Aleck Parry, Director, Hot Flush Plumbing, has created a thriving business based around a close-knit team, strong family connections, and a capacity to keep learning.
How and when did your career in plumbing begin? I rode BMX as a kid and a couple of the older guys we rode with were plumbers. When it came time for school work experience, I worked with them and really enjoyed it. However, when I finished school I wasn’t really sure what career to pursue. But before I wasted any time (BMX riding) my mum enrolled me in a plumbing pre-apprenticeship course at TAFE. I had work experience during the TAFE course with a company, and started my apprenticeship with that company once the course finished.
Were you destined to work in the plumbing industry from an early age? My uncle was a plumber, and I suppose I was influenced by his example. But I probably need to thank my mum for enrolling me in that pre-apprenticeship TAFE course because that is where it started.
Have you worked in any industries apart from plumbing? I worked as part of the ground crew for a tree surgeon temporarily during and after school. I also worked with my dad during school holidays as a house painter.
Have you had many mentors throughout your career? Each and every plumbing contractor I have worked with has taught me something about the industry, as did my dad, who ran his own business.
Would you describe yourself as a ‘people person’? It depends on the people.
What have been the most significant changes in the industry throughout your career? Probably the [transition from] copper to Pex. Also, the change from using Oxy/Acc for brazing to now using press fittings. In addition, the politics regarding the use of gas has created changes to our industry. I can see that changing again very soon as customers are experiencing disappointment with alternatives to gas.
What has been your most challenging assignment or project? I took on my first commercial project, which was a fire station, and it was during the pandemic. We did the Civil, Plumbing, Roof, and Cladding. It rained almost every week, material prices went crazy, and the client (NSW Government) was trying to screw us. We completed the project on schedule, and we were able to make a decent profit despite the challenges. I learnt a lot of lessons around contracts, commercial builders, and pushing through to finding a solution.
What has been your greatest achievement? I would say getting my plumbing contractor’s licence.
How important has your family been to your career? Family has always been the support behind everything. From my parents and their support and the example of my dad as a business owner. Now, as a father, the importance of running a successful business for my own children to benefit from is a motivator. But they are the reason I do what I do.
Will technology ever fix all plumbing problems? I don’t think so. There will always be advances from technology, but that also brings more problems to solve.
Have you noticed any changes to the way society regards plumbers? Yes, there has been.
Is plumbing the best career in the world? Definitely. The variety of work, and the different skills you can develop, are massive. Also, the ability to work anywhere and be in a valued trade provides opportunity wherever you decide to travel.
What will you be doing in five years’ time? And then? Sailing a yacht between Hamilton island and the Whitsundays.
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Master Plumbers NSW Member Since: August 2024
Find-a-Master Plumber: Hot Flush Plumbing
