December 2006/January 2007

The voice of the Wet Industry

Sanitisation
New ideas and
time-proven certainties
Access equipment
For people with disabilities
Business risks and opportunities
SPLASH! | 3
Cont ent s
contents
30
38
64
48
INDUSTRY NEWS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Whats up in the pool and spa industry
INDUSTRY CALENDAR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Key dates to keep in mind
INDUSTRY AWARDS (NSW) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
List of state winners
INDUSTRY AWARDS (SA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
List of state winners
INDUSTRY MOVES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Whos going where
NSPI LAUNCHES WATER BABY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
National course in water maintenance
POOLRITE GETS WATER WISE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
Ross Palmer talks about the Magna Pool System
A FEW HOURS STUDY TO SAVE A LIFE . . . . . . . . . . .24
Everyone should know CPR
A DRY ARGUMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
Water and climate issues
SOAKING IN SUCCESS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
Jeff Stibbards advice on improving sales
SWIMMING WITH THE DRAGON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
Tracey Wood looks at doing business in China
SPLASH! EXPO NEW ZEALAND . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
The industry trade show moves across the Tasman
SANITISATION, NEW AND OLD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
Tried and true methods, plus new ideas
RESPECTING WATER IN THE USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48
Christina DiMartino eyes water issues, Stateside
SPLASH! COMMERCIAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57
News and features from the commercial sector
FORGET THE WATER RECYCLE THE POOL . . . . . . .62
The relocatable FINA pool
ACCESS ALL AREAS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64
Disabled access ideas and necessities
WATER-WISE WATER WORLD FOR GOLD COAST . . .68
Dreamworld launches a new water park
PRODUCT RELEASES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70
The latest equipment, materials and technology
SUBSCRIPTION FORM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .78
ADVERTISERS INDEX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .78
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SPLASH! | 5
This mont hs cover
I
an Thorpe is more than just a great competitor; when he swims he is the em-
bodiment of human interaction with water. Unfortunately, we may not witness
that physical poetry again.
The rst time I saw him swim was at the Barcelona World Championships. I was
expecting to see him power up the pool, leaving other swimmers in his wake. But it
was the others who powered, arms furiously attacking the water; white spray fan-
ning behind them. All the while, Ian seemed to stroll, as if he was at a training ses-
sion. He made no aggressive arm movements; left no great disturbance in the water.
But somehow, without appearing to try, he was a body length ahead of everyone
else. When he touched the wall, he had time to turn around and check the clock
before the others stretched out to the nish, panting.
The ease with which he swum belied the truth. The race was the tip of the iceberg
the 90 per cent beneath the water was his endless training sessions, personal com-
mitment and perseverance against the odds. Wed all love to move through life the way
Ian moves through the water, with seemingly no effort but great success. Seemingly
is the operative word, however. Only hard work made the Thorpedo possible.
In the end it was illness that played a part convincing him to retire. Illness, disease,
bacteria these are also our enemies in the pool industry, and the various weapons
against them are discussed in this issues article on sanitisation. We had a good deal of
input from various sources for this article, and welcome more input on this vital topic.
We also look at the big red dragon in our neighbourhood China. Who cant be
excited by a market of 1.3 billion people? But is it practical to think of doing business
in, or with, China? Is it an opportunity, a threat, or a bit of both?
Chris Maher
Editor
editorial
Wel come t o SPLASH!
Swi mmi ng Pool Li f est yl e And Spa Hi - t ech
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The views expressed in this magazine do not necessarily represent those
of the above supporters, nor should any product advertised in SPLASH!
magazine be seen to be endorsed by the above.
China is getting excited about swimming in anticipation of
the Beijing Olympics. In Swimming with the Dragon, on
page 30, Tracey Wood investigates the ins and outs of
doing business in the pool industry in China. Image by
Stila Goh/istockphoto.
Phone: (08) 9344 7044 Fax: (08) 9345 1816.
251 Balcatta Road, Balcatta, Western Australia 6021.
Web site: www.pool-controls.com.au
For automatic pool protection
without the slightest risk of
infection..all the time, its got to
be Chemigem.
Chemigem monitors and adjusts both Chlorine
and pH levels to ensure your pool is totally safe
for swimming, every day of the year.
Best of all, having Chemigem monitor your pool
could mean big savings for your hip pocket, with
its more efficient use of chlorine and the hours
you will save in filter running time.
Thats why hotels, resorts and Councils insist on
Chemigem for their pools to ensure their
patrons total satisfaction.
For more information on how Chemigem is
your best choice, ask your pool builder or
your local pool store.
*2 year full warranty on controller, 5 year pro-rata
warranty on probe.
Distributed by: Pool Controls Queensland: (Brisbane North) Mobile 0411 078 124 (Brisbane South) Mobile 0411 078 126
Pool Controls Victoria: Mobile 0411 078 127 Pool Controls New South Wales: Mobile 0437 078 115
Swimline Products NSW: Phone (02) 9971 2306 Fax (02) 9971 7592
Flowcontrol Pty Ltd SA: Phone (08) 8346 9100 Fax (08) 8358 6015 AICG POC279 SEP 2005
SPLASH! | 7
industry news
THE Ozone Layer has acquired the
Australian distribution rights for the Del
Ozone range.
Additionally, it has picked up the
import rights for Pool Check and Exact
Meters. The company also distributes
Raypak pool heating and Aquatron Ultra-
max cleaners in Queensland.
Directors Paul Western and Phil-
lip Green are well known within the
industry, Western with more than
10 years experience as Raypak sales
manager in Queensland and Green
with almost 25 years in the industry
including stints as SPASA Queensland
manager and Poolrite national sales
and marketing manager.
The Ozone Layer had been the Del
Ozone Queensland distributor for
the past three years. The existing Del
Ozone distributors will remain in place,
while a new distribution network is
being established for Pool Check and
Exact Meters.
ASTRALPOOL BUYS HURLCON
HURLCON will grow as a major
Australian and international supplier
following their acquisition by Spanish
giant AstralPool, says Hurlcon director,
Peter Wallace.
AstralPool are a major player, he says.
One of the things they were interested
in is that they have a good product range
but dont have a salt chlorinator, and
they wanted our gas heaters and loved
some of our pumps. So they will be mar-
keting these through their 136 branches
to other parts of the world.
AstralPool is part of the Aquaria Group
of companies which has 43 factories and
136 branches in 30 countries around
the world. The Aquaria Group employs
over 3100 people with sales of more
than $AU900m.
With a $AU35m revenue last year,
Hurlcon is one of Australias leading
pool equipment manufacturers and has
facilities for injection and rotational
moulding, sheet metal fabrication and
powder coating on 15 separate assembly
lines. Hurlcon manufactures a broad
range of residential pool and spa equip-
ment including pumps, lters, chlorina-
tors, gas and electric heaters and chemi-
cal monitoring and dosing equipment.
Both Astral Equipment Australia and
Hurlcon will operate as separate entities
and all current distribution arrange-
ments will continue.
Hurlcon will operate in its current
structure and all distribution arrange-
ments will continue. Both Peter Wal-
lace and Brad Weir, former owners and
founders of Hurlcon, will continue to
head up Hurlcons operations within
Australia, which will continue to be run
out of Noble Park, Melbourne. All staff
will remain.
Peter Wallace says that Hurlcon will
look at expanding next year and gain ad-
ditional manufacturing facilities.
AstralPools aim is to supply the most
complete range of products in Australia
covering both residential and com-
mercial swimming pools with a strong
focus on technical support and cus-
tomer service.
AstralPools commercial pool equip-
ment, typically used in competition,
municipal, school and resort pools, can
now be distributed through Hurlcons
network and extensive customer base.
Additionally, Hurlcons salt chlorina-
tors, pumps, heaters and boilers can be
exported through the AstralPool world-
wide distribution network.
More indust r y consolidation
An added layer for Ozone
Coogee dives
int o hypochlori t e
WEST Australian chemical
company Coogee Chemicals has
bought out Nufarms 80 per cent,
$24m stake in Nufarm Coogee,
manufacturer of chlorine for the
agricultural sector and sodium
hypochlorite for the swimming
pool industry.
The takeover will take effect July
31, 2007. It will boost Coogees
revenue by 25 per cent to approxi-
mately $200 million.
Ozone Layer di rect ors Paul
West er n and Phi l l i p Green
8 | SPLASH!
industry news
HANLEY WOOD PURCHASES
AQUA SHOW
HANLEY Wood has bought the Aqua
Show from Athletic Business Publica-
tions (ABP). The Aqua Show, founded
in 1993, is a 9000 square metre expo
serving the pool and spa industry. Aqua
Magazine is not part of the acquisition
and will continue to be owned by ABP.
The Aqua Show will become part of
the Pool and Spa group based in Dallas
and will be led by Vice President Rick
McConnell with day-to-day operations to
be managed by director Donna Bellan-
tone. The Aqua Show will be the third
event owned and managed by Hanley
Wood in the pool and spa sector. Hanley
Wood currently owns and manages the
International Pool & Spa Expo and the
Backyard Living Expo.
POOL INDUSTRY GOES DUTCH AT
AQUATECH
AQUATECH Amsterdam is a trade
show for water professionals from all
over the world. The event was held dur-
ing September 2006, with 22,500 square
metres playing host to 871 exhibitors.
One Australian company present was
Waterco, launching its commercial com-
posite hair and lint pot, commercial cast
iron pump, commercial Hybrid stainless
steel pump, 100mm MPV, 4-bar rated
commercial Hydron lter, electronic
clarier and its 7-bar rated Micron com-
mercial deep bed lters.
JACUZZI BOUGHT BY APOLLO
JACUZZI Brands, the global spa and
plumbing manufacturer (including
Jacuzzi and Sundance spas), announced
in October that private equity rm
Apollo Management will purchase the
company for $US1.25b, including the
assumption of $US260m outstanding
debt. Jacuzzi Brands shareholders will
receive $US12.50 per share in cash.
The acquisition is subject to certain
closing conditions, including the approval
of Jacuzzi Brands shareholders, regula-
tory approval, and the receipt by Apollo of
all necessary debt nancing. It is expected
to close in the rst quarter of 2007. Since
its inception in 1990, Apollo has invested
over $US16 billion in companies repre-
senting a wide variety of industries, both
in the US and internationally.
PENTAIR S NEW STRUCTURE
PENTAIR announced in September
its new leadership structure, appointing
Michael V Schrock to the newly created
role of president and chief operating
ofcer. Schrock, 53, will report to the
companys chairman and chief executive
ofcer, Randall J Hogan.
Under the new structure, Schrock will
accelerate the implementation of Pen-
tairs operating disciplines, including lean
enterprise, aimed at driving improved
margins and organic growth. Schrock will
also assume responsibility for all of Pen-
tairs operating segments: he will contin-
ue to lead the technical products group,
which he has led since October 2001,
and the companys ltration business,
for which he has been responsible since
October 2005, while gaining responsibil-
ity for the remaining water businesses.
Pentair vice chairman Richard J Cathcart
will continue to be responsible for global
growth, strategy and acquisitions.
PHOENIX LEADS US WITH ZERO
CHILD DROWNINGS
THE Drowning Prevention Coalition of
Central Arizona has credited a drown-
ing prevention campaign with the rst
child-drowning-free summer in memory.
Phoenix, a city the size of Melbourne,
had 22 child-drownings during the previ-
ous summer.
Many factors came into play, includ-
ing the Arizona fencing regulations, free
pool fences given away by the re depart-
ment, the rise of CPR and pool safety
classes and a number of public service
safety campaigns.
SEMINARS COME ONLINE
THE World Aquatic Health Conference
(WAHC), sponsored by the National
Swimming Pool Foundation (NSPF), re-
cently held in Austin, Texas, is now offer-
ing its 2006 seminars on the web. Confer-
ence attendance was up 18 per cent this
year, and much of that growth was due to
people accessing the seminars online.
Five symposia featured 36 seminars de-
livered by 34 speakers. Conference attend-
ees have offered positive feedback about
the new ndings reported on injury and
illness prevention, life-guarding, aquatic
programming, aquatic health benets and
new industrial technology. These are now
available to anyone who purchases access
codes to the on-line WAHC from the
NSPF. For detail on the individual semi-
nars, log onto www.nspf.org and download
a WAHC list of seminars.
NEW PRESIDENT FOR NSPF
THE US-based National Swimming
Pool Foundation has a new president,
P Cory Willis who succeeds Bill Kent.
Willis has served as a member of the
NSPF board of directors for six years,
most recently as treasurer, and chairman
of the scholarship and grant committees.
BEACHCOMBER HELPS FIGHT
CANCER
BEACHCOMBER Hot Tubs held a
company wide rafe to raise money for
Cancer Research. Cong Phan and Trang
Nguyen won a brand new Beachcomber
spa, worth nearly $AU10,000. Every dol-
lar from the sale of tickets for the draw
went to the Canadian Cancer Society,
along with money raised at a bake sale in
the factory, and donations made online
totalling more than $AU15,000.
ANIMALS IN THE POOL
AN Alabama man was lucky he checked
the pool before diving in: he discovered
an alligator sitting on the bottom. It
turned out to be neighbours pet which
had escaped a month ago. The police
eventually lassoed the creature and
returned it to its owner.
In Illawong, Sydney, a man found
something equally disturbing in his pool
a jaguar. Not the furred kind, but an
XJ6. The 72-year-old driver had lost con-
trol and jumped the kerb, went through
a fence and fell into the pool. The owner
of the house saved the 74 year old pas-
senger. They were lucky, as a 61-year-old
Milwaukee man died in nearly identical
circumstances in October.
Around t he Globe
In Australia each year 3 billion litres of water are lost and
over one hundred thousand tonnes of sodium chloride is
released into the ecosystem. At Poolrite Research
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Our aim is to help the world conserve and replenish its
most precious resources. And it can all start with your
backyard pool by using the innovative magnablu
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So every time you use a Poolrite Research
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you are becoming part of the solution. And we believe
that is a wonderful place to be.
planting the seeds to
nd natural solutions
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info@magnablu.com Magnablu is part of the system
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P
O
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SPLASH! | 11
industry news
ONE way an industry can help itself de-
velop into the future is have self-aware-
ness. That is, to know what is happening
in the industry now, and what is likely to
happen in the future.
A key way to generate this awareness
is through market research. At present,
this doesnt exist to any great degree in
the pool and spa industry. That is about
to change, thanks to an initiative from
Moore Stephens.
The research program aims to provide
suppliers to the industry with a clear un-
derstanding of the pool care market size,
movements and trends. The plan is to set
up a framework for collating and analys-
ing market related data each year, and to
establish year-to-year benchmarks.
This data and analysis should then
provide a sound basis and recommenda-
tions for the future strategic direction of
brands within the industry, to help pro-
mote the growth of all parts of the supply
chain within the pool care market.
But this data cannot be collated with-
out help from the industry members. If
the industry doesnt have a buy in, it will
be very difcult to do.
Moore Stephens is requesting assist-
ance from all key suppliers, retailers and
wholesalers.
There are two ways to assist. If you are
happy simply to provide information,
Moore Stephens will supply you with
a top-line report of a couple of pages
outlining identifying key statistics and
trends, once the research is complete.
If you are willing to subscribe, you will
get detailed data in a 40-50 page report.
Subscriptions cost $2000 each plus an
additional fee if you want special infor-
mation on subcategories.
The Research Methodology will in-
volve conducting a series of face-to-face
interviews with suppliers of each product
category across the country; this sample
base will help build a detailed picture
of market size and will also represent
an accurate cross-section of the market.
Additionally, Moore Stephens will utilise
desk research and Australian Bureau of
Statistics and/or import data to gather,
collate and analyse economic and social
trends that will impact on the future
growth and protability of the industry.
The survey will only be for the residen-
tial market.
The following categories are planned
for inclusion, however Moore Stephens
is interested in any advice as to other
categories that should be added.
Pumps and Filters (pumps, sand lters,
cartridge lters)
Auto Pool Cleaners (suction, pressure
and in-oor)
Heating Solutions (heat pumps, gas
and electric heaters)
Sanitation Equipment (salt water chlo-
rinators, mineral puriers)
Accessories (lights, water features,
cleaning equipment etc)
Chemicals (pool chemicals, chlorine
etc)
The nal report to each supplier reveals
only their market share within the
category and the industry but does not
disclose competitor market share or
competitor sales gures.
For additional information contact
Melissa Wright on (03) 9614 4444 or
melwright@moorestephens.com.au.
An opportunity to contribute t o indust r y int rospect ion
RESPECTED RESEARCH ORGANISATION, MOORE STEPHENS, IS ASKING
FOR HELP TO COLLECT DATA ON THE POOL AND SPA INDUSTRY
THE COMMERCIAL SIDE
THE Moore Stephens survey will
only relate to the residential market.
For information on a commercial
market research program, see the
Commercial News item on page 61.
Win a great book f or Christ mas
SPLASH! HAS TWO COPIES OF PETER FITZSIMONS
NEW BOOK TO GIVE AWAY
EMAIL TO WIN
FOR a chance to win this book,
email: splashcomp@intermedia.
com.au
In the subject line correctly spell
the name of the author including
the correct capitalisation.
In the body of the message in-
clude your name and address. The
rst two correct entries will be sent
a copy of the book.
PETER FitzSimons has brought
together the Great Australian Sports
Champions in his updated collection
of the memories and anecdotes, inspira-
tions and fears, heroic acts and humble
gestures of Australias sporting greats,
past and present.
Among the dozens of champions, he
has included a bagful of great swimmers
such as Fanny Durack, Dawn Fraser,
Murray Rose, Shane Gould, Duncan
Armstrong and Kieran Perkins.
However, possibly the most signicant
swimmer listed is Steve Holland. Accord-
ing to FitzSimons, Steve dragged himself
from the pool at the Montreal Olympics
after coming third. The prime minister of
the day, Malcolm Fra-
ser, called to congratu-
late/commiserate.
The eighteen year old
had enough. He had
received virtually no
Government support and had endured
hardship and poverty to get to the games.
He wondered where the Prime Minister
and the Government had been when he
needed them. He told Mr Fraser to go
away in no uncertain terms.
His rudeness had an effect. This was
the beginning of the change in govern-
ment thinking that led to the Australian
Institute of Sport (AIS), and Australias
eventual success in the pool.
In the next issue of SPLASH!
we will look at the latest achieve-
ment at the AIS the new hi-tech
training pool, destined to fine-
tune our next generation of swim-
ming champions.
SPLASH! | 13
industry news
FOLLOWING the overwhelming suc-
cess of the most recent SPLASH! Expo
on the Gold Coast, Interpoint Events
has announced the launch of SPLASH!
New Zealand.
The event will be held at the Auckland
Hilton on Wednesday July 25 and Thurs-
day July 26, 2007.
Interpoint Managing director, Simon
Cooper, says there is an obvious synergy
between the two markets. The Austral-
ian and New Zealand industries share
much common ground, so it makes
excellent sense for us to take SPLASH!
to Auckland, he says.
Already we have received a great deal
of positive feedback both from exhibitors
and potential delegates. We believe the
success of this show will help strengthen
ties between the two markets and help
expand opportunities on both sides of
the Tasman.
SPLASH! reaches across t he Tasman
Get yourself a
Green Card
SPASA WA is recommending
all tradespeople in the west get
their Green Card. From January
1, 2007, no-one will be allowed
on a construction site even a small backyard swimming
pool site unless they have their card.
Not only is having a card mandatory, SPASA
believes the course will help improve safety and is
strongly urging tradespeople to get a card as soon
as possible. Worksafe has reportedly put on 30 new
inspectors to enforce the requirement.
A Green Card (ironically coloured blue) can be
earned by doing a four-hour training course run in
conjunction with the HIA. The course costs $40 and al-
ready 350 people have been accredited. For more informa-
tion call SPASA WA on (08) 9479 6112.
THE SPASA NSW 2007 Builders
Seminar, Trade Expo and Awards Din-
ner have been moved to later in July at
Rosehill Gardens, Parramatta.
The Builders Seminar will be a one-day
event on Thursday 12th July, then late in
the afternoon of 12th July the trade expo
will open (4pm - 8pm) and continue
through Friday 13th July (10am - 5pm)
with the 2007 Awards Presentation Din-
ner on Saturday 14th July.
The seminars, which will cost $175
for SPASA members and $225 for non
members, are due to feature ve speak-
ers addressing subjects pertinent to the
industry. The trade day will have free en-
try and will be conducted on the ground
oor of the members grandstand.
The Awards Presentation Dinner will
be a members only function in the
Marscay-Baguette Rooms on Level 5.
The event is wrapped around a full din-
ner menu with entertainment.
The concept of conducting the trade
expo over Thursday afternoon/evening
and Friday will encourage retail pool
shop owners and their staff and service
staff to attend, and secondly to attract the
delegates who are already on-site attend-
ing the seminars.
NSW trade show dates revised
Ski i ng i n New Zeal and. Image
court esy of NZ Touri sm.
INTERPOINT TO LAUNCH SPLASH! NEW ZEALAND POOL AND SPA EXPO
14 | SPLASH!
www.waterco.com
Built Better to Last Longer
MICRON
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QLD
07 3299 9900
WA
08 9273 1900
SA / NT
08 8244 6000
NZ
09 525 7570
NSW (Head Office)
02 9898 8686
VIC / TAS
03 9764 1211
BOOM GOES THE WESTERN WINTER
THE Western Australian pool industry is riding the crest of the
resources boom. SPASA WA managing director Roger LeFort
says that this year there was virtually no slowdown over winter.
LeFort believes one reason for the activity is the fact that
house prices in WA have skyrocketed. The average price of a
Perth home is now well over $400,000. This makes the cost of
building a pool a relatively smaller expense when compared to
the total property value.
Further evidence of the force of the western boom is the fact
that the March consumer expo is already 95% subscribed, with
exhibitors coming from every state of the country as well as
New Zealand.
WHILE NQ GOES TROPPO
THERE is also growing evidence that north Queensland is
booming. The council areas of Thuringowa and Townsville
are experiencing pool building growth, with substantially
more pools and spas being approved compared with the same
period last year.
From July to September, Thuringowa Council has approved
136 pools, compared with 86 pools for the same time last year.
Townsville City Council has approved more than 300 pools
over the corresponding period a 20 per cent increase over the
approximately 250 approved over the same period last year.
Thuringowa Mayor Les Tyrell attributed the increase to the
strong housing market. Thuringowa has plenty of land available
for new housing developments and many new home owners now
want a swimming pool as part of the package, Cr Tyrell said.
The increase in pool approvals aligns with the strong growth we
are experiencing in the city, but I also think that many people
want to be prepared for the upcoming summer months.
ATO CHECKLIST LAUNCHED
THE Australian Tax Ofce has produced a new online check-
list for people starting their own business. The 27-point online
checklist covers most things new business owners need to know.
The checklist covers applying for an ABN; registering for a
tax le number or goods and services tax; record keeping; with-
holding tax; paying wages and super for employees; managing
cash ow; and creating the best legal structure for a business.
Users can download the checklist at www.ato.gov.au/businesses.
VESTS RECALLED
THE ACCC has recalled Maui brand swimming aid vests
which did not comply with the mandatory product safety stand-
ard. Brand Direct imported approximately 4000 vests, which
were distributed to Big W stores in Victoria, New South Wales,
Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia. For more
information see www.accc.gov.au.
NO COMPO PREMIUMS FOR NSW APPRENTICES
FROM next year, apprentice wages in NSW will be exempt
from workers compensation premiums, in line with the state
governments new direction for training-based solutions to the
skills crisis. This is good news for employers of apprentices and
employers considering taking on a new apprentice next year.
Local brief s
SPLASH! | 15
REMCOs
award winning
water saving
headache cure
with a healthy
return
Complying with the new water saving
requirements should not create a
headache for pool builders.
With Remcos award winning range of automated pool
cover systems, covering up is not only simple, but makes
good nancial sense for pool builders and retailers.
All Remco Pool Covers come fully installed by qualied
Remco technicians and come with free onsite builder
design / construction assistance.
With an automatic pool cover to suit almost any pool
under the Australian sun it is easy to cover with Remco.
For trade pricing and information packs contact Remco
on 1800 652 962.
Indust r y Calendar
FUTURE INDUSTRY DATES TO KEEP IN MIND
2006
Dec 7 AALARA Christmas drinks
Dec 15 SPASA NSW Christmas dinner
2007
Feb 2-4 SPASA Victoria Pool and Spa Summer
Consumer Show
Feb 4-6 Spatex trade show, Brighton, UK
Feb 27-Mar2 Pool Salon, Moscow
March 4-8 AWA Ozwater 2007 Convention and
Exhibition, Darling Harbour
Mar 10-11 WA Swimming Pool Spa and Outdoor
Leisure Expo
Mar 18-Apr1 12th FINA World Championships,
Melbourne
Mar 27-31 MSSRM, International Sport Facility
Management Program
April 2-3 Australian Water Summit, Darling
Harbour, Sydney
May 1-8 Oceania Swimming Professionals
Convention & Expo, Gold Coast
May 13-16 AALARA Conference, Conrad Jupiters
Gold Coast
May 25-27 SPASA NSW Consumer Show,
Darling Harbour
June 3-6 Design Build, Darling Harbour, Sydney
June 15-17 SPASA Victoria Spa and Pool Winter
Consumer Show
July 12-13 SPASA NSW Trade Day and Builders
Seminar
July 14 SPASA NSW Awards Night
July 25-26 SPLASH! NZ Expo, Auckland Hilton
July 28 SPASA WA Awards Night, Burswood
Ballroom
Aug 29-31 Landscape Expo, Melbourne
Showgrounds
These dates are subject to change and should be checked
with the relevant organisation. Please send calendar
submissions to chrismaher@intermedia.com.au
16 | SPLASH!
Become a Nationally
Recognised & Registered
NSPI Australia
ABN 84 092 485 197
PO Box 2123
Fortitude Valley Qld 4006
Brisbane - Australia
Phone +61 7 3252 6702
Fax +61 7 3252 2547
POOL WORKS MAINTENANCE
Pool Copings & Tiles
Pool Excavation
Pool Fencing & Gates
Pool Heating
Pool Installer (FRP Shells)
Pool Installer (Kits)
Pool Internal Liners (Vinyl)
Pool Internal Finishes (non Plaster)
Pool Internal Finishes (Plaster)
Pool Plumbing & Leak Detection
Pool Shades & Covers
Pool Spray & Cut (Concrete)
POOL WATER MAINTENANCE
Pool Water Analysis for the in-store water
consultant
Domestic Pool Water Service for the retail based or
mobile operator visiting Domestic sites
Domestic/Commercial Pool Water Service for the
on-site operator (or, contract service provider) for
any Domestic or Public facility
Plus
Pool & Spa Consultant (Sales & Design)
Site Supervisor (Construction & Installation).
These Training & Assessment programs are
specically designed by swimming pool & spa
industry experts, and cater for the Recognition of
Prior Learning or Experience.
For Enrolment, or further information
check www.nspi.com.au
or contact: Grant Rangi
NSW Awards
Cat 1: Residential Concrete
Pools-Traditional or
Geometric up to $50,000
Gol d, Concept Pools; Sil-
ver, Pollard Pools; Bronze,
Polar Pools
Cat 1a: Residential
Concrete Pools-Traditional
or Geometric $50,000 to
$100,000
Gold, MP Designer Pools;
Bronze, Premier Pools;
Bronze, Pollard Pools
Cat 1b: Residential Concrete
Pools-Traditional or
Geometric over $100,000
Gold, Mediterranean Pools;
Silver, Mediterranean Pools;
Bronze, Pride Pools
Cat 2: Residential Concrete
Pools-Freeform or Natural
up to $50,000
Gold, Pollard Pools; Silver,
Mirage Pools; Bronze, Aurora
Landscaping & Pools
Cat 2a: Residential
Concrete Pools-Freeform or
Natural $50,000 to $100,000
Gold, Wright Pools
Cat 3: Residential Fibreglass
Pools up to $30,000
Gold, A1 Pools & Spas;
Silver, Tranquility Pools &
Spas; Bronze, Narellan Pools
Riverina
Cat 3a: Residential
Fibreglass Pools over
$30,000
Gold, Narellan Pools Central
West & Blue Mountains;
Silver, Narellan Pools South
Coast; Bronze, Narellan Pools
Cat 7: Residential Enclosed/
Indoor Pools
Gold, Architectural Pools;
Silver, Leader Landscaping
& Pools
Cat 8: Spas and Hot Tubs
Gold, Designer Pools; Silver,
Concept Pools; Bronze, Pol-
lard Pools
Cat 10: Commercial Pools
or Spas below $250,000
Gold, Mediterranean Pools;
Silver, Wright Pools
Cat 10a: Commercial Pools
or Spas over $250,000
Silver, Wright Pools Pty Ltd
Cat 11: Renovations Under
$20,000
Gold, Smart Pools &
Renovations
Cat 11a: Renovations Over
$20,000
Gold, Pride Pools
Cat 12: Innovative
Gold, Wright Pools
Cat 13: Water Feature
Gold, Bazley Pools & Spas;
Silver, Liquid Pool Design;
Bronze, Designer Pools
Cat 14: Lap Pools
Gold, Mediterranean Pools;
Silver, Blue Haven Pools &
Spas; Bronze, Polar Pools
Pool Shop of the Year
Winner, Sapphire Wetwork
Pool & Spa
Most Innovative New
Product
Winner, Hurlcon GX Series
cartridge lters
Salesmen of the Year
Stephen Rowbottom - Narel-
lan Pools Riverina; Hardy
Hinze - Water Wise Pool
Services
Special Award
Platinum, Mediterranean
Pools
HERE IS THE FULL LIST OF THE
SPASA NSW STATE AWARDS
SPLASH! | 17
Sout h Aust ralian Awards
Concrete Pools, Traditional/
Geometric up to $50,000
Gold, Bonasera Pools; Silver,
Bonasera Pools; Bronze,
Peressin Pools
Concrete Pools, Traditional/
Geometric over $50,000
Gold, Bonasera Pools; Silver,
Peressin Pools; Bronze, Bo-
nasera Pools
Concrete Pools, Freeform/
Natural up to $50,000
Gold, Blackwood Pools; Sil-
ver, Peressin Pools; Bronze,
Alpha Pools
Concrete Pools, Freeform
/Natural over $50,000
Gold, Poolscapes; Silver,
Peressin Pools
Residential Fibreglass Pools
under $50,000
Gold, Freeform Pools; Silver,
Freeform Pools
Residential Vinyl
Inground Pools
Gold, Riv Form Pools & Spas;
Silver, Riv Form Pools &
Spas; Bronze, Pleasure Pools
Residential Pre Engineeered
Vinyl Above Ground Pools
Gold, Alpha Pools; Silver,
Alpha Pools; Bronze,
Classic Pools
Indoor Pools
Gold, Peressin Pools
Spas Combined
Concrete
Gold, Peressin
Pools; Silver,
Peressin Pools
Lap Pools
Gold, Natural
Pools; Silver, Black-
wood Pools; Bronze,
Alpha Pools
D isplay Pools
Gold, Blackwood Pools
Commercial Pools over
$250,000
Gold, South Pacic Pools
Renovations up to $20,000
Gold, Big Splash Fibreglass;
Silver, Quantum Pools
Renovations over $20,000
Gold, Big Splash Fibreglass;
Silver, Quantum Pools
Best Water Feature
Gold, Riv Form Pools &
Spas; Silver, Quantum Stone;
Bronze, Peressin Pools
Best Spa Shop
Gold, Affordable Spas; Silver,
Adelaide All Spas Paraeld
Best Pool Shop
Gold, PoolWerx West Lakes;
Silver, Poolside Gawler;
Bronze, Poolside Lifestyle
Aberfoyle Park
Best Service Technician
Gold, PoolWerx West Lakes
Luke Duncan; Silver,
Advanced Pools Maurice;
Silver, Advanced Pools- Luke;
Bronze, Poolside Lifestyle
Aberfoyle Park Ian Bale
POOL AWARDS WERE ALSO HANDED OUT IN SOUTH
AUSTRALIA. THE WINNERS ARE:
Si l ver Award f or Wat er
Feat ures, Quant um St one
The
Revolutionary New
Sprinta
New Intelligent Steering System
New Powerful Sprinta Turbine
Fast Powerful Cleaning
Suitable for all Pools
Unstickable




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The New Sprinta
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After years of research and
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Australias own Klever Kleena Company has set a new
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made by For more information Freecall 1800 777 255
SPLASH! | 19
industry news
NEW FOCUS ON BUSINESS
DEVELOPMENT
FOCUS Products have appointed
Graeme Krueger as business
development manager for Gold
Coast, Northern Rivers and Central
Queensland. Kruegers background
is in steam engineering, swimming
pool construction and in owning
and managing a pool shop.
Krueger brings a wealth of experi-
ence from both inside and outside
the industry, as well as contacts from many years building,
treating and selling pool and spa products.
Krueger is also experienced in many other aspects of water
treatment from his background in steam engineering. He
is proficient at diagnosing problems for difficult pools, not
only chemically but hydraulically as well. He is well versed
in commercial applications as well as domestic. While he
will be servicing the Gold Coast, Northern Rivers and Cen-
tral Queensland regions, he is also happy to assist Focus
customers wherever they need him. He can be contacted
on 0437 038 884.
MAKING A MARK IN WATER
JULIAN Gray has been
appointed CEO of the
Smart Approved WaterMark
Scheme, which is about to
enter a new phase to be an-
nounced by Malcolm Turn-
bull in December.
Gray intends to lead the Mark
through this new phase, which
will see the Marks more wide-
spread application. Since its
inception as the nationally rec-
ognized accreditation scheme
for outdoor products, a range of products from swimming pool
covers to soil wetting agents have been awarded the Mark.
However its promotion had been limited by a lack of fund-
ing, but is now set to receive a $1.3m grant from the National
Water Commission.
A national ofce has been established in Sydney with
Grays appointment. He has more than 15 years international
experience in marketing and conservation, working for a
European regional branding initiative and a UK experiment
in regional conservation.
The Smart Approved WaterMark scheme is managed by
a steering committee comprising Australias peak bodies of
the urban water industry and leading authorities on outdoor
water along with water utilities and Commonwealth and
State Government representatives. The scheme was set-up
by the Australian Water Association (AWA); the Irrigation As-
sociation of Australia (IAA); the Nursery and Garden Industry
Australia (NGIA); and the Water Services Association of
Australia (WSAA).
BARRIER REEF NOW A WA LANDMARK
THE Barrier Reef may not be shifting from the Pacic to the
Indian Ocean, but Barrier Reef Pools are shifting from the
sunshine state to the golden west.
The major Australian breglass pool manufacturer has been
based for many years in Queensland, rst in Cairns and then
near the Gold Coast. The company will now be headquartered
in the Perth suburb of Canning Vale.
SYDNEY SPA POOL DIRECTOR BANNED
FOR FIVE YEARS
ASIC has banned Mr Ramses Awadallah, of Denham Court,
New South Wales, from managing corporations for ve years.
Mr Awadallah was banned after ASIC found that he had been
involved in the management of three companies which have
been placed in liquidation over eight years, all of which carried
on essentially the same spa pool construction and sale business
in succession.
MOBILE POOL BUSINESS FOR SALE
CHARLIE Hatty is selling his mobile pool maintenance
business, Aqua Blue Pool and Spa Services, which operates
in Western Sydney. If anyone is interested please
call 0418 400 387.
Indust r y moves
luslrolio`s lorgesl evenl for
monufoclurers, reloilers, pool builders,
conlroclors, orchilecls, londscopers ond
service lechnicions.
(%"(&?JAN'%%-
8dcgVY?je^iZgh
<daY8dVhi!6jhigVa^V
lll#heaVh]Zmed#Xdb#Vj
For sponsorship enquiries please
call nterpoint Events on
I02J 0 2113
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SPLASH! | 21
NSPI launches
new water baby
industry feature
T
he NSPI has launched
a new course designed
to provide training and
national industry accredita-
tion to pool water maintenance
technicians.
NSPI training liaison co-or-
dinator, Grant Rangi, says that
the course was devised after
unprecedented interest from
the industry.
The response has been bril-
liant, Rangi says. From the one
article in SPLASH! in April and a
bit of word of mouth, weve had a
couple of hundred enrolments.
The SPLASH! article, about
the Certicate 3 course in Swim-
ming Pool and Spa Construction
and Maintenance, generated a
large number of enquiries from
the pool maintenance side.
To ensure the course would
be available to as many people
as possible and to maintain
exibility, it was designed as
a correspondence course,
making participation easier for
people from areas outside the
capital cities.
We want to cater for all of
the industry, says Rangi. Not
just part of it.
Because it is run by cor-
respondence, a workplace
mentoring system has been set
up. Each trainee must already
be working in the industry, and
must be mentored in the work-
place to validate the training.
Rangi says they had no trou-
ble nding suitable mentors, as
the interest from industry was
fantastic and many experienced
practitioners wanted to see the
course become a success.
Normally theres coaching
and mentoring at some level in
any workplace, he says. And all
the learning materials have been
developed with this in mind.
Of course, workplace men-
tors are vetted to maintain the
credibility of the program.
Rangi also says that many
industry members have contrib-
uted to helping build the course
at no charge because theyre
passionate about the industry
having formal recognition, and
that pool/spa water maintenance
becomes appreciated as a spe-
cialist part of the pool industry.
The program currently has 11
workplace assessors who have
obtained the Certicate IV in
Workplace Training and Assess-
ment and are available to do
assessments nationwide. These
assessors have come from or
still work in the swimming
pool and spa industry, and have
many years of experience in
both the building and works
maintenance areas as well as
pool/spa water maintenance.
Already, four trainees have
graduated, covering all three
strands.
The employees of graduates
are using the accreditation
as a marketing tool and to
help with this aim, the NSPI
is providing stickers for shop
windows and vehicles as well
as badges and certicates.
The accreditation will be valid
for four years. The restricted
period is to help maintain
currency of skills and to help
ensure professional standards.
The NSPI will be running pro-
fessional development courses
to keep trainees updated.
Rangi lists some of the
advantages of the course being
its exibility thanks to it being
carried out by correspondence
and the fact that it is highly
relevant because it is industry-
based training rather than just
classroom-based.
People can do it without being
away from the workplace be-
cause that costs time and money
and they can do it at their own
pace, he says.
Also, the national nature of the
course is attractive and it is due
to go international in the future.
The NSPI is currently devel-
oping another 14 training areas
focussing on pool structure
maintenance, including install-
ing breglass shells, site super-
visions, construction and instal-
lation projects, laying swimming
pool coping and tiles, vinyl liner
installation and repairs, pool
heating and pool excavation.
Weve been working with the
government health department
regulators and local govern-
ment as a well, as theyve been
looking for a course thats ex-
ible enough, he says.
Weve had a lot of support
from the industry and thats
the key. Its amazing and it
shows you the level of interest.
Its an industry thats scream-
ing out for recognition.
The NSPI website is in the
process of being upgraded,
at which time the names of
graduates will be posted. For
more information go to www.
nspi.com.au.
Pool Tech I (Pool Water Analysis) is specically designed for the
in-store water consultant, and complements any industry- or
supplier-based training.
Pool Tech II (Domestic Pool Water Service) is designed for
the retail-based or mobile operator visiting residential sites on
a regular basis. It also complements any industry, supplier or
franchise training.
Pool Tech III (Domestic/Commercial Pool Water Service) is
designed for the on-site operator (or contract service provider)
for residential or public facilities and complements any local
authority or government health guidelines and any industry,
supplier or franchise based training.
Delivery: Each NSPI course module is delivered and assessed
via correspondence, which means the trainee can complete
each of them in their own time, at their own pace, anywhere.
The trainee is provided with high level training materials, spe-
cically developed by NSPI as appropriate to each module for
distance learning.
RPL: NSPI acknowledges that some trainees may have already
gained sufcient pool/spa water maintenance skills on-the-job
or by other learning experiences over time. Therefore, Recogni-
tion of Prior Learning pathways are provided in all assessments.
There are three modules in the Pool/Spa Water Maintenance accreditation certicate
Graham Jackl ey, manager of Al l ans Pool Shop i n Cai r ns and
t he rst person i n Queensl and t o obt ai n Accredi t ed Speci al i st
st at us i n pool / spa wat er mai nt enance (domest i c/ commerci al
pool wat er ser vi ces)
22 | SPLASH!
residential prole
We caught up with Poolrite CEO Ross Palmer
at the SPLASH! Expo on the Gold Coast. He was
very excited about the launch of a series of new
products which he says are healthier, more
efcient and, importantly, will save water.
Poolrite get s
water- wise
S
uccessful businessman Ross Palmer
has owned Poolrite since 1999, but
only recently he decided to take the
reigns and run the company as CEO.
His rst major task is to launch the new
Magna Pool System a combined chlorina-
tor and lter media which he says could save
Australia three billion litres of water each year.
Ive owned the company for seven
years, says Palmer. During those seven
years I was a non-executive director and
had professional management in place.
Palmer says that was an appropriate
structure during the transition phase,
which included the move from Sydney
to Brisbane, but the time had come to
embrace a model which could more readily
accommodate innovation and growth.
At a certain point in time, it was probably
necessary for the health and future direction
of the company that the management philoso-
phies and culture had to change, he says.
Palmer had previously founded and run
steel tube giant, Palmer Tube Mills, for the
best part of 20 years.
Now, he is leading Poolrite with a team
of young executives.
My real love is nancing, marketing and
invention, he says. Which doesnt always
coincide with corporate structures. But as
a visionary leader I have roles under myself
for the young executives who run the busi-
ness operationally on a day to day basis.
These include Van K who has responsibility
for operations and supply chain/logistics; mar-
keting manager Craig Mallory; and Chris Papa
who is a long serving Poolrite sales executive.
Colin Redman heads up Poolrite Equip-
ments sister company, Poolrite Research,
which carries out engineering research, de-
velopment, market concepts and designs.
Palmer is the CEO of both companies.
The rst cab off the rank for Poolrite
Research is the Magna Pool range. This
includes Magna Blu and Diamond Kleen
two products Palmer claims will substan-
tially reduce the water waste in the swim-
ming pool industry.
Diamond Kleen is new type of lter me-
dia, made from crushed amorphous glass.
Palmer says that crushed amorphous glass
has been successfully used in Britain for
the past ten years by Dryden Aqua.
We have a joint venture going with an
Australian inventor/entrepreneur, says
Palmer. And we actually recycle beer bot-
tles. So we want people to drink more beer
so we get more glass!
By its nature, being amorphous, its a
different particle geometry to silica sand or
zeolite, he says. Bacteria cant crawl into
the crevices.
Palmer says that trials have shown that
in an 8000 sand lter, silica sand traps to a
depth of 100mm. He says Diamond Kleen
traps to a depth of 175mm. This, he says, is
because it works on a combination of me-
chanical entrapment and a negative ionic
charge on the surface of the glass.
He says the benets of this include requir-
ing less water for backwashing, and either
consuming 25 per cent less power or turning
the pool over 25 per cent more quickly.
The main reason he has been bring-
ing this product to market, however, is to
combine it with the Magna Blu chlorinator
to form the Magna Pool System.
Palmer says it is possible to recycle
backwashed water from Magna Blu sani-
tised pools. However, that relies on also re-
ducing the amount of bacteria backwashed
out of the lter. He says that Diamond
Kleen was the answer.
A gram of silica sand contains 3.6 million
bacteria, he says. In a gram of the English
glass material, its less than one. Thats not
less than one million, its less than one!
Magna Blu is a salt chlorinator with a dif-
ference. Instead of using sodium chloride, it
uses the non-sodium based salts, potassi-
um chloride and magnesium chloride. One
result is that the water contains no sodium
residue the major impediment to re-using
backwashed water.
Both the salts are natural fertilisers,
says Palmer. So you can put them straight
onto your lawn, instead of adding to the
salinity of our ecosystems. The potassium
is good for root structure in plants, and
the magnesium is what makes chlorophyll
in plants and makes them green. And you
wont get that with sodium chloride.
At our estimation, if it was used in all do-
mestic pools, wed be saving Australia about
3 billion litres of fresh water per year.
And were stopping the backwashing of
sodium chloride salts into the ecosystem,
which actually degrade stormwater systems
and if they get into fresh water creeks, they
play havoc with ora and fauna.
Magnesium chloride is in ocean water
its the second most common element in
there, 1200ppm after sodium chloride.
Palmer and his team are also studying
the hypothesis that it is actually the mag-
nesium in the ocean that give sea water its
sanitising properties, rather than the com-
monly held belief that it is the sodium.
We see a big market for our Magna Pool
System, he says. Our target is actually the
dry countries of the world. Australia, of course,
the Middle East, the Mediterranean. And the
drier parts of the United States, like Arizona
where water is an absolute precious resource.
Its funny that these are also the places with
the highest number of swimming pools.
The worldwide launch of the Magna Pool
System was at the SPLASH! Expo on the
Gold Coast. It has since been followed by
demonstrations in Lyon and Las Vegas.
Poolrite has now nalised the patents on
the Magna Pool System and is preparing to
market it during 2007.
Pool ri t e CEO Ross Pal mer
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24 | SPLASH!
L
ike far too many people, I hadnt
studied any rst aid or resuscitation
since I did my Bronze Star back in
high school.
So when the chance was offered, I took
advantage of the Royal Life Saving CPR
course. It took four hours to learn basic
resuscitation tech-
niques and some
very basic rst aid.
Im certainly not a
medic, but at least
I will have some
knowledge if I ever
end up in the shock-
ing situation of hav-
ing to help someone
survive an accident
or near drowning.
I shared the course
with people from
all walks of life, but
most were involved in some form of teach-
ing, sport instruction or a job where there
was a risk of accidents.
Ironically, while most people were doing
this course for their work, statistics show
that if you need to use CPR, chances are
youll use it on one of your loved ones. That
helps bring the whole thing into a bit of
perspective. Its not just a duty its some-
thing tangible to help you and yours.
After learning the skills we were given
a practical test and a theory exam. I am
pleased to say, I now have a Resuscitation
Certificate. This will
have to be updated
with a short re-
fresher course in 12
months time.
Naturally, pro-
fessionals in pool
management already
have skills far in
excess of this simple
four-hour course.
But we all should
have at least this basic level of competen-
cy. Resuscitation, or mouth-to-mouth, is
a skill every Australian should know the
life you save with this knowledge may be a
loved one, and should an emergency situ-
ation arise, the precious minutes wasted
without response can be a matter of life
and death.
As the Royal Life Saving motto says:
Everyone can be a lifesaver.
For more information on resuscitation,
rst aid and other courses, call Royal Life
Saving on 1300 737 763.
A few hours study to save a life
It pays for everyone to know at least basic CPR
and rst aid, especially in our industry
industry feature
By Chri s Maher
Resuscitation facts
Q. What is resuscitation?
A. Resuscitation is described by the
Australian Resuscitation Council
(ARC) as the preservation or resto-
ration of life by the establishment
and/or maintenance of airway,
breathing and circulation and related
emergency care. That is, resuscita-
tion involves stimulating someones
breathing who is unconscious by
stimulating their heart and breathing
air into their lungs.
Q. Why should I learn resuscitation?
A. We know that in most cases when
an emergency occurs, a family mem-
ber is the rst on the scene. Having
the skills to react in an emergency
situation can mean the difference
between life and death while you wait
for emergency care to arrive.
Q. What is DRABC
A. Resuscitation training follows the
simple principle of:
Danger Check for danger, to self, to
bystanders, to victim
Response Squeeze the victims
shoulder and shout Are you OK?
Airway Check and clear
Breathing Look, listen and feel
Circulation Check pulse
Debrillation When available, attach
a debrillator and follow the prompts
Q. Where can I learn resuscitation?
A. Royal Life Saving is one or-
ganisation that offers Resuscitation
courses to the public. Courses are
approximately four hours in duration
and your skills should be updated
annually. However, you can also do a
first aid course, which provides you
with a range of skills for emergency
situations. It is also possible for
some people to do theory aspects
of some courses online to reduce
class time. Contact your nearest
Royal Life Saving office on 1300 737
763 to find out where and when the
courses are available.
Real life story of Jane, mother of two
children in rural Australia
I had only been inside for a minute when I realised I could no longer hear my two
year old, I raced outside and found him face down in the pool. I pulled him out and
commenced resuscitation while I screamed for my husband to call an ambulance.
Living on a rural property, it took the ambulance over 25 minutes to reach us. I had
taken a resuscitation course when my children were born, always hoping I would
never have to use it. During the time waiting for the ambulance I commenced resus-
citation on my son who was not breathing. When the ambulance arrived my son was
breathing again. Both ambulance ofcers and doctors said that had I not commenced
resuscitation the time lapse could have meant my son would be more likely to have
died or sustained a degree of brain damage.
Resuscitation checklist
Do you have resuscitation skills?
Are they current? (i.e. have they been
updated in the last 12 months?)
Do you have a resuscitation
poster visible around the home
and in the pool area?
Do you have emergency numbers
near your phone?
Do you have directions to your
house near your phone if emer-
gency personnel need these?
Inst ruct or Bob Ryan
demonst rat es t he
Recover y Posi t i on
Perth Sydney Brisbane Melbourne International
Australias largest supplier of pool blankets and rollers
Call 1300 551 811 or www.daisypoolcovers.com.au
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youll be delighted dealing with Daisy
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Keep out leaves and dirt
Better back-up
If you ever have a problem with a Daisy product Call
us and well fix it.
Well also back you up with a great range of sales tools,
including extensive point-of-sale material, brochures
and other promotional tools, technical assistance and
advice, and information on the growing number of water
conservation pool cover rebate schemes.
Our website is constantly updated, and contains a
wealth of information and downloadable sales materials,
including our informative Fact Sheets.
It also features a secure Daisy Dealer Centre with an
online Quote Calculator, as well as online ordering and
payment options.
Add all that to record-breaking delivery times, and a
no-fuss, well fix it Service Promise, and you can
see why so many pool professional are delighted to deal
with Daisy.
If you havent already, why dont you join them?
SPLASH! | 27
Getting Stern about the
water crisis
The focus has shifted from a discussion
simply about what to do over the lack of
water, to the question of why we dont have
the water anymore.
The main catalyst for this, the Stern Re-
view, has seen a number of players change
stances on this issue.
The report was released by Nicholas
Stern not a tree-hugging greenie, but
a former World Bank economist. Stern
unreservedly accepts that climate change
is happening, is to blame for many current
problems including water availability, and
is probably caused by human activity.
However, what sets this report apart
from others is that rather than merely plac-
ing a cost on the activity to remedy climate
change, it has also placed a cost on the
decision to do nothing about it. And the lat-
ter cost is vastly more than the former. The
other key point is that something has to be
done now the longer we wait, the worse
the consequences and the greater the cost.
Lack of water is one of the major symptoms
and consequences of global warming. Others
include lower food production, worsening
human health and a deteriorating natural
environment. Stern says hundreds of millions
of people will be directly affected, but the
indirect effects will reach almost everyone.
The cost of acting on global warming was
priced at about 1% of GDP per year. Doing
nothing would cost between 5% and 20% of
GDP per year.
Faced with the prospect of being blamed
for costly inaction, politicians of all hues are
on the water wagon and promising money to
fund projects which will slow global warming.
Ultimately, stabilisation requires that an-
nual carbon emissions be brought down to
more than 80% below current levels.
Emissions can be cut through increased
energy efciency, changes in demand, and
through adoption of clean power, heat and
transport technologies.
Even with very strong expansion of the
use of renewable energy and other low-car-
bon energy sources, fossil fuels could still
make up over half of global energy supply
in 2050. Coal will continue to be important
in the energy mix around the world, includ-
ing in fast-growing economies. Extensive
carbon capture and storage will be neces-
sary to allow the continued use of fossil
fuels without damage to the atmosphere.
The report also recommends emissions
trading, international technology coopera-
tion, action to reduce deforestation and
adaptation to climate change.
Political promises
The Federal Government announced a
number of promises, including $60 million
to be spent on 42 projects aimed at reduc-
ing greenhouse gases. The Federal Opposi-
tion has said this is too little, too late.
The Federal Government also recently con-
vened a Water Summit, but some considered
it wasnt a serious attempt at nding solu-
tions, as it was held on Melbourne Cup Day.
No substantial agreements were reached.
The Federal Government is in favour of the
cleaner use of fossil fuels, in particular coal,
and has also been promoting the possibility
of a nuclear powered Australia. While having
many serious problems including the disposal
of nuclear waste and the risk of meltdown, the
positive for nuclear power plants is the fact that
they generate almost no greenhouse gases.
Many are worried about nuclear power,
however, including Queensland Premier
Peter Beattie who has said that, amongst
the other problems, nuclear power stations
would use 25 per cent more water than coal-
red power stations. He said the extra 25,000
megalitres needed annually per power plant
was wasteful during the current situation.
Recently, the Federal Government has an-
nounced an enquiry into possibly accepting
some form of carbon trading one of the
key recommendations in the Stern report.
Meanwhile, the City of Sydney Council is
aiming to achieve a 100 per cent reduction
in greenhouse gas emissions. The council
has begun seeking tenders to offset all of
Council greenhouse gas emissions, us-
ing only accredited green power or other
approved offsets. The council formally en-
dorsed the principles of the Kyoto Protocol.
Drip feed of water projects
Many small projects are being tried around
the country in an attempt to make the most
of our limited water resources.
SPASA Victoria is behind a study on the
use of bore water to ll new pools in Mel-
bourne, hoping to have a bore set up for the
purpose early next year. This is following
the success of such operations in Bendigo
and Horsham. The belief is the relatively
high salt content in the water will be com-
patible with salt chlorinated pools.
On the NSW Central Coast, a plan is
afoot to pump water from the Hunter valley
into the coastal areas, which are experi-
encing the worst drought on record. The
pipeline is expected to replace the need
for more than a dozen small, temporary
desalination plants which were due to be
established on the coasts beaches.
Parramatta City Council has set up a
scheme where it will install discounted 5000L
water tanks on residents properties. The res-
idents can then pay back the cost (expected
to be less than $1000) over twelve months.
Logging in Melbournes catchment is to
blame for losing up to 20,000 megalitres of
water a year, according to the Wilderness
Society and the Australian Conservation
Foundation, setting up a debate about ban-
ning logging in catchment areas.
Sydney City Council is planning to collect
stormwater from the Cross City Tunnel,
store it under Hyde and Cook & Phillip
Parks to use for watering the city park-
lands. It represents a potential saving of
nearly 100 megalitres per year.
The Gold Coast City Councils high growth
area of Pimpama Coomera has been
recognised internationally thanks to the
Waterfuture Master Plan, which has won an
award at the International Water Associa-
tion Project Innovation Awards.
The Sydney Water Corporation has been
awarded the 2006 Stockholm Industry Water
Award for its Every Drop Counts (EDC) Busi-
ness Program. The program demonstrates
how the utility is working in partnership with
business, industry and government.
Updates on the water crisis and climate change
A dr y argument
industry feature
28 | SPLASH!
industry feature
Soaking in success
The way to grow a business is to get more sales. Discover Performance
trainer, Jeff Stibbard, offers advice on how to improve your selling technique.
industry feature
W
hat separates successful sales people from everyone
else? I believe that most successful sales people in the
pool industry possess the following characteristics.
1) They are persistent. Selling or running a business for a living re-
quires a tremendous amount of persistence. Obstacles loom in front
of us on a regular basis, but its what you do when faced with these
barriers that will determine your level of success. The most success-
ful people in any industry have
learned to face obstacles. They
look for new solutions. They are
tenacious. They refuse to give up.
2) Successful sales people
are passionate. They love their
company and they exude pride
when talking about their products
and services. The more passion-
ate you are about your career,
the greater the chance you will
succeed. The reason for this is
simple; when you love what you
do you are going to put more ef-
fort into your work. When you are
passionate about the products or
services you sell, your enthusi-
asm will shine brightly in every
conversation. If you arent genu-
inely excited about selling your
particular product or service, give
serious consideration to mak-
ing a change. You are not doing
yourself, or your company, any
favours by continuing to repre-
sent something you cant get
excited about.
3) Great sales people ask qual-
ity questions. The best sales peo-
ple ask their clients and prospect
plenty of quality questions to fully
determine their situation and
buying needs. They know that the
most effective way to present their product or service is to uncover
their customers goals and objectives.
4) Successful sales people listen. Most sales people will ask a
question then give their customer the answer, or continue to talk
afterwards instead of waiting for their response. Great sales people
know that customers will tell them everything they need to know if
given the right opportunity. They ask questions and listen care-
fully to the responses often taking notes and summarising their
understanding of the customers comments. They have learned that
silence is golden.
5) Successful sales people are avid goal setters. They know what
they want to accomplish and they plan their approach. They make
sure their goals are specic, motivational, achievable yet chal-
lenging, relevant to their personal situation and time-framed. They
visualise their target, determine how they will achieve their goal
and take action on a daily basis.
6) Successful sales people are enthusiastic. They are always in a
positive mood even during dif-
cult times and their enthusi-
asm is contagious. They seldom
talk poorly of the company or
the business. When faced with
unpleasant or negative situations
they choose to focus on the posi-
tive elements instead of allowing
themselves to be dragged down.
7) Successful sales people take
responsibility for their results.
They do not blame internal
problems, the economy, tough
competitors, or anything else if
they fail to meet their sales quo-
tas. They know that their actions
alone will determine their results
and they do what is necessary.
8) Successful sales people
work hard. Most people want
to be successful but they arent
prepared to work hard to achieve
it. Sales superstars dont wait
for business to come to them;
they go after it. They usually start
work earlier than their co-work-
ers and stay later than everyone
else. They make more calls,
prospect more consistently, talk
to more people and give more
sales presentations than their
co-workers.
9) Successful sales people
keep in touch with their clients. They know that constant contact
helps keep clients so they use a variety of approaches to accom-
plish this. They send thank you, birthday and anniversary cards.
They make phone calls and schedule regular keep in touch
breakfast and lunch meetings. They send articles of value to their
customers and send an email newsletter. They are constantly on
the lookout for new and creative ways to keep their name in their
customers minds.
If you want to learn more about improving sales techniques, call
Jeff at Discover Performance on 1300 135 818.
i st ockphot o
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30 | SPLASH!
Swimming with the
dragon
Tracey Wood looks at the opportunities and
obstacles in doing pool business in China.
C
hinas rapid economic growth is rarely out of the news. With
a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of $US2.5 trillion, a mar-
ket of 1.3 billion people and negotiations for a Free Trade
Agreement with Australia well advanced, Chinas emergence into a
dominant economy appears to promise boom times for businesses
that get in quick.
But will the hype translate into sustained economic returns? The
short answer is probably yes but doing business in China demands a
different, very diligent approach and long-term commitment. Busi-
nesses that regard China as a get rich quick opportunity are bound
to fail, but savvy Australian companies with the right modus operandi
have successfully integrated China into their corporate development.
Chinas re-entry into the global economy dates back to 1979 when
Premier Deng Xiapongs reforms started a sustained upward trajec-
tory in Chinese living standards. Today, China is the worlds sixth
largest economy and could replace Germany as the worlds third
largest economy behind the United States and Japan within 10 years.
The growth is not evenly spread, however, with Chinas coastal
provinces enjoying the greatest economic benets so far.
With annual GDP growth hovering around 10 per cent, very low
ination, and an emerging middle class, Chinese demand for a
huge range of goods and services is growing. Australias merchan-
dise trade with China was already growing steadily when it took
off in 2004 to reach $37.5 billion in 2005. Most of this is Chinese
imports into Australia ($21.3 billion), although Australian exports
to China reached $16 billion in 2005 and have been growing at an
average of 10 per cent annually for the last ve years. China is
already Australias second-largest merchandise trading partner.
From the Chinese perspective, Australia ranks 14th as an export
destination, way behind the top three of the United States, Hong
Kong and Japan; and for imports, Australia is Chinas ninth largest
source. Australian exports to China are still dominated by com-
modities; while Australia mainly imports clothing, computers, toys,
games and sporting goods, and telecommunications equipment.
residential feature
i st ockphot o/ St i l a Goh
SPLASH! | 31
Clearly, theres scope for growth in manufactured goods and
services. Sino-Australian negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement
began in April 2005 and the sixth round of negotiations was held
in September 2006. The Australian Government believes an FTA
will result in greater trade and investment ows across all sectors
as tariff barriers are removed. At 9.9 per cent, Chinese tariffs are
relatively high. Removing tariffs will reduce the price of Australian
products in China and could boost Australian exports to China by
an additional $US3.2 billion ($AU4.3 billion) by 2015.
Getting in the swim
As Chinese household incomes and living standards increase and
the small but expanding middle class embraces a more Western life-
style, interest in aquatic-based leisure activities is growing and the
Chinese government is supporting rapid infrastructure development.
China has been increasingly successful at international swim-
ming and diving competitions. Whether this success and hosting
the 2008 Olympic Games and 2010 Asian Games in Guangzhou
will have much lasting impact on aquatic leisure activity some
industry sources expect an explosion in interest, others are less en-
thusiastic theres no doubt Chinese demand for swimming facili-
ties is rising, as evidenced by the number of aquatic centres being
planned and constructed and the success of Chinas rst pool trade
show in 2005 (the next is scheduled for 2007 in Shanghai).
Much of this is inspired by the 2008 Olympics which alone has
accounted for a 1.5 per cent jump in GDP. Australians are already
well represented: Australias PTW Architects won an international
competition to design Beijings National Swimming Centre, the fa-
mous WaterCube; and Bligh Voller Nield won the design rights for
the Beijing Olympic Green precinct and the Beijing Aquatic Park.
Austrades Beijing-based Trade Commissioner, Paul Sanda, sees
opportunities for the Australian pool and spa industry to tap into
Chinas growing interest and investment in the public leisure sector
and watersports.
Most of the growth for pools in China is denitely in the public
sector, he says.
Swimming is a preferred pastime for children and encouraged
by parents. There is increasing growth in spas and resort-type de-
velopments in China based around health and relaxation, with large
cities seeing an expansion of the health spa concept.
There are opportunities in China, particularly related to re-
sort/theme and other tourist accommodation, but it is very much
Most pool const ruct i on i n Chi na i s i n t he publ i c/ commerci al sect or.
32 | SPLASH!
project-based and, of course, very competitive with China
producing its own products over the last few years and
foreign companies already setting up manufacturing.
The SGL Group was involved in planning for Beijings
National Swimming Centre and is opening an ofce in Shenzhen in
China, in partnership with Peddle Thorpe Architects, to manage its
burgeoning Chinese business.
SGLs director and project manager, Michael King, sees plenty of
opportunity in Chinas massive facilities development but warns
its a tough place to work.
King says that with a huge population and relatively little leisure
infrastructure, Chinese facilities usually operate in two-hour sessions
which could cost users as much as half a weeks wage. With 18 million
people living in a radius of 40 kilometres in Beijing, there isnt much
outdoors in Chinese cities, so public/commercial facilities are vital.
His advice to anyone interested in joining the development boom
is to recognise that Australian business practices dont mean much
in a country that is still very government-oriented. Although Shang-
hai and other provinces are relatively open, government involve-
ment increases closer to Beijing.
SGL works with local government design institutes which he
believes are as close to commercial operations as a one-party state
can get, and advises Australian businesses to form partnerships
with local organisations which are extremely interested in learning
from Australian companies.
You need to understand the way they do business there and talk
to other companies and Australia-China agencies, he advises.
The Olympics are totally changing business in China and they
are very keen to learn. If you have a local partnership and give them
[the Chinese] an active role, youll last longer.
You probably wont nish a project exactly like
you expect and you need to budget for that. Make
sure that in the last stages you have deliverables
that need payment and never do more than whats
expected. But if youre prepared to enter into good
partnerships and share, youll be OK.
And, having watched designs very similar to his
pop up around China, Mr King identies intellec-
tual property protection as a major issue.
Although most Chinese pool and spa develop-
ment is focused on the public/commercial sector,
China Pool Spas international marketing director,
Monica Zhou, also sees opportunities in the resi-
residential feature
Const ruct i on of t he Wat erCube f or t he Bei j i ng Ol ympi cs. The Pool was pl anned by SGL Group i n part nershi p wi t h PTW Archi t ect s. Phot os court esy of Arup.
RIGHT: Det ai l of t he Wat erCubes ext eri or
ABOVE: An i mpressi on of t he rest aurant
LEFT: An i mpressi on of t he pool hal l
34 | SPLASH!
dential sector. She estimates some 60,000 to 80,000 pools are built
annually in China, including commercial and residential pools.
Real estate development continues its rapid growth and
high-end living is now the essential issue people consider when
purchasing assets. Therefore, swimming pool construction is also
increasing drastically, with estimated growth of 10 to 15 per cent
each year, she says.
Many luxury single houses and apartments are being built,
therefore, demand for pools and spas is high.
Nowadays, many residential gardens have their
own swimming pools built in the clubhouse to promote
their houses.
Ms Zhou said Australian-made pool products and
accessories are often cheaper than European and
American products.
This is the greatest opportunity we can see, she
says. To maintain quality but reduce price would be
helpful for Australian companies coming into China.
The best way for an Australian company to dip into
China is to joint-venture with a Chinese company, be-
cause then they can save the cost but have Australian
management.
Made in China
Along with infrastructure development, China also offers op-
portunities in manufacturing and importing. As the reputation of
Made-in-China products improves, relocating production to China
to take advantage of its relatively low labour costs and increasing
manufacturing and distribution sophistication has been successful
for many companies, although there are pitfalls.
Waterco established a factory in China four years ago and recent-
ly opened a new 12,000sqm facility for chemical packing, manu-
facturing, warehousing, sales and distribution in Guangzhou. The
company has transferred the manufacturing of products demand-
ing a high labour content from Malaysia to the new Chinese plant.
Along with new facilities in Malaysia representing a total
investment of $9 million in the two new plants Waterco expects
to triple its production output of composite pumps and lters and
increase its marketshare in the northern hemisphere.
Managing director, Soon Sinn Goh, said Waterco manufactured all
over the world to meet specic market demands, with the Chinese
operation focused on semi-commercial and commercial lters.
He said doing business in China was very dif-
cult at rst.
Language is a problem. Even though I speak a
dialect, I dont speak the national language so I had
to have a translator everywhere I went, he said.
The Chinese take a more short term approach
and react very quickly on price. Reliability of product
is not so important to them because labour costs
are lower and they can afford to have someone x it.
Maintaining quality is vital and Mr Goh warns
that the price of Chinese manufactured goods will
ultimately increase as rising labour costs coupled
with an appreciating Chinese currency drive
prices upwards.
Many [Australian] companies are no longer view-
ing China as the ultimate place for low cost labour,
said Mr Goh who has his eye on Chinas domestic
market, particularly the commercial sector: Most
foreign companies are in China to chase local sales.
Waterco is not alone and competi-
tion will be heightened as the Chinese
government entices more foreign
companies to manufacture in China.
Big names like American rms Hay-
ward, Pentair and Jacuzzi as well as
Astral have already made the move.
The price is right?
Price is a recurring theme for anyone
doing business in China. The Pool Tile
Companys managing director, Robert
James, admits it was the main factor in his decision to import tiles
and granite from China, but warns the savings can come at a cost.
Thoroughly researching suppliers, proactive management, and
checking and re-checking is essential.
Suppliers change prices without telling you, he said. They
[suppliers] all have an awesome stand at trade shows but rarely do
they own the factory they show you. I always take Chinese people
that I trust with me.
Mr James regards China as high maintenance supplier, requir-
ing up to ve visits a year and daily attention from Australia. He
employs a reliable middleman in China to check all supplies
before they leave.
residential feature
LEFT: Shanghai , one of t he Chi nese growt h cent res
Robert James wi t h hi s Chi nese grani t e
SPLASH! | 35
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Expect things to go wrong and know how to manage them,
he advises.
The lead times quoted and what they do can be two different
things. Six weeks will become 10 and you need to have the stock to
cover that period. Managing suppliers is a full-on issue but if you
can manage it, China can be a good source.
Mr James believes that exporting is not a priority for the Chinese
who can rely on a huge domestic market. When Italy was the
worlds largest tile exporter, he says, it exported 40 per cent of its
production. China is now the worlds largest tile exporter and it
exports only three per cent of production.
The export market is nothing to [the Chinese], he said. Export-
ing often happens by companies that cant sell locally.
As The Pool Tile Companys business expands, Mr James expects
to rely less on Chinese suppliers but China will always be part of
his supply network.
Chinas economic clout is being felt throughout the world and
Australia is not immune. Cheaper Chinese-produced products
squeeze margins on Australian-manufactured pool and spa equip-
ment. And Chinas voracious appetite for raw materials to feed
development means the price of steel, aluminium and other inputs
is rising. While BHP Billiton shareholders rejoice, such price pres-
sure affects the bottom line of Australian pool builders.
Taking the plunge
Whether its as a market, manufacturing site or import supplier,
China cannot be ignored in todays globalised world. Australian
expertise is well respected in a country so hungry for development,
so whats the best way to dive into China?
Austrades Paul Sanda outlined four main steps:
1. Research including the internet, consultants and media;
2. Competitor analysis;
3. Access information from Austrades overseas posts to pinpoint
opportunities; and
4. Visit the market when the research and consultation phases
are completed.
Australian companies are well regarded in China strong quality,
good technology and they have a reputation for being exible and
adapting to Chinese circumstances, Mr Sanda said.
There are a number of companies specialising in aspects of the
building and construction industry that are doing very well in China.
Australian architects have substantial business in China.
The comprehensive Austrade website, the Federal Department of
Foreign Affairs and Trade, and the Australia China Business Coun-
cil are great places to start. State Governments also offer extensive
export assistance programs and advice. Consult the Department of
State Development in Queensland; Vic Export and the Export Com-
munication Network in Victoria; and the Department of State and
Regional Development in New South Wales. Austrade has 15 ofces
in China and many State Governments are also represented there.
State and Federal agencies organise regular trade fairs, missions
and exhibitions, often with subsidised participation. They are a great
way to learn about the Chinese market, make contacts and assess
opportunities. Schedules and application criteria are available online.
Most states have special, sometimes exclusive agreements or
sister-city arrangements with Chinese cities or provinces. The
Queensland Government has agreements with the Shanghai Mu-
nicipality, Guangdong Province, the China National Development
and Reform Commission, and the Nanhui District; and New South
Wales has a sister-state relationship with Guangdong.
36 | SPLASH!
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residential feature
Sani t i sat ion met hods
new and old
Proper sani t i sat i on i s essent i al f or a heal t hy pool . i st ockphot o/ skodonnel
SPLASH! | 39
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S
anitisation occurs in conjunction with ltration and pool
cleaning to keep the pool water clean and free of dangerous
organisms.
This feature article is largely about sanitisation in general, and
so covers both residential and commercial aspects of this topic.
Industry experts have expressed a number of opinions and tech-
nical viewpoints in this feature. If you a point of view you would like
to express, please email chrismaher@intermedia.com.au to add to
the discussion.
The case for chlorine
William Bliss of Wobelea is a water sanitisation expert dealing
with swimming pools, air conditioning towers and food produc-
tion and export. Here, he offers some thoughts on the forms of
pool sanitisation that are proven to work and will continue to be
accepted as time goes on. His article largely relates to com-
mercial pools, but is equally relevant to the residential industry,
especially with the move to more heated indoor pools, and the
increasing battle with chloramines.
Dr Tom Lachocki at the recent Gold Coast Expo did not hesitate
to reinforce the position of chlorine as the most cost effective sani-
tiser both in commercial and domestic pool operations.
Looking at the list of currently APVMA-registered pool sanitisers,
the vast majority are chlorine-based. A lesser number of bro-
mine/chlorine products are specically aimed at the spa pool and
hydrotherapy area.
The anti-chlorine lobby are happy to decry chlorine as it de-
stroys the ozone layer. Chlorine as a gas, yes. Chlorine as
hypochlorite does not have an equal level of volatility or chemical
clout as the gas. As a commercial or domestic disinfectant, chlo-
rine gas is no longer used in Australia.
The ozone and chlorine dioxide promoters are happy to point
out that their respective products are more effective than chlorine
against cryptosporidium. Crypto is a very unpleasant and virulent
organism capable of making a commercial pool unusable for up to
24 hours.
Regular slug doses of chlorine dioxide are suggested by addi-
tions of stabilised chlorine dioxide. Ozone units are in general
run in combination with a chlorine dosing system; not so much
for crypto control, but to provide a residual of chlorine in the pool
water as required under State Health Regulations.
The other facet is the production of chloramines. Chloramines
are formed when chlorine reacts with organic matter in the form of
Sanitisation is a crucial and
constantly changing element
of pool maintenance. In this
feature, SPLASH! asks a
number of experts about what
is tried and true, what is new
and exciting, and what is just
around the corner.
40 | SPLASH!
human waste products such as perspiration, urine or faeces. If the
pool or spa is topped up or lled with surface water from a dam or
creek, then we have even more organic building blocks for other
types of chloramines. The main problem with chloramines is the
effect of eye irritation, odour complaints and structural corrosion.
Currently chloramine reduction is based on two approaches
best described as dump or thump. The dumpers recommend
removing pool water and replacing with fresh water. The technique
uses more water and more energy to heat the cold fresh water to a
comfortable level. The thumpers use shock doses of chlorine up
to 10ppm in an endeavour to burn out the offending chloramines.
While this approach may work with simple ammonia based chlo-
ramines, it is unlikely to succeed in removing more complicated
organics in fact, it may make the situation worse.
A rule of chemistry is based on the square of the concentrations
of the reactants. Hence, if we double the chlorine level, we stand to
get four times the yield of chloramines. This is a good example of
more is not better. More chlorine = more chloramine.
What options exist? Filtration as occulation ltration is
effective in reducing the quantity of long chain organics by trap-
ping these compounds in the lter. To be effective, it may require
ltration speeds of 20-25m/hr, that is, half the normal speed of
high rate sand lters. If space in the plant room permits, install a
second lter to match the existing one. For ltration, split the exist-
ing pump discharge to two lters. Flocculant is introduced on the
suction side of the pump. For backwash, use changeover valves to
have all the pump ow directed to one lter at a time.
Another option is to oxidise the organics before the chlorine
dosing stage. A variety of oxidisers can be used such as ozone,
peroxide, chlorine dioxide and persulphate.
My own personal observation of swim schools indicates that the
use of chlorine dioxide at 0.2ppm with chlorine at 1ppm is quite
effective, and combined with occulation ltrations, gives an excel-
lent result.
One particular 50,000L pool in a Melbourne bayside suburb has
twin skimmers connected to 2 x 0.7m HRS lters. The swim school
operates six days per week with a bathing load of 100 children be-
low 6 years of age every day. Following a history of chloramine and
clarity problems, we were asked to develop a treatment program to
x the problems.
Being aware that previous actions such as dumping and thump-
ing were ineffective, we made contact with Wapotec in Salzburg,
Austria, for specic advice. Wapotec listed the following points:
1. Reduce the ltration speed to 25m/hr;
2. Add a 150mm bed of anthracite on top of the lter sand;
3. Provide a occulant injection before the lter;
4. Combine simultaneous injection of chlorine dioxide and chlorine.
Since introducing these changes in 1996, eye irritation and chlo-
ramines have been kept at acceptable levels.
To look at sanitation as a single chemical based issue is not
practical. Filtration issues must also be incorporated to provide an
effective integrated approach.
Chlorine choices for residential pools
Jayne Rokesky of Focus Products gives a brief rundown of the
different methods of getting chlorine into a residential pool
Total water balance ensures that the water is safe and comfort-
able to swim in. An important aspect of this is the sanitation of pool
water or the production of FAC (free available chlorine).
Residential pools are built in a variety of sizes ranging from
10,000 litres to 200,000 litres and have nishes as varied as vinyl
liners, breglass, pebble and tile. The consumer faces a large task
when deciding which sanitation system is best for them.
It is necessary for the pool professional looking after the custom-
er to know what the bather load is like, where the pool is located
(that is, indoor or outdoor; heated or not; plus other information).
All these constituents have an effect on the availability of FAC.
A variety of options are available for the job. A large majority of
pools within Australia operate salt chlorinators. In recent years
these have become more advanced with the introduction of self
cleaning or reverse polarity cells. A chlorine factory within your
pool!
Other sanitation options are calcium hypochlorite (70% avail-
able chlorine) which is added to the pool on a daily basis. One of
the drawbacks off this method is the climbing calcium levels that
eventually occur and the high pH of the product causing an acid
demand.
Sodium dichloroisocyanurate also known as stabilised chlorine
(60% available chlorine) which is added to the pool every second
day. This is one product that has minimal effect on the water chem-
istry due to its pH of 6.5. Sodium trichlorisocyanurate, also known
as pool tablets or once a week tablets (89% available chlorine), is
generally added on a weekly basis depending on size of pool and
bather load etc. These tablets can be added by a oater or an in-
line feeder. In some instances these tablets are available with their
own disposable oating dispensers and have the addition of copper
for algaestat properties and clarier for crystal clear water.
Calcium hypochlorite tablets are for those people who want
the convenience of a tablet without the addition of stabiliser. This
makes them ideal for indoor pools and water features. Sodium hy-
residential feature
Sal t Wat er Chl ori nat i on i s t he most popul ar met hod of i nt roduci ng chl ori ne i nt o a
pool . Thi s exampl e i s t he l at est of f eri ng f rom Pool st ore t he 2M Sel f Cl eani ng Uni t
whi ch has a number of f eat ures t o make l i f e easy f or pool owners, i ncl udi ng an
i n- bui l t LCD panel const ant l y di spl ayi ng t he wat er t emperat ure, sal t l evel , i nt ui t i ve
manual t i me cl ock and 7 modes of operat i on i ncl udi ng Spa mode
We all know that pools dont consume a lot of
water, instead they recycle it through their
ltration system over and over again.
And thats why every pool needs a Hayward
cartridge ltration system.
Unlike other lters, Hayward Cartridge Filters
never need to backwash so they never waste a
precious drop of water.
And they keep the pool brilliantly clean for much
longer.
With up to 100 times the lter area of an
equivalent sand lter, Hayward Quad-Cluster
lters gently sift and strain the water until its
completely pure.
Shouldnt everyone be water-wise?
Of course, all that complex technology comes
at a price and Hayward Cartridge Filters will
cost a little more than a sand lter.
But, if youre looking for the very best and the
most environmentally sound ltration system,
there is simply no better choice.
For more information on Hayward Cartridge
Filters just phone 1300 POOLS1 send a fax
to 1300 POOLS2 or just visit www.cleva.com
42 | SPLASH!
pochlorite (10%-13% available chlorine) can also
be used and automatic feeding systems have
been introduced to make the application a little
easier for the consumer - set and forget. The
liquids are fed at approx three-minute intervals,
ensuring that the chlorine is monitored and
adjusted regularly. It is important to ensure that
the drums have adequate chlorine and hydro-
chloric acid in them at all times.
In addition to this, it is possible to run ioniser
systems which work on silver (bactericide) and
copper (algaestat) with a minimal dose of addi-
tional chlorine. It is also imperative to remember
that unless the other relevant water parameters
are correct then chlorine will not work effectively.
The ideal system to ensure that the pool user has the safest
water possible is to combine their sanitation program with a pre-
ventative algaecide and regular oxidation system. The lter should
be chemically cleaned at least twice a year to remove the build-up
of body fats and oils. This will aid the chemicals in providing safe
and bacteria-free water. A lot of questions will go a long way in en-
suring that the consumer is provided with a system that lls their
expectations and looks after their water.
Salt water pools
Jake Brandish of Monarch Pool Systems, manufacturer of the
Chloromatic salt water chlorinator, writes about the benets of
salt.
Owning a swimming pool or spa brings great enjoyment and
health benets to the owner and their family, but is a great respon-
sibility. It not only requires understanding of safety and rst aid, but
also a basic understanding of chemistry and
chemical treatment of the body of water. Un-
less this body of water is safe to swim in, the
bather may be in danger of illness.
Many people do not realise that chemicals
used in this everyday chore are dangerous and
care should be taken when handling them.
These chemicals should never be mixed to-
gether or added in proportions other than those
stated by the manufacturer.
Chlorine is the most common sanitiser used
in pools. It is a complex chemical compound, is
classed as a dangerous good, is bulky to trans-
port and store and should be used with extreme
care. This is the contributing factor why the
majority of pool owners have chosen to install a
salt water chlorinator on their pools to manage
the daily dosing of chlorine.
Chlorine is the globally accepted means by
which water is sanitised for bathing, drinking, etc.
A healthy pool requires a daily dose of this chemical
to control the growth of bacteria and algae, and therefore prevent
higher than acceptable levels of contamination. Chlorine sanitises
the water, the lter then lters out the dead or dormant particles
for removal from the ltration system.
Instead of adding this chemical manually, a salt water chlorina-
tor will actually manufacture chlorine from common salt. Salt is
added to the pool to achieve a salt level of around 5,000ppm (parts
per million). The ocean has an average salt level of 38,000ppm, so
it can be easily seen that a salt pool is much less salty than the
ocean. Salt usually costs around $7 per 25kg bag and is read-
ily available from the local pool chemical supplier. The average
pool requires around 200kg of salt on its initial dose. The salt is
not consumed in the chlorination process, but is recycled for
continual production of chlorine. The salt water chlorinator then
electrolyses the chloride element of salt (sodium chloride) and
converts it into the sanitiser known as chlorine. Salt should then be
residential feature
Tabl et s are an easy way t o add chl ori ne t o a pool . Shown here i s a t ub of
PQs Ezy Tabs whi ch are a bl ended pool wat er t reat ment combi ni ng t he
bene t s of Sodi um Tet raborat e wi t h t he l ow pH and hi gh chl ori ne l evel
of Tri chl or (wi t h 81% mi ni mum avai l abl e chl ori ne). It comes i n a 200gm
t abl et and i s appl i ed vi a a oat i ng di spenser or i nl i ne f eeder
Ihe comIete raae of 00klIII F00l k80 8Fk 00IFM8I
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SPLASH! | 43
topped up by adding approximately 1 x 25kg bag
per quarter. Salt is only lost by the loss of water out
of the pool, such as backwashing and splashing.
There are many advantages to this process. Cost
effectiveness and convenience are the main reasons
why the majority of pool owners choose salt over any
other means of sanitising their pool. It has been found
that a salt water chlorinator will produce chlorine at
around 10% the cost of buying the chemical. Couple
this with the convenience of never having to purchase
chlorine, let alone having to add it to the pool, and it
is easy to see why salt systems are so popular. There
are of course ongoing maintenance costs (as there
are in most equipment or machinery) but even then,
the pool owner is way ahead. The prime cost involved
with a salt system is the replacement of the electrode,
which starts from a few hundred dollars. This elec-
trode generally lasts an average of 3-5 years, but if
the equipment is maintained and looked after, this life
expectancy can be easily increased.
The other advantage of using a salt water chlorinator
is the comfort to bathers. The human body is made up
of around 80% uid most of which is saline. This makes a
salt pool a perfectly natural environment for the body to be in. The
salinity of saliva or tears ranges from 7,000ppm to 9,000ppm. It is
also said that a salt pools water feels softer this may be due to
the nature of the salty environment the body is in.
Installing a salt water chlorinator is a simple case of mounting
the power pack onto the nearest wall or post, and plumbing the
electrolytic cell housing into the return to pool pipework after the
lter. Most salt water chlorinators incorporate an in-built timer
which controls the main lter pump as well as the chlorinator as
the two must run together.
Units are also available with pool light transformers and even pH
monitoring and dosing. These units make the owners maintenance
minimal because the pH is directly related to the effectiveness of
the chlorine in the pool. If the salt water chlorinator can moni-
tor and dose pool acid levels to achieve a constant pH level, the
chlorine will be able to do its job far better than a pH level that is
allowed to uctuate.
Ozone swimming pool and spa sanitisation
Phillip Green, director of the Ozone Layer, Australian dis-
tributors of the Del Ozone range, talks about the benefits of
ozone systems.
Despite it having been used to purify water since the 1800s, there
are still many misconceptions regarding ozone as a sanitiser. Lets
look at a few questions that are commonly asked about ozone and
its effectiveness.
What is Ozone? Ozone is active oxygen, O3. It occurs naturally in the
earths atmosphere to protect us from the suns harmful rays. Ozone is
created in nature by the combination of oxygen in the air and ultraviolet
rays of the sun or by the corona discharge during a lightning storm.
Oxygen molecules (O2) are split by adding energy, resulting in two
individual oxygen atoms (O1); they unite with other oxygen molecules
(O2) to produce (O3). (O1) + (O2) = (O3). The third ox-
ygen atom is held by a very week single bond and
an oxidation reaction occurs upon any collision
between an ozone molecule and a molecule of
an oxidisable substance. The weak bond splits off
leaving oxygen as a by-product and during the oxi-
dation reaction, organic molecules are changed, dis-
solved metals are no longer soluble and chloramines
and other chemical by-products are broken down.
How is Ozone produced for Swimming Pools &
Spas? Ultraviolet (UV) light and Corona Discharge (CD)
are the two methods. For UV, a special lamp gives off
a specic wavelength of ultraviolet light which con-
verts oxygen (O2) molecules into ozone (O3) molecules
by splitting the oxygen molecules into individual oxy-
gen atoms (O1) which then recombine with oxygen to
form ozone. This all occurs instantly inside the ozone
chamber in the ozone generator.
With CD, ozone is produced by passing air through a
high voltage discharge, or corona. Air or concentrated
oxygen dried to a minimum of -60C dew point passes
through the corona which causes the O2 bond to split,
freeing two (O1) atoms which then collide with other (O2)
molecules to create ozone. CD systems generally pro-
duce about 3-5 times more concentrate than UV units.
What does Ozone do? Ozone is the most powerful
oxidizer and disinfectant that can be used safely to pu-
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44 | SPLASH!
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rify air and water. In fact, it
is one of the most powerful
alternatives to chemical sanitation. Compared to chlorine, the most
common water disinfection chemical, ozone is a more than 50%
stronger oxidizer and acts over 3,000 times faster. Any pathogen or
contaminant that can be disinfected, altered or removed via an oxi-
dation process will be affected by ozone. Ozone has been scienti-
cally proven as an affective broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent in
deactivating bacteria, viruses, molds, spores, cysts, yeast, mildew
and fungi. Ozone oxidizes iron, sulphur, manganese, hydrogen
sulfate, and eliminates oils and other contaminants in the water.
This is why ozone is used by water bottling plants, is used to clean
waste water and toxic waste, is used to purify air in hotel rooms
and why all Olympic Games Competition Pools have been puried
by ozone since 1984. Ozone is pH neural and will not adversely af-
fect the pH.
Does a swimming pool or spa still need chemicals with ozone?
The answer is yes. Ozone will handle the bulk of sanitising require-
ments. However, due to the short life of ozone, a small amount
of sanitiser will be required to provide a residual in the water.
Because residual levels are so low there is no detectable taste or
odour. Normal residual levels are around 0.5ppm to 1ppm, thus
reducing normal chemical usage by up to 90%. Ozone also works
with mineral systems and salt chlorinators and reduces their con-
sumable consumption.
Other methods
There are a variety of other methods including ionisation, elec-
trolysis and mineral systems, which operate either alone or in
The Di aCel l creat es a l arge worki ng
wi ndow of more t han 4 vol t s
SPLASH! | 45
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QLD Ph 5522 0226 Fax 5522 0955
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combination with chemical
sanitisers. The trace-ele-
ment system Nature2, for example, claims to reduce the need for
chlorine to just 0.5ppm.
Anti Bio technology uses low frequency sound waves and elec-
tromagnetic elds to assist in the removal of impurities from water
and to reduce the amount of chemicals required.
The Aquabrite System is an environmentally friendly, simple,
efcacious non-chlorine disinfection system that has been tried
and proven for more than 14 years. It uses the natural disinfection
qualities of copper and silver, through electrolysis, with a propri-
etary oxidising agent known as Aquabrite. The synergistic effect
of the copper and silver ions and the oxidising agent disinfects the
pool and spa water without creating irritants.
Is magnesium chloride the new salt?
Poolrite has launched a new product called Magna Blu, which is
designed to work with their crushed glass Diamond Kleen lter
media to form the Magna Pool System.
The big difference between Magna Blu and existing salt chlorina-
tors is that, rather than using sodium chloride to effect sanitisa-
tion, it uses other salts, in particular magnesium chloride and
potassium chloride.
Poolrite says this makes the water healthier, and impor-
tantly makes the water recyclable as the sodium levels are
a current impediment to using backwashed water for other
purposes, such as watering gardens. Poolrite believes this
backwashed water could even be diverted and used to flush
household toilets saving mains water which is currently used
for that task.
SPLASH! spoke to Poolrite CEO Ross Palmer at the recent
SPLASH! Expo on the Gold Coast, and he detailed many aspects of
this development. The interview can be read on page 22.
New high-tech electrode could
revolutionise sanitisation
Alan Lewis, pool consultant from Aquazure, explains a new Swiss
electrochemical technology which could have far reaching effects
in the pool industry
In 1994 when Philip Barlow was technical director of Watertec
Engineering in Brisbane, he produced a publication extolling the
virtues of ozone as a disinfectant in swimming pools. In the open-
ing paragraphs he compared the oxidising potential of various
oxidising reagents in the following interesting table:
The Di aCel l i s made f rom a boron-
doped di amond l m a f ew mi cromet res
t hi ck, deposi t ed on a si l i con subst rat e
46 | SPLASH!
Oxidising Reagent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Oxidising Potential (V)
Fluorine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.06
Hydroxyl free radicals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.80
Atomic Oxygen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.42
Ozone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.07
Permanganate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.67
Hypobromous acid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.59
Chlorine dioxide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.50
Hypochlorous acid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.49
Chlorine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.36
Oxygen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.23
Bromine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.09
Hypochlorite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.94
Note that hydroxyl free radicals are second highest on the table
even higher than ozone.
Barlows comment was that with a short life of microseconds
they do not play a major part in achieving disinfection. In fact,
ozone does have a longer life in water than hydroxyl free radicals.
However, if we compare continuous production of both reagents in
a slip stream of the pool circulation, surely we could then say that
the former will be more effective than the later.
This is where the DiaCell has brought a new dimension to the
challenge of disinfection. How? Because it has been made possible
by the development of a very special electrode, and unlike ozone it
also makes hypochlorite which can survive in the pool as long as
the electrolysis continues to generate the disinfectants.
The Boron Doped Diamond (BDD) electrode is produced in a
similar fashion to the production of articial diamonds in a process
called Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD), in which it deposits a
thin lm of polycrystalline diamond on a substrate of silicon. The
crystals are formed from raw graphite under high temperature
and pressures. The result is a highly efcient electrode which can
generate a powerful mix of chlorine; peroxydisulphate; peroxy-
dicarboate; ozone; hydrogen peroxide; and other hydroxyl radicals,
simultaneously in the electrolytic cell. Those chemical species with
longer life are continuously swept into the pool by the slip stream
until a steady state of Free Chlorine residual is created.
Once the initial dose of salt(s) has been introduced to the pool
to a maximum residual of 1000ppm (or mg/L) there is no further
need to add chemicals with the exception of occasional replenish-
ment of salt lost to splash or backwash. The doped diamond has
excellent stability under varying pH and temperature and in the
presence of other aggressive chemicals. Low fouling is sustained
by phased reversal of the polarity on the electrodes. Compared with
other electrodes the BDD has a much greater potential (> 4 volts)
resulting in a faster inactivation of the pathogens in the water. The
net result of this system is dreamlike for operators with minimum
handling of chemicals; low running costs and very low maintenance
of the equipment.
The design of the cell is versatile and can be assembled in vari-
ous combinations so as to ensure the minimum residuals required
by the local health authorities. After three years of trials, the
DiaCell has now been approved for use in public pools by the Swiss
Health Department and will shortly receive similar accreditation
from the French health authorities. Neither should it present a
problem for health authorities in any of Australias states and ter-
ritories, because of the exibility in design and assembly.
The DiaCell removes the need for chemicals and makes the
water easier to recycle.
It will be particularly appropriate for remote areas where trans-
port of chemicals presents a prohibitive factor in running pools
in outback areas with small populations. There are no storage or
OH&S problems of any substance relating to handling of chemicals,
and no concentrations of disinfectants likely to present issues of
corrosion in plant or the pool and its surrounds, because of the low
residuals involved in the processes.
The DiaCell described here applies primarily to large commer-
cial pools, but Adamant Technologies also has a domestic product
using the same technology called the Oxineo. For more information
email Alan Lewis on aquazure@bigpond.net.au.
Are there ghosts in your pool?
In the next edition of SPLASH! we will look at the vexed issue
of chloramines, and in particular the question of phantom or
ghost chloramines. We ask Do they exist? Are they a prob-
lem? And how do you get rid of them?
residential feature
Sani t i sat i on i s equal l y i mport ant f or spas. Whi l e t he vast maj ori t y
of pool sani t i sat i on chemi cal s are chl ori ne- based, a l esser number
of bromi ne/ chl ori ne product s are speci cal l y ai med at t he spa pool
and hydrot herapy area
48 | SPLASH!
W
hen the wells dry, we know the worth of water, said
Benjamin Franklin, one of the United States most no-
table founding fathers as well as a scientist, inventor,
statesman, businessman, musician, economist and philosopher.
Franklins insight on the topic of water (1706-1790) was likely
based on the fact that, in his time, people were very dependent on
the wells they dug in their own backyards, or public water supplies
from which they had to ll and carry vessels to their homes. Im-
agine his surprise if he was to witness todays sophisticated water
supply and management systems, and how water appears from
our taps with as little effort as waving a hand in front of a sensor.
Imagine also his disappointment at learning how making water
so much more easily accessible changed the mindset of people
over the years regarding waste. One might
wonder what philosophical statements he might
make today about how, during the past century, we have
abused this life-giving resource.
Franklin would no doubt endorse the many water-conservation
organisations, associations, government agencies and branches,
and private and public foundations that have surfaced throughout
the world in recent years. He might have been among the strongest
advocates in efforts toward increasing public awareness about the
consequences of water misuse, and a strong member of groups
that are striving to nd ways to protect the earths water supply.
Lacqua preziosa (water is precious)
In the Piazza San Francesco, where the Museo Civico Belliniano
is located, in Catania, Sicily, there is a spigot sticking out of
a publicly owned building. For months, it has run continually,
Respecting waters wor th
in America
residential feature

We all know what an important issue water has become in Australia.

In this article, Christina DiMartino has a look at the US perspective.
SPLASH! | 49
24 hours a day,
seven days a week. It was
reported as early as June, but may
have been running long before then. It was
still flowing in mid-October. While local residents have
reported it to officials, their complaints have either gone
unheeded or there has been a breakdown in bureaucratic com-
munication. In the meantime, the water continues to flow at a
laughable rate.
On the ip side of this apparent oversight, it is not unusual for
hotel and bed and breakfasts in the area to post small signs in
bathrooms that read Lacqua Preziosa (water is precious), sug-
gesting that guests use it conservatively.
If youre reading this from a desert region where water is so
scarce that wasting it is unacceptable, even illegal, youll no doubt
feel anger at a government agency that ignores a problem like a
spigot running endlessly for no apparent reason. But its a lot like
feeding starving people in the world there is plenty of food to go
around there just isnt an economical or logistical way to get it to
where its needed the most. If youre in Australia, no matter how
much you want that water thats going down the proverbial drain
in Catania, there is simply no way to get it to you.
Flipping to a different, but equally valuable resource, however,
provides a reverse scenario. People, including government of-
cials, in that same area where water is being wasted, are particu-
larly conservative when it comes to energy conservation.
A New Yorker recently on a business trip in a nearby small Ital-
ian village noted the one electrical outlet in his room. There he
stood with his computer, portable printer, mobile phone charger,
hairdryer and electric shaver, staring at the single outlet.
If you are reading this while sitting in a room where all four
walls have two double electrical outlets installed in each (like in
most modern buildings in America), and all16 outlets have an
appliance or xture plugged into them, you may be empathetic
to our American traveller. The ability to add more power to the
room in that small Sicilian village is as challenging as getting that
wasted water to Australia. And, in fairness, the department stores,
boutiques and other businesses in Sicily typically dim their lights
during the day to conserve electricity.
Regarding earths resources, it appears that whats good for the
goose isnt always right for the gander. It depends on how thirsty
is the goose, and how hungry the gander or how badly the swan
needs a light to groom her feathers.
Facing the stats
Global population growth statistics provide some sombre news
about water, especially for future generations. As the number of
people on earth increases, water will become an even more pre-
cious resource than it is today. World Hunger Year (www.worldhun-
geryear.org) offers some crucial statistics:
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SPLASH! | 51
Approximately 450 million people in 29 countries currently face
severe water shortages.
20-percent more water than is currently available will be re-
quired to feed the additional three billion people who will inhabit
the earth in 2025less than two decades away. Two-thirds of the
world population could be water-stressed by then.
Aquifers, which supply one-third of the worlds population with wa-
ter, are being pumped out faster than nature can replenish them.
Half the worlds rivers and lakes are seriously polluted.
Major rivers, such as the Yangtze, Ganges and Colorado, do not ow
to the sea for much of each year because of upstream withdrawals.
What most of us dont know
The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) reports that water is
essential for all life and is used in many different ways for food
production, drinking and domestic uses and industrial use. It is
also part of the larger ecosystem on which bio diversity depends.
Precipitation, converted to soil and groundwater and thus acces-
sible to vegetation and people, is the dominant pre-condition for bi-
omass production and social development in drylands. The amount
of available water is equivalent to the water moving through the
landscape. It also uctuates between the wet and dry periods.
Fresh water scarcity is not limited to the arid climatic regions only.
Even in areas with good supply, the access to safe water is becom-
ing a critical problem. Lack of water is caused by low water storage
capacity, low inltration capacity, large inter-annual and annual
uctuations of precipitation and high evaporative demand.
FAO reports that a variety of essential soil moisture and water
conservation technologies must be adopted to reduce the cost of ir-
rigation, extend it throughout and promote sustainable small-scale
irrigation on a watershed basis. These technologies are essential,
especially in drought-prone areas.
Even though drought is a purely natural calamity caused by the
failure of (monsoon) rain, it can be minimised by careful planning
and operation. During good rainy years, excess rainwater should
be stored in the soil and also underground using suitable soil
moisture conservation measures and water harvesting structures
on a watershed basis. This stored water can subsequently be used
for irrigation.
Watershed development and management, according to FAO, im-
plies an integration of technologies within the natural boundary of
a drainage area for optimum development of land, water and plant
resources, to meet the peoples basic needs in a sustained manner.
A watershed is an area from which runoff resulting from pre-
cipitation ows past a single point into a large stream, river, lake
or pond. Each watershed is an independent hydrological unit. It
has become an acceptable unit of planning for optimum use and
conservation of soil and water resources.
Water in America
Americans like to think they are as environmentally conscious as
other people, and with documentaries like Al Gores recent An
Inconvenient Truth receiving top movie billing, it would seem the
general publics awareness is not waning.
In truth, human consciousness about caring for the environment
and earths natural resources is slow moving around the globe,
especially in developed nations where people have the ability to
misuse resources with ease.
residential feature
In Tucson, Ari zona, per manent
wat er rest ri ct i ons have been i n
pl ace f or more t han 25 years
52 | SPLASH!
For proof, just ask any head of a household with four kids in a rural
neighbourhood in any US state if he would be willing to give up his
SUV for a smaller vehicle to save gas. Hell likely glare at you until you
grovel. But ask him if he is interested in resource conservation, and
hell swear he is just as concerned as anyone. It also speaks to the
American traveller in Sicily who is using more kilowatts of electricity
every day than people in most countries use in an entire week.
People react naturally to the environmental conditions surround-
ing them. When electrical power is ample, manufacturers develop
more electrical products to attract consumer attention, and those
same consumers look for items that offer timesaving, convenience,
and improvements to the quality of life. Electric coffee pots and au-
tomatic dishwashers, obviously, are hard to come by in areas where
people live in tents and cook on open hearths.
The same applies with water use. Where it is ample, people give
little though to allowing a tap to run endlessly or leaving a lawn
sprinkler operating throughout an entire day.
It usually takes a shortage of resources that comes in the form
of a shock a power blackout or sudden water shortage to make
people aware of the value of their resources. These abrupt changes
cause us to alter our thinking and consequently our use of precious
resources, usually because local governments force the issue.
When lack of rainfall causes drought or near-drought conditions,
agencies across the US put water restrictions into effect. This is
commonly done in stages depending on the severity of the drought
and how long it lasts. In areas where water is critically short on a
year-round basis, annual restrictions often remain in effect.
An example of serious long-term drought restrictions is San
Marcos, Texas. In October 2006, the city council addressed what
it called the never ending problem by voting to add year-round
water restrictions that include the following:
Waste of water is prohibited at all times;
Irrigation with hose-end sprinklers and automatic sprinkler
irrigation systems are prohibited during daytime hours between
10am and 8pm;
Charity car washes are prohibited at all times unless held at a
certied commercial car wash;
Non-commercial vehicle washing must be done using a hand-held
bucket or a hand-held hose equipped with a positive shutoff device;
Operation of non-recirculating decorative water features is pro-
hibited at all times.
Fines for violations start at $100.
In Tucson, Arizona, ofcials are even tougher. Permanent water
restrictions have been in place for more than 25 years, and many
different strategies for reducing water consumption have been
implemented, including public education, conservation-sensitive
water rates, direct assistance and training programs via specic
water conservation ordinances. By codifying conservation strate-
gies into law, the city has ensured that policies remain active
and enforceable. The ordinances include water waste guidelines,
plumbing codes, landscape regulations and mandatory water con-
servation strategies for use in a water supply emergency. Some of
these prohibited activities include:
Allowing water to escape from any premise onto public or other
persons property;
Allowing water to pond in any street or parking lot to a depth
greater than -inch;
Washing driveways, sidewalks, parking areas or other impervi-
ous surface areas with an open hose;
Operating a misting system in unoccupied non-residential areas;
SPLASH! | 53
78 Kalaroo Pd, Pedhead
Australia, NSw, 2290
Ph: +6l 2 4935 22l0
Pax: +6l 2 4935 2225
www.austrol.com.au
Di st r i but or s/Agent s Want ed
Designed for hotels and fitness/leisure centers
the air/electric switch spa controller is perfect
for ensuring that your spa can not be operated
outside of designated hours. The built-in run
timer also ensures the spa is not left running
after each use to save you money.
"55&/5*0/)05&-
08/&301&3"503
4"7&0/:06341"
36//*/($0454
Easy to clean, store, deploy and remove.
Easy to fit to any pool. No cutting required
Keep your pool warmer for longer.
Help reduce water loss from evaporation.
Safe for salt water and chlorine systems.
Compatible with most automatic pool cleaners.
Uses magnets to connect rings together.
Gaps between rings allow UV penetration to reduce algae growth.
Recommended for fiberglass & other smooth finish pools
Operating a permanently installed irrigation system with
broken equipment;
Failing to repair a controllable leak.
It is also illegal in Tucson to tamper with or bypass water meters.
Violation nes in the city start at $US250, and increase to as much
as $US1,000 for repeat offenders. Besides typical desert-type
areas, usable-water shortages occur in pockets of America due to
lack of rain or temporary contamination, so it is common for nearly
every city to have at least temporary water restrictions in place and
ready to go into effect in case of drought conditions.
Some cities and towns in the US are even rewarding residents
who not only abide by restrictions, but also go beyond their duty by
purposely conserving water.
In Las Vegas, Nevada, for example, homeowners can receive up
to $US1000 for converting their lawns to Xeriscape (see below)
and commercial landowners can receive up to a $US50,000 credit
on their water bill. Residents in Glendale, Arizona can receive a
$US100 cash rebate for installing or converting more than half of
their lanscapable area to non-grass vegetation. Other cities offer
tax advantages and other incentives to inspire and persuade resi-
dents to participate in water conservation movements.
Although North America is not currently at a critical water
shortage level, many industries, including the landscape trade, are
attempting to do something to make a difference.
Using landscape water intelligently
In August, a group of environmental and water conservation
experts in Tucson, Arizona, examined conservation initiatives and
strategies relating to landscape irrigation as part of the third Intel-
ligent Use of Water Summit.
Rain Bird Corporation, a leading manufacturer of irrigation prod-
ucts and services, hosted the event at the University of Arizona.
The symposium included Joanna Kind and Kerry Schwartz, EPA
consultants, and Professor Ronald Stoltz, director of the University
of Arizona School of Landscape Architecture.
The group focused on the relationship between water con-
servation and landscape water use, policies and legislation. It
also included potential programs and initiatives to bring greater
awareness to the need for water conservation, calling for civic and
business leaders to collaborate on the development and implemen-
tation of water conservation policies.
It is evident that conservation programs fraught with complex-
ity, thereby requiring elaborate monitoring programs, may prove to
achieve neither cost-effectiveness nor meaningful water savings,
says moderator Professor Robert Glennon of the University of
Arizonas Rogers College of Law. He is also author of Water Follies:
Groundwater Pumping And The Fate Of Americas Fresh Waters.
Appropriate water rates offer an opportunity to augment various
conservation programs as a way of encouraging water conserva-
tion, he says.
The summit came on the heels of a recent UN report predict-
ing an eminent and devastating global water shortage by the
year 2025.
The Environmental Protection Agency views landscape irriga-
tion as a part of the solution, rather than part of the problem, said
Kind. The EPAs WaterSense program seeks to build a national
brand for water conservation and ultimately strengthen the value of
conserving water.
Rain Birds next Intelligent Use of Water Summit is scheduled for
December 31, 2006 in Pasadena, California.
54 | SPLASH!
Wasteful watering
A commonly held but false impression among American consum-
ers is that beautiful garden and lawns require extensive watering,
which is in most cases also wasteful watering.
The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is a government
agency that employs 18,000 people at 10 regional ofces across the
country. Its mission is to protect human health and the environment.
Since 1970, EPAs mantra has been to work for a cleaner, healthier
environment for the American people. The agency has taken on the
task of publishing information to help homeowners and landscape
professionals understand more about the importance of water con-
servation and the results of continued water waste. It also publishes
dozens of publications that help guide people with conservation
advice, planners and programs ( see www.epa.gov).
In October 2006, it published Water-Efcient Landscaping: Pre-
venting Pollution & Using Resources Wisely. The booklet (available
as a PDF), addresses what water-efcient landscaping is, why it
should be used and how it is applied. In addition, it offers land-
scape irrigation methods and examples of successful water-ef-
cient landscaping projects currently in use in the US.
Besides a reference and guide booklet, it offers some important
facts, including:
The amount of water used outdoors in the summer by a house-
hold can exceed the amount used for all other purposes in the
entire year especially in hot, dry climates;
While gardening and lawn care account for the majority of the
seasonal increase, other outdoor activities, including washing
cars and lling swimming pools, also contribute;
Of the 234 billion litres of water consumed daily in the US, ap-
proximately 30-percent is devoted to outdoor uses;
Estimates are that the typical suburban lawn consumes 37,000
litres of water in addition to rainfall each year.
Water-Efcient Landscaping also offers guidance. It describes
current schools of thought related to efcient landscaping, such as
water-wise, water-smart and other practices, and the formalisation
of principles of Xeriscape landscaping, which is dened as quality
landscaping that conserves water and protects the environment.
The vessel of liquid gold
The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals (APSP), a US-based
global source and voice for the recreational water industry, includ-
ing the swimming pool, spa, hot tub and recreational water sectors,
takes an adamant stand on the fact that swimming pools do not
waste or abuse water. The organisation even suggests that pool
and spa professionals include information in their company litera-
ture to demonstrate that pools are not water wasters.
In fact, pools are benecial to society as mini-reservoirs that
collect rainwater and store a precious water supply throughout the
entire year, states the APSP. They can be used as an emergency
water supply to ght res. Also, they can serve as an oasis to the
people who use them during hot and dry times. And they have a
huge economic impact on the community, contributing billions of
dollars to the American economy each year.
Members of the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals are strong
advocates for water conservation, reports APSP. It states, Since we
are in the business of using water for health, recreation and relaxa-
tion, its important to us that water remains abundant and accessible
for all. We believe this is possible if all pool and spa users are edu-
cated about water conservation techniques, and are willing to make
just a few sensible changes in their water consumption habits.
The APSP offers these tips for pool and spa owners:
1. Cover up! A properly maintained spa or pool cover can be an
important safety element and can also reduce evaporation and wa-
ter waste by 95%. For pools, a safety cover or a solar cover also has
the added benet of helping heat the pool. A oating cover under
the spa cover will prevent additional evaporation and retain heat.
For maximum effectiveness, replace spa covers every three years.
2. Be vigilant. Correct any leaks or service problems as they oc-
cur. Dont waste water by letting it leak away.
3. Maintain your spa. Proper spa maintenance will greatly increase
the time between draining and relling. Cleaning lters regularly ac-
cording to manufacturers directions will extend spa cleanliness.
4. Maintain your pool and pool ltration systems. Use an automatic
pool cleaner to maintain pool water. Some pool cleaners do not send
debris through the ltration system, reducing the need to backwash.
Proper maintenance of pool water also reduces the frequency of
backwashing. Replace your aging sand or DE ltering system with a
cartridge lter that does not require backwashing can also save water.
5. Additional maintenance tips for both pools and spas: remove
debris that blows in from trees and landscaping. Low-tech tools are
available from your retailer to make it easier to keep water clean. Rinse
bathing suits out with clear water rather than washing with soap. Soap
powder residue is a major contributor to poor water quality.
6. If its clean, dont drain! Drain spas and pools only when you
have a water quality problem. Water only needs to be changed
in a spa 2-3 times a year if you maintain your spa properly and it
incorporates new water cleaning technology. Pools only need to be
drained if repairs require it.
7. Re-use. When you intend to drain your spa, let it sit open for
48-72 hours with no new chemicals added, and then use the water
on garden plants. Or, ask your retailer about products that neutral-
ise chemicals. (To prevent unsupervised use, remember to make
sure that proper safety barriers are in place any time that the spa
safety cover is removed.)
8. Recycle! Use captured rainwater to replace water lost to
evaporation in spas and pools or to rell a spa.
9. Upgrade. Spas manufactured in the last ve years have new
technology cleaning systems that keep the water clean much
longer up to six months without relling. This new technology is
also available for some older models. Your spa dealer can advise
you whether you can add this technology to your spa.
residential feature
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SPLASH! | 57
Commercial
COMMERCIAL NEWS
THORPEDO WAVES GOODBYE ..............................58
WORLD SWIMMERS REACT TO OLYMPIC TIMING .58
WA NEEDS SWIM TEACHERS ...............................58
SKILLING UP ON PATRON MANAGEMENT ............59
POOLS FOR VICTORIAN SCHOOLS ........................59
FREE POOL ENCOURAGES LEARNING .................59
SWIM POOL CONFERENCE SET FOR MAY .............59
BOY DIES AFTER SWIMMING LESSON ..................59
PLUGGING COOK AND PHILLIP ............................60
SUMMER SCHOOL MEETS SWIM MEET ................60
WHAT DOES THE INDUSTRY NEED? .....................61
VENI, VIDI, VICI ....................................................61
COMMERCIAL FEATURES
FORGET THE WATER RECYCLE THE POOL .........62
ACCESS ALL AREAS ............................................64
WATER WISE WATER WORLD FOR GOLD COAST ..68
In SPLASH! Commercial we focus on big and small commercial
swimming pools, including international and local competition pools,
water parks, public facilities, community pools and strata projects. We
examine issues of importance to commercial pool builders, management
and staff, while taking a look at the latest happenings.
58 | SPLASH!
For your local Davey dealer call: 1300 367 866
or visit: www.davey.com.au
Forget that nagging drone coming from your
back yard. Daveys ALL NEW Silensor
TM
Series
of pool pumps are water-silenced, making
them so quiet youd hardly know they were
there. And if it werent for the fact that you
may have to occasionally empty the huge leaf
basket you could even forget about your new
Silensor
TM
pool pump all-together! Day after
day, year after year, you can depend on your
Silensor
TM
pool pump.
WATER-SILENCED MOTOR
DRY RUN PROTECTION
RUSTPROOF PLASTIC COST SAVINGS
HUGE LEAF BASKET AUSTRALIAN MADE
THORPEDO WAVES
GOODBYE
AUSTRALIA has lost
its greatest swimmer as
ve-time Olympic gold
medallist Ian Thorpe
retired from the sport.
The exacting training
regime, injury, illness
and lack of motivation
led him to decide rst
to miss the Melbourne
FINA World Champi-
onships, and then -
nally decide to give the
sport away altogether.
Thorpe said he had
been thinking about this
for a long time, and at 24
he is still young enough
to still accept new challenges, while old enough to realise that it
is his swimming successes that have got him where he is today.
Dubbed the Thorpedo, Ian Thorpe was one of the worlds
best ever swimmers, winning ve Olympic and 10 Common-
wealth golds, 11 world titles, and breaking 22 world records.
WORLD SWIMMERS REACT
AGAINST OLYMPIC TIMING
A brewing drama nally boiled over as international Olympic
swimmers, including Australias stars such as the now retired
Ian Thorpe, wrote to the IOC complaining about the hijacking
of the swimming timetable by US TV interests.
The Beijing swimming nals will be held in the morning,
rather than the usual evening time, to appease US TV network
NBC. The timing better suits the TV programming in the US,
but will play havoc with the swimmers preparations and is like-
ly to adversely affect times, including the ability for swimmers to
break records. It is also more likely to result in injury to athletes,
as their bodies will not be working at optimum efciency.
WA NEEDS SWIM TEACHERS
ROYAL Life Saving WA conrmed that a shortage of swim-
ming teachers in the west is putting WA children at risk of
missing out on crucial life-saving skills. Responding to a report
in the West Australian newspaper, the RLSWA has said that
an additional 300 swimming instructors are needed to ensure
all of the summer holiday lessons can be held. The minimum
qualication for employment is the AUSTSWIM Teacher of
Swimming and Water Safety qualication. More information
on this course can be obtained from Royal Life Saving.
Royal Life Saving spokesman, Greg Tate, says that 14 of
the States 80 endorsed swim schools are already advertising
for instructors, with the shortage expected to worsen as the
season progresses.
The critical shortage has large implications for the water
safety education of the more than 80,000 children, aged 5 to
15, who participate in learn-to-swim lessons every summer,
Local brief s
SPLASH! | 59
www. aquamati cs. com. au www. aquamati cs. com. au
9939 2444
the
system
NO CHLORINE
NO SALT
KEEPS YOUR
POOL FREE FROM
BACTERIA & ALGAE
USING ELECTROLYSIS
& OXIDISATION.
PURIFY YOUR
SWIMMING POOL.
Water remains taste
and odour free.
Can be used for any
size pool.
Indoor & outdoor pools
& spas.
Backwash ideal for
watering gardens.
says Tate. Potentially, the shortage means there is an increased
risk of drowning in that age group.
SKILLING UP ON PATRON MANAGEMENT
CON FLICT resolution and management will now become
a part of the lifeguard training course run by Royal Life
Saving (RLS).
As part of a review of their training courses and manuals, the
RLS national branch sent out an industry survey to some of the
major players in the aquatic industry, including lifeguards, pool
managers, aquatic based trainers and RLS staff. One of the
main issues raised by industry professionals was of lifeguards
having to deal with conict. The RLS has taken this on board,
and lifeguards will now get instruction on preventing conict,
conict management and conict resolution. These will not be
a stand alone course, but will be integrated into the roles and
responsibilities component of the lifeguard training course.
POOLS FOR VICTORIAN SCHOOLS
THE Victorian State Government is planning to provide
urban and regional Victorian schools with swimming pools
through a public-private partnership (PPP) deal.
Called the Pools in Schools program, the Government has
said that it will not bear any of the construction or ongoing
maintenance costs. The rst instance of the program will in-
volve private funding by Social Infrastructure Partners to build
and maintain six new 25m heated indoor pools, which are due
to be completed during 2007.
The pools would be built on school land and, during school
hours, would be at the disposal of the school and students.
Outside school hours, however, the private partner will open
the pools to the public.
Locations slated to get the rst batch of pools are Hillside,
Point Cook, St Albans, Deer Park Torquay and Geelong.
FREE POOL ENCOURAGES LEARNING
THE Queensland wheat belt shire of Tara has used a novel
approach to helping people learn how to swim throw open
the doors of the local pool. For Tara, Meandarra and Moonie,
swimming pool entry is now free of charge to all that wish to
attend. Council is hoping that this initiative will encourage
people to attend and assist them in learning to swim. This
initiative will be reviewed prior to the commencement of the
next nancial year.
SWIM POOL CONFERENCE SET FOR MAY
DATES have been set for the upcoming Telstra Australasian-
Oceania Swimming Professionals Convention & Trade Expo. It
will be held at the Sotel Hotel, Gold Coast, on May 1-8, 2007.
The conference will host approximately 600 coaches, teachers,
swim school owners and operators from Australia and overseas.
BOY DIES AFTER SWIMMING LESSON
AN eight-year-old school student died following an incident
while taking a swimming lesson at North Sydney Pool. He
became distressed while in the water; attempts were made to
revive him and he was taken to RNS Hospital, where he died.
The police are currently preparing a coroners report, but said
there was no suggestion that pool safety had been a factor in
the incident or that there had been inadequate supervision.
60 | SPLASH!
Plugging Cook and Phillip
THE City of Sydney Council plans
to spend $10 million repairing
the leaking roof at the Cook and
Phillip Park Aquatic Centre. The
skateboarders paradise between
the pool and St Marys Cathedral
will also be renovated. The pool
has been controversial because of
the leaks, eforescence and seagull
excrement on the paving, and the
fact that the main users of the space
outside the pool have been skateboarders.
The renovations are likely to include new hard and soft
landscaping to soften the look and deter seagulls. Work is due
to begin in the middle of 2007, once approved.
Summer school coincides wi t h
Melbourne meet
Si mon Weat heri l l , summer school chai r man
THE Melbourne School of Sport and Recreation Manage-
ment (MSSRM) is hosting its second annual summer school,
The International Sport Facility Management Program, from
March 27 to March 30, 2007.
A joint initiative of the MSSRM and Sport Knowledge
Australia (SKA), the four-day program will run during the 12th
FINA World Swimming Championships. Appropriately, the fo-
cus is aquatics, and delegates will learn from Australian experts
how to successfully develop and manage world-class facilities
and major sporting events.
Architects, engineers, building and project management as
well as operations experts will feature in the speaker lineup.
A bonus for delegates will be a behind-the-scenes tour of the
specially constructed FINA pool.
The modules include concept planning, feasibility and business
planning, design and documentation, project management, facility
establishment, operations, event overlay and facility impacts.
The school is expected to attract directors of sport and recrea-
tion from local government, facility operations and project
managers, event managers, builders of sports facilities, archi-
tects, government ofcials, CEOs already running sporting
complexes and potentially some private sector interest.
For more information contact Lila Kemlo on (03) 9926 1301.
SPLASH! | 61
AUSTRALIA beat 25 other countries including South Africa,
England and Canada to win the 2006 Quinquennial Com-
monwealth Lifesaving Championships in Bath, England.
The Australian Royal
Life Saving team, the
Aussie Barras, compet-
ed in a number of events
including superlifesaver,
line throw, manikin
rescue and tow.
Vici brand sponsored
the Barras.
WaterGym is versatile,
requires only two 10mm
screws to afx each unit to
the edge of your pool and
is easily removable after
your exercise session.
It may be congured as an
exercise bench which can
be used in a multitude of
ways to tone every part of
the body.
WaterGym comprises three
different exercise machines,
WaterCycle, WaterPaddle
and HandWheel.
For cardio tness, strength,
training, or rehabilitation
exercise using the
supportive nature of water.
In your home, or as part of
a group tness session.
AHS Pool Products
3/7 Clearview Place (PO Box 419)
Brookvale NSW 2100 Australia
Tel: 61 2 9939-6199 Fax: 61 2 9938-5972
Please visit our web site www.watergym.com.au
A removable gym at
the edge of your pool
What t he indust r y needs
WITH a desire to do something about the disparate nature of the
leisure and aquatics industry, the Aquatic and Recreation Institute
in conjunction with Smart Connection Company, RLSS, Aquatics
and Recreation Victoria, LIWA and Parks and Leisure Australia re-
cently implemented the National Aquatics and Recreation Survey.
There were 438 centres represented in the survey results.
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS
In Australia, there are an estimated1885 facilities;
86,000 staff work in the industry;
82% of the centres had pools;
52.2% were solely aquatic facilities;
29.9% were aquatic and recreation;
17.9% were dry recreation and sports.
In terms of management, 61% of facilities are run by council;
22% of facilities are contracted out; 17% of facilities are under
lease to other.
In terms of age of facilities, 74% of centres are 15 years or
older; 60% are more than 26 years old and 38% more than 35
years old. More than 45% of the respondents believe that their
facilities are either in average, poor or very poor condition.
Two leading issues that would enable managers to better run
their centres were better trained staff (19%); and greater
investment in facilities and equipment (18.7%).
Three leading issues that would enable managers to deliver a
better service were better facilities (23.8%); increased fund-
ing (19.8%); and better trained staff (15%).
The industry asked for support and assistance in the follow-
ing areas:
Management and best practice guidelines and documents
(38.24%);
Equipment that reduces the cost of pool maintenance (37.7%);
Promotions and merchandising to increase revenue (29.3%);
Performance assessment to identify improved opportunities
(29.3%);
Marketing and sales programs and software (25.9%);
Learn to swim and water safety (25.6%);
General development of the centre (24.3%).
For more information please contact Gary Penfold at ARI on
(02) 9451 8000 or email gary.penfold@aquaticinstitute.com.
au, or helens@smartconnection.com.au.
Veni, vidi, vici
They came,
t hey saw, t hey
conquered: t he
vi ct ori ous Barras
62 | SPLASH!
W
hen you build a normal pool for a
swimming championship, you end
up with a number of great things.
A sense of achievement (hopefully!), a
reputation and a big state-of-the-art FINA-
regulation swimming pool.
However, this big swimming pool usually
has to stay where it is. While this can be an
advantage for the district immediately sur-
rounding the pool, it may turn out that isnt
where the facilities are required.
Big swimming events are generally held
in central urban districts where there is
ample transport for the inux of visitors.
But there may well be a need for perma-
nent swimming facilities in the far ung
suburbs or rural centres.
This is the case in Victoria, where there
have been a number of resident campaigns
to save their local pools, especially in some
of the less afuent parts of Melbourne and
some regional centres.
That is one reason why the Skypool modu-
lar pool system was such a good t for the
2007 FINA Championships in Melbourne. Be-
ing a portable pool, it doesnt have to remain
where it is; and being modular, it can actually
be split up into a number of smaller pools.
AstralPool is a sponsor of FINA and the
ofcial supplier of pools to the games.
The temporary pools are being built in the
Rod Laver arena, which holds a far greater
number of spectators than existing indoor
swimming venues.
AstralPool is supplying the main 3m-deep
pool free of charge, and also the warm-up
pool on the adjacent tennis courts.
The Skypool system has been used
successfully in the Barcelona and Shang-
hai FINA Championships. The Melbourne
pools will use a prefabricated base like the
Shanghai pool, rather than the sand base
used in Barcelona.
The pools are built using a panel system.
The height of the panels vary, though the
one-metre width and the thickness is
constant. For the 3m competition pool,
panel heights of 1.8m and 1.2m are being
used: 300 panels are needed to build that
pool. The smaller warm-up pool uses 150
panels, making a total of 450 panels.
Because normal community or public
pools are shallower than competition pools
from 1.1m to 1.35m at the shallow end to
1.8m at the deep end these 450 panels can
be recongured to arrive at three 50m by 20m
Olympic pools. All that is needed are some
extra gutters and pool liners to complete the
job a relatively small expense, especially as
AstralPool has given a very heavy discount on
any new equipment which is required.
There will also be a signicant amount
of plant equipment from the Melbourne
games which can be used on these pools.
Because of the exacting FINA standards,
the equipment is state-of-the-art, including
Nefrona Plus ozonation, chlorine injection,
sand ltration and DE scrubbing. The pool
water will be turned over every four hours.
The plant has been shipped out from
Spain in 16 pre-assembled monoblocs
built around mid-sized sand lters. Once
they arrive in Australia, these plant blocks
are simply connected up to the pool and the
system is ready to go.
After the games are over, this plant can
be reassembled in congurations suitable
for the community pools.
The pools will be going to the new $30m
Frankston regional swimming centre; the Lesi-
urelink aquatic centre at Geelong; and the new
$30m multi-pool complex at East Bentleigh.
The Victorian Minister for Sport, Justin
Madden, has allocated money for the centres
to carry out constructability studies, to en-
able them to incorporate the equipment.
Forget t he water
recycle the pool !
One of the exciting things about using
AstralPools Skypool for the Melbourne
FINA championships is the benets for local
communities after the event is over.
The Skypool panel syst em used i n Barcel ona
commercial feature
Lei sure l i nk Geel ong, Peddl e Thorp Archi t ect s
Some of t he pl ant equi pment
f rom t he Barcel ona pool
SilentFlo
Pool owners will quickly see the benefits of the Onga
SilentFlo- lower electricity bills and happier neighbours.
The new generation Onga SilentFlo is quiet and efficient.
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64 | SPLASH!
W
ater access for peo-
ple with disabilities
or mobility problems
is important for all public,
community and strata swim-
ming pools and spas.
For hydrotherapy pools, this
is a key requirement, but any
public pool must be designed
and managed in a way that
makes it easy not only for peo-
ple with disabilities, but also
injured people and the elderly.
Julie Harrison, hydrothera-
pist with the Wesley Hydro-
therapy Centre at Wesley
Hospital, Brisbane, says that
it is essential that people
with mobility problems can
get into and out of the water
with ease.
People are much more
aware of disabilities nowa-
days, says Harrison. And
when theyre designing and
building pools they make sure
the change rooms and toilets
are accessible. But they some-
times forget about the water.
This should be taken into
account, not just for disabled,
but for anyone with mobility
problems. For example, elderly
people, people with an injury
and of course disabled people.
Even elite athletes who need
the water to help with their
rehabilitation can have trouble
getting into the pool.
There are a number of
ways to help people get into
the water, and Harrison says the best is a ramp
if possible.
The ideal is to have a ramp with rails, she
says. Hoists and things are great, but with a
ramp the person can get down there themselves.
People can take their crutches into the water, or
we can put them in a water wheelchair and take
them down as well.
If the pool is already built without a ramp, a
hoist is the next best option.
Its not ideal compared to a ramp, she says.
Hoists are slower, the people might be embar-
rassed, and theyre in less control of the situation.
Sometimes we even get a bed down there to get
them into the water, and hoists which change to
have a bed attachment are also good.
General public swimming pools and aquatic
centres also need to consider the question of ac-
cess. Harrison has advice regarding the design of
these pools.
A hoist would be good if you cant do anything to
the rectangular shape of the pool, she says. But
if youre designing the pool and dont want to put in
a ramp, use steps instead of a ladder. Offset steps
are best, so it doesnt effect laps and become dan-
gerous when people swim towards them.
commercial feature
ACCESS
all areas
Enabling people with mobility
problems to easily access the
water is an important aspect of
pool design and management
A hydraul i c hoi st t hat can be at t ached t o t he wat er
suppl y. Al l phot os court esy of Jul i e Harri son
Thi s phot o shows a hoi st whi ch al l ows pat i ent s t o l ay down,
but i t al so shows how much pool space i s wast ed when t he
st eps are not of f set out si de t he mai n pool rect angl e
Thi s set of st eps i s of f set out si de t he rect angl e of
t he pool and has cl earl y marked edges
Thi s ramps mi d- rai l can l i mi t some of t he exerci ses
t hat are possi bl e on t he edge of t he ramp, but i t st i l l
has rai l s down bot h si des whi ch i s good
A phot o of t he Wesl ey
Hydrot herapy Cent re
showi ng t he ramp
wi t h no mi d- rai l and
wi t h rai l s down bot h
si des. Thi s i s t he i deal
as peopl e can ent er
t he pool usi ng t he rai l s
l i ke paral l el bars
and t he edge of t he
ramp can be used by
st af f and pat i ent s t o
do vari ous exerci ses
SPLASH! | 65
In hydrotherapy pools, the handrails can be closer together than
in public pools, enabling the person to use them as supports to
help themselves down into the water.
The standards say that in public pools the ramp needs to be
wide enough for two wheelchairs to pass, she says. But in hydro-
therapy pools, they can be closer together. Then you can use them
like parallel bars and help yourself down.
For this to be highly effective, it is best to build the handrails
without a mid-rail, as this will also enable the handrails to be used
for other exercises.
Harrison also says that non-slip surfaces are vital and not just
around the pool, but for the pool interior as well.
Non-slip surfaces are extremely important on the bottom of
the pool and the ramp. You might not notice theyre slippery until
theyre wet, so they denitely have to be non-slip.
While pebblecrete is generally a non-slip surface, it can sometimes
be too abrasive for patients feet, so they may need foot protection.
Some would wear socks, says Harrison. Others might wear
surf shoes, or those latex bathing cap type socks, or even an old
pair of Velcro joggers if theyre really disabled.
A final point she makes is to ensure the edging on the steps
is clearly marked in a colour distinct from the colour of the
steps themselves.
Dips and dunks: accessing pools and spas
The following section of this feature was originally published
in Independent Living: The Ofcial Journal of Independent
Living Centres, Australia. It was written by Christine Cheung,
an occupational therapist working for the Independent Living
Centre NSW, an organisation providing free advice on products
and equipment to make life easier for people with disabilities.
This article deals with both residential and commercial issue
of access. The Independent Living Centre has a comprehensive
database of 6000 items available at www.ilcnsw.asn.au.
Pools and spas are great for exercise and relaxation, so get-
ting in and out easily by using assistive technology will help
maximise their use.
Twenty per cent of Australian homes have a backyard pool or
spa. As people get older they nd it increasingly difculty getting
into and out of their pool. Younger people with disabilities use pools
and spas as relaxation and therapy. Finding easy ways to move into
the water and out will maximise use of owning a pool for exercis-
ing, relaxation and social occasions. Rather than having the pool
remain idle, the long term social, safety and health benets of
adapting existing pools will usually justify the cost.
Rails
Climbing in and out of the pool using existing steps, poses one of
the greatest difculties with a pool. New steps can be retrotted
with hand rails to both aboveground and in-ground pools. Handrails
on pool steps provide assistance with balance and support from a
standing position when moving from the pool deck into the water
and out again. AH Pierce Pool Supplies have a range of grabrails
that can be anchored to the existing concrete to provide stability.
AH Pierce Pool Supplies have a stainless steel handrail with
a 38mm diameter for steps with a vertical rise between 660mm
and 850mm. The handrail height is installed between 850mm and
865mm from the oor surface. Handrail extensions are required
on the top landing of the stairs, but are not required at the bottom
landings. Installing handrails will require draining the pool. Issues
Melbourne is renowned for its ability to successfully
develop and operate major sport facilities!
Now you have the opportunity to learn, first hand, from leading Australian experts in their field, how to successfully
develop and manage the process of establishing international level sport facilities. The 2nd Annual International Sport
Facility Management Program provides practical information and knowledge in the conception, planning, design,
construction, establishment and operation of major sport facilities.
The four day workshop represents an ideal opportunity to learn first hand from leading sport facility managers,
architectural practitioners, quantity surveyors, and project managers, on how to conceptualise, plan, project manage
and establish major sports facilities that will have a lasting legacy for all users.
This program will coincide with the 12th FINA World Championship and the Australian Grand Prix.
Who should attend?
Government Officials, CEOs, Facility Operators, Project Managers, Event Managers, Builders and Architects.
Benefits of attending
Experience the most comprehensive sport facility management program of its kind
Establish relationships with a wide network of international industry colleagues
Gain a comprehensive manual of information checklists and tools based on knowledge developed over the last ten
years by industry experts
Join the architects and facility managers of Melbournes major sport facilities for an exclusive tour with insider
information on the construction and operation processes
Enjoy beautiful Melbourne, Australias sporting capital
Program Structure
The program consists of 6 modules delivered over 4 days in a workshop style format with case studies and tours of
Melbournes major sport facilities.
This unique workshop is limited in numbers to ensure quality of experience for participants so you will need to register
early to ensure your attendance.
Cost
US$4,250
Early Bird Special 10% off if registered before 19th January 2007
Register your interest
To register your interest to receive the Official Program Brochure and
Registration Form please visit www.mssrm.com.au
(click on the link and enter your details) or contact The Melbourne
School of Sport & Recreation Management office on +61 3 9926 1300
or e-mail: admin@mssrm.com.au
The 6 Modules include
International Trends, Strategic and
Legacy Planning
Concept Planning, Feasibility Study,
Finance and Business Planning
Design and Documentation
Project Management
Facility Establishment
Facility Operations
SPLASH! | 67
commercial feature
of water wastage and costs of relling the average pool might be
seen as a barrier for some people. Based on the current Sydney
Water charges, the cost of lling the average 40,000 litre pool is
$50 to $55. [This is of course, a more serious issue in some areas
during the current water crisis - Ed.]
Step Entry System
A step entry system can be applied to vinyl steel framed or modu-
lar resin above-ground pools. The Confer-Step Connector System
from the United States is a ight of 800mm wide evenly spaced
steps which projects 800mm into the pool. The height to top of the
step is 1200mm with each step riser being 275mm. It has plastic
handrails on both sides. The Confer-Step is designed for use in
at-bottom pools only. It snaps easily together for installation. AH
Pierce Pool Supplies have a moulded breglass entry step which is
shaped to snugly t the radius walls of your pool. The widest step
is at the top entry point where there is also stainless steel, side
handrail for support.
Hoist Access
The basic pool hoist consists of a mast which is vertical to the
ground and a boom pole that is attached to the top end of the mast,
which has a seat at the free end. The seat is raised and lowered for
access to the water. Pool hoists are either permanently xed to the
pool surround, removable or mobile. The Aqualift water-powered
pool hoist and the Arjo Pool lift allow the hoist to be lifted out of a
base plate and stored away when not in use. The Bluone Ibis Pool
Access chair is on castors, and the Greenhouse Teal Pool lift comes
in two models one on castors and the other xed.
It is recommended to locate a pool hoist between 125mm and
350mm from the edge of the pool, depending on the width of the
gutter. Sufcient poolside deck space must remain around the
hoist seat so that transfer from a wheelchair or mobility device
can be made. Clear deck space beside the hoist chair should be at
least one metre and extend forward a minimum of 920mm from the
rear of the seat. The slope of clear deck space must not be greater
than 1:48 so that sitting transfers from a wheelchair to the hoist
seat are easy and safe while still allowing water to drain away from
the deck. Locating the hoist where the water level is not deeper
than 1200mm provides a suitable depth for a carer to assist from a
standing position in the water.
The hoist should have a seat that will stop between 400mm
to 500mm from the decking surface when the seat is in a raised
position. This will allow a person in a wheelchair to transfer into
a pool hoist seat. The basic seat is a moulded plastic seat without
arms. A seat with a back will help more users to operate the hoist
independently. Foot rests which move together with the seat pro-
vide more stability. The addition of arms provides more support
whilst the hoist is in motion. The Arjo Pool lift has encircling arm-
rests. Removable or lift-up armrests allow space for a transfer
from a wheelchair.
Hoists must be designed so that the seat will submerge to a
minimum of 450mm below the stationary water level. This ensures
adequate buoyancy for the user, making it easier to get on and off
the seat. Most pool hoists have a load capacity of 140kg. The Ibis
pool and spa hoist can manage a weight up to 200kg.
Water-powered and mechanical hoists are operated by a lever
control that has a pump action or wind-up handle. These can only
be attendant controlled. Battery-powered hoists use a hand-held
control unit that can be attendant or user-operated. Look for hoist
controls that can be operated with one hand and do not require
tight grasping, pinching, or twisting of the wrist.
Ramp Access
Consider a ramp when installing a new pool or renovating an exist-
ing pool. Ideally, the ramp should be at least a metre wide with a
maximum of 1:14 gradient. The oor surface does not need to be
slip resistant. The surface should be smooth to prevent damage to
bare skin. Sloped entries should extend to 600mm to 750mm below
the water level for the user to gain buoyancy. A level landing at both
the top and bottom of the ramp is needed to provide turning space
for a wheelchair user. Adding a solid wall on the side closest to
the water will enhance safety. Handrails on both sides of the ramp
provide support for people walking on the ramp.
Pool surround surfaces
Slip resistant surfaces around the pool are essential. The look of
traditional terracotta tiles can be achieved with the Daniel Robertson
range from Prestige Bricks and Pavers. These tiles are also stain and
salt water resistant. The Aqua deck slip resistant paving made from
polymers, cork granules and rubber is comfortable underfoot. This
oor covering consists of textured raised patterns in either round or
diamond shaped studs which provide high friction when wet. Another
option is installing individual plastic studs on a bladed shaft embed-
ded into a substrate such as concrete or pebblecrete. The pathnder
slip grips are made from thermo plastic polyurethane, providing slip
resistance which is also abrasion resistant.
TEAL POOL LIFT
The portable pool lift for easy safe
dignied access to your pool
1Strauss Place, South Grafton 2460
Phone: 0412 986 882 Fax: (02) 6642 6279
DISTRIBUTORS W
ANTED
68 | SPLASH!
D
reamworld is opening WhiteWater World, an action-packed
water park mixing adrenaline pumping thrills with family-
style fun in an Aussie-beach themed environment.
Dreamworld says this is the most technologically advanced wa-
ter ride park in the world, and the only one boasting all four of the
hottest waterslides.
The 4ha, $60 million development is located next door to Dream-
world. Initially, patrons will be able to buy a two-park pass, but even-
tually entry tickets will be interchangeable between the two parks.
Rides include one of only two LIM powered rocket coasters in
the world, the only eight-lane Octopus Racer in existence, as well
as the thrilling Green Room and RIP
ride. There will also be a Nickelo-
deon family area.
Dreamworld CEO, Stephen Gregg,
says WhiteWater World provides a
unique opportunity for Macquarie Lei-
sure to capitalise on the strong demand for water-based attractions
on the Gold Coast and maximise returns from existing land holdings.
The opportunities for cross-marketing will give the new park a
major head start, enabling it to leverage from the existing Dream-
world customer base, marketing spend and high prole, Gregg says.
For your nearest distributor, ca|| Metco on
(08} 8297 2011 or visit www.metco.com.au
Just some features of our new
|traMax poo| o|eaner |no|ude:
vaouums, sorubs and f|ters
||ghtwe|ght 20.5kg} frame |n
heavy-duty sta|n|ess stee|
3 o|ean|ng programs |no|ud|ng
a 2-hour de|ayed start
W|re|ess remote oontro|
4HROWOURNEWMODELINTHEDEEPEND
Tro||ey w|th opt|ona| ho|st
12-month warranty w|th
24-month opt|on.
R
a
y
m
o
n
d

T
e
r
r
a
c
e
,

N
S
W

p
o
o
l

c
o
m
p
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x
.
Design build for each individual application to maximize
ease of operation, optimising safety and health.
Extends swimming season.
SAVES WATER by reducing evaporation,
subsequently saving on heating and
chemicals costs.
Reduces humidity and condensation in
indoor pools and reduces subsequent
air handling costs.
Blankets and reel systems still in use since 1989.
Email: ben@iancoombes.com.au Website: www.iancoombes.com.au
The MacBALL Heat Saver
Insulating Pool Blanket System
New South Wales Distributor:
Unit 1, 28 Vore St, Silverwater NSW 2128
Freephone 1800 249 982
Motorised underbench
storage reel system.
For enquiries outside NSW contact:
25 Grant St, Oakleigh 3166 Victoria, Freephone 1800 007 893
Water- wise water
world f or Gold Coast
WhiteWater World opens this
December the rst new theme
park on the Gold Coast in 14 years
and the most water efcient.
commercial feature
The Green Room neari ng compl et i on
SPLASH! | 69
Gregg also says that responsible and
sustainable water management practice
was top of mind and that the park would
incorporate the very latest environment-
friendly technology available worldwide.
In an independent, third party water ef-
ciency audit conducted by Environmental
Resources Management Australia (ERM),
WhiteWater World has been given the high-
est efciency rating possible for a water-
park, which will further add to the world
class standing of the facility.
The ltration system alone will reduce
annual water wastage from backwashing
by more than 90 percent compared to tradi-
tional sand ltration systems, Gregg says.
WhiteWater Worlds annual ltration
requirement will be around 303,619 litres
for the entire park compared to 22,642,551
litres required by the conventional system.
Thats a saving of about 10 Olympic swim-
ming pools or 560 backyard swimming
pools every year, he says.
WhiteWater World will be one of the most
shaded waterparks in the world and will
incorporate slide splash guards to reduce
water lost through high volume usage.
The park has been designed so that heavy
splash areas for waterslides and all inter-
active play deck areas drain water back into
the pool systems below.
Traditionally, waterparks around the
world have operated on high rate sand
ltration (HRS). WhiteWater World uses the
rst Australian installation of Regenerative
Media Filtration (RM), the most efcient
ltration system available.
WhiteWater World will include two deten-
tion ponds designed to capture and store
stormwater runoff. These ponds will be
used to irrigate the parks landscaping sys-
tem with the ability to extend use to supply
toilet ushing requirements in the future.
Other initiatives include using perennial
plants, night-watering of gardens, AAA
water saving devices and a trial of water-
less toilets which could potentially save up
to 20,000 litres of water per day.
The new water ride park will boost the
local economy creating over 250 jobs dur-
ing the construction phase and over 120
ongoing jobs while in operation.
Ph: 1300 796 759 Fax: 1300 796 759
Web Site: www.swimplex.com.au
Email: sales@swimplex.com.au
Ofces: 32 Split Solitary Rd, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450
95 Grifn Rd, Orange NSW 2800
Warehouse: 2/33 Lawson Crescent, Coffs Harbour 2450
LANE ROPES
Swimplex lane
ropes have
exceptional
wave quelling
characteristics.
SWIMPLEX
WETDECK
GRATE
Durable, Non-slip,
Wave-breaking
NOW IT'S
CURVED, TOO!
STARTING
PLATFORMS
Attractive models
to enhance the
look of any pool.
INTERACTIVE
WATER
PLAYGROUNDS
Water parks and
water slides.
St ephen Gregg, Dreamworl d CEO
commercial feature
70 | SPLASH!
Engineered Performance
and Reliability
WATERCO
PUMPS
Watercos hydraulically
efficient pumps are designed
for maximum output with
minimal power requirements
High grade
mechanical seal
Clear pump lid for
easy inspection of
the strainer basket
Quick connect
barrel unions
Heavy-duty
motor for reliable
performance
Stable
support base
Hydraulically
efcient impeller
and diffuser
Built in strainer
basket to protect
the pump from
incoming debris
UV stabilised and
corrosion resistant
Single piece pump
body for extra
strength
www.waterco.com
QLD
07 3299 9900
WA
08 9273 1900
SA / NT
08 8244 6000
NZ
09 525 7570
NSW (Head Office)
02 9898 8686
VIC / TAS
03 9764 1211
Great ideas, improved products
and the latest innovations from
manufacturers, suppliers and
service providers to make your work
easier and your customers happier.
New Product s
FREO READ Y FOR SUMMER
BARBOO Products have just released its newest water feature for the
swimming pool market: the Fremantle.
The sleek and stylish Fremantle has dimensions of 2200mm wide by
1300mm high by 700mm deep. It comes in Sandstone or Charcoal col-
ours and lights can also be installed so it can continue to add excitement
once the sun goes down.
As with all Barboo water features, the Fremantle is made of GRC
(glass reinforced concrete) which is one-third the weight of conventional
concrete yet three times stronger, making for easy installation. For further
information call national sales manager, Adam Marling, on (08) 8326
7977 or visit www.barboo.com.au.
Taking a leaf from natures book
INSPIRED by the graceful shape of curved leaves, the
unique beach chairs and side tables from the Leaf collec-
tion are an innovative addition to the Dedon range. Leafs
natural shape with a division running down its length,
offers two gentle depressions for relaxed lounging. Ideal
for poolside relaxation, the internal padding in the chair
adds to the comfort fac-
tor, while its elegant look
allows it to double as a
garden feature. For more
information phone (03)
8803 8870 or
visit www.domo.com.au.
SPLASH! | 71
product releases
NO MOZZIES WITH FIRE AND WATER
AS well as setting the mood with the relaxing sound of trickling water,
Waterwerks Fire & Water Fountain has an integrated oil torch with a
long-burning wick. This is perfect for burning citronella to keep pesky
mozzies from nibbling guests toes and helping ensure a delightful night
of outdoor entertaining.
The Fire & Water Fountain is 89cm high and 39cm wide, has a stylish
polished granite effect and, like all Waterwerks water features, is designed
to recirculate water with no splash. For more information visit www.water-
werks.com.au or call 1800 552 777.
Party time
THE new AquaGlow Floating Light Garden adds wonder-
ful colour to gardens and poolside areas. These fabu-
lous and fun accessories light up the night when placed
into any vessel of water, and can be enjoyed out of the
water, too.
Constructed of soft vinyl, the colourful lights are avail-
able in a variety of designs and in five bright colours:
purple, orange, green, yellow, and pink. Safely powered
by two simple button- cell batteries (included), the Aqua-
Glow Floating Light Garden turns on with the simple
press of a button and includes a one- hour automatic
shut off.
For more information visit the GAME website at
www.game- group.com.
72 | SPLASH!
product releases
The power broom
MAGNOR have released a new product to add to their exist-
ing range of pool and spa maintenance equipment, the Power
Broom adaptor. Two adaptors come together, blister packed
with an attractive backing card with the distinct Magnor
colouring.
The Power Broom Adaptor assists in keeping the pool
broom against the pool wall and floor. The adaptor fits pool
brooms supplied by Magnor with a size of approximately
32mm x 12mm. To fit the Power Broom Adaptor, place the
clip edges on either side of the handle and on the back of
the broom and press firmly on the opposite sides. I t will
securely lock into place.
For optimum performance, use long strokes on the pool
floor and short backwards and forward strokes against the
pool wall.
For more information call (08) 8264 9011 or email info@
magnor.com.au.
VERSATILE SWIM SPA
COMING IN JANUARY
IN January 2007, Endless Spas
will release an exclusive new
model of its award-winning End-
less Swim Spa, featuring indul-
gent additions such as a reclining
seat for therapeutic back massage,
and an optional neck insert that
targets the shoulders and neck.
According to Endless Spas co-
founder and head designer, War-
ren Anderson, the new Swimming
Machine model has been designed to further solidify the Endless Swim
Spas reputation as a versatile, year-round health and leisure investment.
People already know that a single Swim Spa can be tailored
to suit therapeutic, sports, relaxation or leisure purposes. An
easy example of this is diverting the water flow through the
hydrotherapy massage jets to a monster jet for a more powerful
level of massage, he says.
What weve done with the new Swimming Machine is increase
the massage, relaxation and user-friendly options for those who sim-
ply want to take time out, or who require recovery assistance from
sports training or illness. Its now more multi-purpose than ever. An
increased depth allows use for therapeutic exercise. And you can of
course use it to take time out and relax, or for the kids as their very
own mini-pool, says Anderson.
It will retail from $23,000. For more information call (03) 9874
7211 or visit www.endlessspa.com.au.
SPLASH! | 73
product releases
NEW LIFE FROM
POOL SYSTEMS
POOL Systems is continuing the roll-out of in-
novative Life Spa & Hot Tub Essentials products
to ensure continued new business opportunities
for retailers.
SPA BOOSTER SEAT
RELEASED because
of market demand,
the spa booster seat
includes suction cups
to prevent the seat from
oating or moving
within the spa. Firmness and comfort is easily
adjusted by the amount of water used. Manufac-
tured from a heavy-duty heat resistant material
the booster seat will enable all family members to
enjoy the spa.
SPA MASSAGER
THIS is a compact, ergonomic, handheld massag-
er. The roller balls are ideal for massaging the neck,
back and shoulders. It comes in an attractively
packaged tin and a
12 piece coun-
ter display to
gain maximum
exposure in the
retail environment.
AMBIENCE
SPAWARE
MAD E from spa-safe
shatterproof thermo-
plastic, these multiple
LED-lit wine utes are
the perfect accessory
for the social spa owner.
Available in pairs, the
wines utes are made with a
scratch proof silicon base.

SPA HAND OVER KITS
THESE kits come attractively packaged in a
consumer-friendly carry carton. Kits can be cus-
tomised to suit different customer specications.
Contact your account manager or the Pool
Systems call centre for more information.
SPA COVER
WIPES
THIS unique cleaning formula-
tion removes dust and grime from
spa cover surfaces. Protecting spa
covers from harmful UV sunlight,
the Life spa cover wipes restore,
protect and beautify vinyl and
leather surfaces. The specially
formulated wipes are available in a
stylish 25-piece dispensing tube.
SPA PEARLS
LIFE Spa Pearls are a specially formulated spa
and bath crystal that will enhance the home spa
experience. These crystals are rich with emol-
lients that will soothe and relax
tired muscles with
minerals and body
softeners. Spa Pearls
are available in Kiwi,
Apple Pear, Passion
Flower, Vanilla Tu-
berose and Caribbean
Nights.
74 | SPLASH!
product releases
Blue Circle Southern supplies the Swimming Pool Industry in
Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria, with a high grade
White Silica Sand/Pebble in a variety of gradings, ideal for
filtration, rendering and finishing of swimming pools and spas.
To compliment our White Pool Pebble we offer a range of
"Coloured Crystal" which is a resin coated glass to further
enhance the finish of your Swimming Pool or Spa.
The Crystal is available in a variety of colours, and sizes
(0.300 micron - 10mm). and has a "Five Year Warranty
against UV and Discolouring".
Brisbane Head Office: T: 07 3272 9898 F: 07 3272 9040
A range of qual i t y product s.
One reassuri ng symbol .
THE AQUAMAID

CHECK & BALL VALVE

The Aquamaid Check Valve and Ball
Valve are for use in swimming pools,
spas, solar heating systems, irrigation
and other industrial applications.
BENEFITS:
Positive Seal/Prevents Backflow
Low Friction Loss
No Corrosion
Fully Serviceable
Ball & Check Valve Interchangeable
Australian Made
NEW IMPROVED
PTY.LTD.
290 Boundary Road, Braeside,
Victoria 3195
Telephone: (03) 9580 9055
Fax: (03) 9580 7156
http://www.aquamaid.com.au
email: aquamaid@aquamaid.com.au
NEW FROM AQUACHEK
AQUACHEK has announced the
introduction of two new products.
The rst is a Salt Generator Kit, which
meets a need for various tests that
are critical to salt generator owners.
The AquaChek Salt Generator Kit is
a combination of three separate tests,
packaged conveniently together in
one box. The kit contains one bottle
of AquaChek Yellow, which tests for
Free Chlorine, pH, Total Alkalin-
ity and Cyanuric Acid; one bottle of
AquaChek White Salt Titrators, which
test for sodium chloride and 20 AquaTrend Phosphate tests, which
test for phosphates in pool water. A 24-page salt chlorinator genera-
tor treatment guide written in English, French
and Spanish is also included.
The second product is the TruTest
handheld meter for digital pool and spa
water testing. Coupling test strip and digital
technologies, AquaChek TruTest digital test
strip reader keeps the testing simple while
offering greater accuracy. The meter tests the
three most commonly tested parameters: Free
Chlorine, pH and Total Alkalinity. Results
for Free Bromine can also easily be calculated
by using the Free Chlorine reading. For more
information go to www.AquaChek.com.
Colourful, weather-
resistant play
EMPEX Watertoys has in-
troduced the new Aquadek
T410- 242 aquatic play
structure, which has re-
cently been installed in the
Kowloon Tsai Municipal Pool
in Hong Kong. It has stair
access and slides for toddlers, preschoolers and young children,
providing hours of safe water play. Fabricated from non ferrous
materials, the structure is specically designed for outdoor use in
shallow chlorinated pools and offers superior lightning resistance
plus a lifetime warranty against corrosion. As well, the vibrant
colours and water effects make this excellent fun for the children
to enjoy, while looking terric as a centre piece for aquatic play-
grounds. For more information go to www.watertoys.com.
Stylish stone
NEW shipments of marble
and travertine have arrived at
Sareen Stone. These include
Coliseum travertine in the
large format 800mm x 400mm x
13mm tiles.
Large- format natural stone
tile is in demand for a varie-
ty of reasons. Designers like
the aesthetics while consum-
ers like the natural beauty
of a large stone expanse and
appreciate the easier main-
tenance resulting from fewer
grouted joints.
Also newly arrived is the Medici
brown marble, a rich chocolate
coloured marble with character-
istic white veining for undercover use in sizes 400mm
x 400mm x 15mm, 600mm x 300mm x 12mm, and 2m x
700mm x 20mm.
To receive a sample, email info@sareenstone.com.
au in NSW or jwwhite@sareenstone.com.au in Qld. For
more information see www.sareenstone.com.au
Col i seum t ravert i ne
Medi ci brown marbl e
SPLASH! | 75
DEL OZONE
SYSTEMS
DEL OZONE
SYSTEMS
/:/.
EPA Estab. No.071472-CA-001 S|nce 1975
4-
The ultimate in pool
water purification
The ultimate in pool
water purification
No more red eyes No more red eyes
No more green hair No more green hair
No chemical taste No chemical taste
No chemical odour No chemical odour

Australia Wide Australia Wide

Contact:
Phillip Green 0414 369 663
Paul Weston 0417 642 602
Contact:
Phillip Green 0414 369 663
Paul Weston 0417 642 602
New family spa
BEACHCOMBER Hot Tubs
has released the new 378
model, a seven person spa
with a cooling seat, enter-
ing into the large family size
spa segment of the industry. The 378 is
a new mold that features the companys large 89 x 89 size.
The focus on safety and useability makes the 378 dimen-
sions a popular size within the Beachcomber Hot Tub lineup.
For more information see www.beachcomberhottubs.com
FIGHT FIRES
WITH POOL
WATER
MANY thousands of Australian
homes in bush re prone areas
have a ready source of re-ght-
ing water available their swim-
ming pools. The trouble is how
to get the water from the pool
over the house, into the gutters
or onto the re.
The family swimming pool is
the ideal re ghting resource,
says Aussie Pumps product
manager, John Whiteley. Its
normally located close to the
house so it makes it easy to ll
up the gutters or damp down walls, roofs and any other surface that is
potentially combustible, he says.
Teaming the swimming pool with a reliable re pump and hose kit,
as recommended by the authorities, means homes can be saved and
tragedies adverted.
The Aussie Fire Chief is claimed to be the worlds best lightweight
high-pressure re pump. The pump comes with a huge 100 psi pressure
performance and the ability to pump up to 500 litres per minute. The
large ow and high pressure gives the Chief the ability to literally drown
spot res or damp down houses and outbuildings quickly.
The standard Aussie Fire Chief comes with a Honda Japanese built 5.5hp
industrial petrol engine. Other drive options are available including Yanmar
diesel and big 6hp Vanguard petrol engine for increased performance.
The Fire Chief is the choice of the Rural Fire Service, National Parks
and Wildlife and the Fire Brigade. Its also enjoyed tremendous success in
export market with re ghting authorities in Europe using it as a standard.
A free guide on how to use swimming pools and re pumps for re
protection is available from Australian Pump Industries on (02) 9894 4144
or Aussie Pump Distributors throughout Australia.
ROLLING OUT
THE COVERS
WITH the water crisis sparking unprec-
edented demand for pool covers, it helps to
make it easier for pool owners to put them
on and take them off. To this end, Daisy
Pool Covers has just released two new
roller options to its popular 5 Star range.
Daisys 5 Star A75 is a premium
75mm stationary roller for smaller pools
up to 8 metres by 4.3 metres. It features a sturdy,
low-prole powder-coated aluminium A-frame and hand-
wheels, and a 75mm anodised xed length single piece tube.
Daisy has also added a stationary freestanding roller for above ground
pools to its extensive roller range.
Installing and retrieving pool covers on large above-ground pools can
actually be more difcult than it is on similar-sized in-ground pools simply
because of the need to lift the cover over the pool, says Derek Prince,
general manager of Daisy Pool Covers.
Our innovative new 5 Star AGA (above ground adjustable) roller turns
it into a simple one-person operation.
The 5 Star AGA has a strong, wide-based design for stability, and the
height of the roller is easily adjusted with simple spring-loaded locking pins.
Both these new rollers were developed to ll gaps we saw in the current
range of rollers on the market, and we expect they will meet with strong con-
sumer demand and generate signicant sales for Daisy distributors, he says.
For more information call (08) 9358 1155 or email
derek@daisypoolcovers.com.au
Plug in to poolside living
A safe and attractive solution for wet and damp areas, the
HPM WS54 narrow body weatherproof single power point is
the most recent addition to the Aqua weatherproof range.
The tough and ver-
satile Aqua weather-
proof range has been
specically designed
for a range of outdoor
applications and is
ideal for use around
the pool, outdoor
entertaining areas,
commercial kitch-
ens and bathrooms,
marinas and outdoor
sporting venues.
Perfect when space
is at a premium, the
compact power point
is built to t into nar-
row spaces at home
or at work.
The new WS54 has an International Protection rating of
IP54 and features a transparent spring- loaded weather-
proof ap. Its tough polymer casing is impact resistant and
UV- stabilised for durability in exposed areas. The WS54 has
a number of installation options. The reversible mounting
block features three push- out conduit entries as well as a
rear drill- out option. The HPM Aqua weatherproof range of-
fers a selection of power points, switches and isolators.
The trade list price is $26.50. For more information call
HPM Customer Service on 1300 369 777.
SPLASH! | 77
product releases
Easy chemical mixing
TERALBA Industries, manufacturers of the Mixquip range of
Fluid Mixers and Agitators, has produced a new high perform-
ance air- driven mixer for pallet tanks and IBCs.
The new range incorporates an innovative high axial ow Super-
o impellor. This impellor folds to be inserted through the 51mm
BSP bung hole in the centre cap of any standard pallet tank.
The Supero high axial ow impellor directs a jetstream
of liquid towards the centre of the container, lifting any
sediment or heavier product from the base and evenly dis-
tributing throughout the container. The integrated air valve
can be used to adjust air
ow which regulates RPM
of the impellor. This in turn
regulates mixing intensity.
The rummager includes
all 316- stainless- steel
wetted components and is
backed by a money- back
guarantee.
For further information,
contact Teralba Industries
on Freecall 1800 201 373 in
Australia, or 07 847 5315 in
New Zealand.
RAIN Alert Gauge by water solutions com-
pany New Water helps to monitor water tank
levels without leaving the home.
It is a measurement device suitable for all
vented tanks up to 3m high. National sales
manager for New Water, Andrew Stack, says
that Rain Alert provides an easy-to-install
wireless method for monitoring tank levels.
The device consists of a transmitter and
a receiver. The transmitter sits on top of the
tank, using ultrasonics to gauge the level of
uid in the tank. The receiver, which can be
located up to 200m from the tank, is plugged
into a power point with a small LCD panel continuously showing how
much water is in your tank, he says.
When the tank is below a pre-determined level, the LCD panel will
ash a Tank Fill picture, and when it is almost empty a red warning
light will ash to indicate the low tank level.
Rain Alert is suitable for rainwater harvesting tanks including New Waters ex-
ible Rain Reviva bladder tanks as well as the companys range of Slimline tanks.
The cost of a standard unit to t a tank is $160.
New Water is an Australian company which sells innovative, customised
water solutions in the form of grey water recycling and rainwater harvest-
ing tanks and systems. The company is currently franchising in NSW.
For more information go to www.newwater.com.au or call 1300 552
695 (1 300 NEW WATER).
EASY MONITORING OF WATER TANK LEVELS
Watercos largest
commercial lter
WATERCO has
manufactured its larg-
est commercial bre-
glass lter to date. The
Hydron SMDD6500
lter is capable of effectively removing sus-
pended dirt particles from water at a speed of up
to 3900 litres per minute at a recommended sand
depth of 1200mm. Hydron SMDD6500 lters
are 3635mm in length and 2244mm high.
Waterco 65mm ttings
WATERCO is proud to
introduce an extensive
range of 65mm ttings.
65mm ttings provide
improved ow rate and
less head loss than 50mm ttings without the
expense of 80mm ttings.
MPV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Max ow rate
50mm (2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 510
65mm (2 ) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780
80mm (3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1080
The ow characteristics of the 65mm ttings
and valves make it ideal for Watercos Micron
Commercial S1050 and S1200 lters.
Waterco Hybrid stainless steel pump
WATERCOS stainless steel pump is the rst
hybrid of its kind, the pre-strainer is constructed
from glass lled thermoplastic, while its impel-
ler and volute are constructed from grade-316
stainless steel, ensuring a high level of durability
in corrosive environments.
Features include
Quiet operation at an average of 66dB for the
4.0kW model, and 74dB for the 5.5kW model;
Can generate a maximum ow rate of ap-
proximately 1000lpm for the 4.0kW model,
and 1600lpm for the 5.5kW model;
Can produce a high ow rate under in-
creased head conditions;
High quality weather-proof motor motor
shaft is made of grade-431 stainless steel;
A silicon carbide mechanical seal is available
if required for saltwater or other corrosive
applications.
NEW FROM WATERCO
NEW GENERATION SAND FILTER
PENTAIR Water has released a new range of onga
Pantera Series II Sand Filters. Key features are strength
and reliability, coupled with a broad range to cover
any pool size, and excellent multiport valves.
The lters range in size from 550mm (21)
diameter to 850mm (33) diameter in 100mm
(4) increments.
The test regime for this new range was
tougher than anything seen before in the
industry, says Simon Coupe, product manager
at Pentair Water. Weve cycled multiple units
of each product in this range over 50,000 times
right through their pressure range. When this
didnt break them, we considered them good
enough to release to the market.
Each model was computer shaped for strength by plastics
engineers at Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT).
Pentair says this shaping has given the range the strongest design in
the industry, as well as unparalleled stability from the integral feet.
The company also says that the range is utilising proven hardware
including the industry leading 40mm and 50mm multiport valves. A
40mm valve is supplied complete with the 21 and 25 models, while
a 50mm valve is supplied complete with the 29 and 33 models.
For further information phone Pentair Water Australia toll free
on 1800 664 266, Pentair Water New Zealand toll free on 0800 664
269 or visit Ongas web site at www.onga.com.au.
78 | SPLASH!
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Ai r & Hydraul i c Syst ems ................................................................... 61

AquaCal ............................................................................................ 56
Aquamai d.......................................................................................... 74
Aquamat i cs ....................................................................................... 59
Ast ral Pool ....................................................................................... IBC
Aust ral i an Spa Part s ......................................................................... 75
Aust rol Indust ri es ............................................................................. 53
AquaQui p .......................................................................................... 35
Bl ue Ci rcl e Sout hern ......................................................................... 74
Cl evaqui p .......................................................................................... 41
Compu Pool Product s ....................................................................... 25
Dai sy Pool Covers ............................................................................ 26
Davey Product s ................................................................................. 58
Di mensi on One Spas......................................................................... 23
Dont ek El ect ri cs ................................................................................ 76
Focus Product s ................................................................................. 31
Greenhouse Heal t h & Sport .............................................................. 67
Hi Tech Paci c .................................................................................. 75
Hurl con ............................................................................................. 10
Ian Coombes Lt d ............................................................................... 68
Jandy Aqual i ne ................................................................................. 73
Jaymac Int ernat i onal ........................................................................ 17
Kreepy Kraul y ................................................................................... 18
Lat i cret e............................................................................................ 64
Lo- Chl or Chemi cal s ........................................................................ IFC
Mel b. School of Sport and Rec. Man. ................................................ 66
Met co (Aqua Product s) ..................................................................... 68
Monarch Pool Syst ems ..................................................................... 42
Nat i onwi de Insurance Brokers ......................................................... 39
Ni agara Pool Suppl i es ................................................................. 44, 45
Novi s Di st ri but i on ............................................................................. 49
NSPI .................................................................................................. 16
Pent ai r Wat er .................................................................................... 63
Pool Cont rol s (Chemi gem) .................................................................. 6
Pool Pro Product s .......................................................................... OBC
Pool Ranger ...................................................................................... 50
Pool ri t e Equi pment ............................................................................. 9
Pool st ore Int ernat i onal .................................................................... 12
Premi um Qual i t y Pool Product s ........................................................ 20
Rai n Drop Product s ........................................................................... 71
Remco Aust ral i a ................................................................................ 15
SGL Consul t i ng Group ....................................................................... 60
Si gnat ure Spas ................................................................................... 4
Spa El ect ri cs ..................................................................................... 52
Spa Net ............................................................................................. 33
Sunbat her ......................................................................................... 29
Swi mpl ex Aquat i cs ........................................................................... 69
The Pool Peopl e ................................................................................ 72
Wat erco ...................................................................................... 14 ,70
Wat erway Aust ral i a ........................................................................... 47
Zeol i t e Aust ral i a ................................................................................ 43
Zodi ac Group .................................................................................... 55
Ad Index
More than 35 years of experience in the pool industry, as a manufacturer and distributor of pool components. AstralPool means confidence. From a simple skimmer to a
complex automated filtration system or the entire pool. AstralPool means solutions for every pool. More than 20,000 pool professionals in 170 countries count on AstralPool
every day. AstralPool means partnership. 200,000 pools are equipped with our material every year. AstralPool means peace of mind.
AstralPool is your quality brand made in Europe. We make all pools possible.
Astral Equipment Australia PTY. LTD.
35, Darnick Str. Underwood, QLD 4119
Tel. 617 384 18500 Fax 617 384 15300
e-mail: jcorbett@astralpool.com.au
www.astralpool.com
AstralPool makes it possible
Ofcial Partner and Supplier