMATTERS

Update on Accreditation ProgramWork continues on the STA's accreditation program.

The proposed approach and draft model was

presented at member information sessions at cities

across Australia in late July/early August and was well

received by members in attendance.

Although there was some initial wariness, members

on the whole understand the importance of

encouraging higher standards in our industry and feel

positively disposed to self-regulation.

Members at these sessions were also provided with

a copy of a draft accreditation application form and

asked to provide feedback on the proposed areas to

be accredited as well as standards and points to be

applied to each.

Feedback from these sessions is currently being

collated and used to define and shape further the

content of the detailed accreditation application form.

Once this process has been completed, we will

circulate the proposed approach and draft application

form to the wider membership base for comment.

Awards for Excellence committee

Three members have volunteered to start this

committee which is separate to our judging

committee, and will just be required to revise the

award categories, entry process and judging criteria.

For this committee to have a good cross section we

require two more members, preferably those with

experience in blind and folding arm awning, tent/

annexe/camping and or trimming product.

The expected commitment is a total of three

meetings of about one hour each between now

and the end of this year. This committee will then

'hibernate' until the time or need to resurrect it arises.

Meetings will take place via telephone, Skype

and email.

If you are interested in joining this committee, please

email me at [email protected]

Training committee updateWe have three volunteers so far, representing WA, Vic

and NSW. We are now looking for representatives who

are based in Qld, NT, SA and Tasmania.

The training committee will work with training

institutions across Australia to identify gaps and needs

in our industry training.

If you are passionate about training in our industry,

contact our office and join the training committee today.

Expected commitment: one hour each month with

meetings to take place via telephone, Skype and email.

If you are interested in joining this committee, please

email me at [email protected]

National Workforce Development Training

By now, you will all know that we were successful in our

submission for funding towards Certificate II in Blinds

and Awnings

Members who have registered interest to participate

in this training will be advised shortly on the

commencement dates and procedure to follow. We

are currently working with NSW TAFE on a plan that

will see the first group/s of trainees commence their

training early in the New Year.

If your workplace missed out on the first round of

expressions and you are now interested in taking up

the training, we are pleased to advise that training

positions have become available. Please contact our

office to place your name on the training list.

If your company has identified a training need in the

installation of blinds, awnings and shade structures,

wasn't part of this round of funding and you would like

to know more, please contact me on 1300 555 787

(local call) or email me for further information.

Bright Future campaign for NSW work placements

The Bright Future Campaign is a NSW Government

initiative established to promote the concept of

school-based apprenticeships, traineeships and

work placements to employers around NSW. School

Based Apprenticeships, School Based Traineeships

and Structured Work Placements are all excellent

opportunities for students to gain valuable

experience in workplaces while still at school.

These opportunities provide a platform for

students to explore an industry area and get a

head start in their career while still completing

their Higher School Certificate. They also give

employers a chance to start working towards the

future skills base of their business.

To find out more about the Bright Future

campaign or express your interest in gaining a

school-based apprentice/trainee student for 2013

visit www.sbatinnsw.info

STA COUNCIL OF MANAgEMENT

SPECIALISED TEXTILES ASSoCIATIoN INC.Suite 201, 22 St Kilda RdSt Kilda, Vic 3182 Ph: (03) 9521 2114Local Call: 1300 555 787Facsimile: (03) 9521 2116Email: [email protected]

Web: www.specialisedtextiles.com.au

ASSoCIATIoN MANAGERana drougas Email: [email protected]

PRESIDENT lance st hill Fabric Solutions Australia Pty Ltd PO Box 6283 Yatala DC Qld 4207 Mobile: 0400 103 534 Ph: (07) 3807 0200 Fax: (07) 3807 8217 Email: [email protected]

CoUNCILLoRSKent WilliamsonRoyal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT)25 Dawson Street Brunswick, Vic 3056Ph: (03) 9925 9182 Fax: (03) 9925 9129Email: [email protected] www.rmit.edu.au

gary smithCampbell & Heeps5/125 Highbury Rd, Burwood, Vic 3125 Mobile: 0419 311 899Ph: (03) 98086911Fax: (03) 9808 3148 Email: [email protected]

tom gastin Pattons—Textile Fabrication80 McDougall St, Kirribilli, NSW, 2061 Mobile: 0414 952 007 Ph: (02) 9955 2563 or 1300 799 980 Fax: (02) 9959 3158 Email: [email protected]

david burtonRicky Richards16 Park Road, Homebush NSW 2140Ph: 02 9735 3333Fax: 02 9735 3311Email: [email protected]

Jamie howardTotal Shade Solutions4 Aldinga St, Brendale QldPh: 07 3889 7200 Fax: 07 3889 8865Email: [email protected]

ConneCtions MAGAzINEAdvertising submissions: [email protected]: 03 8534 5008

Editorial: Nicola [email protected]

The committee is interested in ensuring that consumers, both domestic and commercial, who

invest a lot buying a fabric structure, are getting the best product built by the best installer. After all a

happy customer is the best marketing tool …”

Untitled-2 1 1/03/2012 2:31:14 PM

8 · CONNECTIONS

MeMber neWs

Halifax Vogel Group (HVG) has further

strengthened its NSW sales team with the

appointment of Steven Bell as Account

Manager – HVG Fabrics.

Steven brings more than 10 years of

experience in sales, having previously

worked in real estate and for the past

6 years in the industrial and decorative

fabrics markets in NSW.

Prior to joining HVG, he worked

as Business Development Manager at Nolans/UDA, where his

responsibilities included maintaining existing accounts and

developing new customer relationships.

This experience will prove invaluable in his new role as Account Manager

– HVG Fabrics, as he will be tasked with developing customer relationships

and encouraging sales growth of HVG’s extensive range of fabrics products

for the agricultural, domestic & commercial shade and transport industries.

“I am looking forward to building long-lasting relationships with

customers in NSW and demonstrating the solutions that can be

achieved with our cutting-edge range of fabrics products,” Steven said.

HVG’s Fabrics products portfolio includes Tarpee® Polyfabric a high

grade Japanese woven coated PE fabric for grain and cotton covers,

Flex PVC for transport covers including side curtains and roll tarps,

Duraskin® PVC for tension membrane structures, and Extrablock

Shadecloth ideal for both commercial and domestic shade sails.

Steve Simiana, National Sales Manager, HVG Fabrics said Steven’s

appointment would help ensure the company expanded its fabrics

products presence in NSW.

“Steven brings to us not only a strong background in customer

management and an enthusiasm for the fabrics products market, but

also a wealth of experience and knowledge of the fabrics industry in

NSW,” Steve Simiana said.

hVg appointment

Steven Bell of HVg

relocating from west to east

Greg Barnett from D&R Tarpaulins

recently managed to lure Fred

Tarbotton over from Western

Australia, where Fred worked for

Sail City.

Fred provided this snapshot of his

career to date, which commenced

when he was just 15 years old:

“I started in the Canvas/PVC

industry in southwest WA in

November 1978 and the company

was very diverse covering all

industry aspects including tarpaulins,

marquees, annexes, blinds, awnings

and general covers.

“At the end of 1981 I took three years out of the industry but on return

began learning cutting, sewing, welding etc of all the industry had to

offer, including liners tarpaulins and blinds etc. I spent four years in

Perth before returning to Bunbury where I was appointed leading hand,

responsible for up to eight staff and dealing with customers measuring

and quoting etc. From there I accepted a job in Perth as factory

manager in a small Tarpaulin General Canvas manufacturing company.

“Having moved to live near Fremantle, I decided to move closer to

my new home and for the next four years managed a department in a

large company manufacturing many textile products including awnings,

blinds, marquees and some specialised bedding and medical products.

“I convinced the company to become more involved in the industry

and its association, then called ACASPA, and I was nominated to join the

ACASPA Council – one of the best decisions I have ever made. My main

focus was training and helping the WA government to set up trainee/

apprenticeships in the light manufacturing industries. We achieved

our goals and now have a fully recognised training/ apprenticeship

available through the TAFE system in every state.

“During this period I launched my own general canvas manufacturing

business in Fremantle which I successfully ran for two decades.”

Fred recently crossed the continent to take up an exciting new role at

D&R Tarpaulins.

D&R Tarpaulins is located at Shed /84 Anton Road, Hemmant in

Queensland and Greg can be contacted on 07 3393 3477 or by

email [email protected] | www.drgroup.com.au

Fred Tarbotton

on the moveStructureflex recently packed its bags and is now in a new location.Details as follows:7/7 Lakewood Boulevard, Carrum Downs, Vic 3201Phone: 03 8796 5400Fax: 03 9708 2797www.structureflex.com.au Alan Stewart’s email remains unchanged at [email protected]

TexConnex/Hiraoka has also upped stumps and relocated to

2/37 Rimfire Drive, Hallam, Vic 3803

Phone: 8795 7322 or 9702 3778

Until recently the premises was occupied by Australian Solar manufacturers

– which promotes itself as the only manufacturer of solar panels. Bob

secured the site as it is bigger and better placed as a base for his expanding

operations (see Bob's insights in the Geomembranes feature).

5-7 June 2013 Gold Coast Convention & Exhibition CentreShowcase your business at Australia’s largest trade exhibition for the window furnishings and specialised textiles industries.

Inspira t ion in design & tex t i les!EXPOSUPER 2013

A S S O C I A T I O NBLIND MANUFACTURERS’

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Presented by

superexpo2013.com.au

HURRY

LIMITED SPACE!

Ensure your company is on show by booking your space today.contact Brett Greene on 07 3262 3114 or email [email protected]

Window Furnishings Specialised Textiles Shade Produc ts Machiner y

Equipment Components Accessories Ser vices

10 · CONNECTIONS

southside Memorial PoolMakMax Australia proudly announced its contribution to the

redevelopment of Rockhampton’s landmark Southside Memorial Pool.

The $17 million Federal, State and Regional Council funded project

will feature a 4000 square metre tensile membrane roof over the main

50 metre pool manufactured and installed by Brisbane based MakMax.

Partnering with Brisbane’s Liquid Blu Architects and Rockhampton

builder JM Kelly (Project Builders) Pty Ltd, MakMax will manufacture

the Architectural Membrane roof in Serge Ferrari® PVC (Poly-Vinyl

Chloride) fabrics , providing both shade and rain protection over

the 50m pool and 650 seat grandstand. Fabrication of the membrane

is scheduled to take place at MakMax’s Brisbane facility later this

year with installation of steelwork scheduled for January 2013 and

membrane to follow.

The new state of the art facilities will service Central Queensland as

the only facility of its kind in the region equipped to handle State and

National swimming events. The Liquid Blu designed pool will comply

with the highest FINA rating “Olympic and Championship Standard”.

International swim teams are expected to be seen at the site during

the Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast.

MakMax Australia’s Director of Sales Daniel Cook says “We are

extremely pleased and excited to be awarded this contract; it was very

much a team effort. The knowledge that our project team demonstrated

throughout the tender and post-tender process was second to none and

converted into a successful outcome. Now the real work begins”.

The project team is currently detailing workshop drawings for

manufacture of the steelwork, membrane and hardware. The structure is

scheduled for completion March 2013.

MakMax makes a splash …

MeMber neWs

new lambton bowls club gets sun smartEarly in November MakMax Australia started work at New Lambton

(Wests) Bowls Club in Newcastle, New South Wales. As part of a

complete redevelopment of the club house and facilities MakMax will

supply more than 2600 square meters of tensile membrane roofing in a

variety of applications.

Partnering with Graph Building and Altis Architecture, MakMax will

provide three separate structures on site. The key feature to this project

will be the main roof structure over green number one - a 1,600 square

metre leaning arch/bowstring arrangement.


In addition to the large PTFE membrane structure over green number

one, the site will feature an inverted, semi-conical, double cantilevered

PVC walkway structure surrounding green number two, additional

cantilevered PVC awnings which interface with the main roof structure,

and a custom designed PVC membrane structure to provide coverage

to the outdoor BBQ area adjacent to the clubhouse. It is anticipated that

the project will be complete by mid January 2013.

For more information visit www.makmax.com.au

Connections correction On page 42 of the September/October

issue of Connections we ran a piece about

MakMax’s creative installation at Cairns

airport car park.

It turns out that the fabric was supplied by

Serge Ferrari, not Mehler.

Ruwini Perera who is Marketing Services

Manager with Innova International said MakMax

has acknowledged and apologised for the mix-up.

Wire balustrade regulations stay putMiami Stainless has advised that the Australian Building Codes Board

(ABCB) recently announced it will no longer be supporting proposed

changes to wire balustrade provisions in the National Construction

Code (NCC) for 2013. This means the wire balustrade regulations will

again remain unchanged.

The proposed changes detailed in NCC 2013 draft included

provisions that would see the implementation of an offset rail design

for horizontal wire balustrades between two to four metres above the

surface beneath.

The ABCB has acknowledged there were significant stakeholder

concerns with the new regulations including deficiencies in injury data,

assumptions used in the RIS, the potential negative impact on industry,

lack of targeted consultation, underestimation of the cost impacts, and

problems associated with the proposed balustrade solutions.

The ABCB has indicated there is a need for further analysis and

careful review of the concerns raised in the public consultation process

before any changes can be introduced.

“Although this is great news for the industry there will still be the

need for further involvement in the consultation process … and Miami

Stainless has and will continue to work closely with the ABCB through

future consultation and decision-making processes,” Matt Gisler said.

Mark of Miami Stainless would like to receive any feedback or

opinions as well as hear from anyone who may be interested in the

ABCB’s public consultation process. He can be contacted on 1800 022

122 or by email at [email protected].

12 · CONNECTIONS

SPECIALFEATURE

Spurred by increasingly stringent environment regulations in mining, agriculture and landfill, the market for geomembranes is enjoying a stellar trajectory. By all accounts the market looks set to remain healthy, and some savvy businesses are reaping the rewards of moving into the sector.

By Nicola Card

Life in the fast lane

The shape of the world has shifted considerably during the past four

years. A black man was sworn in as US president, waves of recession

reverberated across the globe, a nuclear plant was uprooted in Japan,

Greece went bankrupt, several dictators were toppled, and the world

population hit seven billion.

And in that same time frame, the geomembrane market has moved

apace. In the words of Dr John Scheirs, Principal Consultant of

ExcelPlas “The geomembrane market is very much the hot topic …

things have moved swiftly due to the mining boom, coal seam gas and

landfill … for example the Victorian EPA mandated double linings for

landfill following the Cranbourne disaster.”

Remember that debacle? Built decades ago, the large landfill was

devoid of any form of polymer lining. “They just used sand and as

the weight decomposed the methane generated migrated through

the sand and accumulated in underfloor cavities of new houses in the

nearby community,” Scheirs explained. “It was a costly process – the

fire brigade took gas samples and found that lower explosive limits

were exceeded which meant houses were at risk of blowing up if there

was an ignition source, so residents had to be evacuated.”

The EPA which lacked data bases relating to older landfills then had

to establish a register and double liners for landfills was mandated;

predominantly high density polymeric material separated by a leak

detection system. This has increased demand for quality membranes.

Soon after, Best Practice Environment Management was published,

setting rigorous standards and higher reliance on conformance

(pre-installation testing). Also Construction QA placed demands on

welds, leak testing, holes and tears. Other states have taken note of the

tightening of controls.

Testing times

That snapshot helps illustrate why the ExcelPlas Laboratory is

constantly conformance testing plastics, polymer and geomembranes

(HDPE, LLDPE, fPP, PVC, EIA-R, EPDM) for properties such as tensile

strength, weld strength, tear strength, puncture resistance, stress

cracking resistance, oxidative induction time (OIT), UV ageing

resistance, multiaxial burst strength, truncated cone puncture, carbon

black content and carbon black dispersion.

Why the need? Given that many materials are manufactured in hot,

humid non air-conditioned plants in the tropics (including Thailand

and Malaysia) it is not always possible to maintain consistencies and

that affects the properties of the material which invariably come with a

design life of 50-100 years.

“There’s a saying by engineers that ‘It is always the two dollar

component that lets down the million dollar project’. Not unlike the ‘o’

ring on the space shuttle,” Scheirs said.

Much is at stake, given the magnitude and function of geomembrane

applications: water management/irrigation, coal seam gas and

associated water/containment ponds; acid leaching of base and precious

metals and other mining applications, as well as landfill plus energy or

biogas capture from landfill and sewerage treatment plants. While each

sector is booming, coal seam gas is steaming ahead.

Streaming gases During the past four years Queensland has seen “unprecedented

levels of activity” in coal seam gas (CSG), with Max Brady of Darling

Downs Tarpaulins stating the geomembrane industry is “still very

much driven by the coal seam gas sector.”

captivating business


Along with extraction of gas from wells comes salty sub-terranean

water from aquifers. The toxic hypersodic or hypersaline water

destroys matter in contact, hence enactment of legislation for water

containment and treatment via large container dams and brine ponds,

with desalinated and potable water then pumped back into the aquifer.

Thus the strong demand for polyethylene liners.

The tally of Australian CSG wells is believed to be around 2000

but within 15 years the number is likely to swell to 20,000, creating

enormous demand for water management – and subsequently, a strong

flow of orders for geomembranes.

Scheirs explained the processes surrounding leachate collection

process for iron ore enrichment which involves containing and

separating acids from the environment through a series of processing

ponds. Suffice to say huge areas – hectares – are involved, spawning

enormous demand for leach pads.

Lisa Doolan of Tex Connex stated that the mining industry, from base

metals to nickel, copper, gold and all in between, has to be particularly

careful to avoid negative publicity in a world far more conscious of

environmental damage.

“Mining companies are increasing their demands; these days two

or three layers of geomembrane systems are being installed, instead

of one or two,” said the trained civil engineer. “They may have a leak

protection layer such as a geonet and another liner to detect damage

with methods of picking up leaks in a liner.”

Wet or dry, a flood of work Strong demand also stems from the shift in weather patterns from

drought to floods, with Scheirs saying “In the past irrigation channels

were collecting precious water, but in times of excess rain they manage

the flow of water as well as erosion.”

Whatever the weather, it’s a win-win for the lining industry with a

flurry of activity surrounding channel upgrades or remediation of

existing infrastructure involving millions of square metres of liners.

Reflections on a watershed The past four years have been a watershed with many activities

underpinning the use of geomembranes, hence pressing demand for

ExcelPlas services in Construction QA and testing fusion welding, load

testing and more.

Keeping a keen eye on all local and global developments, John

captures and collates notable events through his monthly newsletter

GSN geosynthetic news (visit www.excelplas.com). One avid reader is

newcomer Graham Brown of Garden City Geotech.

Very proudly Australian made Australian family business Garden City Plastics invested millions developing

Garden City Geotech manufacturing facilities in Heatherton, Victoria.

Business Development Manager Graham Brown explained the

business was reviewing avenues for diversification and up popped

geomembranes on the radar; a market surveyed on behalf of the think-

tank Industry Capability Network (ICN) Victoria.

“We considered which types of membranes would be best for the

market, and settled on the flat T-die dual extrusion calendared process

…only two places in the world make the calendared sheet lines; the

machinery is massive, each of our three rollers weighs 25 tonnes, is

nine metres wide and one meter in diameter enabling widths of up to

eight metres,” Brown explained.

“There’s a saying by engineers. ‘It is always the two dollar component that lets down the … million dollar project.’ Not unlike the ‘o’ ring on the space shuttle.”

Dr John Scheirs of ExcelPlas

“There is lots of competition but the risk of low-cost producing countries is short-cuts taken with raw ingredients … it is important to use high grade resins in the design of geomembrane applications otherwise product will not last long enough to give satisfactory performance in the field.”

Bob Cahill of Tex Connex

14 · CONNECTIONS

Equipped with a Honeywell gauge control system and Zumbach

pinhole detector, materials are mixed in Moretti gravimetric

weigh scale blenders to ensure even dispersion of stabilisers and

carbon black. The advantages of flat sheet extrusion process for

geomembrane is gauge control to within +/- 3% compared to the

blown film process thickness variations of up to 10%.

Tech specs: Garden City Geotech sources Chevron Phillips K307

natural resin for the GRI GM13 HDPE geomembrane, due to its

“excellent stabiliser package and outstanding stress crack resistance”

and the company claims the broad fusion range results in more

consistent welds than with most other materials.

“The standard is the Geosynthetic Research Institute’s GM 13 and we

easily exceed that benchmark which is used in mining and by landfill

and authorities for water channel lining and other applications,” Brown

told Connections.

Australian made carbon black masterbatch (M248) – with its very fine

milled particle size which provides long term UV resistance – is used in

the black geomembrane.

“This is quite thick material; it is flexible to a degree but basically strong

material … previously this type of material was all imported,” he said.

Heavy transport Shipping containers or contract carriers criss-cross the continent

transporting Geotech rolls, each weighing one and a half tonnes.

Representing around 60% of business, traditional mining and coal seam

gas form the bulk of Geotech’s three markets.

“Landfill is significant too, with municipal tips requiring a double

lining to help prevent toxins seeping out; also dams are big business

… but our first break was in the northern Victoria irrigation program in

the sandy channels from rivers to the Murray Darling food bowls area,”

Brown, a chemical engineer, explained. “They were losing lots of water

as the river flats are sandy and we won the tender to line the channels.”

The family company has invested several million dollars in machinery

and upgrades. “Had we bought via the United States we may have secured

slightly higher quality equipment but timing was a consideration, it would

have taken two years to arrive and we wanted to move more quickly to

secure our position as the first in Australia to produce this line.”

It did not take long for Garden City Geotech to gain a foothold in the

geomembrane market whose import statistics clock in at 60,000 tonnes

annually. The company has the capacity to produce 20,000 tonnes a

year and their operations “Have the benefit of removing dependence

on imported material which reduces uncertainty associated with

imported supply and shipping delays,” Brown said

Few would disagree that in a nation whose manufacturing base is fast

shrinking it is refreshing learning about a quality, home-grown start-up

that has quickly forged a significant presence.

on a rollAbout the time Geotech first flicked the switch on its giant rollers,

newcomer Tex Connex was rolling up its sleeves for business, with

Bob Cahill appointed agent for world renowned geomembrane

manufacturer Layfield Environmental in mid 2011.

SPECIALFEATURE

“The geomembrane industry is still very much driven by the coal seam gas sector and mining generally.”

Max Brady of Darling Downs Tarpaulins


With his qualifications in Agricultural Science, experience with a

polypropylene company and years spent dealing with fabricators,

Cahill was a natural for the role and in common with Geotech found a

ready market helped by the three-decade strong reputation built by

Layfield which is regarded as a leader in the field, supplying top quality

products from superior grades of parent resins.

“The risk of low-cost producing countries is short-cuts taken with raw

ingredients, it is important to use high grade resins in the design of

geomembrane applications otherwise product will not last long enough

to give satisfactory performance in the field,” Cahill told Connections.

“Ours is a mix of HDPE and LLDP which has slightly different

properties so it can be moulded and prefabricated. That is our market

niche, we can supply material that can be fabricated in the workshop

which gives the fabricator greater control of the welding conditions,

but realistically some work has to be done on site. Our materials just

provide more flexibility,” said the man who until last year had limited

involvement in geomembranes.

“It’s not too far a stretch from tank liners to dam liners,” quipped Cahill

who is now immersed in effluent and waste control at piggeries and

dairies, dam liners and floating covers for water storage/reservoirs

(which reduce evaporation and maintain water quality and keep blue

green algae at bay through reduced sunlight) and in mining and

coal seam gas applications for salt water containment. Also liners for

molasses and other crops.

CSG Advisory Committee An Independent Scientific Committee on Coal Seam Gas and Large Coal Mining Developments was recently developed to equip governments with “the best scientific advice available” when making decisions about coal seam gas and coal mining projects, and to scope and advise on bio-regional assessments with sci-entific analysis of the ecology, hydrology and geology to assess the potential risks to water resources as a result of the direct and indirect impacts of coal seam gas development

For more information visit www.environment.gov.au/coal-seam-gas-mining

Cahill notes a bank’s recent upbeat advisory on agribusiness, with

demand for farm commodities anticipated to bolster the economy for

several years, and good long-term opportunities stemming from healthy

crops after years of drought. The welcome term “bumper harvest” is

being bandied around.

The crew at Tex Connex have certainly jumped on the bandwagon at

a timely moment and are set to enjoy the journey.

“It’s a diverse market and there is lots of competition. But whether it’s

mining or molasses each project is treated on an individual basis and

we carry out a detailed assessment of what the material is trying to

contain, for example certain chemicals may be aggressive toward the

liners and shorten their life, otherwise a normal lifespan would be up to

25 years.”

> CONTINUES PAgE 23

Left: Lights flash when a silo runs empty, alerting operators to change the pipe-work to a full silo.

Top: geomembrane stock ready to be exported.

16 · CONNECTIONS

YOUNGLEADERS II

Get ready, get set … the seeds have been sown for the next Young Leaders Challenge with younger members of the association going head to head - brainstorming a structure that will be crafted over several months and on display at next year’s appropriately titled SuperExpo.

In mid-October during yet another weekend of mixed Melbourne

weather an eager group assembled to be presented with a ‘top secret’

mission. The precise nature of the challenge will remain under wraps until

the unveiling in early June next year, however Jamie Howard provided an

insight by saying “Overall the challenge this year is about giving back to

the localised community and re-igniting the true Australian spirit.”

Despite his relative youth, Jamie Howard has fast developed a name in

STA circles. Last year he led one of the Young Leaders teams and now he

is project instigator and mentor, saying “The challenge this year is a little

different from last … and it focuses on innovation, creativity and effectiveness.

“Details of this year’s challenge were revealed to the new Young

Leader teams at the Novotel St Kilda, during a fun filled, educational and

very rewarding Young Leaders Conference,” Jamie said.

“All of the young leaders were cordoned into the conference room,

where an in-depth brief of the potential project was presented. This

brief went through aspects such as engineering, design, marketing,

fabrication, installation, sponsorship and project management. Bearing

in mind all of these aspects, or only some, might be required. Judging

criteria was presented, along with rules and guidelines to ensure a fair

and equal approach to the challenge. A maximum budget was set and

will be revealed when appropriate.

“The Young Leaders will be tested and will need to step up to the

plate to truly impress those that will be judging ... You!”

Young leaders challenge 2012/2013

The Young Leaders were divided into their respective teams to discuss

an approach they would take and to designate a team structure.

Team A: The Green Textiles Team

Alberto Del Arco MakMax

Sam Duggan MakMax

Damien McDonald Darling Downs Tarpaulins

Dwane Ricard Shann Australia

Ben Thorburn Thorline Products

Brendan Saunders Buz Software

Amanda Saunders Buz Software

Michael Young Nolan.UDA

Team B:

Justin Esdaile Triax

Max Hayman Pattons

Michael Guinea Sail Structures Townsville

Scott Bartlett C E Bartletts

Chris Smith Campbell & Heeps

Brad Clark Sail City

Linda Bester Nolan.UDA

Brendan Allen Ricky Richards

David Splatt HVG Fabrics

In this context, the names Ben Thorburn, Justin Esdaile, Michael

Guinea and Chris Smith will be familiar as they were heavily involved

in last year’s challenge. Each has pledged more time to lend their

expertise to this year’s challenge, and will be playing a pivotal role in

the success of their team.

Conference photographer and mastermind of last year’s challenge,

Bob Cahill told Connections that the two teams “have chosen very

different tacks”.

Young leaders rise to the challenge


Kick off

The weekend kicked off with a working lunch at which STA

representatives presented a trend update, detailing the association's

busy agenda over the past 12 months, an update that set the set the

scene for the weekend’s workshop.

After lunch all participated in a ‘Mingle for success’ session,

described by someone as “a bit like speed dating only handing out

business cards instead of personal numbers”. This was followed up by

‘Creatively marketing your image to clients and the media’ delivered

by Craig Brewster who is a Business Coach with high-profile outfit

Action Coaching.

The focus of his session was on maximising company exposure

through the press and other means, and complemented his next dynamic

presentation which covered the ins and outs of digital media; the fine

balance between tapping into the right mix in achieving the most from all

prongs of digital media, illustrated by several successful case studies.

a new day, a fresh approach

Sunday’s presenter was Scott Mackay of ‘Mischief, Motivation,

Attitude’ who addressed the ‘Go Zone’, recommending workers boost

productivity by divvying up the work week into 1) A ‘go zone’ 2) a ‘slow

zone’ and 3) a ‘no zone’ ... essentially recognising that different things

can be slotted into different times.

Following this method, workers can strike a better balance between

productivity and expectations while remaining fresh and in the sales

context “make your faith stronger than your fears”.

dining with Masters

Duplicating last year’s successful format, industry ‘legends’ addressed

the younger set over dinner. Well known to most in the industry, John

Bartlett, Max Brady, Bob Cahill and Des Tebb were those masters, and

John commented that the Young Leaders' Challenge was a welcome

and overdue initiative that he wished had been around in his heyday.

“Harnessing a passion for the industry into a successful – and

enjoyable - career is the overriding theme,” says Bob Cahill, “It is only

when you step out of your everyday comfort zone that you develop

and grow.

“It is very timely to focus on the younger members of the association

as many of the baby boomers are looking at retiring and fresh talent

needs to be nurtured to fill the voids that will inevitably occur in the

highly specialised and skilled field of fabrication.”

Young leader

Jamie Howard advised that the conference was the second held so

far and by all accounts, it lived up to the hype. “Working on last year’s

project was a rewarding experience for me. In the beginning you are

working with a team that you don’t know very well, or at all. By the end

you are speaking regularly, joking with one and other and growing

together in areas that will enhance your current career path.

“From this challenge the Young Leaders will learn and become

stronger in their career. Confidence and ability will grow in areas

such as teamwork, problem solving, strategic thinking, manufacturing,

communication and management, to name just a few.”

Left: STA Leaders – young and not quite so...

Right: Ana Drougas on the trumpet

Far right:The green Textiles team.

Left: Meet and greet

Far left: Team B

Bottom left: Scott Mackay in the 'go Zone'

Below: Mastermind Jamie Howard

“It is only when you step out of your everyday comfort zone that you develop and grow.”

STRUCTURESSUPERB

Here we look at some of the more diverse entries to the 2012 STA Awards for Excellence.

unique projects and productsLandmark garden shelterCompany: Toowoomba Shade and CanvasProject Title: True Blue Garden Centre Location: Toowoomba QldFabric: Monotec Designer CollectionSupplier: Ricky Richards (Sales) Pty Ltd

This project was undertaken for a local specialised nursery which

provides quality grown plants to the domestic and commercial markets.

After more than 20 years of operating from small premises without

adequate space and protection for their stock and customers, the

clients decided to purpose build a facility to allow for the expansion of

their business.

The client approached us before the land was purchased to help

with the overall planning of the site for the local council planning

submission. They knew little about shade sails other than they wanted

them to be a landmark in the local area to help with the relocation

marketing as well as the protection of plant stock and customers.

Our staff spent close on 100 hours working with the client on different

designs and colours to ensure the costs were within their budget but

still maintained regular sun and shade variations throughout the day

and seasons.

Hail netting was to be used in a conjunction with shadecloth on a 50/50

ratio, but the client didn’t want steel framing to detract from the overall

streetscape and needed as much light as possible to specific locations

within the plant area, while maintaining protection. Direct rain water was

also an important factor for the client. They required as much rain to fall

directly onto the plants without damaging the potted soils.

Our team put forward a proposal to use 100% round monofilament

shadecloth to slow the rain water with a fair portion still servicing

the plants, while offering good shade protection during the summer

months to the more delicate stock. It was proposed to design the

hail netting to blend with the shade sails for the overall appearance

which proved to be the complex component of the project due to

the characteristics of point loading the hail netting. We did various

trials on the floor with respect to stretches and joining of the hail

netting and this paid off with the hail net being install first time

without modification.

The finished result has exceeded the client ‘s expectations because

we meet the initial brief even after all the design changes throughout

the planning stage. We have delivered exceptional sun protection for

both the stock as well as our client ‘s customers, maintained natural

rain water for quality of the stock, 50/50 coverage, shade cloth 222m2

to hail netting 225m2 and it has proven to be a landmark for the local

area which has allowed our client to enjoy a lot more walk in traffic than

they were previously experiencing.

The client's thank you letter reads as follows:

“Thank-you for your involvement in constructing our beautiful but

functional ˜lime fizz ‘ shade sails and hail net area to help us realise

our dream of expansion and purpose built premises for the relocation

of our garden centre … It is obvious you have an excellent team and

procedures in your business which create workmanship and customer

service second to none. While most businesses aim to be exceptional

not many actually achieve levels to the extent you have.”

18 · CONNECTIONS

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20 · CONNECTIONS

Witness thisCompany: BDM Leather and CanvasProject Title: Temporary Registration Office Location: no fixed addressFabric: NaizilSupplier: Nolan.UDA

The client is engaged in building and renovation of Kingdom Halls of

Jehovah’s Witnesses. Typically, their halls are completed over four days.

The carpark, kerbing, concrete floor pad and steel wall framing are in

place prior. Then, over four days the Hall is brought to total completion

with the first meeting held on the Sunday afternoon. As the name of the

project suggests, the Registration Office is to be temporary. It needs to

be assembled quickly and dismantled quickly.

It will be used throughout Western Australia and is stored in bags

and placed in a shipping container with other construction equipment

when not in use.

Criteria to be taken into consideration in the whole design included:

• Able to be erected & dismantled by two people

• Weather protection

• Ventilation

• Visibility for occupants

• Natural light

• Security

• Limited space on building sites

• Ability to display signage

• Easy entry & exit for workers

Although we did not make the frame, we consulted with the frame

maker as to what the final outcome should provide. The frame is made

of 50mm aluminium tubing and is easily erected as all horizontal

sections are interchangeable as well as the gables. Securing bolts

cannot be misplaced as they are secured by swagged stainless

wire and located in threaded sockets in the tubing when not in use.

Performance of the fabric was critical, so in consultation with our client,

a European made 680gsm PVC was chosen. The choice of colour was

also appreciated as the lighter roof colour of cream provides sufficient

light for the staff to adequately see their computers.

One of the major benefits to the client is the ability to completely

erect the unit in a short time. Their previous marquee required the

cover to be laced on, which was extremely time consuming. This

design featured walls that are zipped onto the roof and eyelets at

the base which can be secured by tent pegs if required. Another

major feature is, that should site space be limited, the Office can be

shortened to half the length using existing wall panels on a half length

roof. Also, should a wall panel not be required for some reason, they

can be easily removed. Providing ventilation and vision was another

feature which required us to not only insert clear windows, but also

for them to be able to roll up. Zips are used to keep the windows

closed. For their Safety Signs, welded to each end of the gable, are 3

pockets which seal closed with Velcro. Also, for ease of use, the access

doors open sideways as opposed to traditionally rolling up. Before its

‘ first use, the client viewed the office fully set up at our premises and

expressed the thought that it surpassed their expectations.

STRUCTURESSUPERB

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22 · CONNECTIONS

Our client, a communications supplier approached us to design a series of

padded canvas bags to act as protection to their sensitive mobile satellites

used for providing communications to remote areas including sporting

events and during times of disaster.

When these satellites are mobile, they are split up into approximately

80 pieces and the client was not satisfied with their current form of

transportation … wooden crates. Which not only made the transport of

these satellites bulky, heavy and difficult to manoeuvre, it also wasn’t

the ideal protection for their fragile components. So it was our mission

to design a more practical method of protecting and transporting these

components with custom canvas travel bags.

The client requested a series of protective bags to allow the

unassembled components of the satellite to fit into the back of a 4WD and

also be able to be used as check in luggage on board an air craft.

The custom made canvas bags were manufactured to enable our client and

their mobile satellites to safely reach more remote locations across Australia.

The work was measured off site and manufactured in our factory from

drawings and measurements taken. All with the exception of the satellite

dish which involved manufacturing a mould to ensure the curved satellite

panels were supported evenly.

A unique opportunity arose as we had to learn how to assemble and

dismantle the satellite to be able to determine the most efficient way to

pack the satellite bags into the back of the 4WD. We needed to have an

understanding of what parts went where and what they were referred to,

so that the bags could be correctly labelled and constructed.

This project was quite complex due to the satellite being composed of

many different parts in multiple size and shape. There were 50 different

bags made up in total in 11 different designs. Some of which housed more

than one component. This is also where the knowledge of assembling the

satellite became a useful tool.

The most complex of the bags that we designed were the individual dish

quarters as they had a concave curved shape that were not even quarters.

In order for the bags to fit like a glove as well as protect the dish we had to

make up moulds of the actual dish to work off.

The selection of padding material was unique as we had to choose

something that was dense enough to protect the item but not too ridged

that the bags had no give in them, potentially causing damage to

surrounding items, such as the car interior and windows if they became

dislodged whilst in transit.

The client requested a series of bags to house all of the components

including painted quarters of the satellite dish, various bags for the

powder coated stands, cables, receiver’s power supply units, computers

tie down gear and more. The challenge was when designing the bags, all

of these components had to be made as snug as possible to each item

ensuring that the space of each bag was utilised as efficiently as possible

and at the same time offering as much protection to the components.

The satellites dish broke down into four unequal quarters which had a

challenging concave curve to it. In order to achieve the correct shape of

the bag we had to make moulds up so we could shape the foam padding

to enable the bag to house such a heavy item. To minimise space during

transportation we were able to get two of the similar shaped quarters

into each bag.

Another challenging task of the project was that once the bags were

manufactured, they all had to fit perfectly in the back of a 4WD Nissan

Patrol. We had to organise the bags in a ‘Tetris’ fashion to make sure that

everything fit, whilst still keeping the items in some sort of logical order for

quick and easy assembly.

Another important part of the design criteria was to make sure all the

bags were within certain weight and size restrictions to ensure the bags

could be used as checked in baggage aboard a commercial flight. This

was all achieved by careful planning on commencement of production.

Some innovative techniques were utilised in the production of some of

these bags such as PVC storm water pipe. The pipe was fitted with a

snug canvas cover used to keep items like aerials and fragile measuring

instruments secure.

We approached this job one bag at a time then tried to limit the amount

of different size and styles of bags to make it more economical for the

client and more efficient whilst in production. In the end there was 50 bags

consisting of 11 different shapes, styles and sizes, all consisting of different

material and components including two different grades of canvas, PVC

fabric trimmings, foam, soft felt, thin plywood and PVC storm water pipe.

Our client is extremely happy that we were able to solve their mobile

satellite transportation issue with a series of high quality padded

canvas bags.

Remote destinations that were merely impossible for their satellite to

reach in the past are now attainable due to the bags that we designed and

manufactured for them. They have even had multiple successful trips to the

Simpson Desert!

Satellite cushioning …Company: E H Brett & Sons Pty LtdProject Title: Satellite Canvas Bags Location: MobileFabric: DX12Supplier: Wax Converters Textiles

STRUCTURESSUPERB


SPECIALFEATURE

Tex Connex Colleague Lisa Doolan who boasts years of experience

in geomembranes and geosynthetics added that when solvents or

oil based products are involved great care needs to be applied in

matching lining to product and that “When anything is questionable

we get testing done before getting approval. Either Layfield or

independent testing lab such as ExcelPlas, who are gurus in testing.”

The years aheadWhat sort of a future awaits? Cahill believes the tighter regulatory

controls in livestock management coupled with a strong agribusiness

sector and need to tighten up waste collection practices paint a relatively

rosy picture.

“With our 15 years of drought followed by two good years of rain it has

looked like a boom, but that will drop off with drier weather [anticipated]

over the next two years. However lots of momentum is being generated

around Australia becoming a major food supplier to the Asia Pacific

region, hence the strong signs of agricultural investment.”

For his part, Graham Brown of Geotech “Cannot foresee a stalling

in the mining market and China is still growing at an enormous rate,

growth may be steadier rather than frantic, but lots of orders are still

coming through the pipeline.”

Max Brady of DDT says “Despite the negativity that assails us through

the mainstream media these days I’m a little surprised and impressed

by the apparent resilience and strength of the mining and energy

sector.” He reckons there is still “plenty of ongoing investment by

the mining and energy sector – which includes coal, CSG, and base

metals,” and observes only a minor downturn in mining margins.

Dr Scheirs concurs, saying “There is now a little softening of demand

in base metals but not in the area of CSG with gas exported to India,

China and elsewhere for use in domestic heating or cooking rather

than manufacturing. And environmental safeguards for bio-gas are very

strong so it is still a good time for membranes.

“It is like a perfect storm – and that puts demand on supply. Hence

the development of new manufacturing plants here and overseas. More

plants will continue to be built, until we reach oversupply.”

For more information:

www.gardencityplastics.com

www.gseworld.com

www.layfieldenvironmental.com

www.excelplas.com

www.ddt.com.au

< CONTINUED FROM PAgE 15

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26 · CONNECTIONS

FLAGS & BANNERS SPECIAL FEATURE

all manner of bannersBanners are very much part of the surrounding landscape. Ranging from small to massive and all in between, they broadcast a series of messages and images. But how have processes evolved and what does the future hold? We talk to some prominent STA members to gain insight and perspective.

Wandering around Berlin a couple of decades ago, a large imposing

Georgian building on a prominent street corner caught my eye. But a

gust of wind kicked up and something didn’t look right – the building

appeared to wobble. It turned out the façade was not structural but

vinyl, sporting a life sized image of the building’s original splendour.

Residents and visitors to Sydney over the next few months will

experience a similar surreal moment, with the iconic sandstone clock

tower on the Town Hall (pictured) undergoing a multi-million dollar

restoration project.

Many thousands of metres of mesh membrane were used in the

project, and Ricky Richards was the supplier. Print Media Sales Manager

Matt Evans told Connections that the ‘Crest Mesh’ product has been in

demand for large scale wrap jobs for the past ten years, from the Sydney

Olympics, to the ‘Cathy Freeman job’, the ANZ building and more.

“Crest mesh is a proven product; at 350 grams per square metre

it is heavier in weight than other materials, and it has fire retardant

characteristics, These two key features set it apart … the material has

never failed in any job, the product is very consistent.”

The name Ricky Richards is all but synonymous with digital print

media which today comprises around 25% of business. Not bad

given their digital print operations commenced just 12 years ago.

“We got into it more by chance than by plan … the industrial

textiles we supplied could be printed on so it landed in our lap,”

Matt said.

“Most of the digital print media has been done on PVC but there is

a greater trend toward rigid materials, that is printing straight onto

boards like core flute and expanded PVC, and also a move to more

natural environmentally friendly textiles like polyester which does not

By Nicola Card


contain so many noxious chemicals like lead and VOCs. It is lighter

and easier to transport and install.

Jason Rewse who is National Specifications Manager with HVG Graphics

Media concurs, saying “The world is becoming more PVC conscious; it is

not seen as the most eco-friendly product. I think eventually we will move

away from PVC … it will take a long time but any steps in that direction will

certainly help the industry and the environment. [Alternative] polyethylene

can be recycled, reworked, reused.

Halifax Vogel Group – which currently imports anything from lower widths

of 1.3 to 2.5 metres for the general banner market and everyday signs, right

up to five metre widths for billboards and large structural banners or meshes

– was consulted over Sydney’s clock tower restoration. Jason Rewse said the

mesh façade of the clock tower was printed by Cactus Imaging, which is

reputedly just one of a few wide format digital printers in Australia.

Left and below: Stonemasons were recently seen abseiling the 55-metre Sydney Town Hall clock tower to wrap it in a special photograph mesh featuring the landmark clock face.

Wide format printing

According to Andrew Wells who is Shann Product Manager for digital

print media, demand for wide format printing is fast moving at present,

driven by demand for large mesh banners in the building sector as well

as in housing and mines. “These banners help prevent dust building up

and provide privacy while promoting company names and logos. Most

of the mesh is polyester and PVC coating open weave which comes

with a lifespan of several years, by which time the images which are

solvent-based fade but the resolution is getting better now

Printing process Print dynamics is the forte of Jason Rewse who is a screen-printer by

trade. “Initially it was all solvent based … in simple terms solvent ink

that almost imitates paint. Wide format digital printers are like a big

oversized ink jet printer; the sort of technology where they fire dots of

cyan, magenta, yellow and black. Effectively it’s a bit like newspaper

printing or what a color photocopier does with segments of dots which

is not unlike offset printing,” he explained.

“Different technologies have come into play, most of the newer

platforms have moved to UV dryable inks whereby the inks are put

through UV lamps which cures them rather than relying on heat to dry

the solvent. This has made a big pitch of late and many of the large

format printers are using just UV or a combination of both.”

“The world is becoming more PVC conscious; it is not seen as the most eco-friendly product. I think eventually we will move away from PVC … it will take a long time but any steps in that direction will certainly help the industry and the environment.”

28 · CONNECTIONS

Flying the flagWayne Viner of Crew Products in Cheltenham, Victoria says 20 years ago it was “not so cool” to plant a flag in your front yard but today there is a surge in acceptance and popularity – which as a flagpole maker suits him down to the ground.

“These days you see more flagpoles – flying predominantly Australian flags – in people’s private homes and in holiday homes, also in government departments and corporations, with some aboriginal flags or corporate flags. But some fly Colling-wood flags of all things!” he joked.

Crew Products has built a strong reputation over the years and among other large projects was the name behind the flagpoles carrying large Australian flags seen flapping along Melbourne’s Westgate Bridge. The series of flags which are spaced several me-tres apart are rotated every two months in the bid to even out the wear on fabrics that have to withstand gusts of up to 120 km/h.

“We’ve sewn edges and repaired tracks and put weights in … but making the flag heavier makes the tail flick harder so it has the reverse effect in that it increases the wear,” Wayne said.

The four sets of flags are made by Flags of All Nations in Wool-loongabba, Queensland, which uses a woven synthetic that was

once produced by local manufacturer Bradmill. All materials used today are imported.

Jason went on to say that the UV process is faster and provides an

instant dry whereas solvent based inks take time as the oxides need

to dry.

“If you do not dry the ink it causes lots of issues – the biggest

challenge for any printer is to dry the ink prior to fabricating and rolling

the banner. That is why UV provides the advantage – you can work with

the banner right after printing.

“Wide format digital printing is similar to what happened with screen

printing years ago … similar technological steps are involved.”

For local companies speed to market is a big advantage. “Not that

many [print] jobs are done in China. And we (locally) can act quickly

with short lead times and there are no communications gaps.

“What is keeping the local printing industry alive is fast reaction to

jobs and short lead times,” Jason said.

Fast paced executionMany of Ricky Richard’s clients in the signage industry are working

24/7, seven days a week on all elements from pre-press to fine tuning all

colour files and computers. Matt Brown agrees that speedy turnaround

is high on the agenda.

From shopping centres to corporate promotions, brand launches, conferences, exhibitions, trade shows and awards nights to building sites, beaches and board rooms – all manners of banners and textiles are seen in all walks of life.

FLAGS & BANNERS SPECIAL FEATURE


FaçadeA facade is generally one exterior side of a building, quite often the front, hence the use of the french word meaning ‘frontage’ or ‘face’, derived from the Italian facciata, from faccia meaning face.

Figuratively speaking: façade describes the "face" people show others, as opposed to what they really think or do.

Seemee is the high end fabric range used in back-lit signs such as those adorning fast food chain KFC. The fabric is flex faced; stretched over a back-lit box to create a good lookin’ image unencumbered by visible structures. Being a semi-translucent fabric, during daytime the sign appears solid but at night the light shines through to provide an eye-catching, vibrant look.

“Digital print has taken things into the computer age. As a result the

speed of work – of output – is so fast now. And beyond the printing there

is lots of finishing required with fabrication and lamination and other

weird and wonderful things they do afterwards and then it needs to be

installed. The turnaround times are expected to be lots faster,” Matt said

“That is the industry as a whole. Our customers are printers and sign

people whose customers are quite literally anyone in businesses, from

retailers to corporate offices or even members of the public.

“Everything is customised – there is no such thing as a stock product.”

Nerada Martin of Adelaide based Martin Canvas Products says while

there are still many digital printers in Australia she doubts the industry

will grow a lot as “Sign companies can get banners printed and finished

in China and shipped out in a week … and that is where the industry is

headed.”

Quality mattersOther factors come into play. Richard Gill of The Banner Lady describes

the banner industry as “very price competitive” but believes better

quality products will always win out. That means that each of the three

basic ingredients: inks, print and fabric – needs to be high quality.

He commented that South Korea is “going gang-busters” in terms of

material quality improvements, and more widely “there is a shift toward

better quality printing … competition is heavy and people are trying

to find an edge in everything they do because so much changes in

the market place, and very quickly … brands are having to reposition

themselves to ensure they are at the forefront of people’s minds and

businesses wanting to present themselves as high quality are looking

toward higher processes of printing processes and technologies, to

ensure colours are spot on. They need quality printing.”

“What is keeping the printing industry alive [in Australia] is fast reaction to jobs and short lead times.”

Recent history – and how things have changed

Despite the ubiquitous nature of banners, digital printing is a relatively

new phenomenon. In earlier days craftsmen hand-painted words and

images on banners, hence the term ‘sign write’ but this changed once

vinyl cutters hit the scene, about three decades ago.

Brown explained that “Vinyl cutting was an early sign of automation;

self adhesive coloured vinyl was cut into shapes and letters and stuck

on which from a distance looked printed”.

About ten years ago digital printing took over and Matt estimates just

10% of banners today are prepared using vinyl cuts. “But there is still a

place for that speciality; if they market themselves they can still do well

[and] those that are left pride themselves on their work and can even

charge a premium!”

The futureMany in the industry have commented on the next big shift toward

back-lit fabrics/textiles which by all accounts present a rather clean,

smart look. But word on the street is that over time back-lit banners will

be challenged by electronic signage as costs reduce.

“So much happens – we have to be constantly tracking emerging

technologies and maintaining up to date products, some have a very

short shelf life due to technological advances,” Matt said. “I have

difficulty predicting what will happen just in the next six months!

“In time electronics will definitely take over more but there will always

be a place for print as it has unique features and it will continually

adapt.”

Marking timeFast paced change. What a contrast to Sydney’s iconic 2.5-metre-

diameter timepiece whose mechanism was created 120 years ago and

has been has chiming on the hour since 1884. With restoration underway

– and literally under wraps – the clock is taking a well-earned rest.

Had you ‘clocked’ up 120 years of service, you might like to do same!

30 · CONNECTIONS

SPECIAL TECHNICALFEATURE

Erosion control in mining applications By Dhani Narejo, Bruno Hay, and Bryan Wedin

using geosynthetics to stabilise soils in a harsh environment

Mine site erosion problemsOne of the largest nickel mining sites in

the world is located on the island of New

Caledonia in the South Pacific. Due to the

size of the mining project and the terrain of

the site, significant cut-and-fill work for civil

engineering structures was unavoidable.

For such a large site, the challenge of

protecting the structures from erosion can

be enormous. Inaction is not an option due

to the sensitive nature of the structures,

environmental concerns, and a keen desire

by the owners to protect the environment.

A typical example of the erosion at the site

is he slope in Figure 1. Such slopes require

continuous maintenance if the erosion

problem is not addressed. In some cases,

erosion can cause interruption in the mobility

of materials and personnel at the site.

Several erosion-control measures had been

successfully used at the site, including riprap

and concrete. An alternate erosion-control

system was desired by the owner that would

meet the following objectives:

• cost-effective,

• require little or no maintenance,

• use local labor and materials,

• have a design life exceeding 50 years.

Soil, topography, weatherUltrabasic soils

cover about

one-third of New

Caledonia, where

large deposits of

nickel are found.

Periodites and

serpentines—the

parent rocks of

these soils—

formed 1.5–65

million years

ago during the

Tertiary period.

The chemical

weathering of

these rocks over

thousands of

years and subsequent erosion have resulted

in a soil formation of the general nature shown

in Figure 2. Ultrabasic soils are rich in iron and

magnesium—and also contain nickel, cobalt,

and chromium—yet are deficient in nutrients

to support vegetation. These soils are fragile in

structure and easily erodible, especially when

the dense vegetation at the surface is disturbed

by fires, mining, or construction activities.

The topography of the site is generally hilly

and mountainous. Slopes vary continuously

from steep to gentle and from fully vegetated

to barren. There are numerous water runoff

features on the island. There are large areas of

unstable soils and mass movement as shown in

Figure 2. As a result, soil erosion is a challenging

engineering problem in this region.

The weather pattern is cyclonic, with a single

cyclone dumping up to 800mm (31in.) of

rain within 24 hours. Significant rainfall from

at least three major events has affected the

island during the past 50 years. Tropical

Cyclone Anne dropped 714mm (28in.) of

rain within 24 hours in 1988. In 1969, Tropical

Cyclone Colleen recorded 214mm (8in.)

of rain in 4 hours. In January 2011, Tropical

Cyclone Vania brought a rainfall of 50mm

(2in.) per hour for several hours. The rainfall

intensity for a 6-hour, 100-year storm is on

the order of 400mm (16in.) in this region. The

annual number of cyclones can range from

2–10. Table 1 presents the 10 wettest storms

recorded on the island (through 2010).

A photo of general terrain of ultrabasic soil re-gion of the island (www.tranquillity.net). Photo courtesy of the authors.

Figure 1

Figure 2

Table 1


The unstable nature of the soils, together

with the hilly terrain and cyclonic weather,

presented unique engineering challenges for

the soil erosion problems.

Sustainable solutionsThe contractor had a long and successful

relationship with the mining company at the

site installing liner systems and was aware of

the challenges of protecting the slopes from

erosion in this environment.

The owner suggested the potential of

geocell applications to develop a conceptual

solution to the erosion problems. The

solution consisted of covering the slopes

with geocells, a 3-D HDPE product designed

to contain and stabilize infill material. The

recommended infill material consisted of a

byproduct waste aggregate from the mining

operation. A nonwoven, needle-punched

(NW-NP) geotextile separation layer was

also recommended. Figures 3 and 4 present

the proposed gravel infill and the geocell,

respectively.

The owner accepted the contractor’s

proposed solution as a more cost-effective

answer than previous methods. The

geosynthetic solution would require little

to no maintenance during the effective

design life and was visually appealing. The

proposed gravel infill was available as a

waste material at no cost. The installation

could be performed by local labor with

little technical support and training by the

manufacturer. However, the owner required

that an independent design engineer prepare

a design for the proposed solution.

The primary design considerations

included:

• minimum thickness of the geocell,

• veneer stability,

• type of the separation geotextile,

• hydraulic response during a storm, and

• infill procedures.

Due to length constraints for this article,

only the thickness and veneer stability are

discussed here. Important design conditions

for the site related to thickness and veneer

stability included:

• maximum slope angle of 45 degrees,

• 6-hour probable maximum precipitation of

39mm (1.5in.),

• maximum slope length of 20m (65.5ft), and

• clay soils.

The geocell thickness was the most

challenging factor during the design phase

because of the long slope lengths and steep

angles. As the thickness of the geocell

increased, the driving force due to the

infill weight increased, which led to higher

anchorage requirements.

Alternatively, as the geocell thickness was

decreased, more water could penetrate the

clay soil, which could potentially jeopardize

the effectiveness of the geocell system.

After a detailed analysis, a geocell thickness

of 100mm (4in.) was selected to provide

effective coverage and minimize anchorage

requirements.

The anchorage requirements are explained

with this veneer stability equation:

cu=fc CBRsgWhere FS = factor of safety against veneer

instability, Cr = required anchorage (kPa),

h = thickness of the geocell (m), β = slope

angle (degrees), δ = geotextile-subgrade

friction angle (degrees).

A factor of safety of 1.4 was used, which

is typical for slope stability analysis. The

friction angle between the geotextile and

underlying site clay was based on GRI

Report #30 (Koerner and Narejo, 2005).

Figures 3 & 4

32 · CONNECTIONS

Figure 5 provides the relevant figure from

this eport. A friction angle of 28 degrees was

used in the calculations. Density of gravel, γ, was 20 kN/m3. Slope angle, β, varied from

26–45 degrees. The required anchorage, Cr,

depends on the slope angle β for the known

or assumed values of FS, h, δ and γ. For a β

value of 45 degrees, the required anchorage

is 1.2 kN/m2.

For geocell installations, two anchorage

methods that include stakes and tendons

are typically evaluated. In the design phase,

galvanized No. 4 rebar provided the most

cost-effective solution. The rebar spacing was

determined based on actual site load tests.

Fifteen locations were identified for the field

load tests.

The rebar intended for use was hammered

into the slope and a downward pull load was

applied parallel to the slope. The load was

increased until either maximum load capacity

was reached or the rebar broke or pulled

out of the ground. Testing determined that

a maximum anchorage of 100kg or 0.98kN

could be used for a single rebar anchor.

From this value, the spacing of the stakes was

determined.

InstallationThe contractor recontoured the slopes where

there was significant damage caused by

erosion. A 6oz. NW-NP geotextile was installed

on the slope as a separation layer between the

existing subgrade layer and the gravel infill

material. Cellular confinement sections were

installed over the geotextile.

Starting from the top of the slope, the sections

were expanded down the slope and filled with

waste aggregate (Figure 6). The installation

was completed within the target time.

PerformanceIn 2011, just weeks after the completion of the

first phase of the project, Tropical Cyclone Vania

dropped a total of more than 600mm (24in.) of

rain within a 24-hour period. The site was further

affected when, within 24 hours of Vania’s impact,

a magnitude-7 earthquake hit a nearby island.

This was a real-life test for a geocell installation

on steep slopes, some up to 45 degrees.

The slope coverage performed as designed,

with little or no erosion even on the steepest

of the slopes as shown in Figure 7. These

successes were in keeping with previous

results experienced by the manufacturer’s

customers around the Pacific Rim—that the

cellular confinement performs consistently

under wet and seismic conditions.

Project summaryFor difficult and complex site conditions, cellular

confinement applications can provide powerful

protection against soil erosion.

The concept is simple and is based on the

soil-containment function of the geocell and

the separation function of the geotextile. A thin

layer of overburden soil contained within the

cell is enough to protect unstable slopes. This

protection is possible even on steep slopes if

proper engineering procedures are followed

and, most critically, provided that engineering

design solutions are used only for the specific

material and manufacturing characteristics of a

cellular confinement material.

The engineer’s experience with the proposed

design solution, that of the contractor with the

site, and that of the manufacturer with previous

projects in the region all contributed to the

project’s success. The decision to use waste

material as the infill during the design phase

was crucial and limited project costs.

The materials installed on the initial phases of

the slopes have already experienced dozens

of heavy rainfalls and at least one earthquake.

This case history shows how geosynthetics can

be engineered to solve complex problems at

a significantly lower cost when compared to

traditional solutions.

This article is reproduced from Geosynthetics

of February 2012 by permission of IFAI

Dhani Narejo, principal at Caro Engineering LLC in Conroe, Texas, is a member of Geosynthetics magazine’s Editorial Advisory Committee. Bruno Hay, is business manager at FLI Pacifique SNC in New Caledonia. Bryan Wedin is chief design engineer with Presto Geosystems in Appleton, Wis.

George Koerner and Dhani Narejo, “Direct Shear Database of Geosynthetic-to-Geosynthetic and Geosynthetic-to-Soil Interfaces,” Geosynthetic Research Institute, GRI Report #30, June 14, 2005.

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

SPECIAL TECHNICALFEATURE


Maintenance is not a dirty wordIn this report Beatrice Moonen who chairs the Fabric Structures Committee spells out the importance of upkeep as a means of averting problems down the track.

The Fabric Structures Committee of the

STA believes maintenance is a big deal for

providers of fabric structures. Maintenance

will become so much more important as older

structures start to show signs of wear.

The committee comprises senior people within

the fabric structure industry and a representative

from the Cancer Council. Members of the FSC

strive to raise standards and promote the fabric

structure industry with guidelines, advocacy and

resources so that members can offer the best

service and a high quality product and in turn be

rewarded by opportunities available.

Installers promoting maintenance as part

of their service will benefit from new work

opportunities, customers responsive to after

sales service and long term quality of products.

This collectively reflects well on the industry.

Flexibility of design, price, aesthetics and

shade comfort have made fabric structures

popular over the years. While there are many

instances of solid shade structures 10 or 20

years on, regular maintenance allows more

shade structures to stand the test of time.

so why maintain a shade structure?

1. Weather will affect a shade structure

Wind, rain, hail and sun can damage a

structure no matter how well it has been made.

Nature can be destructive quickly or slowly.

2. Good practice will minimise risk

A well maintained fabric structure is safer. A

loose thread, a broken fitting or a small rip

should be fixed or before becoming bigger

and riskier. Consider community public

places such as playgrounds where safety and

enjoyment must work together.

3. Warranties are limited

Warranties on fabrics are five years and

more. Once the roof fabric on a structure has

exceeded its warranty period maintenance is

overdue, even if the structure appears fine on

the surface.

4. Vandalism and unauthorised access

In conjunction with installing locking gates,

anti climbing plates etc, where there is a risk

of vandalism such as in schools, inspections

and maintenance can ensure the structure

remains sound.

5. An expert may identify problems

which a layperson may not

As experts in the field, installers are more likely

to identify maintenance problems. Installers

know what to look for and understand how

components of a structure behave. Repairs can

be made quickly and effectively. Offering a

maintenance service is the start.

Your comments on this article or the safety and maintenance of structures are always welcome on [email protected]

If you have a product that needs to be welded, we have the complete range of standard and automated custom models to meet your needs.

VERSATILITY AND RELIABILITY, THAT’S WHY MILLER WELDMASTER IS THE FIRST CHOICE!

Elizabeth Machines are the authorised Australian distributors for Miller Weldmaster equipment.

FABRIC REPORT

34 · CONNECTIONS

INNOVATION

Roger La Salle takes a closer look at the all-too-familiar face of the workforce and says step back to take a closer look at every day practices.

too close to see the business

Often those of us involved in business are simply too close to

daily issues to see the potential for real value adding innovations

and opportunities or indeed to appreciate some of the things our

businesses and people do really well.

Even in the case of business plans, which seldom play-out as

forecast, the so called independent “third eye” to review the plan

before it is finalised is always a good idea.

The transfer “catalyst” of the “Opportunity Matrix” thinking platform

asks us to see if we can transfer this so called “third eye” used on

business plans to other aspects of our business.

Following this idea we may implement a formal “third eye” across

the business on a periodic basis.

the third “eye” innovation initiative

Network with a group of your peers and invite them on a tour of your

facility to view in their own minds what you are doing and how you go

about your business.

This does not have to be limited to just the physical or operational

aspects of your business but can include your telephone answering

technique, your staff presentation and manner, your business card

presentation, your signage and even the overall presentation of your

facility.

Here’s a thought: would you prefer to visit a dental surgery or a

restaurant whose premises were beautifully maintained with lovely

gardens as you enter, or instead one where the gardens were a

mangled mess with absolutely no interest in presentation at all being

shown by the business operator?

Obviously, the clean and beautiful presented premise inspires

confidence.

With your network now briefed conduct a tour of your business and

ask each person to take a note pad with them and write down three

things that they individually observe that you do really well.

Also ask them to write down three things that they believe are

lacking or need attention and can be done better.

Thus we now have three plus three innovation initiatives we can

explore in an endeavour to innovate or improve our business.

the cost is nothing

A “Third Eye” tour need only take a few minutes and will provide

invaluable third party or “independent third eye” insights. More

importantly it will assist in identifying your strengths and weaknesses.

This simple third eye can be a real innovation eye opener and can be

done at no cost at all.

the third “eye”


solve your employees’ no.1 cause of stress!

the changing paradigm

Any reader who is familiar with the TV series hit

The Office (English version, please) would notice

people crouched over computer screens doing

who knows what, but all very engaged.

In fact if you walk into almost any office today,

the places where city commuters most often

work, you will find precisely the same scene.

People privately engaged in their work while

crouched over a computer. So prevalent is this

activity that we are being warned about the perils

of continuous close focused vision, keyboard RSI

and lack of exercise just to mention a few.

Given this is working life for so many these

days, let’s turn that into an opportunity.

"innovate" your workplace to reap multiple benefits

Many “birds can be killed” with this one stone

if we embrace change:

1. Productivity improvement

2. Traffic congestion and the huge expense

of building new road infrastructure

3. A real use for the NBN – more than just

home movies

4. Green house emission reductions, and

5. Cost of living in travel time and cost

Can you foresee these huge gains if most

people did not have to travel to an office

everyday to do their jobs?

do we need to have staff present?

Social interaction in the workplace has huge

benefits, both for the well-being of workers,

the cross pollination of ideas and the building

of a team environment.

However, in most cases there is absolutely

no need for people to attend an office every

day. Perhaps one day each week would be

sufficient to allow for social interaction and

general catch up.

Numerous studies have been undertaken

on the subject of home workers, or so called

“telecommuters” and most show the cost

benefits in productivity and reduced cost of

employment in many ways, including office

space, energy, consumables and many other

almost hidden on-costs. For the worker there

are also huge benefits.

A study in the USA* found that the

total number of US telecommuters (one

day per month at home) grew from some

17 million in 2001 to almost 30 million by

2008. It is clear that there is a growing trend

towards this sensible alternative to full office

based work.

*Data by The Dieringer Research Group Inc. February 2009

envisage the future

For sceptics who think this may not work,

just image a computer with a screen that

showed every member of your team as a

screen shot, perhaps an overhead view of the

office environment. To meet or speak with

any member you simply click on the image,

to engage with a group, simply click on the

people required and all come to each other as

virtual 3D interactive images with high quality

audio: a virtual office.

In such a high definition virtual environment

there is little difference from having staff

physically present. In fact to meet or speak

with a team member in such an environment

would be easier and faster than getting up

from your desk and walking to their office

based workstation.

What is required to achieve this utopia?

1. An acceptance of the worker to take on

the liability of providing their own safe

workplace

2. High-speed, two-way internet

connectivity

3. Suitable KPIs that can be used to measure

the performance of home workers

4. IT infrastructure at the office and worker’s

home, and

5. Trust from management for workers to be

accountable

the potential benefits are profound

The benefits are huge and can lead to much

higher productivity and reduced worker

stress in travel to and from work. Indeed when

surveyed in the USA many workers cited the

stress of travelling to and from work as their

biggest concern.

Perhaps it may even be possible to ask

staff to put in an extra 30 to 60 minutes a day

if you remove the normal one to two hours

commuting time, not to mention the cost.

Where to from here?

Perhaps now is the time with traffic snarls

on the increase to the point of frustration,

public transport running at capacity and real

productivity falling?

Embrace this new paradigm and reap the

benefits. Start off slowly and track the results.

Roger La Salle is the creator of the "Matrix Thinking"™ technique and is widely sought after as an international speaker on Innovation, Opportunity and business development. He is the author of four books, Director and former CEO of the Innovation Centre of Victoria and as a number of companies both in Australian and overseas. He has been responsible for a number of successful technology start-ups and in 2004 was a regular panellist on ABC TV’s New Inventors. In 2005 he was appointed to the "Chair of Innovation" at “The Queens University" in Belfast. Matrix Thinking is now used in more than 26 countries and is licensed to Deloitte, one of the world’s largest consulting firms. www.matrixthinking.com

Paradigm shift: staying at home to go to work, by Roger La Salle

36 · CONNECTIONS

TECHNICALFEATURE

truck cover and tarp markets pick up speedIn the United States there is renewed demand for the niche markets of truck covers and tarps which is helping support growth, says Holly O’Dell.

Like many industries, the trucking industry has had to deal with the

effects of the slow economy. American Trucking Association recent

statistics indicate that truck tonnage fell just 0.7 percent in May 2012 after

dropping 1.1 percent in April. The numbers, however, show improvement

over the same period in 2011, and that could spell good news for an

important segment of the roadway freight market: truck covers and tarps.

Fabric suppliers and manufacturers of load covering systems have

weathered the economic storm, responding to renewed demand and

finding niche markets to support growth.

Price pressuresEnd users of truck load covers have been careful with expenditures, which

led to belt-tightening throughout the supply chain. However, BondCote

Corp. of Pulaski, Virginia, a supplier of vinyl-coated polyester for truck

tarps, has seen improvement since late 2011, noting that users had been

repairing their tarps instead of buying new ones through the recession.

“I’m not sure if it’s because the economy is improving that much or the

fact that users finally have to buy new tarps. I think it’s a little of both,”

says Eric Brown, BondCote’s national sales manager. “Also, the change

in EPA emission regulations is driving higher new truck sales before the

effective date, and new trailer sales are following suit.”

Economic challenges have put price pressure on the industry, too. “The

tarp market is very commodity based,” Brown notes. “Everything is all

about price, so all of the fabric suppliers have been forced to cut to the

bone to reduce costs.”

Despite the economic downturn, some tarp suppliers and

manufacturers report improving conditions. Dean Hammond, owner

of Cardinal Canvas Products in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, admits to a

difficult 2009, but the news has been good ever since. “The market

came back in 2010, and 2011 was excellent for us,” he says, adding that

the demand is so great that Cardinal Canvas has a backlog of orders

for load tarps. “It all depends on how busy the truckers are, and they

have been busy.”

As a distributor of tarp fabrics throughout North America, Atizapán,

Mexico-based Grupo Piessa also has noticed a shift among its

customers. “We can see the purchasing volume has decreased, but

customers have been adjusting the orders, buying products with less

weight or changing the specs in order to get better prices,” says Yadira

Moreno, export manager for Grupo Piessa.

Load Covering Solutions Ltd., Burlington, Ontario, Canada, contracts with a print shop to offer customers the value-added

option of delivering a message along with their load with digitally printed soft-sided curtains. Photo: Load Covering Solutions

38 · CONNECTIONS

A decrease in tarp demand has some companies rethinking how they

do business. “Industrywide, when you have these sorts of challenges, it

becomes tougher for some companies to maintain their size,” says Ken

Harp, president of Harp’s Tarps in Tucker, Georgia. “In our case, we

have had to work harder to grow. We are in an extremely competitive

industry, and [a poor economy] forces you to become more efficient

and stronger.”

Another hurdle comes in the form of end users’ expectations. “A lot

of times the end users don’t always see the value in higher quality or

the total cost of ownership over the long run of the product,” Harp adds.

In particular, a slowdown in construction has taken its toll on the truck

cover market.

“We are construction driven because trucks that haul building debris

need tarps,” notes Michael Ciferri Jr, vice president and product

manager for Donovan Enterprises in Stuart, Florida, a manufacturer of

dump truck tarp systems and trailer tarp systems. If the construction

industry experienced another big downturn, Ciferri says they would

certainly feel it, but for Donovan, that scene is fading in the rearview

mirror. “The last couple of years we have seen some rather steady

growth,” he says.

Growth areasTarp and truck cover manufacturers have diversified their offerings—

sometimes in unexpected market areas. Harp’s Tarps, for example,

has completed custom projects unrelated to the freight industry. The

company created a huge tarp bladder that was inserted into a sunken

ship off the coast of Florida, then inflated with air to raise the vessel.

The fabricator also has made octagons and hexagons for mats used

in mixed martial arts fighting.

“When you get these new niche markets, you have higher margins,”

Harp says, “and it is fun doing something different from squares and

rectangles all day.”

Ciferri also recognises the importance of diversification. “When

you have a bunch of time and you aren’t selling a lot of truck tarps,

you have got to find something else to do,” he says, but Donovan

Enterprises did what it had to do to survive, particularly in the

especially lean years of 2007–2009.

“Do I want to go out and sell sandbags today? No. But have I gone out

and sold sandbags for a year? Yes. You are making quarters, but you have

volume, and if you have the time and the distribution, it’s important to

look at such opportunities,” he says.

Donovan Enterprises also has its eyes on worldwide growth.

“International markets have been strong for us,” Ciferri notes. The

company has a division in the United Kingdom and a master distributor

in France, and it has sold product into Mexico, Australia and South Africa.

IFAIFEATURE


“Some countries are much more difficult to work in than others

because they have all these requirements, and they think it should be

easy to meet all of them,” he adds. “Then there are some countries that

just want to cover the load and keep rocks from falling out.”

Market impactsAlthough there haven’t been monumental changes in the composition

of tarp fabrics, some suppliers are experimenting with different

components.

“We have been looking for new and better substrates that allow us

to increase the resistance of our materials, like fabrics 14 x 14 1000

D and heavier,” says Piessa’s Moreno. “Also, we have developed with

our suppliers UV-resistance additives and fire-retardant additives to

accomplish the highest levels of quality requested by international

regulations. We have produced some tarps that are phthalate-free to

meet international regulations, too.”

BondCote’s Brown notes, “We can make a superior truck tarp fabric if

the industry would pay for it, but once again, it is all about price. It very

much limits what you can do to provide superior, innovative fabrics

when the market will not pay for them.”

As long as government bodies continue to demand regulations for

truck covering systems, suppliers and end product manufacturers will

always have a place in the freight industry.

“Load covering is becoming a bigger concern to shippers and

transport companies on a regular basis,” says Brian Petelka, president

of Load Covering Solutions Ltd in Burlington, Ontario in Canada, which

also has US offices.

“To be able to cover the loads so that they are weather protected and

doing it all safely at ground level is a growing need,” Petelka says.

Industry representation

The Tarp Association, a division of IFAI, offers industry participants

information, advocacy and support. Visit the association’s website to

learn more about covering laws, safety tips, care and maintenance of

truck covers, new products and special events.

This article is reproduced from IFAI publication Specialty Fabrics

Review of August 2012

Holly O’Dell is a freelance writer based in Pine City, Minnesota.

Well established business for sale in the hunter Valley, nsW

The owners of nAggS CAnVAS (established in 1986) wish to retire from their highly successful business.

The business fabricates a wide range of canvas goods and shade products. it has a very good reputation for high standard of work, and services the local mining industry & interstate branches, local councils & schools, & service industries. it is well known for vehicle canopies and caravan annexes/walls for roll-out awnings. repair and alteration work is constantly requested by the general public.

with a staff of the 2 owners (working manager, secretary), 2 full-time employees and 2 casual workers, the annual turnover of this small business is around 1 million per annum, achieving excellent profit margins. There is much scope for expansion for an enthusiastic person.

The sale includes a large range of stock, machinery, welders, sewing machines & intellectual property (engineering of structures & sails, and templates for the mining industry).

leasing of the current premises is possible.

for More details, Please ContaCt herold GelderMan 02 4930 7394 or PhiliP Johns 02 4993 3333

Specialised Textiles AssociationSuite 201, 22 St Kilda Road, St Kilda Vic 3182

Phone 03 9521 2114 n Fax 03 9521 2116 www.specialisedtextiles.com.au

Learn, share and network with others in the industry who have a similar passion for our industry at national and state based events held throughout the year.

Have your say about the direction of our industry and association through involvement on Council of Management, industry focus groups and special interest groups.

Connect with buyers and suppliers by exhibiting, presenting or attending one of the premier exhibition and conference events in this region.

Be acknowledged for your great work by entering your projects into the Awards for Excellence, an annual competition, designed to recognise excellence and innovation in our industry.

Take advantage of event discounts by enjoying reduced fees on a variety of events such as the annual trade exhibition and advertising in Connections Magazine. Your membership also gives you access to IFAI bookstore at discounted rates.

Educate and inform others using Connections Magazine to communicate to a niche market hungry for knowledge and news about our industry. Members can use Connections to advertise their products and services to their target markets.

Get listed in our comprehensive member and product directory - published in hard copy and searchable online.

Differentiate yourself from non members by making use of the Specialised Textiles Association logo on your stationery and other collateral.

Access expert information and advice by accessing the specialist knowledge and expertise of our member fabricators, installers and suppliers. Specialised Textiles Association is also a member of Australian Industry Group with access to comprehensive range of information and member advices on employee and industrial relations, occupation health and safety issues and much more.

The advantages of becoming a member

Manufacturers, installers and suppliers. Together we cover the world.

A S S O C I A T I O N

Specialised Textiles Association Inc.

Suite 201, 22 St Kilda Road, St Kilda Vic 3182Phone 03 9521 2114 n Local Call 1300 555 787

Fax 03 9521 2116 n [email protected] 83 594 171 330 n Registration Number A0010895W

www.specialisedtextiles.com.au

MAM8919

STA Promo Advert (August12).indd 1 15/08/12 11:06 AM

Specialised Textiles Association Inc. Suite 201, 22 St Kilda Road, St Kilda Vic 3182

Phone 03 9521 2114 n Local Call 1300 555 787 Fax 03 9521 2116 n [email protected]

ABN 83 594 171 330 n Registration Number A0010895Wwww.specialisedtextiles.com.au

Company / Business Name

ABN or ACN # Please supply proof of business registration with this application

Does your business trade under any other name? n Yes n No If yes, what is the other trading name

Address

State Postcode

Telephone ( ) Fax ( ) Mobile

E-mail Web

Name of Business Owner Position held in business

Name of second business contact/representative Position held in business

Has this business or any other business owned by you (either now or previously) ever been reported to the ACCC? n Yes n No (Australian Competition and Consumer Commission) If yes, please provide details to accompany this application

What area of the industry are you involved in? n Blinds and Awnings n Marine n Motor Trimmer n Shade Sails installer n Supplier to the industry (specify)

n Flags and /Banners n Sailmaker n GeoSynthetics n Shade Sail Fabricator n Other

What Products do you manufacture, design or supply?

Full Membership Categoryn FABRICATOR Construction/Manufacture from prepared components n ASSOCIATE Individuals interested in STA objectives

n SuPPLIER Material/Component/Equipment /Services n AFFILIATE Organisations affiliated with STA

Do you belong to any other Industry Association? n Yes n No If Yes, please list

All membership applications are required to be proposed and seconded by 2 existing Specialised Textiles Association Members –

If you do not know of any Members, please contact our Office for further assistance

Proposed by Company Name Telephone

Seconded by Company Name Telephone

I, (name of business owner) agree to abide by the Statement of Purposes and Rules of

the Association and its Code of Ethics. I understand that should at any time any of the information supplied by me is found to be false/

incorrect, my membership will be immediately withdrawn from the Association.

Signature (of business owner) Date

Payment Details Amount $

n EFT - Payments to Westpac BSB # 033047 Account # 549608

n Cheque n Mastercard n Visa

Credit Card Number / / /

Expiry Date /

Name as it appears on card

Signature

Date

Annual Membership Fees Tiered fee structure based on average number of employees (Prices are inclusive of GST)

n 1 to 5 Employees $510

n 6 to 15 Employees $855

n 16 or more employees $1155

n Associate $160

n Affiliate $190

(pro-rata Rate applies July through to March plus $100 processing fee. This will be calculated by STA office)

Current from 1st April 2012 to 31st March 2013Membership Application Form

MA

M87

20

STA Membership Form.indd 1 11/04/12 4:57 PM

42 · CONNECTIONS

NEW MEMBERS

Specialised Textiles Association would like to welcome several new members (and one who is returning) to the fold. Following is a brief description of each.

Shade Australia Unit 7, 86 Heathcote RoadMoorebank NSW 2170Paul DeLucca [email protected] 9601 0883www.shadeaustralia.com.au

The vision statement for this company includes

its stated aim: To be ‘World Leaders of the

Sunshade Age’. Energy exudes from the website.

They state that within a decade, the way

Australians, and eventually the rest of the

world participate in outdoor activities must

significantly change, and the crew at Shade

Australia call this The Sunshade Age®.

The following business has returned to the

association:

Eastman Machine Company Buffalo New York USARobert and Wade Stevenson [email protected]@eastmancuts.comwww.eastmancuts.com

Eastman Machine Company is a cutting

machine manufacturer, providing custom

engineered solutions and innovative

technologies for a variety of industries.

Eastman services customers in almost every

country from its world headquarters in Buffalo,

New York, and through an international network

of sales, support and engineering staff.

Eastman offers the industry's widest

range of classic, hand-held and manually-

operated fabric cutting machines; as well

as a comprehensive line of fully automated,

computerised cutting and plotting systems.

Manufactured with high quality materials,

built to precise specifications, and subject to

rigorous testing, Eastman's cutting systems

have been setting the standard since its origins

over a century ago.

Eyelets Supply Company 11 Newcomen Rd Springvale Vic 3171 Luke Dowsing [email protected] 03 9558 5400www.eyelets.com.au

Eyelets Supply Company has been

manufacturing eyelets, metal pressings and

other deep drawn stampings since 1924.

Its range of products extends across multiple

industries, delivering solutions for banner and

promotional product manufacturers, curtain

makers, and manufacturers of marquees,

tarpaulins and awnings.

The company’s main focus is delivering a

quality product at a competitive price which is

achieved by balancing local manufacturing and

direct importing of specific products.


Shade Sail Engineering Ashmore QldMatt Hutchings [email protected] 0404 306 925www.shadesailengineering.com

Shade Sail Engineering is a fabrication

company based in Tunisia, North Africa.

The new facilities incorporate a production

area of over 1500m2 manned by a staff of 10

specialist fabricators.

Australian Director Matt Hutchings has 15

years of experience in design, fabrication and

installation of shade structures in Australia

and overseas. The strategic location on the

Mediterranean, close to Europe, is the result of

years of research into the global shade market.

Potential emerging markets in southern

Europe and growing markets in the Middle

East has become the focus of Shade Sail

Engineering as well as the established market

in Australia.

The combination of quality raw materials

(Polyfab, Alnet and Multiknit), strong product

knowledge and proven performance in the

field provide Shade Sail Engineering with a

competitive edge.

44 · CONNECTIONS

SPOTLIGHT ONMEMBERS

Blend in with your environment using the Pilbara Canvas outback range from HVGHVG Fabrics is pleased to announce the

addition of Pilbara Tear Stop Canvas to its

already extensive range of agricultural and

industrial fabrics.

Pilbara Tear Stop Canvas is made

specifically for HVG, a 15oz Australian made

acrylic coated polyester/cotton canvas fabric

that can be used in a myriad of external

applications.

HVG Business Manager John Wood said the

addition of Pilbara Canvas would complement

and expand on HVG Fabric’s existing range of

industrial products. He explained that is was

“Developed to withstand the extremes of the

Australian climate, while offering a good balance

of strength, durability, exceptional breathability,

waterproof qualities and a natural textile appeal.”

The canvas features a 50+ UVF Rating, mildew

resistance, ultrasonically sealed edges to

prevent fraying, excellent lay flat characteristics

and Tear Stop construction.

With a range of eight colours selected for the

Australian market, Pilbara Tear Stop Canvas

is ideal for a variety of applications. Yellow

was developed with fire retardant qualities to

a “Self Extinguishing” standard making Yellow

Pilbara Canvas the first choice for high visibility

requirements such as mining and work site

applications.

Pilbara Tear Stop Canvas is an ideal, value

for money solution for campervan/tenting/

marquee/tepee roofs and walls, trailers and stall

covers, swags, satchels, temporary shelters and

agriculture covers just to name a few!

Customers can order the new Aussie made

Pilbara Tear Stop canvas range from HVG

offices and distribution centres in Sydney,

Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth.

For more information visit www.hvgfabrics.com.au

Ricky Richards launches new PVC fabric Tarpex Tarpex PVC coated fabric is the latest addition to

the Ricky Richards range. Competitively priced

to meet the needs of the more budget focussed

segment of the industry, Tarpex is ideal for

general PVC applications including tarpaulins,

camper trailers and sporting equipment.

Tarpex has a roll width of 250cm and also

320cm in select colours, and is UV treated and

fire retardant. The gloss acrylic lacquer finish on

the front and reverse sides of the fabric makes

Tarpex easy to clean and with a nominal weight

of 680gsm, it is a long lasting, durable PVC

fabric.

Tarpex is available now from Ricky

Richards in the following colours: white,

yellow, orange, red, royal blue, dark blue,

green, grey and black.

SPECIAL oFFER! The first two

customers to call and mention this

product announcement when ordering

a minimum of 30 metres of Tarpex will

receive a $50 Myer Gift Voucher.

For further information about Tarpex or any

of our other products in the extensive Ricky

Richards PVC fabric range, please contact

the office by phone: 02 9735 3333 or

email: [email protected]

46 · CONNECTIONS

… and spreading the word about your business

Did you know? By advertising in Connections you are reaching as many as 10,000 people who are actively involved in the specialised textiles industry.

Featuring the latest and greatest industry developments, Connections is the voice of the specialised textile industry and enables all who are involved in the industry to showcase their business developments, news and views.

Circulated to thousands in all facets of the textile industry, Connections casts a wide net by encompassing the geosynthetic, awning, shade sail, blind maker, and marine and motor trimmer sectors. It does not stop there: also covered are flags and banners, caravan and camping, canvas, cutting equipment, umbrellas, tarpaulins, side curtain and more … distributors of industrial fabrics and all related components suppliers.

Just the ticket for reaching more potential customers …

6

2500

10,000

Number of issues each year

Circulation

Readership estimated at

To ADVERTISE Call Yuri at CommStrat on 03 8534 5008 or 0419 339 865 to secure your place in Connections.

CHoICES Your advert can be a quarter page, half page, full page, front or back page, horizontal or vertical – you call the shots.

Yuri would be happy to email you the Connections Media Kit outlining all specifications and prices.

Located at 8/574 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne Vic 3004, CommStrat is the publisher of Connections on behalf of the Specialised Textiles Association.

“Connections magazine is the key communications tool for a large and diverse range of businesses encompassing the specialised textiles industry”

SPOTLIGHT ONMEMBERS

Radins introduces its new RADFlex PVC range

The continuing demand for a general purpose

premium PVC has prompted Radins Australia

to introduce RADFlex to its already extensive

range of PVC fabrics.

Radins Managing Director Tony Bond says

that this range is ideally suited for many

applications including general purpose

outdoor, truck and farm tarps, grain covers,

banners, camper trailers, hire tarps, container

covers, transport side curtains and all heavy

duty applications.

The RADFlex range of premium PVC coated

fabrics are developed using the highest

quality resins, UV stabilisers and fire retardant

inhibitors and are finished with high gloss

acrylic lacquer on both sides. They are

available in a range of colours.

There are four different fabrics in the

RADFlex range available in different weights

from 550gsm to 900gsm to suit every need.

Choose from RADFlex 550 FR, RADFlex 610

FR, RADFlex 650 FR Tearstop and RADFlex

900 FR.

Fabric samples and information is available

for the new RADFlex range of PVC coated

fabrics from Radins on 03 9551 6000 or email

[email protected]

radins launches its new catalogue!Radins has just released its new 2012 Product

Catalogue. Everything you need to know

about Radins is in the catalogue including all

the top fabric brands and an extensive range

of hardware and accessories.

There are fabrics for Window Furnishings,

General Canvas & PVC, Shade Sails, Marine

& Motor Trimming from top local and

international brands including VistaRange,

Dickson, Sunbrella, Brella, Bradmill, WCT,

Hunter Douglas, Synthesis and much,

much more.

The Catalogue has been designed to be

informative and to be of assistance in selecting

the right fabric or hardware for all installations

and can be obtained from Radins on 03 9551

6000 or [email protected]

RADFlex

ADVERTISTERS'INDEX

ABC Products 15

Austech Welders Outside back cover

Bartlett CE 37

CJ Loftus 48

Darling Downs Tarpaulins 43

Dasec 23

Elizabeth Machines 33

Gale Pacific Inside front cover

Halifax Vogel Group Front cover, 23

Hiraoka 7

ICL (SA) 47

Miami Stainless Inside back cover

Naggs Canvas 39

Nolan UDA 5

Ozrig 42

Plastral 43

Radins 19

Ricky Richards 3

Sewing Perfection

Machine Co. 45

Triax Systems 11

Wax Converters 24-25

ICL (SA) pty Ltd 3A WIrrIgA Street, regenCy pArk, SA 5010 ph: 08 8352 9400 fx: 08 8352 9494 e: [email protected] www.iclsa.com.au

Distributed in Qld,Vic and WA by PASKALPh: 03 95888 8800E: [email protected] in New Zealand by W. WigginsPh: 9282 2771E: [email protected]

BACK TO BASICSAuTO ArmS

AuTO guIdeSl BrACKeTS

unIverSAl BrACKeTS5 SIded endCApS

pulldOwn rIngSSprIngS

KeywAy TuBehOOdIng

SplIne

STrAIghT drOp BlInd STAInleSS FITTIngS

4.0mt BOTTOm BArSpeCIAl BulK prICe On Any Order

CHANNEL - ITTM

Side Channel Awning System

48 · CONNECTIONS

REGISTERED TRAINING oRGANISATIoNS

NSW, NT, SA & QLDvia Sydney Institute of TAFEPh (02) 9217 4601 Fax (02) 9217 4963Contact: Lawrence De [email protected]/sailmaking

TASMANIATasmania Institute of TAFEPh 1300 655 307 Fax (03) 6233 7830 www.tafe.tas.edu

VICToRIARMIT UniversityPh (03) 9925 9182 Fax (03) 9925 9129Contact: Kent [email protected] 25 Dawson Street Brunswick Vic 3056 www.rmit.edu.au

WESTERN AUSTRALIAPoLYTECH WESTTextile Fabrication TrainingPh: 08 9207 4412Fax: 08 9207 4399Gary McCormickBalga Campus Gate 1 Lockwood Road, Balga WA

EVENTS& RTOs

January 2013Heimtextil Frankfurt 2013January 9–12, 2013Frankfurt am Main, GermanyHeimtextil is promoted as the biggest international trade fair for home and contract textiles. Taking place in Frankfurt, Germany, this event is a “must see, must be there” for all involved in textile manufacturing, retailing and designers.

IFAI Tent Expo 2013January 20–24, 2013Caribe Royale Resort and Conference Center, Orlando, Florida

April 2013 Geosynthetics 2013April 1–4, 2013Long Beach Convention CenterLong Beach, CaliforniaIFAI’s biannual geosynthetics conference is co-locating with the annual Southwest Geotechnical Engineers Conference. The event is sponsored by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and state transportation departments from the southern and western US.

The Geosynthetic Research Institute’s conference will be incorporated as two half-day sessions.

June 2013

Super Expo 2013STA and BMAA have joined forces to

stage one big Super ShowWhen: Wednesday June 5 to Friday June 7

Where: gold coast convention and exhibition centre

this is shaping up to be the biggest and best expo yet … more exhibits, more delegates, more visitors, more variety than ever.

awards for excellence night, social events, the Young leaders’ structures.

lots to see and do!

www.specialisedtextiles.com.au

FOR SALE Demtech ceramic wedge welder Never used. Still in box

$7500 + GST ex AdelaideApprox 20 M galv track included

Enquiries 08 83495633

SP36 Pedestal Digital Graphics Triad

SP36 Side Arm 6 inch Pole Pocket Triad

SP36 Quick Arm Acrylic Triad

Austech Welders are proud to announce being appointed as the Australian distributor for the Smartseal by Seamtek range of hot air welders and seam tapers.

For more information on the new Seamtek call Greg on 0418 771 600.

Austech Welders Pty Ltd Managing Director — Greg SchmidtPh: 0418 771 600 Fx: (08) 9498 3015Email: [email protected]

www.austechwelders.com

NSW Rep – Robin Pethybridge Ph: 0413 744 315 Email: [email protected]

Vic Rep – Mick Jewel Ph: 0417 352 130

Seamtek are industry leaders in rotary hot air welding and seam sealing. Their welders/tapers feature Smartseal digital control technology. As the first rotary hot air welder to use a touch screen controlled PLC (a standard feature for over 10 years) the Seamtek welder/taper makes it easy for the operator to control on the fly speed adjustments and differential wheel speeds, repeat complex shape patterns and precisely control production variables.

For ease of use and the ability to change from one type of weld to another quickly and easily nothing beats the SP range of welders. The one welder can be configured with a pedestal, side arm and quick arm. The operator can change between these by simply swinging one out of the way and swinging the new one into place.

Connections Nov/Dec/Jan

Documents

Transcript of Connections Nov/Dec/Jan