Local business benefits from Stimulus Package
The Nation Building Economic Stimulus Plan has been really important to Geoff Howard from Country Leisure Centre. His business won the tender to refurbish a property in Koongamia, Western Australia.
The economic slow-down really started to bite in Geoff’s business early in 2009 and for the first time in many years it became necessary for him to actively chase work. The business had successfully tendered for Government work in the past but because it had been so busy with other clients, it had not put in for any government tenders for a number of years.
The 12-week contract in Koongamia involved replacing and painting all the internal plaster including the ceiling. All the carpets were removed to reveal the hardwood timber floor. The floor boards were polished and have become one of the striking features of the home. A new kitchen and a new bathroom were also installed, and the property also benefited from a new driveway and fencing. There is still some work to do externally but Department staff are very happy with the new look.
Geoff said the property was in a ‘pretty poor state’ and it really needed the work. “To complete the job I used roughly 12 tradesmen on the site,“ he said. “Six of those are full time staff with Country Leisure Centre and the other six are regular subcontractors.
The Kitchen before refurbishment
According to Geoff, the best part about getting the Stimulus Package work has been keeping all of his skilled staff busy during the economic slow down.
“Even though the construction industry has slowed over the last 12 months, there are still only a limited number of skilled tradesmen available in Perth, he said. “Maintaining the work for my loyal and valued staff means that when the economy eventually turns around I will be in a great position to take advantage of it.”
The kitchen after its makeover
The refurbished property at Koongamia