The new Queensland Branch of NESMA is off to a flying start after an inaugural meeting in the boardroom of IPD in Brisbane drew a packed attendance of industry identities keen to advance standards, education, and unified leadership in low voltage switchboard manufacturing in the Sunshine State.
“We were delighted to have such a strong group turn out – more than 40 people, representing 31 manufacturers – which was especially good given the limited notice we could give about this major move taken as the NESMA National conference approaches,” said PT Automation’s Business Development Manager Mark Shorrock, who, with Dart Switchboards’ Stephen Dart, was a prime mover for the formation of NESMA Queensland.
Stephen was elected President of the new Branch, Mark Shorrock, Secretary, Danny Alam (Reid Switchboards), Treasurer, and Troy Slade (SCRR Electrical Services), Membership Co-ordinator.
“What was remarkable at this first meeting of a diverse group was how keen everyone was to promote and act together for the common good. This spirit applied both to existing NESMA members and others who were new to the organisation,” said Mark.
“Their enthusiasm and unity means that NESMA is now present and strongly effective in every mainland State, so we as an organisation can speak authoritatively on issues affecting all industry members – including the importance of Standards, Compliance, quality, and safety while preparing for a future including the massive changes, challenges and opportunities coming with renewables, EVs, and climate change targets.
“I’m excited for the networking and collaborations that will come from us getting together on a united front. This was evident in the comments of people at the meeting, including:
- “Big things to come in the QLD switchboard industry” – Brett Goding – Design Switchboard and Distribution
- “It was fantastic to see all the industry faces in the room with an obvious show of support.” Chris Breitkreutz – Director – Dynamic Switchboards
- “Forming NESMA (QLD) Incorporated is a significant step towards unifying our industry and setting higher standards for all members.” – Peter Taylor – PT Automation Solutions
- “This association will provide us with a strong collective voice to advocate for our industry’s needs and priorities. – Troy Slade – SCRR Electrical Services
- “I’m excited about the potential for NESMA to drive innovation and collaboration among switchboard manufacturers in Queensland.” – Danny Alam – REID Switchboards
Mark Shorrock said the meeting strongly agreed with the observation that up until now, many successful switchboard builders – whether Electrical Engineers or Sparkies – often didn’t reach out to their fellow professionals to ask questions or refer business.
“However, when I shared the features and benefits of joining NESMA, many board builders expressed interest in a more collaborative approach, recognising their peers as possible assets in many circumstances rather than just competitors.
“One significant advantage of membership is that the association facilitates easier networking and collaboration among members, helping them connect with one another for support and opportunities that could expand opportunities.”
Speaking after attending the event, NESMA Secretary Peter Silsby said the spirit of the meeting was a sign of great maturity and common purpose evolving within the industry since the formation of NESMA decades ago in NSW, then extending to Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia, and now Queensland.
“The formation of NESMA Queensland is the final spoke in a wheel of progress that will continue to advance in importance, because there are major changes ahead of us that will require a unified voice. This is particularly the case when interacting with regulatory bodies whose decisions may determine our future course.
“With a unified voice, we can interact much earlier in the process and bring our practical and professional experience to bear on the outcome. This proactive advocacy and education is also important in ensuring a level playing ground so that all manufacturers and customers understand the issues involved, including safety, ongoing statutory obligations AS61439 and the quality assurance we deliver as industry leaders.
“And all of NESMA gain from the experiences of Queensland, which is a hub of energy, innovation, and knowledge that will be invaluable to the broader NESMA community of professionals, as we share knowledge and common objectives to the benefit of customers.”
To join NESMA Queensland, please contact:
Mark Shorrock markshorrock@ptas.com.au, 0418 425 493
Steve Dart Steve@dartswitch.com.au, (07) 3287 2803
