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On Wednesday, 6 September, 2023, the Taylor team at Roseville College hosted an exclusive site tour for eight students from the UTS Built Environment Association (BEA). Dean Fondas (Project Director) led the students through a brief project overview before taking them on an immersive tour of the site.

For many students, it was their first time on a live construction site. Students were provided valuable insights into the construction methodology of the project, learning about different challenges such as logistics and crane operations, and also got a detailed explanation of processes like post-tensioning. During the visit, they saw the piling work around the project, observed the Level 1 concrete slab being formed, and witnessed the construction of the working deck for the 30-meter horizontal beams. Dean also talked to them about the practical aspects of daily operations and emphasised the importance of safety and sustainability in construction practices.

On Friday 25 August, Taylor sites fired up the BBQ for Hard Hat Day – collectively raising $20,000 for the Property Industry Foundation. A key event on our annual events calendar, Hard Hat Day raises funds to support the building of safe, secure, and welcoming homes for marginalised and at-risk young people.

Five of our sites hosted BBQ lunches generously sponsored by our subcontractors. In addition to fundraising for this important cause, each event served as a special opportunity to connect and enjoy a hearty lunch with our clients, partners, and valued subcontractors.

At Taylor, safety has and always will be the highest priority. A safe work environment not only protects the well-being of employees and contractors but also enhances overall project efficiency and success. Recognising the need for a more engaging and rewarding approach to safety, Taylor has introduced ‘Scratchie’ – an innovative app designed to incentivise and celebrate safe behaviour on construction sites.

Co-founded by industry veterans James Kell and Garry Mansfield, Scratchie emerged as a result of their commitment to improving safety standards in construction. A decade ago, Kell and Mansfield embarked on a pioneering journey, piloting ‘Scratchie’ a printed scratch-cards solution that rewarded safe practices and behaviours. This concept has now evolved into a digital solution set to change safety practices on construction sites.

Scratchie’s contribution extends beyond safety compliance, transcending into areas of enhanced productivity and site cleanliness. The app’s ability to engage workers in the safety process not only reduces accidents but also fosters a culture of responsibility and accountability. The result is a workplace that thrives on collaboration, communication, and collective well-being.

96% of workers have shown a preference for working on Scratchie-enabled sites. This response to the app showcases a positive influence on the overall work environment and as the industry continues to evolve, Scratchie stands as a positive example of how technology and innovation can unite to make safety not only a priority but a rewarding experience for all involved.

On Thursday 20 July the Property Council of Australia NSW Future Directions Committee hosted their annual debate at The Establishment in Sydney’s CBD. Six of Taylor’s young leaders attended the engaging discussion on ChatGPT’s Future in the Property Industry: To DIY, Or AI? – a highly relevant topic, not only in property, but also for a variety of large-scale industries in Australia and across the world.

Each team battled it out on the stage presenting several convincing arguments and opposing ideas for and against AI, delving into areas including design efficiency, regulation and IP, work/life balance, and output accuracy. The discussion was so compelling that it resulted in an even split amongst our Taylor team. However, in the end, it was the DIY team who managed to bring home the majority votes and win the debate. Our emerging leaders shared their key take-aways:

Spirits were high at North Sydney Public School, as subcontractors, special guests and the project team came together to celebrate the completion of the primary school’s external concrete structure.

Topping out ceremonies are good luck traditions, with a tree placed on top of the structure to symbolise growth and prosperity for future users.

Team Taylor recently joined UNSW Construction Management and Property students to discuss construction methodology and procurement management of the Scape Kingsford project.

Peter Yamin (Project Director) and Christina Succar (Graduate Site Engineer) presented to students an overview of the 18-storey student accommodation project, detailing key initiatives adopted, challenges encountered, and the procurement process.

The guest lecture began with a comprehensive company profile of Taylor, whereby ­­­Peter highlighted Taylor’s extensive experience in the construction industry, iconic projects delivered, and company-wide diversity and community initiatives. Following this, the pair explained the construction methodology and key initiatives adopted at Scape Kingsford, exploring various aspects including demolition and earthworks, the building’s structure, the curtain-wall façade system, and the final fitout and finishes. The students were particularly fascinated with some systems featured on the project, including the logistics and planning behind the jumpform system which allows for efficient construction processes.

On Wednesday 5 July 2023, Taylor celebrated NAIDOC Week 2023 by hosting a unique cultural event at the First Building in Australia’s newest city – Bradfield City Centre.

With the theme for NAIDOC Week 2023 ‘For Our Elders’, the event acknowledged the important role our Elders have played, and continue to play in our communities and families. AMRF is located on Dharug Country, with connection to Country a vital element of the buildings design. Drawing inspiration from the surrounding natural waterways and Cumberland Plains, the building’s open and welcoming architectural expression reflects the fluidity of the landscape and connects the building to the deep history of Country.

 

National NAIDOC Week is a time to acknowledge and celebrate the important role, history, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It provides an opportunity for Australians to learn about the cultures and contributions of First Nations individuals.

The theme for this year’s NAIDOC Week is ‘For Our Elders’. It is a time to recognise the vital role our Elders have played, and continue to play in our communities and families. Our Elders are cultural knowledge holders, nurturers, leaders, teachers, survivors, and loved ones who guide generations through advocacy, activism and story-telling.

As a business built on fostering meaningful relationships, Taylor is committed to creating a culture that represents equality and equity. Taylor plays a vital role in creating employment, education, and training opportunities and aims to facilitate cultural and community connections through our construction and property activities. We are proud to have a strong legacy in Aboriginal participation, with many of our projects achieving more than double the required contractual government targets.

Taylor acknowledges and values the significant economic, social and cultural contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. In 2022, Taylor successfully completed our first Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). Taylor is currently embarking on our Innovate RAP, which will run for two years. By engaging our people and partners in our RAP, we have the opportunity to contribute to a better understanding of reconciliation at both social and economic levels.

Taylor will be celebrating NAIDOC Week on Wednesday 5 July 2023 at the Advanced Manufacturing Research Facility, The First Building. We look forward to sharing further updates on this unique event in the coming days.

 

Land at Heart Artwork by Jasmin Sarin

Over the past decade, Jordan has developed an admirable reputation as a highly knowledgeable and trusted member of the Taylor team. Joining in 2013, Jordan plays a vital role in the Finance team as Taylor’s Accounts Payable Supervisor. Highly regarded for his stability and reliability, Jordan’s commitment to his role has been integral to his team’s success.

With a deep understanding of all facets of the business, Jordan has developed strong relationships with subcontractors and external suppliers who see him as a trusted contact at Taylor. Showing resilience in dealing with unexpected situations, Jordan is always focused on the broader team and company’s goals.

While diligent and thorough with his work, Jordan is also known as a great team player willing to assist others with any tasks. This approach has been recognised by his peers, who have nominated and awarded him the ‘Behind the Scenes’ award in 2014.

Thank you, Jordan, for your hard work and dedication over the past 10 years, we are thrilled to share this milestone with you.