Dulux calls for bright businesses - Dulux Accredited Painter of the
Year Awards

Entries to the seventh annual Dulux Accredited Painter of the Year Awards are now open, with this year's format providing some surprise new updates. In contrast to focusing on painting skills, the Dulux Accredited Painter of the Year assesses professionals on their business plan and systems, marketing initiatives, financial management, Occupational Health and Safety precautions and practice, and environmental/sustainability practices.

An exciting addition to this year's programme includes a new category, Best Apprentice, which is a clear illustration of Dulux's commitment to encourage and foster industry professionals of all levels.

In addition to national and state winner categories, commendations will also this year be awarded.

Dulux Accredited Program Manager, Mark Phillips, is confident this year will be particularly competitive.
"There is no question the reputation of the Awards is gaining momentum with each year and we're expecting 2009 to see our most impressive submissions to date - painters around the country take these Awards very seriously," said Phillips.

This year's Dulux Accredited Painter of the Year Awards will be held in Tasmania on 21 August as part of the annual Dulux Accredited Painters conference, which in 2009 will include speakers such as cricketing legend Max Walker, motivational speaker Bruce Sullivan and various business strategists and marketing specialists.

"The aim of the conference is to each year provide our painters with the very latest in industry forecast data, trends, practices as well as motivate and entertain them with engaging but relevant speakers such as Max Walker and Bruce Sullivan," said Phillips.

"According to the HIA Economics Group, the building industry is set to benefit from new home owner grants throughout 2010/11, before commencing a period of decline. Conferences such as these, and Awards programmes that also act as sounding boards and brainstorming opportunities amongst peers, will become increasingly more valuable should the market enter a decline. At Dulux we're committed to equipping our accredited painters with all the relevant tools to prepare for a more competitive industry in the future," said Phillips.