Upload
commstrat
View
240
Download
0
Tags:
Embed Size (px)
DESCRIPTION
The Official Magazine of the Specialised Textiles Association
Citation preview
SPECIALISED TEXTILES ASSOCIATION INC. Vol 12 No 5September • October 2012
STA member newS | induSTry TrAining | memberS in The SpoTlighT | rTos
The wrap race: vinyl films on the fast track
Marine SpecialShowcasing members’ boating covers and structures
Members’ insights into marine trimmingTextiles fabrication training by TAFE
Marine trimming workshopscompeNsaTioN aNd elasTiciTy
in structures
sTrucTure fabrics to create the future
For more information on Shann Australia see page 44
SEPTEMBER • OCTOBER 2012 · 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 Lawrence De Paoli,Janice Kleinschmidt, Beatrice Moonen, Chris Nolan, Ruwini Perera, Melissa Vine and Kent Williamson.
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 3182 VICPhone: 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
subscriPtions to subscribe to Connections for just $75 inc gst annually contact ruth spiegel [email protected]
A S S O C I A T I O N
association Matters2 Report by STA President 4 STA office update32 State and Committee reports41 STA welcomes new members
neWs corner8 The business landscape42 Member news
Marine Matters11 Ebb and flow The world of marine trimming 16 Excellence in marine Showcasing superb marine
themed structures
26 Textile Fabrication Certificate III Trainer Lawrence De Paoli on marine
and motor trimming
28 Up-skilling in marine textiles Serge Ferrari and Innova International
stage specialist workshops
sPecial Features34 Compensation and
Elastic moduli Chris Nolan’s insights into architectural
fabrics
38 The wrap race: Vinyl films on the transportation fast track
Vinyl films are helping vehicles meet at the “finish” line
sPotlight on MeMbers44 Shann and HVG Members’ products and services
training and eVents48 Industry events and RTOs
2 · CONNECTIONS
From the sta office
Past vs present
I recently met up with an ex-ACASPA/STA
member and mentioned to him that I was the
incumbent President of STA. He explained
the reasons why he chose not to renew his
association membership. I felt that things may
have been different back in those days, and
outlined the range of programs and initiatives
undertaken in recent times and about all the
work in progress. His eyebrows were raised,
his surprise and new interest was evident – he
had no idea of what the ‘new look’ STA was
up to; the goals we have been kicking and
what was in the pipeline. This ex-member
expressed particular interest in the merits of
the Young Leaders’ Program, the association’s
Accreditation Program, and latest training
initiative and funding from the NWDF. I am
pleased to say that this ex-member is now
keen to rejoin the organisation.
Boosting awareness – and committee activity
The challenge that I now have is to increase
awareness among our membership and
the wider industry. The aim is to continue to
inform all about where we are going, why
we are doing it and how we are doing it. As
I mentioned earlier, the COM has a very
full agenda. New sub-committees are being
formed to assist and make recommendations
to the COM on a range of different issues.
These sub-committees follow in the footsteps
of the very successful Fabric Structures
Committee headed up by Beatrice Moonen.
As I mentioned during our member
sessions, the COM is guided by the strategic
plan that was developed based on findings
from the survey conducted two years ago by
the University of Ballarat.
The bottom line is we are developing the
organisation and making it more relevant. In
general, I have no doubt that we are heading
in the right direction; the amount of comments
and the feedback that we receive is testament
to that. However we – the COM – do not have
all the answers and we encourage all members
to have their say. Get involved, come to
member sessions, raise issues and speak your
piece publicly or to Ana or myself. You only get
out of the organisation what you put into it.
As you know, I am always urging member
companies to get more employees involved in
our wonderful organisation. We now have even
more reasons for this. The Young Leaders'
initiative is an excellent example of how and
why you should encourage your people to
get involved. The new training initiatives and
the potential for more funding – hence more
training – is another. I would suggest that
rather than think about the cost you consider
all the short- and long-term benefits to our
industry and textile fabrication in Australia.
Again, I urge you to encourage your
employees to attend STA member sessions
and to ensure you have enough copies of our
association publication Connections. Provide
the STA office with your employees’ email
contact details so they can receive STA’s
electronic newsletters and updates.
We all want our organisation to be as vibrant,
relevant and effective as possible, so I would
urge one and all to rally to the cause and get
all staff involved.
Finally, a reminder that we still have some
positions available on the various sub-
committees. Please encourage your staff to
nominate, and give them a little time and
encouragement to participate.
STAMATTERS
“I am always urging member companies to get more employees involved in our wonderful organisation. We now have even more
reasons for this. The Young Leaders' initiative is an excellent example … [as is] the new training initiative and the potential for more funding … consider all the short- and long-term benefits to
our industry and textile fabrication in Australia.”
Insights from the President of the Specialised Textiles Association – Lance St Hill
Much has been happening during the
past eight weeks, since I last prepared a
report for Connections magazine. In early
July in Melbourne the Specialised Textiles
Association’s Council of Management (COM)
spent a full day in a face-to-face meeting,
predominately to be briefed and to approve
the progress to date in development of the
Accreditation Program.
Following that STA Office Manager Ana
Drougas and I, along with our consultant
Mary Simcic and COM members, conducted
whirlwind member information sessions in
State capitals. We subsequently held COM
phone meetings to progress the agenda of
the combined STA/BMAA Trade Show and
Convention taking place in June 2013. And
in late August we have another Super Expo
meeting, this time at the Expo venue on the
Gold Coast.
This list of association meetings and activities
does, I hope, convey the focus and dedication
of the association’s elected officers on behalf of
the organisation and indeed the industry as a
whole. This COM certainly has a lot on its plate
for the year and each of the elected officers
is working hard on the various tasks that they
have been delegated.
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
AwningsShade Sails
PVC
SignsMarquees Fencing
Canvas
Annexes
Marine
Blinds
Motor
Tension Structures
Sports Equipment
TentsWindow Furnishing
Luggage
PolyethyleneGround Covers
Cotton Modules
Covers
Swags
Dam Liners
Jumping Castles Interior and Exterior
Structure and Membrane
Awnings
Hay Stack Covers
Backpacks
Fencing
Roller Blinds
Panel BlindsBags
NylonBanners
Grain Covers
Truck Side Curtains
fabric solutions foraustralian applications
RR ACASPA ad 2012.indd 1 16/02/12 3:01 PM
4 · CONNECTIONS
Member meetings and advancing Accreditation
Kicking off in late July in Adelaide, we recently
ran a series of meeting for members in Perth,
Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Adelaide.
The main intent of the meetings was
to update members on the association’s
Accreditation program, and provide the
opportunity for all members to help shape the
program by providing input, comment and
suggestions.
The Council of Management agrees that
it is important that our members embrace
accreditation and become involved because it
focuses on the industry at large and is for the
benefit of members.
Accreditation also paves the way for the
association to set up industry standards and
to recognise businesses that are performing
work in a professional manner.
specialised textiles association Looking forward Office report by Ana Drougas, Association Manager
What it does not represent is an opportunity
for the association to finger-point at those
who are lacking in certain areas. It is not
about excluding anyone; instead it is focused
on raising awareness and presenting a
professional industry.
Overall I would describe the Accreditation
program as about identifying gaps in the
industry – in our member base initially – in
which we can assist businesses to come up to
the next level.
For example we would help someone who
is an installer but lacks trade licenses by
sending them in the right direction.
During the association member meetings we
talked about whether Accreditation should be
compulsory, open only to members, or to all in
the industry. And we also discussed a ‘business
in a box’ plan that encompasses a business
plan and financial accounting methods.
The Accreditation update was very well
received at the sessions and attracted
much positive feedback, with some saying
the program was welcome and overdue.
We are still working through the finer
details and members are being contacted
by our consultant and taken through the
questionnaire as part of a pilot program.
We are looking to roll out Stage One, a
basic level that enables us to benchmark the
industry, before year’s end.
Strategic Plan
At the recent member meetings President
Lance St Hill addressed the direction of the
association, in particular our long-standing
aim to establish industry Accreditation;
and our intention to provide pathways for
younger members that fosters growth and
increases awareness of the industry.
STAMATTERS
During our member meetings we talked about a ‘business in
a box’ plan
Super Expo 2013 – June 5 to 7, Gold Coast Plans are progressing for next year’s Expo
which we are running in conjunction with the
Blind Manufacturers Association of Australia.
The date is set and the Gold Coast Convention
and Exhibition Centre booked. We have now
assigned a project manager to progress the
event.
Importantly, we will be running our
respective association events without
compromising each other’s traditions, with the
Gala dinner and our Awards dinner still taking
pride of place.
Registrations will be received under the
event name which is Super Expo 2013 and the
trade expo along with all the events will be
open to all in the industry.
The Young Leaders Challenge (2011)At the 2012 Expo STA members were in awe
of the achievements of the Young Leaders
Groups.
So successful were the endeavours that
a Committee has now been established to
advance plans for commercialising the winning
relief shelter. Leading the charge are Bob
Cahill, Glenn Barlow, Jamie Howard, Robert
Bull and Leisa Manning.
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
An application for a design patent will be lodged
on the YLC 2012 winning entry and the licensing
rights will belong to the association. Members will
be able to access and use the design plans.
And the next Challenge …
The 2012 Young Leaders Challenge takes place on
the weekend of 13-14 October. Many members have
already expressed interest and we hope to soon
confirm the venue which is likely to be a conference
centre in Sydney.
Following our criteria on the nature of this
year’s challenge ‘to in some way give back to
the community’ (such as in the environmental or
humanitarian sphere) we have received many
sound, practical suggestions. For his part, 2011 team
leader Jamie Howard has suggested the two teams
be given a different community project and each
judged individually.
Specialist Committees
During the round of member sessions held in
February, it became clear that many members
wanted more involvement in association matters.
Timing is good as we are currently establishing
several committees; among them Accreditation;
Editorial, Training and a Young Leaders' Committee.
We have already established the Fabric Structures
Committee which is ably led by Beatrice Moonen.
The association’s July meetings held across the
nation presented the ideal opportunity to advance
the formation of specialist committees, with several
members expressing interest.
The NWDF
National Workforce Development Fund
We were successful in our mission to secure funding
for Certificate II in Blinds, Awnings and Shade Sail
Installation and we have since been working in
conjunction with TAFE to deliver the training. We will
soon see our first batch of graduate trainees.
Winding the clock back to March this year when
we lodged the submission we needed 50 EOIs
(expressions of interest) but we actually received
126, which indicates the strength of interest.
The Certificate II training is unique because
it brings together three different (and normally
competing) college training providers to deliver
the one course, but for reasons of efficacy it will be
managed by one TAFE with one registration for the
course that will be overseen by just one college.
Shade structures in NSW can only be installed by
those who are licensed by the Office of Fair Trade
and although it was not overly difficult for people
to obtain the necessary certificate, the process
was regarded somewhat cumbersome as textile
fabrication took place in one venue and installation
training another. Now these have been combined.
Importantly for our industry, Certificate II training
recognises prior learning (RPL) which until now has
been lacking. Many of our long-standing industry
experts – some of whom have clocked up 30 or 40
years’ experience – are master craftsmen yet their
skills are not formally recognised.
Under new arrangement industry specialists will
be able to obtain credits for experience and at the
same time obtain funds for training.
Because there is an opportunity to apply
for more government funding we encourage
members to approach the STA office with
suggestions for training enhancements to
benefit the industry.
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]
Because there is an opportunity to apply for
more government funding we encourage members
to approach the STA office with suggestions for training enhancements to
benefit the industry.”
STA Committee L to R: Kent Williamson of RMIT, Tom Gastin of Pattons, David Burton of Ricky Richards, Lance St Hill (President) of fabric Solutions Australia, Jamie Howard of Total Shade Solutions and Gary Smith of Campbell and Heeps.
8 · CONNECTIONS
business neWs
the world of business Building blocks for a stronger manufacturing sectorIn mid August Ai Group Chief Executive Innes
Willox handed the Government The Smarter
Manufacturing for A Smarter Australia Report
which highlights the role manufacturing can
play in building a stronger, balanced and
more resilient economy.
In a nutshell the Report proposes that
Australia capitalises on its considerable
strengths and builds new sources of strength
to position the sector to take advantage of
emerging opportunities.
"Its recommendations go to policies around
innovation; making research organisations
more business facing; skilling and education;
energy and climate policy; procurement …
lifting management capabilities; and trade,”
said Australian Industry Group Chief Executive
Innes Willox, “ ... this is about building a
stronger manufacturing sector and a balanced
and more resilient national economy.”
Over a number of years the Ai Group has
called for a reduction in the company tax rate
to 25%, and Innes Willox believes the Business
Tax Working Group (BTWG) Discussion Paper
lays the foundation for an informed debate
around business tax reform.
"Reducing the tax burden on business
income should be a major priority for
all sides of politics as it would promote
investment, encourage direct investment
from abroad and boost productivity. This is
particularly important for non-mining trade
exposed sectors in the current economic
environment,” he said.
Business trends Late last year the SME Association of
Australia’s Chief Executive Officer Dr
Caroline Hong said "the introduction of the
Carbon Tax which would see an increase in
green conscious businesses and customers
as the awareness of emissions and carbon
outputs grows.” And while many SMEs may
not be directly impacted by the carbon tax,
there may be a flow-on effect of costs from
big businesses to small businesses," she said.
Spelling out the likely trends for small
to medium enterprises (SMEs) this year,
Hong also listed social media, saying it
will challenge the way SMEs do business
and increasingly be an important part of a
competitive strategy, and “present SMEs with
more and more opportunities for economical
ways of interacting with customers and
conducting business transactions themselves”.
Social commerce - where Geographic
Information Systems (GIS) and mobile
technology come together with social
networks to prompt consumers to download
apps, pay with their mobile phone or check
out deals - will become more commonplace.
Also, businesses will find new ways of
lowering costs and attracting customers
through innovative products and ideas
such as pop-up shops, creative apps, shared
office space and cloud computing.
What’s in store?According to the latest Dun & Bradstreet
National Business Expectations Survey,
expectations among Australian firms have
soared to levels not seen in almost a decade,
with over half of businesses anticipating
an increase in sales during the upcoming
December quarter,
The survey revealed businesses also plan to
replenish stock levels and increase staff numbers,
but lingering pressures such as the high dollar
will likely weigh on business outlook, with more
than a quarter (29%) of retailers expecting
the high Australian dollar to have a significant
negative impact on operations.
Almost half (46%) of retailers expect online
competition to have a large adverse affect on
business performance, and "There is a growing
awareness among retailers they are operating
in a rapidly changing environment, where
consumers exercise far greater power than they
used to. Access to price comparison websites
and cheaper overseas alternatives will continue
to impact margins," CEO Gareth Jones said.
There were indications the outlook may
not remain upbeat, as plans for capital
investment remained flat across sectors and
fewer executives expect to seek credit to
finance expansion. Likewise, close to 100 per
cent of retail firms have no plans to finance
capital investment in the coming months,
demonstrating lingering uncertainties.
Countering the ‘soaring expectations’
found by the Dun & Bradstreet survey was
KPMG’s annual Private Companies Survey
which indicates the economic slowdown was
worrying private companies. Around a third
experienced a fall in both revenue and profit
over the previous 12 months and 44% are
experiencing skills shortages, down from 55
percent in 2011.
Almost two thirds of the companies have
plans to introduce new digital communication
channels this year.
Businesses listed key challenges as
continuing global uncertainty, impaired
consumer confidence and skill shortages. That
said, almost nine in ten were “moderately or
well prepared” to meet the challenges ahead
and a similar percentage forecasted revenue
growth for 2012-13.
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
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
MAM8925
Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th October 2012 Novotel, Brighton Beach, NSW
We are looking for our industry’s younger leaders under the age of 35.
This is a learning experience that will enhance the careers of our young talent.
Are you or do you know a young leader in our industry?
Register your interest to attend now
Contact Mina on 03 9521 2114 or email [email protected] by Tuesday 25th September
2nd National ConferenceYoung LeAdeRSS P e C I A L I S e d T e X T I L e S A S S O C I A T I O N
STA Young Achiever Advert (August12).indd 1 23/08/12 12:39 PM
10 · CONNECTIONS
business neWs
Carbon impact The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission received more
than 630 complaints and enquiries about the carbon price in the 10
days following the introduction of the Carbon Tax on July 1, but very
few enquiries concerned SMEs.
The highest category of complaints received were about claims
made by energy retailers, particularly in relation to electricity bill price
increases and whether they were appropriate. Other enquiries related
to landfill, building and construction and refrigerant gases, but just a
fraction of the carbon price queries related to SMEs.
At the helm of IFAI In early June the Industrial Fabrics Association International (IFAI)
named Mary Hennessy president and CEO. She has been an IFAI
employee for 24 years.
Mary described the IFAI membership as a close-knit, diverse community
of companies, saying “I have often heard it described as a family: noisy,
raucous, opinionated and loyal. I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
Would you start a business with your family?Clearly for STA members the answer is YES, with many operating a
business alongside a spouse, sibling or parent. But that is not altogether
surprising, given that family businesses account for around 70 per cent
of all businesses in Australia.
Family Business Australia CEO Philippa Taylor says good governance
systems are a major factor in determining the longevity of family
businesses but that only 12 per cent have a family constitution or
charter, which is a vital document to help avoid family conflict in
business and ease the transition from one generation to the other.
The major benefits of the family constitution are: it documents the
values and principles that guide the conduct of the business; defines
the strategic objectives, and sets out the way in which the family will
make decisions affecting the ownership and management of the
business.
“It is imperative that more family businesses adopt a family business
constitution, to help ease the transition from one generation to the
next and ensure the longevity of family businesses and the Australian
economy,” Ms Taylor said.
SEPTEMBER • OCTOBER 2012 · 11
MARINEFEATURE
Australia’s sailing prowess stood out at the Olympics, but as a business sector how is the marine industry performing? We ask marine trimmers across the nation for their views. And the picture we gained is not unlike choppy seas – up and down.
By Nicola Card
ebb and flow
As the anthem goes, our home is girt by sea, and with most of our
population wrapped around the shores, it is little wonder Australians
boast one of the highest per capita water sports participation rates.
The passion for water sports may extend to a tinny, a mirror dingy or a
cruiser of varying length or size. Or for the better off or more affluent,
an ocean going yacht.
In short, boating is big business. According to the Boating Industries
Alliance Australia the industry directly employs over 28,000 people and
generates revenues of close to $8 billion, a figure that doubles when
indirect employees and revenues are factored in.
Marine trimmers fit into the ‘indirect’ category, and within the
Specialised Textiles Association many members are involved full-
time or part-time in motor trimming, or alternatively sourcing and
supplying fabric to the industry. The latter is one of the many missions
of HVG Fabrics.
Daniel Gollan who is HVG Business Manager says while boating is
a natural extension of the outdoor, sports oriented Australian lifestyle,
“In the past two years people’s cash has been tied up so they have spent less on luxuries”
good weather is a big driver and that “During sunny warm seasons
people’s minds drift to beaches and water. That said, boating fits into
the luxury market which comes as a discretionary spend, and people
will only spend when there is confidence in the economic climate.
“When people are feeling insecure about their jobs they do not want
to go and spend money on their ‘toys’ as it were. From what I have
seen overall over the past five years the market has been stronger and
trending upwards – that was until the last twelve months when people
have struggled to maintain their growth in the industry. But it is still
higher than it was 15 years ago,” Gollan said.
Image courtesy of Pattons
12 · CONNECTIONS
MARINEFEATURE
The market that has hurt the most is the
“trailerble” market. “Let’s call it the lower
end of the demographic, people who can just
stretch themselves to the weekender, they
are the ones who have hurt the most. But the
middle upper as I will call it tend to always
have money and are comfortable spending
money on their 40 footers or cruiser yachts.
They have maintained their lifestyle.”
Therein lies the mainstay of HVG’s marine
activity: sale of fabric for upholstered and
trimmed products for cruisers in the middle to
upper niche. The company sources Nautolex
and brands it under ‘Maritime’, and supplies
seating trim vinyls and clears for canopies
blinds and general marine enclosures. HVG
also caters for awnings and enclosures.
Demand stems from tropical coastal regions
from north Queensland and down into NSW,
and over on the West coast from Perth and up
the coast. For its part, Melbourne has a strong
weekend “trailer-ble” market but demand
generally is weaker along the south coast.
Marine activities constitute a relatively small
component of HVG’s business. “We like to
keep our toes in the water,” Gollan said. “But
there are challenges, clearly the high Aussie
dollar creates opportunities as it is cheaper to
import fully finished products or upholstered
solutions for boats; the downside is the local
market and economy are unable to compete.
“That is challenging. And we need to be
prepared for the next trends develop from a
fully imported environment. Meantime, the
market is soft but we are all hoping for a strong
season. We have had a lot of rain across the
country which may be good for farmers but
has impacted on outdoor living. A good spell
of hot dry weather over summer will send
people to their boats,”
rise in water levels and boating activity Apparently rainfall has a different – namely,
positive - impact inland, as Rob of Patch’s
Canvas Manufacturing in Bendigo illustrated.
Nearby is Lake Eppaloch which is circled by a
series of caravan parks, and the drought which
all but completely dried up the otherwise
popular lake also hit water sports hard.
“For many years boats were just sitting
unused under cover on trailers with flat tyres
… people could not use them during the
dry weather. It caused a mass exodus from
Bendigo with owners heading north and to the
River Murray in Echuca,” he explained.
He describes the marine industry in general
as “a feast or famine,” saying “Big boats are
like high end sports cars ... these “toys” are
sold off or mothballed when the industry takes
a dive.”
Concurring with him is fabricator Corie
Kotzur of Kotzur Kanvas located “out in the
sticks” of Wagga. He observes that “During the
past two years people’s cash has been tied up
so they have spent less on luxuries. That is the
big picture. And many lost their boats when
the economy shut down, it went sour grapes
as boat owners could not afford to do anything
with them. Some just left them in their back
yard.”
The scenario was echoed by Nigel Gillie of
NG Upholstery which is located on the North
West coast of Tasmania between Burnie and
Devonport and since 1995 has fabricated
canopies, tops and side curtains and travel
covers for protection from the elements.
Gillie watched as marine demand tapered
off in tandem with the economy, and today
demand for marine upholstery represents a
lesser part of his business.
“The economy is not what it was ten years
ago when there was more money floating
around and people were buying boats,” he told
Connections.
Paul Medforth of Paradise PVC Welding in
Queensland also reported a market dip but
finds it varies month to month. “The marine
industry is not as seasonal as you think it
would be. It gets busier at Christmas, that is a
given, but it does not die off in winter like you
think it would.”
At the diagonally opposite end of the
continent is Albany which is home to Ken
Stone of Ken Stone Motor Trimmers. In his
experience the larger boat market - 25 to
40 footers – has remained more buoyant
compared with smaller boats, an observation
which parallels Gollan’s view.
“These bigger boats are moored in pens
and owners need trimmers and others to come
and work on them,” Stone said. “They cannot
just pluck them out of the water and go to the
nearest shops for a quote! So we do custom
marine fittings such as big clears on fly bridge
type boats.
“Demand for custom designed products is
greater in bigger boats, compared with parts
for smaller and ‘trailer-ble’ boats of 12 to 25
feet which are more commonly bought from a
“The economy is not what it was ten years ago when there was more money floating around and more people were buying boats.”
Image courtesy of Ken Stone Motor Trimmers and Pattons
SEPTEMBER • OCTOBER 2012 · 13
boat dealer. Commercial stuff has fallen a bit
by the wayside in recent years.”
But again echoing Gollan’s experience he
says the marine activity had taken a dive due
in part to the rise in Chinese manufactured
products and the kit forms that are produced.
“The more of that the less busy you get. In
the west of Australia there used to be up to a
dozen big boat builders or dealers but now
there are just four or five because they make
their own products and sell it all as a package
deal – boat, canopy, fishing items. And instead
of repairing products the local dealer just gets
a new one in.
“The whole trade is shrinking, that is the
problem. So people are looking for new
markets.”
holding value The good news for boat owners is unlike cars,
boats tend not to lose their value, depending
on the brand and appearance some hold
their value for decades, which leads to a
healthy second-hand market and a willingness
by owners of older boats to invest in parts
to maintain their asset. In turn that shores
up demand for maintenance and parts, a
scenario that benefits Pattons.
The business is located idyllically on the
Kirribilli foreshore on Sydney harbour. Tom
Gastin said “What we are finding is that
people are sprucing up their boats rather than
buying new ones, so sales of new boats may
be down. And when people are flushed with
funds they tend to order customised covers,
but the cheaper option is a factory set.”
Gastin did say that the marine side of
business had been slower than normal over
the past year, “However in the past few months
things have picked up and I have been told by
Nolan.UDA that they are selling more marine
related materials.”
no trimmer, no marineThere is good reason why the marine market
has completely dried up for Joel Chamberlain of
BDM Leather and Canvas at Rockingham south
of Perth. Up until five years ago his business was
industriously involved in marine trimming but
today it has whittled away to nothing.
“We lost our skilled marine and motor
trimmer so that was the end of it, we gave it
away!” he said. “We do not miss it too much as
it was a bit of a pain, people off the street are
harder to deal with and tend to create more
issues and problems. We now deal with more
industrial clients. We have not looked back.”
Still over in the west but much further
north is Loi Odore of Tropical Upholstery.
Situated in Broome, he presented a colourful
snapshot of local dynamics. In common with
other businesses located in relatively remote
regions, Tropical Upholstery tends to cover all
facets of fabrication from trim and upholstery.
“I am not unique – that is what we all do. But
the marine side of our business is nothing like
it used to be, we are doing different work. We
used to do lots of work on charter and diving
boats and also for the pearling industry but
that is changing. Mining personnel [new to the
district] are starting to buy bigger boats so we
are getting more orders for clears for the ten
to 25 footers and for canopies, clears, cushions
clears and covers
“There is quite a bit of money up here and
people are investing, there are lots of fly-in
fly-out people, and if the gas project on the
peninsula gets going things will get even
busier and bring more money into town.”
Odore added that property prices in
Broome had shot right up and the population
had doubled in size over the past 20 years to
20,000.
“The building industry is going hell for
leather. Western Australia is the [economic]
backbone of Australia right now – it is where
the money is. From Geraldton upwards where
there is mining there is money.”
taking the wind out of the sails…Far from the lucrative mining district – and at
the slower end of the two speed economy - is
Melbourne’s Quality Craft Coverings. Industry
“Being a non-essential, the leisure industry is generally the first hit and the last to come back.”
Fully adjustable • No welding Spans over 6m
www.triax.com.au(02) 9804 1146
New for 2012Fixed 90° couplingNew for 2012Fixed 90° coupling
14 · CONNECTIONS
veteran Paul Baker told Connections that the
marine industry suffered, diving heavily due
to the GFC and cheap imports.
“The GFC really hit hard, we noticed
the decline over a space of 12 months then
it bottomed out say three years ago and
did not start to pick up till six months ago.
Being a non-essential, the leisure industry is
generally the first hit and the last to
come back.
“But marine sales are now climbing
back up as people are regaining a bit of
confidence and we are finding that they are
doing up their old boats. Many have been
putting it off for ages but can no longer.”
Quality Craft Coverings has been servicing
“trailer-able” boats of up to 6.5 metres but
moving with the times now does more on-site
work with larger vessels. “Previously we were
too busy in-house but with the economic
downturn we have been out chasing more
on-site business. This takes the team as far
east as Lakes Entrance, west to Geelong and
north to Eildon working mainly on cruisers
fitting bimini tops and new clears on fly
bridges.”
Quality Craft Coverings imports marine
acrylic from the US but sources marine
vinyl from a distributor. Over the years the
company has developed a range of marine
fittings: nylon fitting for frameworks and boat,
plastic tracking around the hard tops, plus
a range of stainless steel fittings; which they
sell around Australia.
“We are very committed to boating! We got
into café blinds but probably should have
diversified more but you tend to get stuck in
your ways. I have been doing boat covers for
37 years now and that is what I am good at!”
Baker chuckled.
Business diversification is strongly
advocated by Rob of Patch’s Canvas
Manufacturing in Bendigo.
The veteran’s advice? “Do a bit of everything
… stay in a range of things, diversify as a
means of protection when the makes shifts
and turns.”
Sage advice from a long-timer, given the
apparent ups and downs and ins and outs of
the marine sector. By our tally there are many
elements beyond control – too much rain, not
enough rain, a deluge of imported goods,
wavering economic confidence. It therefore
bodes well to equip yourself for all sales and
seasons.
training developmentsFor an update on marine and motor trimming
training, see Lawrence De Paoli’s (Head
Teacher - Autobody Repair, Refinish &
Trimming Sydney TAFE) insights on page 26,
also the Serge Ferrari / Innova International
marine workshops feature on page 28.
MARINEFEATURE
“Marine is a feast or famine … big boats are like high end sports cars ... these “toys” are sold off when the economy takes a dive.”
ReflectionsGiven his lengthy span in the marine industry we asked Paul Baker of Quality Craft Coverings to cast his mind back over the decades.
Back in 1982 when he started out the marine industry was predominantly all about white marine vinyls with a little beige thrown in for good measure. “That was all that was available until acrylic came on to the market in the mid eighties and took over, as it came with a range of eight [attractive] colours. Everyone turned away from vinyl which had shrinkage and other problems and was heavy to work with.”
He added that during the ‘80s and ‘90s they sourced acrylic locally but experienced problems with leakage. “We wanted to get all our stock from Australia but had no choice … the fabric leaked and the manufacturer was unable to improve it. So when we went over to the Miami boat show in the mid nineties we looked for and found the best acrylic and introduced it to Australia. It now comes in 50 different colours.”
Half a container is imported at a time to their factory opposite from where it is distributed to other trimmers across Australia.
“Basic designs have also developed over the years,” Baker said. “Boat owners have moved away from canopies to bimini tops so they can stand and look through a clear at the front rather than through a windscreen.”
Boating evidently runs in the family, 30 years ago Paul’s brother Phillip established Craft Coverings in Queensland.
WINDOW FURNISHINGS LINERS & COVERS
5-7 June 2013Gold Coast Convention & Exhibition CentreShowcase your business at Austral ia’s largest trade exhibit ion for the window furnishings and special ised tex ti les industr ies.
SHADE PRODUC TS
Inspira t ion in design & tex t i les!EXPOSUPER 2013
To book your exhibition space or become a sponsor par tner contac t Brett Greene on 07 3262 3114 or email [email protected]
A S S O C I A T I O NBLIND MANUFACTURERS’
ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA
Presented by
superexpo2013.com.au
16 · CONNECTIONS
STRUCTURESSUPERB
To complement the special feature on marine and motor trimming we have selected those Awards for Excellence entries 2012 with a marine or automotive theme. Along with the narrative the superb images provide the full picture.
nautical niceties
A life on the ocean wave …We commence our voyage by dropping in to Sydney Harbour, where
50 foot yacht Sea Gypsy received a marine trimming makeover
courtesy of Kevin Harrington of Pattons.
The comprehensive task involved designing and measuring stainless
steel frames for both the dodger and bimini, as well as side clears and
backdrop, stack-pack, sun awning and overall cover. For the purpose
Kevin selected Sunbrella fabric which was supplied by Bainbridge.
One of the biggest challenges involved accommodating the cockpit
mounted primary and secondary winches used for trimming the sails.
Both winch handles require a 360-degree revolution unimpeded by the
stainless steel frame of either the dodger or the bimini. Kevin managed
this by bending the frames so they sat above the winch handle, thus
enabling full revolution.
He also took care of asthetics, ensuring the dodger and bimini were
proportionate to the yacht’s overall dimensions. Because this enclosure
was designed for the harsh offshore environment when sailing, both
the dodger and bimini were built to lock together with side and rear
screens finishing the enclosure. In addition to the strength provided
by the side and rear panels, this created a ‘dry’ cockpit by sailing
standards.
A special stack pack/boom bag - designed for harsh off-shore
conditions - was also built and attached to existing lazy jacks. This
feature was appreciated by the customer who later encountered 35
knot winds sailing up the coast.
Also provided was a sun awning that sits over the boom and is
secured to the life lines. Made from the same canvas as the rest of the
boat, this tied the whole job together nicely.
SEPTEMBER • OCTOBER 2012 · 17
Car port Using Monotec 370 supplied by Ricky Richards,
Port Douglas Sailmakers undertook a job for
Westco Motors in Cairns which requested
the design and construction of a multi shade sail
structure to cover a large car yard situated on a
major highway.
The main objective was to provide shading and
protection for cars and their drivers.
The design brief incorporated a visually
appealing structure, colours in keeping with the
corporate image, limited centre posts, sufficient
shade and a high wind rating.
Several designs were considered by the
client, and a ten sail multi height solution
was selected to meet all needs. The team from
Port Douglas Sailmakers positioned the posts
on the site without compromising the onsite
operations and took care to avoid all existing
underground services.
As the centre posts were over ten metres tall the
client required a quick release system that enabled
the sails to be easily removed from ground level
without ladders. To meet that requirement a wire
cable and block quick release system was designed,
using a separate and removable block and tackle
system for tensioning.
Sea views Ben Heap of Sail City was involved in a project creating shade covers
on the westerly side of a group of homes at WA’s scenic Mindarie
Cove Marina. For this he used Comshade which was supplied by
Nolan.UDA
The shimmering Indian Ocean and the homes’ location at water level
combine to make alfresco life a challenge to enjoy … but Sail City set
out to further enhance the setting.
The task of providing shade over a number of neighbouring
properties involved a bit of ‘give and take’ from each owner. Heights
and locations of posts and attaching points of the sails were finally
agreed and a sail colour scheme was approved.
The unusual task of mounting posts to timber piles and in sea beds
was formalised with the engineer presenting drawings that were
Council approved.
Ben – who has a Teaching Certificate in Sports Physio – managed all
processes including sales, design and installation. The result is effective
shading that reduces heat build-up throughout the brick surrounds.
Did you know? The word ‘nautical’ derives from the Greek word for sailor: nautes. ‘Astronaut’ stems from star (astro) and sailor (nautes).
In shipping references the term ‘clipper’ most likely derives from the verb ‘clip’ which formerly meant to run or fly swiftly.The boom years of Clipper ships commenced in 1843 due to the growing demand in the western world for tea from China, and continued following the discovery of gold in California and Australia in 1848 and 1851.(Source: Wiki.)
Mining car parkWith an itinerant population of around 1500,
Moranbah in North Queensland is testament to
Australia’s mining boom.
Contending with hot sunny weather, Moranbah
Mine Site car park required an economical
shading solution to protect workers’ vehicles.
The project involved design, engineering, supply,
fabrication and install of the structures and
footings to a remote mine-site.
Fabricator Fabritecture used PolyFab
Architect 400 black for the job.
The design is a large scale hypar system
supported by columns and cables. The 7107.72
m2 project had a structural steel frame with a
HDG finish. HDPE fabric was selected due to its
UV, sunshine and hail protection, and is one of the
most economical ways to cover a carpark.
The carpark was designed to allow access for
SUVs, 4WDs and other vehicles typically found in
a mine-site carpark.
The project had an extremely tight delivery
time for installation and the remote location
of the site affected transportation of materials.
Wet weather hampered progress. Despite this,
the Fabritecture team managed to deliver on
time while meeting stringent Safety and Quality
Assurance requirements.
STRUCTURESSUPERB
Utility Rope Buttons - Utility Rope hooks - Vacationer - Velcro - Venetian Blind Cord - Versatex - Vistarange - Vistascreen90 - Vistashade Vistaweave Plus - Vistaweave220 Stripes - Vue - Vuplex - Pre primed Artist Canvas - Pre-mium Easislip Clear - Press clip Fasteners - Press studs - Proofed Canvas - PU Coated - Walling & Light Weight Canvas - Window furnishing Accesories - Windshield clips - Wool Lining - Zen - Santex 460 1L - Acrylics - Addalong - Elegance - AF230 - Horse Rug Linings - Hot Air Welder - Hunter Douglas Awning Canvas - Interpell 10 300 - Keder - Kick press Chuck & Dies - Lad-delocs - Landmark -Lift the Dot Fasteners - Load Binder - Loomstate - Looplocs - Alto FR - Anchor DX12 - Annexe Canvas - Apollo 2000 (10-373) - Aquatica - Astra - Attaching presses - Awning Mesh - Aztech G2 - Baltic - Barrelocs - Bias Binding - Billabong - Bimini Kits - Bindings - Boat Canopy Ac-cesories - Bow Kits - Bradproof - Breeching Staples Breezeway - Brella Annexe - Brella HO Awning Canvas - Brellaguard - Bullduck - Camloc Buck-les - Radflex - Camperfield Annexe - Tent springs - Tent Wall Hooks - Canva-con 5000E & 7000E - Canvas - Carbine Hook - Carnaby Clear & Tinted PVC - Commercial 95 WP - Roof Rails - Commonsense Fasteners - Com-panion - Complas G2 Side Curtain - Coolabah Cords - CS12 T/S - Dees - Deluxe Glass Easislip Clear Domestic - AF350 - Roofing & General Canvas - Rope Accesories - Double Sided Felt - Durable Dot fasteners - Duracord - Ecoview Plus - Endeavour 600 - Zipping - Everview - Kordux 411 -Extra-view Plus - Eye bolts - PVC coated Fabric - PVC Strapping - Radins Decora-tor Range - Radins Tonneau - Radtrack - Rawhide - Ridge Poles - Rings/Dees - Rope Runners - Rope Splice Clips - Rope Whipping clips - Ropes - Saddler Hardware - Saddles - Safari - Fabric care products - Ferrari 502 Precontraint - Finemesh 254 - Fire retardant Clear - Fluoro Safety Mesh - Foot press Gen-eration - Greenscreen NRG - Grommets - Superscreens - Superstop 440 - Swag Canvas - Tarpaulin - Poly Fabric - Tarpaulins - canvas - Tonneau Cover loops - Hand press - Hand tool 164 - HD Awning tape - HD Internal Fabrics - Sister Clips - Slide Rails - Heat Cutting Knife - Hiraoka 104T - Hole Punches to suit eyelets - Holland & Vertical Blind Fabric - Horse Rug Canvas - Horse Rug Fittings - LW Tensile Structure Fabrics - Machine chuck & dies - Clear rope track Insert - Clearweave - Marine Acrylics - Marine Hooding & Uphol-stery - Eye nuts - Eyelets & Flat Washers - Eyelets & Spur Tooth Washers -
Top brands, quality fabrics, superior service!
Top brands, quality fabrics, superior service!
Radins is a leading Importer and Distributor of all the top international and local brands for every application:
General Canvas & PVCShade Sails
Marine & Motor TrimmingWindow Furnishings
Hardware
Radins is a leading Importer and Distributor of all the top international and local brands for every application:
General Canvas & PVCShade Sails
Marine & Motor TrimmingWindow Furnishings
Hardware
RADINS VICTORIA7 Conifer Cr, Dingley Village, 3172 VICPhone: 03 9551 6000 - Fax: 03 9551 6999Email: [email protected]
RADINS VICTORIA7 Conifer Cr, Dingley Village, 3172 VICPhone: 03 9551 6000 - Fax: 03 9551 6999Email: [email protected]
RADINS QUEENSLAND125 Delta St,
Geebung, 4034 QLDPhone: 07 3865 1666 - Fax: 07 3216 2391
Email: [email protected]
RADINS QUEENSLAND125 Delta St,
Geebung, 4034 QLDPhone: 07 3865 1666 - Fax: 07 3216 2391
Email: [email protected]
If you would like a copy of our latest catalogue, you can request via email to [email protected] or call your local Radins Warehouse.You can also view our catalogue on our website www.radins.com.au
If you would like a copy of our latest catalogue, you can request via email to [email protected] or call your local Radins Warehouse.You can also view our catalogue on our website www.radins.com.au
Top brands include Radflex, WCT, Bradmill, Synthesis, Vistarange, Vue, Dickson and Sunbrella. Suppliers of Rolls & Cut lengths plus a range of Hardware & Accesories for every installation
For all your fabric and Hardware needs, call Radins for friendly and expert advice.
Top brands include Radflex, WCT, Bradmill, Synthesis, Vistarange, Vue, Dickson and Sunbrella. Suppliers of Rolls & Cut lengths plus a range of Hardware & Accesories for every installation
For all your fabric and Hardware needs, call Radins for friendly and expert advice.
NEW PRODUCT CATALOGUE 2012NEW PRODUCT CATALOGUE 2012
RadinsConnections _AdvertSept2012.pdf 1 8/17/2012 9:46:53 AM
20 · CONNECTIONS
Marina mirageHorizon Sail Structures undertook a job for Marina Mirage Centre
Management at Main Beach in Queensland using Ferrari 8025 supplied
by Innova International
For many years the polycarbonate atrium on the south side of the
Marina Mirage centre had issues with leaks during inclement weather.
After several site inspections Horizon provided various solutions for
consideration and the most cost effective design entailed a structure
over the atrium that extended into the existing guttering system to allow
the atrium to be 100% waterproof.
The design team recommended the fabrication of a sail that fitted
directly over the structure. Custom fabricated connections were
installed onto the existing perimeter beam to allow for tensioning of the
sail by a wire and draw bolt method. Special shackles were fabricated
to allow a flush finish so that the membrane was not damaged.
During material fabrication re-enforcing seams were installed
where the sail sat directly onto the existing structure. All panels were
designed to be directly in line with the existing structures frame work. A
perimeter flashing was welded in place during fabrication to allow the
water to runoff into the existing guttering system; a pocket and edge
beam was used to create tension on this added item.
STRUCTURESSUPERB
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 fi rst 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 fl y 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 confi gured 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.
22 · CONNECTIONS
Tennor’s Tonneau – top thisThe concept of a buttonless tonneau system
stemmed from the realisation that many
customers wanted a tonneau cover but did not
want traditional fittings on the side of their ute,
due to signwriting, rails, bunji lugs wearing
out, or the look of black plastic buttons.
Led by Nathan Tennor, First Class
Canvas wanted to design and supply a
unique tonneau cover or ute canopy that
simply clipped down on a track. The team
designed and trialled an initial prototype,
followed by months of more design,
development and testing.
The difficulty was fashioning a cover that
was easy to clip down and unclip. The final
design was a 26mm wide aluminium track
that attaches to the ute tray and a plastic strip
sewn around the outer edge of the cover. The
team then set about sealing the corners using
a rubber strip that looks good and seals well.
First Class Canvas not only manufactured
all parts and lodged a patent application, but
also produced a manufacturing manual.
STRUCTURESSUPERB
HVG Fabrics... We’ve got you covered
Maritime
EasiSlip
VisiontexVisiontex
MaritimeExtrablock
Alphaflex
Coverflex Easislip PREMIUM
Enduroflex
1085 HALIFAX Polaroid Folder Cover.indd 1 20/03/11 12:33 PM
P: 1300 854 811 F: 1300 658 [email protected]
www.hvgfabrics.com.au
26 · CONNECTIONS
Training in NSW and Queensland is proving
quite dynamic. Currently in NSW, we have
approximately 10 students undertaking
Certificate III in Textile Fabrication. This number
is more than tripled in Queensland where
around 35 people are studiously engaged in
Certificate III in Textile Fabrication.
This semester we have planned four trips
throughout Queensland to visit students for
workplace validation and to also tap into the many
businesses that may require RPL (recognition of
prior learning) for existing employees or simply
for training of new employees.
Also being offered through Sydney Institute
is Certificate II in Blinds and Awnings. This
is a major breakthrough for the industry as
students undertaking the program will be able
to apply for a license from the Department of
Fair Trading to install products in buildings and
therefore erect shade structures legally.
The program will be delivered with the assistance
of other TAFE colleges which already have the
infrastructure to deliver this type of course.
Finally, Sydney Institute is offering Certificate
III in TCF Mechanics. This course is for sewing
machine mechanics who lack a qualification
(RPL) and/or for those employed to obtain their
qualification through training. This qualification
is being undertaken with the assistance of the
Fitting and Machining section at Ultimo TAFE.
Motor and marine trimming The fitting of airbags in vehicles has certainly
changed how motor trimmers conduct
business practices. Vehicle manufacturers now
manufacture seat covers in such a way that
repairing a cover of a seat containing an airbag
is near impossible.
The manufacturers are putting trimmers in a
position whereby they have to buy a new cover
through spare parts and simply fit it.
What is the alternative? Repairing the cover
requires the trimmer to use the correct type of
thread, the stitching must be x number per inch
and the procedure must be done with a single
stitch line, with no stops and starts.
The main emphasis is on the thread itself, it must
be a gauge that will allow the airbag to deploy if
the vehicle is involved in an accident.
Herein lies the problem – vehicle
manufacturers are not willing to provide detailed
information and specifications to the industry.
That is why trimmers need to purchase and fit
new covers.
Some trimmers are electing to repair these seat
covers using normal (20-25) gauge thread, and
a few of our students have reported that their
employers instruct them to do this.
So the question is: ‘How long will it be before
a trimmer makes the front page of the Daily
Telegraph for all the wrong reasons?’
Quantum leaps Material developments have gone through the
roof in recent years. Many of the older PVCs are
still available but the range of new materials is
extraordinary. Of note are the major developments
in PVCs and canvas materials for marine
trimmers, with better quality clear PVC.
Moulded head-linings Many trimmers were previously involved in a
reasonable amount of moulded head-linings
but this sort of work is now dropping off. That
is because newer vehicles tend to include a
fabric for head-linings that does not have a foam
backing. The result is that the fabric adheres
better to the moulded board, without dropping
around passengers’ ears.
soft topsSoft tops in motor vehicles have prompted
increased levels of electronics to make the
process of folding the top down - or up - easier for
operators.
electronicsTrimmers are under more pressure to acquire
skills to deal with the variety of electronic
equipment a modern vehicle carries, such as seat
belt pre-tensioners, airbags, seat heating units,
seat risers, memory minders and more.
Lawrence De Paoli is Head Teacher - Autobody Repair, Refinish & Trimming at TAFE NSW, Sydney [email protected]
Here Lawrence De Paoli presents an update on the state of play in textile training across the nation and provides a snapshot of today’s marine and motor trimming sector.
training developments
INDUSTRY TRAINING
SEPTEMBER • OCTOBER 2012 · 27
In our industry the questions that often arise
are “Which training?” and “What education?”
There is no simple answer to these questions.
The answer depends on what you as the
business owner or you as an employee in the
industry are trying to achieve. Do you want
to develop your business acumen? Do you
want to get recognition for your trade skills?
The training and education system is complex
and this article is intended to provide a brief
outline of the formal education system. Fields
of study for the industry can include business,
engineering, marketing, design, textiles and
logistics.
For many in the industry the starting
point has been with certificate training. As
new entrants to the industry many people
undertook an apprenticeship or traineeship
sponsored by their employer. Typically these
have been Certificate 3 in Textile Fabrication
or Motor Trimming as they are both great
ways to develop the base trade skills for
a career in the fabrication and trimming
industries. Many people have developed their
skills without formal training, however if you
see a benefit in having a Certificate you can
undertake a process to recognise these skills
(known in the trade as RPL or recognition of
prior learning).
beyond trade trainingIf you have progressed beyond the need for
trade training then there are many directions
you can take. Certificate training continues with
TAFE offering part-time courses at certificate
4, diploma and advanced diploma levels. TAFE
fees vary from state to state and between
programs and courses sometimes have
prerequisites for starting the program. You may
be eligible for credit from your work and life
experience; however you often gain the most
from undertaking the whole course.
Generally TAFE offerings end at advanced
diploma with the next level being university
undergraduate degree courses. The usual
pathway to a degree is through completing
year 12 at secondary school and this can be
an obstacle to those who left school for work
before year 12. As an adult however you do
not necessarily need a year 12 result. Studying
part-time at degree level takes a high level of
commitment as degree programs are generally
three or four years for full-time students. For
part-time study you can double this time frame.
Most degree programs are set up for full-time
study which means that for part-time study
you will need to negotiate time off from work to
attend lectures during the day.
A simpler path for people with years
of industry experience is to undertake a
university postgraduate coursework program
at graduate certificate, graduate diploma or
master level. Often these are nested so that
you can complete a grad certificate with the
subjects counting towards the grad dip and
then the master program, therefore being
an ideal pathway for developing knowledge.
These qualifications can be valuable in
marketing yourself or your business by
indicating professionalism when quoting for
private and government work.
Postgraduate study Postgraduate study is often easier to fit into
working life as the majority of people studying
at this level are also working. Class time is
mostly kept to a minimum with reading and
assignment or online work being done in your
own time. Masters programs are generally
between one and two years of study if
undertaken full-time and twice this length for
part-time. Most postgraduate programs are full
fee with no government funding however part-
time study spreads the financial pain.
If none of the formal education and training
pathways appeals to you then there are many
informal ways to develop yourself or your
employees and benefit your business. Being a
member of the Specialised Textiles Association
where knowledge and experience is shared is
one of these.
Kent Williamson is Manager International Development and Industry Engagement, School of Fashion and Textiles at Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) University. Kent is also on the Specialised Textiles Association’s Council of Management.
In this article Kent Williamson examines some of the decisions that need to be taken before embarking on the appropriate training course.
training and education
28 · CONNECTIONS
Nearly 40 industry participants in Melbourne and Perth are better versed in all things marine trimming, thanks to marine workshops staged by Serge Ferrari, Innova International and Paskal.
industry up-skills with marine textiles workshop
INDUSTRY TRAINING
A two-day marine workshop sponsored by
Serge Ferrari, Innova International and Paskal
has been met with a great response from
participants in both Victoria and Western
Australia. Created specifically for marine
trimmers, upholsterers and boat builders;
participants attended to enhance their
knowledge, exchange fabrication ideas and
enjoy networking opportunities.
“We hope that through these marine
workshops, we can provide a valuable
contribution to the industry’s future as well
as involving the next generation of marine
trimmers in working with leading marine
textiles. It has been very pleasing that
these sessions were as highly regarded
by participants as was the case last year,”
said Ian Knox, Managing Director of Innova
International.
Presented by experienced marine
trimmer Steve Szenay, Director of the Marine
Fabricators Association (MFA) and Manager
of Awnings and Marine Fabrics with Serge
Ferrari North America, the workshops covered
many aspects of marine cover trimming and
marine upholstery techniques using Stamoid®
Marine Textiles.
“Following from the success of our 2011
events in Sydney and the Gold Coast, we
decided to hold additional workshops in
Melbourne and Perth. We were very pleased
to once again have a presenter of Steve
Szenay’s calibre conduct the workshops. Steve
has had 34 years in the industry and was a
huge hit at the events, providing a wealth of
knowledge to participants,” said Knox.
Hands-on training and tips presented by Steve Szenay (on the left)
ArchitecturAl
Solar protection
marine / automotive
SPECIALITY FABRICATIon
geomembranes & linings
ph + 61 3 9551 8722 email [email protected] web innova.com.au
Innova International Pty. Ltd. Distributors in all states.
our brands, your future
30 · CONNECTIONS
INDUSTRY TRAINING
The two-day marine workshops were attended
by 18 people in Melbourne and 17 in Perth.
These events were made possible thanks to
collaboration with participating TAFE institutions.
“Two training venues were used – Kangan
Institute Automotive Centre of Excellence in
Melbourne and Polytecnic West in Perth. The
facilities and support provided by both entities
was excellent and contributed substantially to the
successful training outcomes,” Knox explained.
Workshop attendees appreciated the valuable
information gained from hands-on segments,
including networking benefits with other
specialists. One participant was Neil Hancock
from Aussie Boat Covers who has attended the
free workshops for the past two years.
“The highlight for me was being able to solve
a design issue and work through the process in
an open forum with outstanding direction from
Steve. The opportunity to present and share
ideas helped incredibly to remedy our design
problems. Special thanks must go to Innova/
Serge Ferrari for having the desire to stage
something that is so beneficial to my industry,”
said Hancock.
The topics covered during the workshops
included: perfect patterning of enclosures
and tops; designing biminis, sails and covers;
creating zippered vents; upholstering high
grade Stamskin® seating fabric; frame
setup and pre-loading; marine fittings and
tools; working with kedar tracking options;
understanding the characteristics of new
Stamoid® SK silicone aquatic cover and
making the perfect pocket. Participants were
encouraged to work on sewing machines to
test upholstery and learn trimming tricks of
the trade.
due creditPresident of Specialised Textiles Association
Lance St Hill commended Serge Ferrari
and Innova's initiative in conducting the free
workshops and their ongoing contribution to
the future of the marine industry.
“They have shown real commitment to
up-skilling marine trimmers’ and fabricators’
knowledge and skills. I would like to see
other material suppliers and distributors do
likewise, as this benefits the entire industry.
Congratulations and thank you for your
excellent initiative,” St Hill said.
credentialsLeading global textile manufacturer Serge
Ferrari of France partnered with Innova
International as its exclusive Australian
agent and distributor over 20 years ago.
Their Stamoid® marine fabrics range has
a reputation across the marine industry for
superior reliability under all conditions. The
range is known worldwide for its exceptional
service life, UV and mildew resistance,
lightweight design and easy maintenance.
For more information contact Innova:
03 9551 8722; www. [email protected]
Main image: Serge ferrari marine workshop participants (WA)
Bottom from left: Question and answer sessions with Steve Szenay; Serge ferrari marine workshop participants (Vic); Designing biminis, sails and covers.
SEPTEMBER • OCTOBER 2012 · 31
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
32 · CONNECTIONS
FABRIC STRUCTURESCOMMITTEE
“The Fabric Structures Committee is committed to keeping our industry clean, transparent and skilled.”
Once a decision is made to purchase a fabric shade structure, what else does a consumer need to know? The Fabric Structures Committee believes consumers should be directing some serious questions to prospective installers. Report by Beatrice Moonen of Abacus Shade Structures
While the flair of a salesperson combined with
a good product are powerful selling tools, so
too is a level playing field. We want to arm the
consumer with the tools so they
•knowwhattheyaregetting
•canmakecomparisonsbetweeninstallers,
and
•askthetoughquestions.
Fabric Structures and shade sails seem to be
everywhere. But in reality fabric structures are
new products which incorporate new designs
and materials previously unavailable. Shade
structures are about as old as the net. Most
consumers know little about fabric structures
other than they look great and provide weather
protection. What else is there to know, right?
Beatrice Moonen from the Fabric Structures
Committee says unfortunately this can’t be
further from the truth.
For example few people realise that council
approval is often required, or know that a sail
is often curved which can limit the amount of
shade provided. Unfortunately this can open
the door to operators who are prepared to cut
corners in order to take advantage of people’s
lack of knowledge. It can happen in any
industry … just take a look at TV current affairs
programs to see unscrupulous people in every
walk of life.
The Fabric Structures Committee is
committed to keeping our industry clean,
transparent and skilled. With so many existing
fabricators and STA fabricator members
upholding very high standards and acquiring
new skills and experience continuously why
shouldn’t they be encouraged and supported.
To this end the committee is designing a
checklist which helps consumers to ask the
right questions and compare fabric structure
installers.
A properly installed fabric structure is an
investment in lifestyle. We want to ensure that
consumers, both domestic and commercial,
who spend a lot of money purchasing 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.
Arming consumers with the right questions
is the critical first step. In this way a consumer
can employ the contractor who can operate
and complete work according to standards,
regulations and best industry practise to
deliver a shade product that will not just meet
but also exceed expectations.
So far so good. Sounds simple.
So what should a consumer be asking when
buying a fabric structure?
Areas covered in the consumer checklist
deal with the contractor, the contract and the
product. Some of the questions we typically
want a consumer to ask include:
•Is the contractor licensed to operate in their
state?
•Is a council permit or DA (development
application) needed?
•Can the contractor offer references and a
track record of work completed?
•Does the contractor offer a contract which
identifies the price, GST amount, terms and
conditions?
•What warranties are offered?
•What insurance does the contractor have?
•What design is appropriate to give the best
shade?
•Is engineering offered?
•What workplace safety measures are
practiced?
• What fabric, steelwork and fittings are
quoted? (Apples should be compared to
apples.)
• What after-sales service is available?
By posing similar questions to all prospective
contractors, consumers can decide who has
best met their selection criteria and who
should then be awarded their work. Their
decision is made from a position of knowledge.
The Fabric Structures Committee is working
on a grand plan to develop an online resource.
base containing useful and independent
information and links for consumers and STA
members. It is a positive step in promoting and
strengthening the industry.
Also, the STA website is being progressively
upgraded this year.
Members wishing to contact with the Fabric
Structures Committee are welcome to email:
a question of choice
SEPTEMBER • OCTOBER 2012 · 33
shadeQueensland’s shade structure market is not
as healthy as everyone would like. This comes
off the back of spending cuts by the new
government and some unforeseen cuts to
expenditure, particularly on the Gold Coast
where all City Council capital expenditure
has been halted for two years. Repair and
maintenance work only is available, and as
this predominantly occurs through the storm
season there is currently a lull in council work.
Market struggles have caused many
companies on the Gold Coast to close and this
has affected all market segments including
wholesalers, fabricators and installers.
EOFY didn’t provide the usual stimulus we
have come to expect; probably due to the
change of government and an unsteady market.
Northern Queensland appears to be quieter
than last year due to unseasonably cooler
temperatures and higher rainfall. Most of
the projects prompted by severe weather
events of the past two seasons have also been
completed however the market should pick
up soon with warm weather and sunny days.
Already sales of shade cloth are on the up.
agriculture/linersThe grain season soon kicks off, and large
liner companies are gearing up in anticipation
of bumper harvests. Importantly, there has
been enough rain for crops to take root.
awnings/blindsFollowing the Australia-wide trend this area
of the market is quiet. Recent cooler weather
in southern Queensland and rain in the
north, compounded by an unsteady financial
climate, have affected the entire supply chain.
Other than the mining and agricultural
sectors, most areas appear slower than usual.
The unstable market is forcing commercial and
domestic clients to closely watch expenditure,
but hopes are pinned on a busy season ahead
to balance out the recent slower periods.
Total construction starts in Australia are down
1% on this time last year, and Queensland is
down 3%. This is being propped up by civil
and industrial works; with few residential,
commercial, education and community
projects being generated.
Queensland’s unseasonably cool weather has
caused a decline in the domestic market for
outdoor products, particularly in Brisbane and
the Gold Coast, however the commercial market
is reasonably buoyant. The long hot summer
that is forecast will be warmly welcomed by the
shade industry with outdoor products becoming
more of a ‘need’ rather than a ‘want’.
And with the last two summers being some of
the wettest on record, our industry deserves a
bit of good luck!
Queensland report
COMREPORTS
Report by Jamie Howard, Council of Management
34 · CONNECTIONS
SPECIAL TECHNCALFEATURE
At the 2012 STA Expo Chris Nolan of Nolan.UDA enthralled participants with his address on tension structures. For the benefit of Connections readers he has reproduced the essential elements of the address.
design and fabrication of tension structures – the simple engineering link
For most fabricators, the engineering design of tension structures is
a bit of a mystery. Almost by magic, the computer seems to generate
the planar forms that are the basis of fabrication, including the
allowances for compensation. However, the basic assumptions of elastic
response that are inbuilt into the computer models that designers
use to shape and stress membranes are not difficult to understand.
Further, the magician’s secret is that these assumptions are very much
approximations of actual material behaviour.
In designing tensile structures, engineers consider two separate
loading cases – first, the application of “pre-stress”, which
determines the shape of the structure; and second the response of
the membrane to “live loads”, such as wind or snow, which are an
order of magnitude greater.
“Compensation” is the estimated deflection or stretch of the membrane
under the application of pre-stress. The amount of compensation is
estimated from elastic theory, and allowed for in the patterning.
Most contemporary tension structures have as their basis anticlastic
surface geometry, which is the result of concave curvature in one
direction, balanced by convex curvature in the other, as illustrated in
Figure One.
Figure One – Anticlastic Surface Geometry
There are four generic types of anticlastic surface in common use –
the “cone”, the “saddle”, the “hypar”, and the “ridge and valley”. These
surface shapes are the natural response of a membrane to “pre-stress”
resulting from loading applied at the support boundaries.
The general elastic relationship between stress (force) and strain
(deformation) is governed by Hooke’s law, which states that the
relationship is linear, until the elastic limit is reached. In other words, the
material behaves like a spring or an elastic band under loading.
Imagine that a tension membrane behaves like a thin, very wide
elastic sheet, complicated by having different stretch properties in each
direction, being pulled in two directions at the same time. Stretch in one
direction causes contraction in the other, so the observed deformation
is net fourth order effect of the interaction of stress and strain in the two
directions. Hence, there are four constants, termed Elastic Moduli, or
stiffness, to be derived when applying Hooke’s law in this context.
Figure two illustrates the case where the stretch in the y direction, and
consequently the contraction in the x direction, is so pronounced that
even after an extending load is applied in the x direction, the net effect
is still contraction. This is typical of what can happen in practice with
PVC coated polyester fabrics.
ConvexCurve
ConcaveCurve
“So how does one calculate the Elastic Parameters for an actual fabric, if its behaviour is so inelastic? Good question! And the answer is …”
The equations above are the application of Hooke’s linear relationship
where:
σxx and σyy are the stresses; ϵxx and ϵyy are the strains; and
Ex and Ey are the Elastic Moduli in the x and y directions
respectively
Exy is the stiffness interaction between the x direction and the y
direction; and
Eyx is the stiffness interaction between the y direction and the x
direction.
Just to be difficult, engineers introduce another variable termed the
‘Poisson’s Ratio’. This is the ratio, when an object is stretched, of the
contraction or transverse strain (perpendicular to the applied load), to
the extension or axial strain (in the direction of the applied load).
By solving the first equation for the situation where σx = 0, the
Poissons ratio γxy can be derived:
γxy= -ϵy ⁄ ϵx = Exy / Ex
And similarly γyx can be found for σx = 0:
γyx= -ϵy ⁄ ϵx = Eyx / Ey
These are the basic parameters fed into a finite element computer
model. In the using the model, the tension structure is first mapped
into a grid. The behaviour of each grid point is the result of force
equilibrium and spatial continuity (i.e. the relative deflection) between
it and its neighbours. The relationship between force and deflection at
each node point is governed by Hooke’s equations, which assumes a
linear elastic relationship in each direction. Because there are a large
number of grid points, there are many simultaneous equations to solve,
made possible by the power of computers.
But, in the real world, an architectural fabric only approximates
Hooke’s relationship, and its actual behaviour under loading is
Figure Two – Elastic deformation of a membrane and the theoretical expression of Hooke’s law in two dimensions
a function of its construction. The most commonly used fabric in
membrane structures is PVC coated polyester, that is, a woven polyester
substrate or scrim, coated with layers of PVC, and finished with a thin
lacquer.
The scrim provides tensile strength and resistance to tearing. The
vinyl coating provides water proofing, and protects the polyester from
ultraviolet light, which causes loss of tensile strength. The plasticisers
that make the PVC flexible are also subject to UV degradation, and
sacrificial inhibitors are added to the PVC to prolong life. Further vital
UV protection is provided by the thin surface lacquer, which is usually
a thin (20 micron) application of liquid acrylic or PVDF (Polyvinylidene
Fluoride) or a blend of both.
Woven scrims are constructed with yarns that are interlaced at right
angles, those running in the lengthwise direction called “warp” and
the crosswise direction “weft” or “fill”. Because of the need to support
the molten PVC as it is applied, the scrim of coated fabrics is almost
always a dense plain weave, but can have differences in the layout of the
yarn matrix, such as a ‘Panama Weave’, which is a two by two overlap
of yarns designed to enhance strength properties. Although the scrim
provides the tensile strength to resist applied loads, the PVC does
contribute at low loads, and influences the response to ‘pre-stress’.
Most fabricators would be familiar with tensile or break strength tests.
These are one-dimensional or uniaxial tests, where a narrow strip of
material 50mm wide and about 600mm long is stretched till failure. The
breaking load and elongation at break are recorded.
Figure Three – Uniaxial Test for a Type One (approx. 700 gsm) coated PVC
36 · CONNECTIONS
A result of such a test is plotted on figure three, and clearly shows that
the stress / strain response only approximates linearity, and therefore is
not really elastic. Because of this, the Elastic Modulus, which is the slope
of the line, varies depending on the loading range. For example, for this
fabric, at pre-stress loads, which are about two percent of the ultimate
load, the Elastic Modulus is twice the value (i.e. twice as stiff) as that
for ‘live loads’ which are never allowed to exceed twenty percent of the
ultimate.
The response is also different in the warp and weft directions. This
difference in behaviour is caused by the different initial tension in the
warp and weft yarns. For a simple plain weave, the warp yarns are
held tightly stretched in the loom and the weft yarns inserted over and
under every alternate one. When loaded, the (approximately) straight
warp yarns simply stretch under load, whereas the looped weft yarns
also flatten before stretching, exacerbating their net yield.
Biaxial tests are designed to replicate the behaviour of the fabric
under conditions where the fabric is stressed in both directions at
the same time, which is what occurs in practice. Figure four illustrates
the behaviour of a Type One (700 gsm) fabric stressed under cyclic
loading in the ratio 1:1, up to a load approximately one twelfth of its
SPECIAL TECHNCALFEATURE
ultimate break strength (also with additional cyclic loading interposed
in the mid-range of the first cycle).
As with our theoretical elastic continuum, the elongation in one
direction causes contraction in the other, with the effect that net
elongation in each direction is substantially less than the unrestrained
uniaxial case.
The results show that the elongation response to applied loading
is profoundly different in each direction; is non-linear; and exhibits
pronounced hysteresis during, and permanent plastic deformation
(‘stretch-set’) after each cycle. The response starts to approximate
linearity and exhibits less hysteresis, and greater stiffness after a
couple of cycles, particularly in the weft direction. So much for the
assumption of a linear elastic response!
So how does one calculate the Elastic Parameters for an actual
fabric, if its behaviour is so inelastic? Good question! And the answer
is that the parameters are calculated from a ‘conditioned’ sample, that
is, after cyclic loading has been applied, and when the stress / strain
behaviour starts to mimic linearity.
The key issue is that the fabric is never ‘conditioned’ (at least not
to the level expected under peak working load) prior to installation.
Figure Four – Cyclic Biaxial loading of a Type One Fabric, with the theoretical Hooke’s response superimposed
– 0.50 0.00 0.50 1.00 1.50 2.00 2.50
7.00
6.00
5.00
4.00
3.00
2.00
1.00
Percent Strain
Stre
ss k
N/m
Warp Actual
Weft Actual
Warp Theory
Weft Theory
SEPTEMBER • OCTOBER 2012 · 37
“The fabric response is different for differing load ratios, and different values of the Elastic Moduli are derived under these conditions.”
Hence, the engineering designer must undertake a sensitivity analysis
that incorporates values of the Elastic Modulus in the weft direction
up to 25% less than those calculated; and recognize that permanent
deformation after several loading and unloading cycles of up to 2.5% in
the weft should be allowed for as ‘creep’.
Further, the fabric response is different for differing load ratios,
and different values of the Elastic Moduli are derived under these
conditions. This result is due to the non linear strain response, and
consequently variations in stiffness at different levels of applied loads.
Despite the ostensibly good fit between theory and actual, the
designer must be aware of error (in its scientific sense) both in testing
and interpolation of the graphs for the determination of the Elastic
Moduli and Poisson Ratios. It should be noted that the estimates of the
latter, particularly between weft and warp can vary by as much as 50%,
depending on which loading cycle is adopted for analysis.
It is possible to change the construction of the scrim of lighter weight
fabrics to make the behavior of the fabric more isotropic. Figure Five
plots the results for Type One Fabric with a Weft Insertion scrim, which
is a type of weave where the weft yarns are simply laid across the
warp, and knitted together with a third lighter tie yarn. Compared to a
standard weave, the net effect has been to markedly stiffen the weft, at
the expense of a de-stiffening of the warp. However, the behaviour over
the loading range shown is very similar in each direction.
A similar effect can be obtained by mechanical constraint of the weft
during coating, but there are limits to the loading able to be applied
in this context, and the process does induce additional stiffness in the
warp. In both cases, the effect is much more pronounced at lower levels
of loading, and dissipates as the load progressively increases.
To date, engineers have lived with the anisotropy associated with
these fabrics, given that finite element models can cope with this
vagary relatively easily, and that it is more important to make sufficient
allowance in the fittings and connections for any adjustment that may
prove necessary in practice.
www.NolanUDA.com.au
Figure Five – A Type One Fabric with a weft insertion scrim. Note the difference in stress/strain response compared to a standard scrim (shown in figure four)
38 · CONNECTIONS
SPECIAL TECHNCALFEATURE
Vinyl films help vehicles—trucks, boats, planes, trains and automobiles—meet at the “finish” line, and the consumer market is on the inside track. By Janice Kleinschmidt.
the wrap race: Vinyl films on the transportation fast track
A connoisseur of Armani and custom shirts, Greg Purdy may seem like
a fish out of water driving a pinkish-purple Scion with bright yellow
letters on the front fender exclaiming “Wow!”
But the media relations manager is just doing his job: promoting The
Fabulous Palm Springs Follies wherever he goes. The Follies’ three
company vehicles—all wrapped in graphics with quotes from NBC’s
Today show (the “Wow!”) and People magazine—log 50,000 to 60,000
miles a year in California, Nevada and Arizona.
Intrigued by the flashy design, valets have asked about the stage
show and then asked for brochures to hand out, Purdy says.
Moving targetsAccording to the Outdoor Advertising Association of America,
marketing media targeting vehicle drivers and passengers reach more
than 95 percent of Americans, and one vehicle wrap can generate
between 30,000 to 70,000 impressions daily.
“I’m in a city of 250,000. They say in our market a $4,000 vehicle
wrap is equal to $85,000 in television ads,” says Jed McDonough, owner
of Image Monster, a large-format print shop in Wilmington in North
Carolina that has been wrapping vehicles since 2001. “Clients call and
say, ‘This is the most amazing marketing I have ever done.’”
After successfully wrapping mobile cranes for Crainco Inc., the com-pany gave GatorWraps free rein to design a wrap for one of their race cars on their drag racing team. Photo: GatorWraps.
SEPTEMBER • OCTOBER 2012 · 39
“Historically, large brand owners—Coca-Cola, UPS—understood the
value of using their vehicles as media assets,” says Tim Boxeth, business
development manager of 3M, St. Paul in Minnesota, which makes wrap
films, adhesives and laminates. “Over the last six years, the small- to
medium-business owner—the electrician, the plumber—has come to
understand the value of their van, or five vans, as a media asset.”
Rod Voegele, president of GatorWraps in Ontario, California, can
attest to that value firsthand. His own wrapped Cadillac Escalade had
been spotted more than once in Newport Beach, where he lives, by
fellow resident Chris Welsh.
“He said, ‘I saw your car driving around and took the number down,
because we are considering wrapping our sub.’ He never mentioned
initially what it was. He said, ‘Here’s what you need to know, and here’s
what I need to know from you.’”
The man turned out to be co-founder (with Richard Branson) of Virgin
Oceanic, and the project was their deep-sea explorer sub and its docking
station, a 125-foot catamaran. “When the catamaran and sub were unveiled
[in April 2011], there was media from around the world,” Voegele says.
Wayne Boydstun, COO of Fusion Imaging Inc. in Kaysville, Utah, was
among the earliest vehicle wrappers in 1995 (Fusion Imaging was a
beta site for wrap material suppliers). He has wrapped planes, trains
and automobiles—and boats.
“It used to be Fox and Nike," he says, referring to his early clients
and the once-high cost of wraps. "Now landscapers and other small
companies have been able to get into this.”
lasting (but flexible) impressionsA car wrap, particularly on horizontal surfaces, may not last as long in
the deserts of the Southwest as it would in the Blue Ridge Mountains
of Pennsylvania. Warranties vary (even for different surfaces), but film
manufacturers and installers mention a general five-year life span for
vehicle wraps. In the harsh Palm Springs sun, the Follies’ wraps last only
two years, but the show’s producers find the return on investment worth
it: they’ve rewrapped their cars three times.
“I have in the local market 500 to 600 trucks that have been out there
seven-plus years,” Boydstun says.
The longevity of boat wraps, which require a sealer to prevent water
from seeping under the graphics, also depends on environmental
factors (including how often a craft bumps into docks), but Boxeth says
they generally last two to four years.
Of course, even paint fades and chips, and it’s easier to change the
color or design of a car or boat with a wrap than with paint. In fact,
wraps beat paint for that very reason: they are less permanent.
Look at the racing industry, which has been wrapping cars for the
past five years.
As Sal Sigala Jr. notes on Nascarnation.us, race teams previously
experimented with colors to get the right shades for sponsor logos
and then had to go through a tortuous approval process involving
company representatives, lawyers and NASCAR officials. Wraps
have not only sped up that process, but also give race teams the
advantages of a lighter car (paint is heavier) and the flexibility to add
and remove sponsorship logos.
Technology in adhesives allows repositioning of graphics during
installation, something you can’t do with paint. Another benefit of
wraps, which come off cleanly, is that they protect the original finish.
riding a trendVoegele started GatorWraps in 2007 and has since wrapped
motorcycles, cars (including racing cars), trucks (including food
trucks) and vans, trailers (including concession stands), ORVs and
RVs, big rigs, buses and boats.
“We do anything from personalisation of off-road toys and cars
and one-owner shops up to national fleets,” says Voegele, noting his
largest project encompassed 62 box trucks, which he rewrapped
when the client ended a sponsorship. Though he’s still serving the
commercial market with moving advertising and brand awareness,
he notes “a huge uptick” in the personalisation market in the last six
to eight months.
Below: Eyecatching graphics on vehicles help businesses advertise themselves wherever they go. Photo: 3M.
40 · CONNECTIONS
“Our suppliers are coming out with pigmented
vinyl in basic colors and metallic,” he says. “The new
market is people who don’t want colorful graphics;
they want a solid color.”
Doug Blackwell, 3M business development
manager, says matte black base films with cut letters
or logos on a reflective film for contrast, and films
with the look of carbon fiber and brushed steel, are
catching attention not only in the commercial market
but also in the consumer market.
“The newest products in the vehicle wrap world
are preprinted textures like carbon fiber and ostrich
skin and alligator skin that feel and look real,”
says McDonough, reporting on what he saw at the
International Sign Expo in Orlando in March. “The
companies that produce the products we print on are
producing more and more, and their technologies are
getting better and better.”
“Over the last couple of years, 3M has improved a
lot on lifting in deep curves. 3M put new technology
in films that really helped with conformability and
more textures and colors,” Boxeth says. Blackwell
adds that advances also have been made in inks that
stretch into deep channels.
“Perhaps the newest and most exciting new
products being developed for the wrap industry are
the color-change or paint-replacement films,” says
Ritchie Daize, international digital sales manager
for Arlon Graphics, a film manufacturer in Santa
Ana, California. “This trend began two years ago
in Europe and the Middle East when exotic car
owners began styling their cars by fully wrapping
them to change their color. Rapidly, vehicle wrap
vinyl suppliers began developing films that can
perform well under the harsh demands of full paint-
replacement car wraps. This is perhaps the fastest-
growing segment in the global vehicle wrap market.”
Todd Hain, marketing communications manager
for Avery Dennison Corp., a film manufacturer
headquartered in Pasadena, California, says the
number of shops around the country that offer
wraps has grown exponentially. “I think part of the
growth, at least in the last year or so and going
forward, is changing the color and accents on
your car as much as doing business wraps
advertising something.” Avery Dennison’s Supreme
Wrapping Film for paint replacement comes in 33
colors and finishes.
“The market for vehicle wraps, while it has been
around 20 to 30 years, has shown good growth,” says
Boxeth, noting that every year for the past six (with
the exception of 2009, in the midst of the recession),
the wrap market has seen double-digit growth.
“We’re probably still in the early stages of growth,”
he says. “There’s still a lot of opportunity for graphics
manufacturers to ride this trend.”
This article is reproduced from the June 2012 issue
of Specialty Fabrics Review with kind permission from
IFAI.
SPECIAL TECHNCALFEATURE
“Perhaps the newest and most
exciting new products being
developed for the wrap
industry are the color-change
or paint-replacement
films ”
Skyspan Shade
15 Christensen Road
Stapleton Qld 4207
Contact: Charlie Sullivan or
Wayne Downie
Ph: 07 3804 6288
www.skyspanshade.com.au
Esperance Trim & Canvas
85A Norseman Rd
Esperance WA 6450
Contact: Tom Blakely
Ph: 08 9071 7733 or 0429 935 199
Bryson Canvas Products
7 Panton Rd
Mandurah WA 6210
Contact: Steve Bryson
Ph: 08 9581 7760 or 0409 979 906
www.brysoncanvas.com
Undercover Blinds & Awnings
Factory 2, 61 Frankston Gardens Drive
Carrum Downs Vic 3201
Contact: Chris Reynolds
Ph: 03 9775 1726 or 0438 595 933
www.undercoverblinds.com
All Seasons Synthetic Solutions
3/3 Indy Court
Carrara Queensland 4211
Contact: Justin Murray
Ph: 1300 002 777 or 0419 700 017
www.asss.com.au
Paskal
9A Lakewood Boulevard
Braeside Vic 3195
Contact: Dave Clota
Ph: 03 9588 8800 or Tony 0413 966 812
www.paskal.com.au
Fabtech
53 South Terrace
Wingfield SA 5013
Contact: Shelley Smith
Ph: 1300 664 776
www.fabtech.com.au
NEW MEMBERS
The Specialised Textiles Association would like to welcome several new members to the association. We hope to meet and greet all these and other new members at Super Expo 2013.
42 · CONNECTIONS
MeMber neWs
in the 2012 Specialised Textiles Association Awards for Excellence for
its walkway and pedestrian structures at Brisbane’s Domestic Terminal.
commendations a plentyThe company took out a second Special Commendation in that same
category - Tension Structures, coated fabrics greater than 500sqm - for
the Cabramatta Bowling Club. And in the Awards’ smaller category of
less than 500sqm, MakMax was recognised for the fabric and timber
structure now seen at South Hedland Town Centre.
Lester – who earlier this year succeeded Bernie Neylan as Managing
Director – said the three projects demonstrate the dynamic applications
of tensile membrane designs and showcase MakMax’s diverse
capabilities.
happy returnsAfter a four year stint with US counterpart Birdair where he served as
Principal Engineer, “engineer extraordinaire” Michael Lester returned
to MakMax Australia.
Beginning in 1981 in a small engineering office in Brisbane, Michael’s
career in tensile membrane spans more than three decades in which
time he has helped create “some of the world’s most striking feats
of engineering” using tensile membrane. Previous roles at MakMax
Australia included Director of Engineering, Senior Manager and
Company Director.
www.makmax.com.au
MakMax is no stranger to airports the world over. The company has
installed membrane structures - roofing, facade, and interior solutions
- at Sydney Domestic Airport, Mumbai International Airport and Delhi
International Airport to name a few ... the actual tally comes in at 10.
A newcomer to that list is Australia’s leading regional airport at Cairns,
which processes around 300,000 passengers each month. In early
winter this year MakMax commenced construction at the domestic car
park to provide full shade and weather protection to walkway areas and
141 car park spaces.
The new Architectural Car Park enables airport visitors to travel on
foot direct from the terminal to cars without having to squint in the sun
or don a brolly, as the area is fully shaded from sun and rain - both of
which are in abundance in the monsoon-prone tropical north.
As MakMax Australia Managing Director Michael Lester said, the high
levels of UV radiation combined with cyclonic winds and torrential storms
make shade and safety a top priority, and the company had input on
design based on experience using fabric in cyclone prone areas.
All up the 4000 square meters of PVC fabric, Mehler FR900 supplied
by Mehler direct, is supported by more than 90 tonnes of structural
steel providing strength and support in accordance with the region’s
required wind rating, with support posts serving a dual function by
being fitted with lights.
“This project is not unique in its engineering, the ability for a
fabric structure to withstand cyclonic winds is naturally a standard
requirement for everything we install in this region,” Lester said.
MakMax is justifiably proud of the company’s Special Commendation
MakMax shelters travellers
Main image: Cairns airport car park receives a stylish and practical makeover
Inset: MakMax Managing Director Michael Lester is proud of the company’s tensile membrane designs and diverse capabilities.
SEPTEMBER • OCTOBER 2012 · 43
Miami stainlessThe 2012 London Olympics have come and gone ... and before that
there was the hype surrounding the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. Cleverly
capitalising on the majestic milestone was Miami Stainless, whose witty
repartee linking a product to the right royal event caught our eye.
In case you missed it, following is an abbreviated version:
“With Her Majesty the Queen’s tick of approval on its side, the Peek Polish range is royalty when it comes to stainless steel polishes, trusted by industry professionals & DIY users throughout the Commonwealth.
The Peek Polish range is a highly concentrated unique formula which removes tarnish, heat discolouration & oxidation from all metal surfaces including stainless steel, silver, brass, copper, bronze, aluminium, pewter, magnesium, platinum and Mr T's favorite GOLD.
… So rock out with Sir Elton, grab a pint with William & Harry and celebrate the Queens 75th Diamond Jubilee by polishing your finest silverware with Peek”
Thumbs up to Miami Stainless for blending humour with product
promotion in a topical setting! It puts a shine, dare we say, on
advertising.
oops …In the last issue of Connections
(July/August 2012) we ran a
news item on The Carr Group
on page 8.
Trouble is, we ran the wrong
image caption by listing the
incorrect company.
Our apologies to Lee Stebbing
and the rest of crew at The Carr
Group, the company that among
other things specialises in eyelet
machines, fabric slitters, sign and
banner media and medical
coated fabrics.
44 · CONNECTIONS
SPOTLIGHT ONMEMBERS
Shann & Mehler – structure fabrics to create the futurethe pastFrom the humble ‘conic’ tent to the
amphitheatre structures from ancient Roman
times, tensile architecture is one of the world’s
oldest known methods for providing protection
and shelter.
Leading the way in the manufacture of
structure materials, Mehler Texnologies have
been a pioneer in the area of coating PVC-
polyester membranes for over 60 years. As
one of the first to improve the special PVDF
lacquering techniques, now synonymous with
long term cleanability and added long term
UV protection, the superior material from
Mehler is manufactured on state-of-the-art
weaving and coating machines under strict
quality monitoring in Germany.
The Mehler range of structural membranes
incorporate a primer layer between the top
coat lacquer and the PVC coating, creating a
five component fabric structure. The benefit
of this specialised structure is a product that is
stable, fully weldable and easy to fabricate.
Arguably the oldest fabric structure in the
world, the Grand Stand Open Air Theatre in
Elspe, Germany was one of the most advanced
and spectacular tensile structures when it was
realised in 1978.
Still standing with its original Mehler
fabric skin and with no known request for
replacement, the structure at Elspe continues
to endure harsh climactic conditions
associated with the region, including high wind
and snow loads, as it has for over 30 years.
the presentAustralia has one of the harshest climates in the
world for structure fabrics. Mehler structure
fabrics have been performing successfully
in these adverse conditions for more than 35
years, with installations fulfilling and exceeding
parameters in climates ranging from Tasmania
to Townsville.
The key to this success is the highly
engineered VALMEX product range
comprising fabrics from Type I to Type IV in
variety as well as speciality fabrics for more
specific applications.
Most recently, Mehler structure fabrics were
specified in one of the harshest of Australian
climates – Darwin in the Top End.
The Skycity Darwin Casino project was a
$40 million beach resort extension that added
32 lagoon villas and a new three million
litre lagoon. The brief required manufacture
and installation of two waterproof tension
membrane structures over the swim up
bar and the al fresco dining area. Aerosail
Engineered Fabric Structures was the
specialist firm awarded the project, designing
and manufacturing these structures as well as
seven cyclone rated umbrellas for the lagoon
pool beach.
As James Taylor, Director - Design and
Projects of Aerosail explains, “Opulence,
durability and low maintenance were key
features of the development. When it came to
membrane material selection, Mehler PVDF
coated fabric was the obvious choice because
of their history of reliability in Australia.”
Mehler fabric is also well recognised for
its performance and structural integrity
internationally and was the perfect choice
when a project expansion at London’s famous
O2 arena called for a walk way over the
massive stadia.
The O2 Roofwalk posed more than a few
challenges for the planners and designers.
Unlike the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge
Climb, the top of the O2 Dome could not be
directly walked upon.
The vision entailed a walkway to lead
visitors from one side of the dome up to an
observation platform 60 metres high and
down to the other side of the arena. The
solution – a separate walkway, created from a
tensioned membrane construction that would
emulate walking on the fabric roof of the
Dome, forming visual and architectural unity
with the O2.
Particular attention was paid to the surface
detail. It had to be rigorous enough to prevent
slipping and sliding while durable enough to
resist constant abrasion from climbers.
Completed in May 2012 in time for the
London Olympic Games, the O2 Roofwalk
was manufactured using the newly developed
TF400 mesh fabric from Mehler. Made up
of 75 sections, comprising 1175 square
metres and stretching 350 metres across the
O2 Dome, the material possesses excellent
weather resistance and an extremely high load
capacity.
Managing and representing this world class
structural membrane range in Australia is
leading wholesale and distribution company,
Shann Australia. Shann has created a wealth of
expertise supporting the fabric in this region.
the futureModern fabric materials in modern
architecture can shape space, creating mood
and ambience to reflect architectural intent
and the dynamic shape and form of Mehler
membranes allow new possibilities to become
a reality. The equilibrium between aesthetics
and functionality.
To discover more about Shann, Mehler
structure fabrics, any of the projects mentioned
in this article or the myriad solutions for
applications such as tarpaulins, tents, sun
protection, environment and industry, contact
Shann Australia to request a comprehensive
structure pack, samples, technical information
or advice.
www.shann.com.au
The Skycity Darwin Casino project. Image courtesy of Aerosail Engineered fabric Structures.
The top of the 02 Dome. Image courtesy of Base Structures
SEPTEMBER • OCTOBER 2012 · 45
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.
HVG Fabrics have everything covered
A look at members’ products and services
HVG Fabrics has launched a new Fabrics product
binder, the latest initiative in an ongoing campaign
by the company to increase its profile and presence
in the decorative and industrial fabrics market.
The new product binder was designed to better
showcase its broad range of products and serve as
an information hub for those in the industrial and
decorative fabrics industries.
Each product binder is custom-made to the
customers’ requirements – providing a colour
swatch of each product in 2 sizes, product brochures
and product data sheets in their chosen ranges.
This is the result of communicating with the
marketplace and supplying a tool that was required
by many customers to assist selection of the
appropriate product.
Customers who have already received the new
HVG Fabrics product binder have welcomed the
vast array of information that it provides.
The Industrial Fabrics range 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.
Other products include I-Mesh PE Eyelet
Webbing, UltraFLEX™ Blockout FR, a spread coated
PVC blockout with an acrylic lacquer on both
sides and Screentex, a mesh constructed from PVC
coated high tenacity polyester, with the appearance
of a fine flywire mesh yet high tear resistant
properties.
The Decorative Fabrics range includes PVC
coated window mesh Visiontex™ and Japanese
grade PVC windows films Easislip™ providing the
best blind/awning solutions available and Marine
grade Nautolex® vinyls like “Maritime” with
patented PreFixx protective coating ensure peace
of mind.
New products include EasiClean™ which assists
in maintaining “top coat” integrity for polyvinyl
chloride (PVC) surfaces and EasiGuard™ enhances
the UV screening properties of Easislip™ PVC
films and Visiontex™ PVC mesh products. Another
product new to HVG’s product portfolio is SEAFLEX
press polished PVC, the product of choice for
marine window and flexible glass applications the
world over.
HVG Fabrics will continue providing marketing
resources and advice to ensure the latest
personalised sampling and marketing
innovations and point of sale marketing
packages to enhance customers’ company
profile.
For more information on the HVG Fabrics
product binder contact your local HVG account
manager.
www.hvgfabrics.com.au
Learn powerful business growth strategiesExperience innovative solutionsAccess expansive industry sourcesParty at our once-in-a-century celebration
The Specialty Fabrics Event of the Year!
Register by October 5 and Save
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
November 7-9, 2012 � Boston, MA
ifaiexpo.com
IFAI EXPOAMERICAS + ADVANCED TEXTILES
& SAFETY CONFERENCE
BOSTON, MANOVEMBER 7–9
2012
INDUSTRIAL FABRICS ASSOCIATION INTERNATIONAL
ifai_Exp12_Australia_ad.indd 1 8/27/12 1:24 PM
(SA) PTY LTD | ABN 068 015 127
INDEPENDENT CUT LENGTH3A Wirriga Street, Regency Park, SA 5010
ph: 08 8347 4500 fx: 08 8347 4477email: [email protected]
Deluxe Spring FEATURED AT THE RECENTSTA EXPO
2 LENGTHS TO SUIT63mm* 70mm & 85 mm
KEYWAY
» WIDER BLINDS
» LONGER DROPS
» QUIETER RUNNING
» BEARINGS BOTH ENDS
ADVERTISTERS'INDEX
ABC Products 10
Austech Welders 21
Bartlett C E 37
CJ Loftus 33
Darling Downs
Tarpaulins 43
Dasec 48
Elizabeth Machines 45
Gale Pacific Inside front cover
Hiraoka 7
HVG 23
ICL (SA) 47
Innova 29
Miami Stainless Inside Back Cover
Nolan UDA 5
Ozrig 8
Plastral 10
ProKnit
Industries Outside back cover
Radins 19
Ricky Richards 3
Sewing Perfection
Machine Co. 41
Shann Front cover
Triax Systems 13
Wax Converters Textiles 24-25
NEW Durkopp Adler model: H867Unbeatable high performance heavy duty sewing with Durkopp Adler M-TYPE technology
with the very best in after sales support via, product application knowledge, unequaled spare part deliveries and factory trained service technicians is the benchmark in the industry. Isn’t it time you took a closer look?
| PO Box 130 | 3 Gunya Street Regents Park NSW 2143
Telephone (02) 9645 2500 | Fax (02) 9644 4711 | E-mail [email protected] | www.dasec.com.au
• The large clearance (700 x 157mm) facilitates the handling of large area work pieces
• bottom feed, needle feed and alternating walking feet
•
•
•
•
Up to 12mm long stitches
Extremely high sewing foot lift of 25mm
The sewing foot stroke up to 9mm allows
material piles
New needle system of 328
• New hook system with 3XL bobbin for thread sizes up to nm 8/3
• Sewing speed up to 2,000 stitches/min
• Robust thread trimmer guarantees a safe and clean cutting of extreme thick sewing threads
REGISTERED TRAINING oRGANISATIoNS
NSW, NT, SA & QLDvia Sydney Institute of TAFEPh (02) 9217 4601
Fax (02) 9217 4963
Contact: Lawrence De Paoli
www.sit.nsw.edu.au/sailmaking
TASMANIATasmania Institute of TAFEPh 1300 655 307
Fax (03) 6233 7830
www.tafe.tas.edu
VICToRIARMIT UniversityPh (03) 9925 9182
Fax (03) 9925 9129
Contact: Kent Williamson
25 Dawson Street Brunswick
Vic 3056 www.rmit.edu.au
WESTERN AUSTRALIAPoLYTECH WESTTextile Fabrication Training
Ph: 08 9207 4412
Fax: 08 9207 4399
Gary McCormick
Balga Campus Gate 1 Lockwood
Road, Balga WA
EVENTS& RTOs November 2012
IFAI Expo Americas 2012
iFai will celebrate its 100th anniversary at iFai expo americas 2012 from November 7-9 in boston, Massachusetts, us.
Leading the way in specialty fabrics
IFAI Expo Americas is the industry’s one-stop-shop for connecting buyers with sellers, featuring exhibitors from the industry’s top companies in fabrics, fibre, films and chemicals, end products, components, equipment and technology services.
www.ifai.com
LSAA 2013 Conference and Design Awards"Touching the Earth Lightly"It is anticipated this event will be staged in Auckland, New Zealand, from 13-15 November 2013. (These details will soon be confirmed.)www.lsaa.org.au
october 2012STA Young Leaders’
ConferenceThe weekend of october 13-14
Novotel in Sydney Not long to go!
One of the most dynamic events on the STA calendar. Have you registered?
The Young Leaders’ Conference presents the talented younger members of our association with an opportunity to showcase their skills and leadership by partaking in a special project.
The fruits of labours will be on show for all to admire at Super Expo 2013 on the Gold Coast.
The two-day event which kicks off the challenge is a focused affair that is mixed with fun.
So put it in your diary and register now!
www.specialisedtextiles.com.au
June 2013
Super Expo 2013
BMAA and STA are joining forces to stage
one big Super Show
date: Wednesday June 5 to Friday June 7
Venue: gold coast convention and
exhibition centre
stay tuned for more details on what will be our biggest and
best expo yet!
super expo 2013 will feature a top line-up of technical
speakers, hundreds of exhibits, sizzling social events,
the revamped awards for excellence and of course the
Young leaders’ structures.
www.specialisedtextiles.com.au
Chino (Cream)
Graphite (Charcoal)
Sheba (Dark Blue)
Lime Fizz (Lime)
Karloo (Sand)
Marrocan (Terracotta)
Koonunga (Green)
Mellow Haze (Yellow)
Bubblegum (Pink)
Bundena (Blue)
Abaroo (Red)
Domino (Black)
Sherbet (Orange)
Jazzberry (Purple)
National Distributor:
Ricky Richards (Sales) Pty Ltd 16 Park Road, Homebush NSW 2140 Phone: 02 9735 3333 Fax: 02 9735 3311www.rickyrichards.com.au
7 Tombo Street, Capalaba, QLD 4157Phone: 07 3245 6756 Fax: 07 3245 6955
QLD Distributor:
Made In Australia
C O M M E R C I A L S H A D E C L O T H
100% Australian made and owned
• 3.25 metre and 6.5 metre widths
• 14 cool colours
• 10 year UV warranty including removal and replacement
• Manufactured using 100% round monofilament yarn
• Custom colours, widths and lengths available by request
• Install and forget – NO re-tensioning
Monotec 370 is proudly manufactured in Australia by PRO-KNIT Industries Pty Ltd www.monotec.com.au
Designed for many applications including:
• Council Parks • Shopping Centre Car Parks• Shade structures • Shade sails • Childrens Playground Area • School Outdoor Lunch Areas • Athletic Events • Swimming Pool Canopies• Outdoor Recreation Areas • Truck Tarpaulins • Umbrellas • Nurseries
superior in strengthand performance
For a shadecloth that is superior in strength and performance characteristics, Monotec is the unsurpassed choice!
RR Monotec 370 ad.indd 1 29/08/11 2:15 PM