Brent Young, CICA Victoria Branch Chair.
CICA VIC/TAS has had a strong start to the year and our member events have been well attended. Recognising the importance of networking, the VIC /TAS Breakfast Meeting was held in May at The Teller in Lygon Street and was well attended by members.
The breakfast meeting provided an opportunity for members to connect with one another. Events like this highlight the importance of gathering to strengthen our association’s community and collaboration among members.
On 11 July 2023, the VIC/TAS branch held the first CICA Business Essentials (CBE) event. This is a new initiative for supporting small to medium business owners in the Crane Industry. CICA has developed wet and dry hire documents with a contract lawyer, and these have been customised for each state. CICA is making these free for members, just get in touch with Paul or Justina if you would like a copy.
Ping Gangur from Level Playing Field Lawyers delivered a presentation on the importance of relevant and current wet/dry hire agreements. The risk and responsibility for cranes and equipment come down to the specific terms of the contract, so it is important to review these contracts carefully.
Ping stressed that wet/dry hire agreements are essential for establishing a clear and mutually beneficial relationship between the hiring party and the providing party. They help mitigate risks, define responsibilities and provide a framework for efficient and transparent collaboration. By clearly outlining the terms and conditions of the agreement, these agreements contribute to smoother operations, reduced disputes and enhanced professionalism in the crane and construction industries.
CICA is working hard with VicRoads to progress the Heavy Vehicle Access Management System (HVAMS) project, which uses telematic data and is a more accurate and contemporary approach to heavy vehicle access. A pre-approved road network is something we envy in our Tasmanian counterparts. A system like Tasmania’s would greatly improve efficiency and productivity in Victoria.
We have a couple of great member events coming up in September that I hope you’ll take the time to be a part of. The VIC/TAS Regional Meeting in Traralgon is a picturesque setting with the nearby Strzelecki Ranges and the Latrobe Valley providing a scenic backdrop. Princes Highway passes through the town, providing easy road access from Melbourne and other major regional centres.
On 20 September 2023 we’ll hold our branch meeting alongside the Inside Construction Expo.
The 2022-23 Victorian Budget continues the State’s investment in a major pipeline of projects, with $85.3 billion in general government spending on infrastructure over the next four years.
However, the construction sector is facing significant challenges and Inside Construction Expo 2023 will look at the issues of skills shortage in the construction sector; digital transformation of the construction industry; and safety from a state perspective.
The branch meeting is an opportunity to stay up to date and network with others in the crane industry, the Inside Construction Expo will also be insightful, particularly for members who are involved in State Government projects. We’d love to see you there, if you have any questions please reach out to Paul, Justina or myself.
Brent Young