AEPMA eNewsletter May 2023

Welcome

Welcome to the Australian Environmental Pest Managers Association May 2023 edition. Please read on below for more details below or visit our website for online version

AEPMA eNewsletter May Edition

Member Input Wanted

The AEPMA board is developing five strategic committees/task forces that will help play an important role in the future success of our Association.

We are seeking expressions of interest from members who are keen to participate in the future planning of AEPMA and tackle the long-term policy issues facing the industry.

Here are guidelines for each of them:

Learning and Events Taskforce:

This committee aims to develop a comprehensive and effective plan for the education system that aligns with the organization's overall strategic objectives. The committee is responsible for ensuring that the education system supports the organization's vision, mission, and values and that it prepares industry participants for success in their personal and professional lives. The committee's scope of work includes all aspects of the education system, including industry competency units, curriculum development, instructional design, assessment and evaluation, industry support services, and technology infrastructure. The committee may also work with external stakeholders to ensure that the education system meets the needs of all stakeholders.

Legislative and Government Advisory Committee:

This committee aims to ensure that legislation and regulations related to pest management are favourable to the pest management industry. The committee's purpose is to ensure that the pest management industry has a voice in the development of legislation and regulations related to pest control. The committee monitors and analyses legislative and regulatory proposals related to pest management at the local, state, and federal levels. It also works with other organizations and stakeholders to develop and promote policy positions on key issues affecting the pest management industry.

Industry Growth Advisory Group:

The Industry Growth Advisory Group (IGAG) is a committee or task force assembled to help promote and accelerate the growth of pest management industry. The group works to achieve several key aims, including:
Identifying opportunities for industry growth: The IGAG aims to identify opportunities for growth within the industry and to determine the most effective strategies to achieve it.
Providing strategic advice: Based on their research, the IGAG provides strategic advice to industry stakeholders and the AEPMA board. They provide insights into how to overcome obstacles and capitalize on opportunities, and help to develop and implement long-term plans for growth.

Monitoring progress: The IGAG monitors the progress of industry growth initiatives and assesses their effectiveness. They make recommendations for adjustments as needed and provide ongoing support to ensure the industry continues to thrive.

The IGAG also works to promote the use of data and analytics to inform decision-making and improve pest management practices, and to identify emerging technologies and trends that may impact the industry.

Technical Advisory Panel:

This committee provides industry with technical advisory support in respect of disputes between members of the public and advises on any new developments in Pest Control that may warrant the development of more Codes of Practice.

Training and Delivery Task Force

Responsibilities – Hiring, Training, Knowledge, and Skills

The aim of this task force is to ensure that industry participants can be trained in-house and are adequately trained and equipped to provide pest management services to the community. The aim is to equip pest control technicians to ensure that the pest control industry is able to provide high-quality services that meet the needs of clients and the community.

The purpose of the committee is to develop and implement training programs that help industry participants develop the knowledge and skills necessary to provide safe, effective, and responsible pest management services.

This could include developing training materials and resources, providing access to certification programs and continuing education opportunities, and ensuring that industry participants are trained to codes of industry best practice.

If you would like to join any of the above groups please email info@aepma.com.au with your expression of interest.

Sincerely,

Vasili Tsoutouras

President

Thinking of Attending Pesticon 2023?

Kylee and Paul Enwright at CPR Pest Control share why Pesticon is their ultimate go-to event in the pest management industry!

Watch the video here

Have you booked your tickets yet?

Early bird registration will close on the 30th of June. Don't miss out!

Visit the Pesticon Website for more details.

Nominate Now for the Pest Manager of the Year Award 2023

The Pest Manager of the Year award (sponsored by BASF) recognises outstanding individuals who have demonstrated exceptional skills in pest management.

Whether you're a seasoned professional or a rising star, this award is your chance to shine and be recognized for your hard work and dedication.

“BASF is proud of our continued support of the Pest Manager of the Year awards since 2010,” says David Elmouttie, BASF Head of Professional & Specialty Solutions.

“We believe it’s extremely important to recognise and reward businesses that show outstanding commitment to the pest management industry and go above and beyond to deliver quality services. Each year we receive an impressive range of entries and are excited to be involved in the process once again to discover the amazing contributions being made by pest management businesses that are helping our industry grow, evolve and thrive.”

Nominations for Pest Manager of the Year close on the 31st of May.

The winner will be announced at Pesticon

AEPMA Sustainability Award – Nominations Closing Soon!

Don’t forget to nominate for the new Sustainability Award, sponsored by Ensystex.

We want to encourage and recognise professional pest managers who are committed to creating more sustainable businesses.

The Sustainability Award recognises those who have made significant efforts to reduce the environmental impact of pest management.

Whether you've implemented new practices to reduce waste or developed environmentally friendly products, this award recognises your commitment to sustainability.

Nominations close on 31st May 2023, and the winner will be announced at Pesticon 2023.

2023 Innovation Award – Sponsored by Envu

The Innovation Award, sponsored by Envu, recognises and celebrates pest control companies or individuals who have introduced innovative projects, initiatives, or activities that drive organisational change in the industry.

We are delighted to announce that applications for the Innovation Award are now open. The award seeks to acknowledge and reward those who have introduced a new and innovative method, project initiative, or activity that improves on what is currently available in the pest management industry.
To be eligible for the award, applicants must demonstrate evidence of innovation that sets them apart from common practice in the industry. This could be through the introduction of new technologies, marketing strategies, or other initiatives. Tangible benefits, such as social or economic impact, should also be highlighted.

Efforts in building a dynamic work environment are also an important consideration. We recognize that innovation often requires a change in organisational culture and structure. Therefore, applicants should demonstrate how their innovative approach has impacted their organisation, creating a more dynamic and forward-thinking work environment.

To apply for the award, interested parties must complete an application form and submit supporting documentation online. The deadline for applications is May 31st.

The judging panel will assess applications based on their level of innovation, outstanding features, tangible benefits, and efforts in building a dynamic work environment.

This is an opportunity to showcase your organisation's innovative spirit and commitment to driving change in the pest management industry. We look forward to receiving your nomination.

Please visit the AEPMA website for further information.

Envu was founded in 2022, a new company built on years of Bayer Environmental Science experience, for the sole purpose of advancing healthy environments for everyone, everywhere. We offer dedicated services in: Professional Pest Management, Termite Management, Stored Grain, Vegetation Management and Turf & Ornamental Management. Across each of our lines of business, we focus our work in chemistry and beyond, collaborating with our customers to come up with innovative solutions that will work today and well into the future. For further information about Envu, please visit https://www.au.envu.com/about-us

Queensland Health – Online Licensing Portal Now Open

The online portal is now available for pest management technicians (PMT) licence renewals. It was pleasing to see that the portal was used by 84% of licence renewals in March 2023, this is up from 80% in January 2023. We hope that many more PMTs will see the benefits of this quick and easy option to renew their licence.

Paper forms will still be available and can be posted into the department by PMTs who for different reasons are not able to utilise the portal effectively.

In addition, the portal can be used to change contact or business details as well as providing a new ID photo. Up-to-date details will ensure that any correspondence including renewal notices are sent to the correct address. Licence holders are reminded that it is a requirement to inform Queensland Health of any changes within 21 days. There are no fees associated with updating your details, however failure to notify us of changes may incur penalties.

The next stage to enable online lodgement of applications for new and amended licences is expected to commence in the near future but is still subject to some final testing to ensure it will work as planned.

Pest Managers Australia- Facebook

Pest Managers Australia is a group for licenced, trainee and administration staff , Suppliers , Manufacturers , Educators ,involved in the pest management Industry.

This group has a focus on helping other people in the industry with zero tolerance to bullying other members. We understand there are people out there starting in the trade as we all did at one point have many questions to ask.

As a lot of us know even after decades of experience we still continue to learn and be surprised at how pests can evolve and surprise us.

This group has been well supported by numerous manufacturers who also offer advice and donate prize packages that are given away to members.

The group has State pages, a Mentoring Job & Support group as well as a women's group, which allows for closer networking between businesses. NSW Pest Managers Group ran a training seminar last year on assisting with termite report writing at no cost with the help of generous sponsors and had over 70 attendees. The admin team is happy to listen to great ideas and help with action plans that can benefit others.

If you are looking for a friendly group on Facebook The Australian Pest Managers Group can be a group for you no matter how much experience you have.

Our goal is to support Everyone in our industry

So come join say hello & share your thoughts and knowledge with everyone and help our industry grow. - Doug Balsom

In need of Fumigation experts? We have you covered!

Log fumigation is one of only a few specialist companies Australia-wide that have the capability, know-how, experience and are endorsed by the Qld Government and DAFF to conduct these types of Building & Structural Fumigations.

The West Indian dry wood termites(Cryptotermes brevis) spread is real, more and they have been detected in more homes and buildings.

If you require assistance with treating these termites the efficacy with fumigation is 100%

Once fumigated correct monitoring is essential

Contact Keith at Log Fumigation for more information

How the Australian Standards can help reduce your risk of termite claims

As a business owner or operator, you likely understand the importance of protecting your business from claims. Rapid Solutions knows that the highest risk areas in our industry is termite management, as these pests can cause significant damage to property and result in costly claims.

However, by having a copy of the relevant Australian Standards on termites, you can take proactive steps to protect your business from claims and ensure that you are meeting your legal obligations. Here are a few reasons why having these standards on hand is so important:

Compliance with legal requirements:

Under Australian law, businesses that provide termite management services are required to comply with certain standards and regulations. By having a copy of the relevant standards on hand, you can ensure that your business is meeting these requirements and help avoid potential legal issues.

Consistency and quality of service:

Following the Australian Standards on termites can also help to ensure that your business is providing a consistent and high-quality service to customers. These standards outline best practices for termite management, including inspection, treatment, and prevention techniques. By following these guidelines, you can provide a more effective and reliable service to your customers, which can help to build your reputation and reduce the risk of claims.

Evidence in the event of a claim:

If a customer does file a claim related to termite damage, having a copy of the relevant Australian Standards on hand can serve as evidence that your business followed established best practices and protocols. This can help to defend your business against claims of negligence or improper service.

Training and education:

Finally, having a copy of the Australian Standards on termites can provide valuable training and education for your staff. These standards can serve as a validation tool against your reporting and act as a guide for your team, particularly those newer to the industry, to ensure they’re not taking any risky short cuts.

This can ultimately help to improve the quality of your service and reduce the risk of claims.
Investing in a copy of these standards and making them a central part of your termite management work may save you costly complaints and claims and can cement you as a consistent, high quality provider to your customers.

ENSYSTEX Introduces the most effective flying insect control on the market

In keeping with ENSYSTEX’s vision to be the ‘first choice for environmentally responsible, effective long-term pest management solutions’ we present the VECTOTHOR LED flying insect management system.

It is widely acknowledged that LED technology offers clear energy savings over traditional lighting technologies. Now VECTOTHOR brings this exciting technology to create a new standard for UV-A lights for insect control. Coupled with our unique Dynamic Oscillation Pulse Technology™, a proprietary algorithm that creates fluctuations in the light beam that are imperceptible by people, but greatly improve fly catch rates, VECTOTHOR LED is truly lighting the future for insect control.

VECTOTHOR LED lamps are better for the environment and better for your client's pocket since they use up to 50% less energy than traditional fluorescent lights. This also means half the CO2 emissions. Better still, each lamp has a three (3) years lifespan (compared to one year for fluorescent lamps), meaning less landfill and improved sustainability. They contain no environmental pollutants such as lead or mercury, as used in fluorescent lamps. And, since they contain no glass, they are shatter-proof.
VECTOTHOR have professional units appropriate for all industries. Our units are now found in a major supermarket chain, fast food chains, and facilities for the production of food and industrial goods. All models are HACCP Approved for use in audited food production facilities.

The new VECTOTHOR OMNIVEO range heralds a new generation of insect control units including the optional OMNIVEO Smart Control System for 24/7 monitoring of fly catch rates. This employs a high-speed camera to record insects lured into the trap. The data is immediately forwarded to you, and if you wish, your client; saving you time, reducing your company’s environmental footprint, and allowing for earlier intervention in the event of a pest problem occurring. Connectivity is Australia-wide using the 4G LTE-M network.

Real time monitoring of insects is a huge leap forward.

Through the years VECTOTHOR has developed ongoing and long-term urban pest management solutions in Australia for better health, sanitation and safety; and will continue to do so.

New shutdown rules for awards

From 1 May 2023, many awards will have updated rules on taking annual leave during a shutdown.

A shutdown is when a business temporarily closes, such as during Christmas and New Year. Learn more about shutdowns at Direction to take annual leave during a shutdown.

The new rules mean:

employers may require employees to take paid annual leave during a temporary shutdown
employers must provide at least 28 days’ written notice of the temporary shutdown period to all impacted employees
the requirement to take annual leave must be reasonable
the notice period can be reduced through an agreement between the employer and the majority of impacted employees
an employee who doesn’t have enough paid annual leave to cover the whole period can form an agreement with their employer for other options for the days not covered,
using accrued time off
annual leave in advance, or
leave without pay.

The employee will be paid for any public holidays during the shutdown period that fall on days they would normally work.

More information can be found here

Populations of European Wasp Explode throughout Australia

Reports are coming in thick and fast from pest management professionals across NSW, VIC, TAS and SA that European wasp populations have exploded over the past month.

At this time of year European wasp nests are at their peak in size. Colonies change their focus to producing vast numbers of queens and males. These will mate before the queens seek sheltered spots to go into hibernation for the winter months emerging again in early spring to start the cycle over again.

Leading Research and Development in Australia

Sundew Solutions are the first company to register a remote toxicant baiting program with the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA). A range of European wasp products are sold in Australia under the brand Sundew VESPEX.

Presently, the Sundew VESPEX products are the only APVMA approved solutions for remote baiting of European wasp nests.

Now is the perfect time!

This time of season is a perfect time to be implementing a treatment to eliminate entire nests using the Sundew VESPEX European wasp baiting program. A toxicant bait is made combining Sundew VESPEX European Wasp Lure with Sundew EnsnarePRO 50 SC indoxacarb non-repellent insecticide. The liquid bait is then dispensed into VESPEX Baiting Tunnels for European wasps to feed on and take back to the nest for total colony elimination. Typically, nests are controlled in <14 days.

How do I become a Sundew Vespex Accredited Specialist?

Sundew is committed to meeting good product stewardship standards, which includes ensuring that people who use the products are fully aware of the correct techniques of usage and understand their obligations. For this reason Sundew has created the VESPEX Accredited Specialist program.
The VESPEX Accredited Specialist program was created to provide detailed training on how to effectively implement a baiting treatment for maximum effect.

To learn more about becoming a VESPEX Accredited Specialist visit sundewsolutions.com.au, email info@sundewsolutions.com.au or contact Rowan Gregson at rowan@sundewsolutions.com.au or call 0422 403 556.

Online HomeGuard® accreditation

FMC is proud to announce the launch of FMC Learn, an online training platform for HomeGuard® installation accreditation.

Become a HomeGuard® installer, anywhere, anytime.

Existing accredited applicators need to update their knowledge in conjunction with the New manual, 5D. This is now easy to do at your convenience.

Important Dates

Registrations are now open for the 2023 Environmental Biosecurity Webinar Series – Connected. Resilient. Shared.

We invite you to connect with us for the 2023 Environmental Biosecurity Webinar Series to explore environmental biosecurity ideas, projects, research and case studies that are contributing to a more connected, resilient, and shared biosecurity system.

The six-part series will explore the priority areas of the National Biosecurity Strategy from an environmental biosecurity perspective. The National Biosecurity Strategy was released in August 2022 and provides a strategic roadmap and collective vision for Australia’s biosecurity system over the next ten years.

To register for the webinar series CLICK HERE to visit the Eventbrite registration page.

Once registered, you will receive a confirmation email from Eventbrite. Joining details (the Microsoft Teams link) and a reminder will be sent out by the Environmental Biosecurity Office prior to each webinar.

Webinar dates
Dates for each webinar are below. Please remember to add a reminder in your calendar so you don’t forget!

ENVIRONMENTAL BIOSECURITY WEBINAR SERIES 2023
• Stronger partnerships - Thursday 11 May 12:30-2:00pm (AEST)
• Highly skilled workforce - Thursday 27 July 12:30-2:00pm (AEST)
• Coordinated preparedness and response - Thursday 7 September 12:30-2:00pm (AEST)
• Sustainable investment - Thursday 19 October 12:30-2:00pm (AEDT)

European wasps take over small tourist town of Yackandandah

It is a cool autumn morning in north-east Victoria, but already there are European wasps trying to get into the shops.

"They can be absolutely shocking some days," said Janet Martin, the manager of the Beechworth Bakery in Yackandandah.

Last week a staff member and a young customer were stung.

"Because [the wasps] are meat eaters, they're eating the dead insects off the cars," Ms Martin said.
"So on the hot days when they're swarming, you're getting a mass of them because the cars are parked … nose in at the bakery."