Glyn Taylor

Embelton Flooring

I will make observations on a couple of key areas of the industry where I believe change must occur, the first being in Training and certification of Tradesmen.

The industry urgently requires a National organisation i.e. NWFA to coordinate an industry standard training and certification scheme.

This will only happen if the Government and major industries recognise this as the appropriate body with the backing of the trade.

This must occur in the near future and will enable the industry to flourish and gain esteem within the community.

The second area where I see a need for change involves direct stick timber.

The country differs in its understanding of the suitability of directly sticking timber to various substrates.

In the Southern States in seem 12-14mm overlay stuck direct to concrete and particle board is an accepted practice if the correct process is followed.

In both NSW and Queensland overlay is rarely used and 19mm strip is preferred in a more traditional format.

Due to the proliferation of concrete slabs and the cost of timber, I see the overlay market growing in the Northern states and direct sticking becoming more accepted.