HRIA Convention 2010 to focus on positive industry position

In the lead up to the 2010 HRIA (Hire and Rental Industry Association) National Convention, HRIA National President Neil Wallis reflected on the difficult year just faced by the industry.
"Hiring is a proven method all contractors can use. Even though the current economic crisis is not over, the hire industry in Australia generally has weathered the storm well so far," Mr Wallis said.
"The past year has been tough financially for the hire industry in Australia, especially in city areas where competition for every hire is fierce through the sheer number of competitors, but the hire industry is resilient," he said.
"This resilience can in part be attributed to the fact hiring equipment is fully tax deductible, and as a result, makes good economic sense during tough economic conditions when the future order book is uncertain.
"By hiring, contractors can offset any outlays, recoup some of their operational costs, and limit their overall capital equipment purchases, all while enabling a wider range of jobs outside what they might normally do," Mr Wallis said.
"Hiring's desirably cost-effective and beneficial business edge has helped the industry to weather what has been a turbulent and economically challenging year."
Focusing on the positive position of the hire industry, next year's national Convention theme will be "Spotlight on Hire".
The "Spotlight on Hire" Convention will feature a two-day trade exhibition; a full conference and industry seminar program to expand delegate awareness of topical industry issues; and hands-on practical and functional displays at the annual Equipment in Action Day.
The hire industry in Australia covers an enormous field of industries, providing equipment for construction, mining, arborist and horticultural/landscaping, excavating and earthmoving, road construction, materials handling and working at heights and the home handyman and DIY segments as well as the events industry in Australia, among many others.
Suppliers to all these industries will be exhibiting and demonstrating equipment during the three-day event, and visitors can experience full working and hands-on demonstrations for a wide variety of machinery at the Equipment in Action Day.
Visitors will see the experts put the latest machinery through their paces and have the opportunity to test drive.
The Equipment in Action Day also incorporates the Structure and Marquee Expo, which showcases the latest innovations in structure and marquee options from a range of manufacturers along with ancillary products for the fast-growing events industry. The Structure and Marquee Expo represents a rare opportunity to view such a diverse range of structures and event industry equipment in the one location.
The convention is also an annual showcase of industry excellence, hosting the HRIA Annual Awards across nine categories.
The industry's highest achievers will be presented with the sector's most prestigious honours at the Gala Dinner on Friday, May 7, 2010. The HRIA Annual Awards pay tribute to those companies providing outstanding service in all categories of the hire and rental market.