Carpentry Australia’s Quarter in Review: Building connections, business, and a better future – written by Nathan Quinn, Carpentry Australia Head of Development
As the sun set on another fruitful quarter, Carpentry Australia reflects on a series of engaging and impactful activities that strengthened bonds within the carpentry community, fostered professional growth, and addressed the evolving landscape of the industry.
Carpentry Australia has welcomed a new member to their team, Miss Felicity Pettiford. Based up in Sydney. Felicity is an important part of the growth and development of Carpentry Australia, contributing to some important projects as part of the organisation.
Inner Sanctum Workshop and Member Events:
Crafting success strategies Kicking off the quarter with a bang, Carpentry Australia headed to Sydney to lead the Inner Sanctum workshop. This immersive event delved deep into planning, structuring, and strategising for more profitable and effective business operations. Carpenters from across the region gathered to discuss their business structures, and to explore opportunities for refinement and development.
Many walking away excited to implement their new strategies. Following the Inner Sanctum, Carpentry Australia hosted a vibrant member event at PJ O’Brien’s Irish Pub on Pitt Street. The evening was a resounding success, with crews engaging in networking activities and breaking the ice through a lively trivia challenge. McCabe Carpentry and Joinery walked away with the coveted door prize – an incredible Paslode Framer.
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Carpentry Australia connected with its members for a second event in October down on the beautiful Mornington Peninsula, facilitating discussions among women in trades, industry veterans, and many members engaging in their first event. The event provided a platform to discuss current industry trends, challenges, and enjoy camaraderie over drinks and activities. Industry veteran, Trevor, walking away with the awesome door prize of the King Gee pack and Stabila Level.
He couldn’t stop smiling. The event feedback continues to be highly positive with many excited to join us at our next events.
Victorian ABT Conference and Trade Events:
Shaping the future of carpentry Carpentry Australia took the stage at the Victorian ABT Conference, presenting a keynote and engaging with students in building design and construction. The presentation explored the changing landscape of the industry and outlined how Carpentry Australia can support students in preparing for a successful future. Many new apprentices and students joined as members on the day and have booked in to join us at upcoming events.
Carpentry Australia also connected with Carpentry apprentices at the Melbourne Polytechnic Trade Event. Offering guidance and advice to the upcoming generation of carpenters – the heroes of tomorrow. Advocacy and Progress Representing Australian carpenters, Carpentry Australia actively participated in the Inside Construction Expo, featuring on two industry panels – ’Balancing the Scales: Retention vs Recruitment’ and ‘Addressing Workforce Shortages.’
These discussions included future initiatives and needs, with insights shared by the Director of the National Skills Plan. Carpentry Australia is also supporting the Victorian Skills Authority to help address current TAFE challenges and was selected to provide a review and recommendations on the Australian Skills Guarantee consultation.
ABC Radio Feature:
Discussing the future of building plans Carpentry Australia received an invitation to ABC Radio to discuss the new building plans for the nation and their impact on the industry. This platform allowed the Carpentry Australia to share insights, perspectives, and contribute to the broader conversation on the future of carpentry. Carpentry Australia has been invited back to speak on a separate 3AW show to continue the conversation in the coming weeks.
Helping Hand Day:
A Heartfelt Initiative Carpentry Australia demonstrated its commitment to community support through the Helping Hand Day in Victoria’s Warrandyte. Carpenters volunteered their skills to overhaul the home of Sue, who faced health challenges. These Helping Hand Days will extend across Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland in 2024, showcasing the generosity and skills of the nation’s carpenters.
Carpentry Australia ambassador Kevin Sheedy will be attending the next Carpentry Australia private event where we he will speak as we acknowledge and award the members who contributed on the day.