Master Painters Association Queensland
March 2025
NEWSLETTER Quarterly
Master Painters Association Queensland
As we step into another exciting quarter, we’re thrilled to share the latest updates, industry insights, and upcoming events with you. From securing new sponsorships to attending key industry conferences, there’s plenty to celebrate! In this issue, you’ll find highlights from our recent initiatives, important announcements, and a look ahead at what’s coming up. We’ve also had to make some changes due to the weather, so be sure to check out the rescheduled dates for our Women’s Day Social and Golf Day. Thank you for being part of our community - your support helps us continue to grow and strengthen our industry. We hope you enjoy this edition and look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events!
Happy reading! The MPAQ Team
Ruby Harrison with our apprentice Sydnie from BindiLee wearing her awesome shirt won on Bindi’s Instagram give away
Dayna Price - Counsellor & Project Lead
John Hoppe - Mentor
Strengthening Support for Apprentices: Introducing Our New Counselling & Mentoring Services As we celebrate three months since launching, we are thrilled with the incredible response from students. The enthusiasm and dedication we’ve seen from apprentices stepping into the industry have been truly inspiring. With such a strong uptake, we are committed to ensuring that every learner has the support and guidance they need to succeed - not just in their trade but in their overall well-being. That’s why we are proud to introduce our new counselling and mentoring support services through NICS. This initiative is designed to provide stronger, more personalised support for apprentices and trainees, helping them navigate the challenges of their journey with confidence. To lead this, we welcome Dayna, a highly experienced health professional and accredited mental health social worker. With her compassionate approach and wealth of experience, she will be providing vital emotional and mental health support for apprentices. In addition, our trusted trainer John is stepping into a dedicated mentorship role, offering continued guidance and support beyond the classroom. Having worked closely with apprentices for years, John understands the unique challenges they face and is committed to helping them grow both professionally and personally.
Together, Dayna and John will ensure that every apprentice has the tools, guidance, and support they need to thrive in their careers and beyond. We’re excited about this next step in supporting our students and can’t wait to see the positive impact it will have on their journey!
WorldSkills Australia 2025 – See the Best in Action! This year’s WorldSkills National Championships will take place in Brisbane from August 29 to 31, 2025, bringing together the best young tradespeople from across the country. This is an incredible opportunity to witness top talent in action and celebrate the skill, precision, and dedication that goes into painting and decorating. MPA will have its own stand at the event, giving us direct access to thousands of school leavers and aspiring apprentices. This is a prime opportunity to promote painting as a rewarding career choice, engage with the next generation of tradespeople, and further build our future workforce. We encourage everyone to come along, support the competitors, and experience firsthand the incredible talent within our industry. We can’t wait to showcase what painting has to offer and inspire the next wave of professionals!
Master Painters Association Queensland
MPA Becomes Official Industry Sponsor for WorldSkills Australia We are excited to announce that MPA is now the official industry sponsor for WorldSkills Australia, reinforcing our commitment to fostering excellence in the painting and decorating industry. This partnership allows us to support the next generation of skilled tradespeople while showcasing the incredible career opportunities within the sector. As part of this initiative, we’re thrilled that Ruby has commenced training with our apprentices, helping them refine their skills and prepare for upcoming competitions. Her expertise and guidance will be invaluable in shaping the future of our industry.
Todd aitken with Trevor Schwenke the CEO of World Skills Australia
Ruby with Xai, Krystal & Toua from Rescom preparing for the World Skills Competition
The event reinforced MPA’s commitment to global collaboration and future-focused leadership. If the buzz around a potential national conference on the Gold Coast is anything to go by, this might just be the beginning of something bigger. Together, we’re building a stronger, more connected future for our trade.
MPA at the PCA: Aussie Delegation Makes Waves in Colorado Springs MPA President Chris, GM Todd, and a crew of 19 Aussie delegates - including VP Tas Moulis and Trustee Theo Vairaktaris - recently touched down in Colorado Springs for the 2025 PCA Conference, one of the industry’s premier networking and education events. Over several high-impact days, the team dove into workshops, industry panels, and breakout sessions alongside global leaders. Highlights included private strategy meetings with PCA executives, thought- provoking discussions on industry innovation, and even an invite-only gathering in the PCA chairman’s presidential suite. Chris and Todd also flew the Aussie flag proudly, presenting MPA’s initiatives and exploring potential international alliances - particularly around training, licensing, and LMS programs that generated strong interest from U.S. counterparts.
The Aussie team on stage at the PCA conference Colorado Springs
Todd Aitken, Theo Vairataris, Chris Munday & Tas Moulis
Chirs Munday, Dave Ryker - 75 years as a PCA member , Todd Aitken & Tas Moulis
We are also excited to welcome two new trainers to our team: Colby, who is the ultimate family man, champion basketball player/coach and passionate about bringing his 20+ years as a professional painter to his new training position and Jack, with 13 years of experience in plastering, he has built a diverse career across commercial, high-rise, and residential construction. Now, as a trainer in the VET sector, he is dedicated to mentoring apprentices, sharing his expertise, and helping shape the future of the construction industry. Expanding our training team allows us to offer even greater hands-on support to apprentices across Queensland. Engaging with the Industry We kicked off the year with our first Local Micro Conference in Toowoomba, which saw a fantastic turnout and presentations from our newest sponsors. Events like these are essential in fostering industry connections and sharing valuable insights. Additionally, many of our team members attended the Haymes Trade Days, giving us the opportunity to connect face-to-face with painters across Queensland. These interactions allow us to positively influence the industry, strengthen relationships, and ensure we continue providing the best support for painters and apprentices. With such a strong start to the year, we’re excited for what’s ahead. Thank you to everyone who has supported our events and initiatives.
Master Painters Association Queensland
MPA Events & Staff Development: A Strong Start to 2025 The first quarter of 2025 has been a busy and productive one for MPA, with our team actively engaging in industry events, professional development, and exciting new initiatives to strengthen our workforce. Keeping Our Leadership Aligned Our staff attended the March Board Meeting, where they presented recent achievements and ongoing projects. This ensured all board members are fully informed and aligned with our current initiatives and future plans as we continue to grow and support the industry. Investing in Mental Health & Training We are proud to support our team in completing the Mental Health First Aid Australia course, reinforcing our commitment to apprentice well-being. This ensures our Set for Success programme is backed by knowledgeable staff who are equipped to have important MHFA conversations and provide meaningful support.
John and Colby at the Haymes Trade Show
March Board Meeting
Our first Micro Conference of the year at Toowoomba
Colby Stefanovic - Painting Trainer
Jack Picton - Plastering Trainer
Skill Up @ Ekka: Building Careers Through WetTrade Apprenticeships Through WetTrade Apprenticeships, MPA’s Group Training Organisation (GTO), we are proud to have launched our Skill Up @ Ekka program - an initiative designed to create real employment opportunities in the construction industry. Currently, 11 participants are completing their Certificate I in Construction, and within 14 weeks, they will be job-ready and available to join the workforce in one of the five wet trades we provide training in. This program has been carefully structured to support individuals who face barriers to employment, specifically targeting: - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
In addition to technical training, we are excited to incorporate a creative aspect into the program. Our talented friend Sarra Art is guiding participants in the creation of a mural, which will be painted at the Ekka showgrounds. This hands-on project allows them to develop artistic skills, teamwork, and a sense of pride in their work, leaving a lasting contribution to the site. With this initiative, we are not only helping individuals gain valuable trade skills but also strengthening the future workforce in Queensland’s construction industry. We look forward to seeing the participants progress and step into meaningful careers, shaping the industry for years to come.
- Women re-entering the workforce - Young people (15-24 years old) - Disadvantaged job seekers
By providing hands-on training, mentorship, and industry connections, Skill Up @ Ekka is not only helping participants gain valuable skills but also strengthening the future workforce in painting, plastering, tiling, solid plastering, and construction waterproofing.
11 participants completing their Cert I in Constuction with Jo our Project Coordinator, Jack our Wall & Ceiliing Lining trainer and some of the team from the RNA
Master Painters Association Queensland
With the deadline fast approaching, we strongly encourage all our members to submit their entries as soon as possible. This will allow us to ensure our judge is able to view projects promptly after they are completed, ensuring a smooth and timely process. Don’t miss this opportunity to showcase your work and be recognised for excellence in the industry. With over 400 attendees expected, this will be an event you won’t want to miss. Make it a weekend to remember by planning ahead and securing your accommodation early. The awards ceremony will be held in a stunning venue, and with the Triple LED Wall enhancing the atmosphere, there won’t be a bad seat in the room. This is the perfect opportunity to celebrate the best in the industry, so gather your team, make your plans, and get ready for a night of recognition, inspiration, and celebration. We can’t wait to see all the fantastic submissions and celebrate the outstanding talent within our community. Get your nominations in early and let’s make this year’s awards a truly memorable event!
Upcoming Events and News: Rescheduled Women’s Day Social & Golf Day and Master Painters Excellence Awards Update Due to the severe weather surrounding ex-Cyclone Alfred, we had to reschedule our Women’s Day Social and Golf Day for the safety and well-being of all participants. While we are disappointed by the delay, we are looking forward to hosting these events. The International Women’s Day event which is being held at The Rose Room, Foritude Valley now set to go ahead on the 4th April and our MPA vs AWCI Golf Day now on 16th May. Your safety is our top priority, and we appreciate your understanding. As we look ahead, we’re suddenly fast approaching the Master Painters Excellence Awards, which are set to take place at The Star, Brisbane on October 24th, 2025. This prestigious event celebrates the exceptional achievements of painters, decorators, and other tradespeople, and we are expecting a high volume of nominations - especially as entries close on July 31st.
Out first performance from the Excellence Awards 2024
When it comes to your business, good isn’t good enough. At Haymes Paint, we believe in delivering better. Better paint, better service and better results. Why paint with anything else?
Scan to learn more about the benefits of joining the Haymes Paint Trade Family
Haymes Paint Proudly supporting Master Painters Australia Queensland
2298_DIary Insert Store 2024_QLD_A5.indd 1
17/8/23 5:18 pm
Easy to Use Technology for Painters
Change the way you do business, change your life
Simplify Quoting Improve Profits
Control Spending Manage You Employees
Streamline Operations Increase Productivity
Get Paid On Time! It’s So Easy To Use
Try For Free
PROVIDING SCAFFOLDING AND SWING STAGES FOR OVER 15 YEARS! With all our own equipment and specialised experience in challenging jobs we can meet your every need. Our team will come to your site and provide innovative solutions to your scaffolding requirements.
www.compss.com.au
sales@compss.com.au 1300 266 777
Do you need an Apprentice or an Apprenticeship?
a group training organisation designed specifically for the wet trades
Wettrade Apprenticeships (WTA) was established in 2023 to address the shortage of workers in the wet trades and provide alternative solutions for apprentices seeking real world outcomes in the industry. TRAINING TODAY’S APPRENTICES, BUILDING TOMORROW’S LEADERS
www.wtaqld.com.au 07 3277 8646 admin@wtaqld.com.au
INTERGRATED EMPLOYMENT MODEL
MONARCH WATTYL
ASSA EBM INSURANCE EMPLYER SERVICES CORNWALLS QPF FINANCE GROUP BUSY AT WORK MEGT
PAINT PROJEX HAYMES PAINT COMPLETE SCAFFOLD SOLUTIONS PAINTER COACH AMMONITE CSQ TWENTY NINE PALMS CONSULTING NICS WETTRADE APPRENTICESHIPS
SARINA RUSSO MAS NATIONAL
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14Made with FlippingBook - Online catalogs