QLD Members Meeting – October 2025 Recap
The Scaffolding Association Australia welcomed members and partners to our Queensland Members Meeting on Wednesday, 8th October at The Glen Hotel in Eight Mile Plains. The morning brought together scaffolders, safety leaders, regulators, and industry partners to discuss key issues, share knowledge, and strengthen connections across our sector.
Safety Insights from Hutchinson Builders
Jimmy Anderson, National Health and Safety Manager at Hutchinson Builders, spoke about the critical role of scaffold handovers and the risks when documentation and acceptance processes are incomplete. He highlighted how digital platforms are changing handover practices but stressed that the intent of the WHS Code must remain central: clear, complete information and on-site verification. With major infrastructure projects and the lead-up to the Olympic Games, Jimmy urged contractors to strengthen their processes now, noting the Federal Safety Commissioner’s heightened focus on temporary structures.
Cantilever Loading Bay Risks
John Barber from Workplace Health and Safety Queensland addressed recent incidents involving cantilever loading bays. He detailed investigations that uncovered issues with incorrect installation, missing bolts, uncertified components, and non-compliance with engineered designs. John emphasised the need for scaffolders to push back on builders when proper installation methodology and documentation are not provided, highlighting the serious consequences of shortcuts.
Beyond the Scaffold – Upselling and Cross-Selling
Tiffany Stevenson from Sitemax presented strategies for scaffold companies to grow profits through upselling and cross-selling. She explained how solutions like weather protection, dust containment, safety accessories, and branded wraps can transform scaffolding from a cost-driven service into a value-adding partnership for clients. Tiffany shared examples where projects recovered the full cost of weather protection in just a few wet days, reinforcing the business case for thinking beyond access alone.
Innovation in Tools and Equipment
Paratene Waikari from SCAFFKiT shared his personal journey of building a scaffolding tools business out of adversity and highlighted innovative, Australian-made products now available to support scaffolders. Supplying the finest quality scaffolding tools and accessories from around the globe to the construction, mining, oil and gas sectors Australia wide, SCAFFKiT is your a one-stop, specialised scaffolding tools & accessories shop.
Insurance for Scaffolders
Glenn Hanna from HMD Insurance provided an update on SAA Insure, the tailored insurance facility developed for SAA members. Glenn explained how the program brings price stability, broader coverage, and sector-specific expertise. He also stressed the importance of maintaining project records, contracts, and handover documentation for potential claims—even years after a project has finished. A recent case study showed how proper records protected a scaffolder from liability five years after a project.
Designing for Safety
Justin Smith from Construc delivered a practical session on scaffold design, breaking it down into different levels of complexity. Using relatable examples, he explained risk categories, forces affecting scaffolds, and why proper engineering is essential for more complex or high-risk structures. His message reinforced the importance of engaging qualified designers and ensuring scaffold plans are properly documented and implemented.
SAA National Update
Erryn O’Brien, SAA General Manager, closed the meeting with a national update. Key highlights included progress on the “Stop Scaffold Tampering” campaign, details of Scaff25 – SAA’s national AGM, conference, and awards night to be held in Sydney in November 2025, and news on the Silent Auction to be hosted onboard the Starship Aqua, with proceeds going to the Touched by Christopher Foundation. Erryn also updated members on international collaboration through IASA and announced the upcoming DWF legal webinar for members.
