FLOURISHING IRRIGATION WORK IN THE PIPELINE

AN irrigation systems company based in Nerang is launching a new website and training booklet to promote its offering and improve chances of securing project work in the construction industry.

Forecasting 10 per cent growth in 2012, SS Irrigation director Scott Smythe (pictured) has confirmed plans to launch its new-look website before Christmas to increase contract prospects.

The company is bidding for irrigation works at the $1.76 billion Gold Coast University Hospital project.

“If we are successful, it will give us a chance to establish ourselves more on the Gold Coast and possibly hire skilled foremen, so I can focus more on growing the business,” says Smythe.

The business successfully installed irrigation systems on-time at the $12 million South Bank Boardwalk redevelopment for Penfold Projects, despite lengthy delays caused by the 2011 Brisbane floods.

“We have installed irrigation systems at both towers of the $850 million Oracle residential development as a sub-contractor for Scape Shapes Landscaping. The challenge was to find the most practical route to run the copper pipes to garden beds,” says Smythe.

“We also did irrigation works around The Rockpool, Anzac Park and maintenance shed at the Southport Broadwater Parklands for Penfold Projects. We enjoyed doing the job because it was on the Coast and high-profile.”

SS Irrigation’s client base also includes the Corporate Administration Agency, South Bank Corporation, Hutchinson Builders and Dig-It! Landscapes.

Smythe started up the business with only $3000, shortly after the birth of his second daughter.

“I took a risk, believing that I could make the business successful based on my dedication to the irrigation trade, positive attitude and good work ethic,” he says.

“Three years later, I am still in business and people tell me on the worksite that I’m always smiling, upbeat and positive. I find that attitude naturally carries over to my staff.”

SS Irrigation is compiling a new training booklet for its irrigation installers to upskill and improve its service model.

“I’ve consulted with irrigation consultants on my concerns about professional development in the industry. We plan to use it to train all our personnel and make sure they are confident and encouraged to upskill,” says Smythe.

He attributes the secret of his happiness to a long-standing practice of Chinese qigong meditation.

“I’ve been practicing the Falun Gong qigong practice for 10 years and base all my business decisions on the principles of truth, compassion and tolerance,” says Smythe.

“A lot of clients choose us because they know I am trustworthy, do business in an upright manner and don’t complain or act perturbed when faced with tight timeframes.”

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YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR FINALISTS
Scott and Nina Smythe
SS Irrigation
CONSTRUCTION
Age: 39 and 36
Business Est: 2008
Staff: 5
Growth: 15 per cent
Turnover: $800,000