Current Conversations – Podcast

The Informative and Engaging Podcast for all Australian Electricians

Episode 1

Take Charge and Supervise: Safely Transforming Your Apprentice into a Sparkie

Kate Raymond and Ross Lockhart chat with guest Leo Ward from ‘Power and Data Support Services’.  They discuss the critical roles of mentoring and supervising apprentices in the electrical industry. Leo shares insights from his experience on the Electrical Safety Board of Queensland and his work with standards and regulations. The episode highlights the significance of direct supervision, the challenges of apprentice training, the necessity of national licensing, and the importance of continuous learning and safety practices. Practical tips and resources for contractors and apprentices, such as training plans and leveraging standards, are also covered.

Episode 2

If You Can’t Control Your Surges, Then at Least Use Protection

Kate Raymond and Matthew Duncan from Master Electricians Australia focus in on surge protection devices (SPDs). Joined by Nikhil from Schneider Electric, the discussion delves into the functionality and importance of SPDs in both residential and commercial environments. Nikhil explains the different types of SPDs (type 1, type 2, and type 3), their roles, and the considerations for selecting the right SPD based on environment and electrical characteristics. The podcast also covers practical aspects such as installation, costs, and the necessity for SPDs in modern smart homes to protect valuable appliances from voltage surges caused by external and internal sources. Essential for electricians and homeowners alike, the episode emphasises the preventive benefits of SPDs despite them not being mandated by current wiring rules.

Episode 3

Eureka moments to movements. Battle lines to award times. The convicts and rebels who helped shape a society

Kate Raymond of Master Electricians Australia, and co-hosted by Jordon Carlisle from Master Electricians, with special guest Michael Wright – National Secretary of the Electrical Trades Union (ETU), delve into the historical significance of events like the Eureka Stockade in shaping the union movement. The conversation also touches upon significant milestones in Australian labour rights, including the inception of long service leave, weekends, and leave entitlements. They examine the impact of enterprise bargaining on industries and discuss the complex landscape of modern industrial relations. The episode further explores current challenges and opportunities within the industry, emphasising the importance of collective efforts in building a fair and sustainable future for workers.

Episode 4

The Importance of Safety in Solar

Master Electricians Australia CEO Kate Raymond and Field Support Manager Ross Lockhart host special guest Francis – Head of Projects at Kuga Electrical. This episode centres around Kuga Electricals, focusing on large commercial solar projects, their growth trajectory and the intricacies of the solar industry. They explore the differences between residential and commercial electrical work, the critical importance of safety measures and the role of innovative practices, including battery integration and EV charging.

Episode 5

More than 4: How do we get women into more than 4% of trade-based roles? 

In this episode of Current Conversations, powered by Master Electricians Australia, host Kate Raymond (CEO of MEA) is joined by Jordon from MEA, Penny Cornah (CEO of Master Plumbers Association of Queensland), and Tenille Riley (Women in Trades Manager with Busy at Work) to discuss increasing female participation in the construction and trades industries. They examine successful strategies like ambassador programs and female-led mentoring and explore the importance of overcoming cultural challenges and biases. They also discuss the potential impact of targeted government policies and the power of social media in changing perceptions. The conversation highlights the need for realistic, sustained efforts and collaboration across industry bodies to achieve meaningful change. 

Episode 6

EV Chargin Part 1: Batteries ARE Included! 

Kate Raymond and Matt Duncan of Master Electricians Australia, special guest Matt Kummerow, Operations Manager at ChargeHub Australia, discusses the burgeoning topics of electric vehicle (EV) chargers and the concept of vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology. The conversation delves into current capacities and challenges for home and workplace EV charging, the potential of vehicle-to-home solutions, and issues surrounding dynamic tariff pricing and the readiness of Australia’s infrastructure. The episode also highlights the complexities of installing EV chargers in multi-residential buildings and the importance of load management and user authentication systems. The discussion wraps up with the latest regulations and advancements ensuring the widespread adoption of EV infrastructure in new constructions. 

Episode 7

Things that go bang in the night: Buying Safe Electrical Equipment

In this episode of Current Conversations powered by Master Electricians Australia, hosts Kate Raymond and Matt Duncan are joined by Brian Richardson from the Electrical Safety Office QLD, discussing key aspects of equipment safety. They cover identifying safe electrical products through the Regulatory Compliance Mark (RCM), the responsibilities of importers and suppliers under the Electrical Safety Act, and the importance of using registered products. They also explore challenges with overseas and second-hand electrical items, the risks involved, and the procedures for ensuring compliance with Australian safety standards. The episode emphasizes the critical role of licensed electricians and the dangers of DIY electrical work, concluding with important reminders to install and regularly test safety switches on all circuits.

Episode 8

Amped about Safety: Make safety your current obsession

In this episode of Current Conversations, powered by Master Electricians Australia (MEA), host Kate Raymond—CEO of MEA—alongside Ross, the Field Support Manager, and special guest Leo Ward, Vice President of MEA and a specialist from Power and Data Support Services, discuss the evolution of safety measures in the electrical industry. Key topics include the dramatic improvements in safety protocols over the past few decades, largely influenced by advancements in technology and legislation, particularly from the mining sector. The conversation highlights the ongoing challenges of ensuring safety through effective training, the implementation of lockout/tagout procedures, and the importance of collaboration among contractors and within the broader industry. The episode emphasises the importance of continuous learning, practical training, and open communication to mitigate risks and foster a safe working environment for all electrical professionals. 

Episode 9

EV Charging Part 2: With Alex Foster

In this episode of ‘Current Conversations’, powered by Master Electricians Australia, CEO Kate Raymond and Technical Support Manager Matthew Duncan discuss the complexities of EV charger installations with guest Alex Foster from EV Charging Systems. They delve into the unique challenges faced in public spaces and residential areas, including supply limitations and space constraints. The conversation covers future-proofing homes, solar balancing, and dynamic load management in multi-residential spaces. They also explore the viability of vehicle-to-grid technology, ensuring charger safety, and the practicality of using different lengths and types of charging leads. The episode concludes with insights into solar-powered public charging solutions and tips for EV owners. 

Episode 10

Plumbers v Sparkies: Same Same but Different?
with Penny Cornah

In this episode of Current Conversations, powered by Master Electricians Australia, host Kate Raymond, CEO of Master Electricians Australia, and Jordan from Master Electricians chat with Penny Cornah, CEO of the Master Plumbers Association of Queensland. They explore the friendly rivalry between plumbers and electricians, discussing workplace banter and its potential mental health impacts. The conversation delves into significant industry challenges, such as licensing issues, security of payment, unfair contract terms, the impact of insolvencies, and the skills shortage affecting both trades. The episode also highlights the collaborative efforts of electricians and plumbers to advocate for better industry regulations and support from the government.