Every so often, a single word captures the essence of what we’re trying to build. For us at AWCI Australia, that word is Community.

It’s a word that gets thrown around a lot, but when you strip it back to its core, community is about people — people who share experiences, struggles, pride, and a craft that binds them together. In our case, it’s the wall and ceiling industry.

Our industry is built on hard work and skill. It’s built on early mornings, long days, dusty boots, tight deadlines, and the satisfaction of a job well done. But just as importantly, it’s built on connection — on knowing that there are others out there who understand what you do, appreciate your craft, and stand with you through the ups and downs.

That’s the kind of community we’re building at AWCI Australia. A national, connected, supportive, and proud community.

Building Connection Beyond the Job Site

The journey to creating a national community doesn’t start with grand strategies — it starts with small, meaningful actions.

Every like, share, and comment on our social media pages is a thread that connects us. When we share photos of a member’s project, congratulate an apprentice, or celebrate a business anniversary, it’s not just a post — it’s a public recognition that someone in our industry is doing great work.

The “Love Your Work” posts we share across our channels are a simple but powerful gesture. They highlight the pride and craftsmanship that define our trade and remind others of the value in what they do every day. Our #LoveYourWork campaign is about celebrating the big achievements and the everyday excellence that keeps this industry strong.

And when you take a moment to like, comment, or share those posts, you’re contributing to that sense of belonging — you’re telling another contractor, “I see you. I respect what you do.”

This is how community grows.

Events That Bring Us Together

Over the past year, AWCI Australia has made a deliberate effort to design events that do more than entertain — we want them to connect.

From the National Apprentice Challenge to our AWCI Awards, golf days, upcoming Christmas functions,  industry nights, and networking functions, these gatherings are about celebrating our people, our work, and our shared purpose.

Events like these are where conversations happen, partnerships begin, and friendships are formed. They’re where we celebrate achievements, exchange ideas, and take a moment to remind ourselves that we’re all part of something bigger.

We’ve also made a conscious decision to evolve the way we host events. We’re moving away from formats that centre around loud environments or alcohol, and instead focusing on inclusive, engaging, and modern experiences — events that make everyone feel welcome and connected, no matter where they are in their career or journey in the industry.

These moments matter. They help us see the human side of our industry — and that’s what community is all about.

Our Online and Social Media Community

In today’s world, community doesn’t stop at physical events — it continues online. Our social media platforms have become a vibrant space where members, apprentices, manufacturers, and suppliers interact daily.

Through our channels, we share not only AWCI news, but also your news — showcasing contractors’ projects, featuring member milestones, and amplifying the great work being done right across Australia.

Social media is a place where we encourage, support, and celebrate each other. It’s a digital meeting point for the wall and ceiling community, and it’s growing stronger by the day.

And yes, I’m personally part of that conversation. Many of you have reached out to me directly through social media or mobile, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. As CEO, I believe being available and accessible is crucial. Whether it’s a question, a suggestion, or just a message to say hello, my door — and inbox — are always open.

There are few associations where the CEO is as connected and engaged with the membership base as I am proud to be. That’s because we’re not just managing an association — we’re building a community.

So if you’re not already following AWCI Australia online, jump on board. Be part of the conversation. Engage, share, and celebrate the work of your peers.

Communicating with Purpose

Community is strengthened through communication — consistent, transparent, and purposeful communication.

That’s why we’ve invested so much time and energy into ensuring our members are kept informed, inspired, and connected through a range of regular updates and publications.

Our On The Surface industry magazine continues to evolve into a rich source of industry news, technical updates, and inspiring stories. Each edition reflects the pulse of our industry, highlighting the people and projects that make wall and ceiling work such a dynamic and rewarding field.

Then there’s our fortnightly e-newsletter, and edm’s (Electronic direct mail) which keeps members up to date with what’s happening across AWCI Australia — from advocacy efforts and training opportunities to upcoming events and member spotlights. It’s designed to keep you informed and to ensure that, wherever you are in the country, you know what’s happening in your industry.

And finally, our CEO Bulletin and Message from the CEO updates — like this one — are where I get to share candid reflections, thoughts, and progress updates. These are my way of keeping our dialogue direct, honest, and personal. I use these moments to update you on where the association is heading, what’s important right now, and why certain initiatives matter.

Together, these communications form the backbone of how we stay connected. They’re not just about pushing information out — they’re about bringing you along for the journey.

Celebrating Effort, Appreciating People

One of the cornerstones of community is appreciation.

We make a point of acknowledging members’ anniversaries, celebrating the achievements of our apprentices, and appreciating the effort that goes into running a business or working on site every day.

Our team regularly reaches out to members directly — whether to say congratulations, thank you, or simply to check in. Because that’s what being part of a community means. It means showing up for each other, even in small ways.

We want every AWCI member to feel seen, valued, and supported — because each one of you contributes to the strength of this industry.

The Bigger Picture – A United Industry

When we talk about community, it’s not just about social connection — it’s about professional respect and collective recognition.

Every story we tell, every event we host, and every update we share contributes to something larger: the consolidation of respect for our trade.

More people are starting to see the professionalism, technical excellence, and skill involved in wall and ceiling work. That growing recognition is no accident — it’s the result of a community that stands tall, supports each other, and takes pride in its craft. More and more contractors are now trying on Social Media this is amazing for our industry.

The stronger our community becomes, the louder our collective voice grows — and that’s how we ensure our industry continues to be respected, represented, and recognised at the national level.

Join Us – Be Part of the AWCI Community

At AWCI Australia, we’re not just an association — we’re a community of people who care deeply about this industry and the people who make it what it is.

We’re building a place where everyone — from apprentices to business owners — can belong, contribute, and be inspired.

We’re creating opportunities to connect, communicate, learn, and celebrate together.

And most importantly, we’re building a community that’s united by respect for our trade and for each other.

So, if you haven’t already — jump in. Join the conversation, share your work, engage with your peers, and be part of something bigger.

Because the “C word” that matters most to us at AWCI Australia isn’t competition, compliance, or cost — it’s Community.

Together, we’re building one.