Page 52 - Print21 Jan-Feb 2022

Associations
Looking back, looking forward
Walter Kuhn, outgoing president of PVCA, says there is plenty to look forward to from the Association in the next 12 months, which should be considerably different to the past 24.
The new year 2022 will be something that 2020 and 2021 were not. It will be a year of recovery and consolidation.
The National Print Awards, supported by the various
state PICAs, returned as face-to-face events in 2021. Despite the circumstances, a significant number of entries again showcased the breath of industry talent, and recognised individual contributions.
Significantly, members of the Print & Visual Communications Association (PVCA) kept
ahead of Covid issues. Our
HR advisory team worked
hard throughout the year to communicate vaccination issues, associated lockdown information, and workplace restriction guidance. The professional approach provided members with the best available knowledge, when a lack of clarity and consistency often appeared to be an afterthought in the myriad government communications.
The PVCA, the voice of our industry, like all industry members, has also weathered
a demanding storm. And like everyone within the print, packaging and signage sector preparing for a post Covid business environment, we see the need for fresh ideas and a fresh approach to communicate the true value of belonging
to an industry organisation. Even though members were extremely grateful for the guidance and advice provided
PVCA looking forward: Walter Kuhn
“The future looks a whole lot better than it did at this time last year. Restrictions are lifting, borders are opening, life is returning to normal, and someone must print the good news.”
throughout the year, the Board recognises the need to do more.
The Association is its members. Delivering outcomes for members is at the core of everything we do, including the important work we undertake directly with Government or
in concert with our partner industry associations. And to do that, we will continue to
ask members and the wider industry for their perspective, so we can continue to provide these valuable services, and add those which they see as important.
One continuing concern within our industry is training. It’s something that the PVCA has been actively pursuing on behalf of members through
the Federal Industry Reference Committee on Training. Thi committee gives guidance
for the direction of national training initiatives. PVCA is the vice-chair on this important contribution for the future of Australian manufacture.
There are other activities
in the pipeline. As I write
this column Board elections are under way. New directors will join their fi st meeting
in January. On behalf of the members I would like to take this opportunity to thank
the current board for their outstanding contribution over the last two years.
Industry Showcase
We are planning for our industry external showcase, Print to Parliament. Last held in 2020 as a virtual event, it’s an important platform for
the industry to press the flesh with Parliamentary leaders. We understand our contribution to the national economy through jobs, the taxes we pay, and importantly in the way the printed word makes a lasting impression with every story
it tells. It is critical that our politicians understand our role in the economy.
PacPrint returns to Melbourne on 28 June to 1 July. It provides another opportunity to review, rebuild and reconnect. Where else can we see the technology we continue to adopt under one big roof ?
Sustainability is on our customers’ minds. Our industry is well ahead of them. We’ve collectively moved from damaging production processes to sound environmental practice – well ahead of other sectors. Yet the danger is that our story can fall on deaf ears.
The Association has offered our industry specific Sustainable Green Print certification since 2005. SGP has served us well. It’s now ready to be reimagined. When sustainability means
so much more to the general community, telling our story with three simple words makes sense. Exciting enhancements to SGP are on the way.
Another word on many lips is digital. Let’s turn it to our advantage.
Commencing early 2022, we will introduce monthly industry specific business information webinars. Subject experts and industry members will unpack issues of the day, compliance matters, employment concerns, production equipment and business process systems.
Content will be member driven. Webinars will be recorded so members can also access the information later.
The future looks a whole lot better than it did at this time
last year. Restrictions are lifting, borders are opening, life is returning to normal and someone must print the good news.
The PVCA sends good wishes to all in the industry for a successful and prosperous New Year. Be proud of what you have achieved.
Walter Kuhn
National President
Print and Visual Communications Association 21
52 Print21 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022
L
A
U
S
I
C
O
M
V
M
U
N
&
I
C
T
A
T
N
I
I
O
R
N
P
A
A
S
I
L
S
A
O
R
C
T
S
I
U
A
A
T
I
O
N
Voice of our Industry