In March we saw some of the biggest issues facing the industry reach the forefront of debate when the National Resource Sector Employment Taskforce discussion paper, Resourcing the Future was published.
We at the CCF, welcomed the discussion paper, because we acknowledge the critical importance of filling our industry’s current and future skilled labour requirements. We’ll also be making a submission to the discussion on behalf of our members and we welcome any comments or feedback you may have.
While these important discussions and decisions take place, I think this year it is vital that we also take the opportunity to celebrate the work and achievements within our industry.
It’s sometimes forgotten – even by some in the sector – just how important the work of the civil construction industry is. Infrastructure is the lifeblood of Australia, and it’s a key part of our ability to succeed economically.
Recognition lacking
At times the civil construction sector is also not the best at recognising achievements and excellence within the industry. We could do better to celebrate the hard work, planning and innovation that go into the many outstanding projects completed each year.
With this in mind, I heartily encourage you all to get involved in the industry’s showpiece event, the CCF Earth Awards.
Entering their 17th year in 2010, they are the most prestigious awards in civil infrastructure, and recognise not just environmental excellence. They also recognise the very best in construction, reflecting the development and use of best technologies and practices by Australian civil contractors.
We are very thankful to our major sponsor Hitachi, and our supporting sponsor Mini-Tankers, which help us to put on these marvellous events. I know both believe firmly in what the awards stand for.
Advanced benchmark
Personally, I feel these awards are important, as they have helped raise the benchmark over the last two decades, of what we do as an industry. They are held in high regard, and offer a rare opportunity to share the ideas and technologies that continue to improve the way we do things, thus helping move the whole industry in a positive direction.
I’m happy to be able to say that this year we’re anticipating the biggest and best event yet. So, ask yourself: Have you been involved in a project that may have excelled in project management, construction technique, or environmental management? Even if it’s not something you would usually do, this year perhaps it’s time you gave entering the Earth Awards some serious consideration.
The process is simple: you can contact your local CCF state branch and have an Earth Awards entry pack sent to you. The state awards ceremonies are held from June through to September, with the process culminating at the National Earth Awards gala dinner in Canberra on October 23.
I think past winners will confirm that the benefits of being a winner at these awards are great. Being recognised as a state finalist or category winner at either state or national level, is a wonderful opportunity to present your company’s capabilities to the industry, to your clients, to potential clients, and to the wider public.
May 31 deadline
The deadline for submissions is May 31, so the time to act is now. You are welcome to enter as a single contractor; as a joint project – possibly involving multiple contractors, consultants, or designers - or CCF members can enter overseas aid projects from the Asia/Pacific region.
And of course we open this to companies of all sizes, so there are categories ranging from projects valued under $1m, right through to large-scale projects valued at more than $75m.
