Please be aware of the following PPE requirements if you are working on a high rise riding device such as a Ferris Wheel, Roller Coaster or any high ride:

1 Hard hats

2 Hi visibility apparel 3 Safety harnesses

The hats and apparel are to be worn at all times when working and harnesses are to be worn and must be attached at all times when working above 2m.

Adequate instructions in the use of the above to be given and acknowledged by the user.

AALARA is seeking clarification from other states about any future requirements and will continue to keep the industry informed.

Cairns show finished recently which brings to end the scheduled major Qld country shows for another year.

Most of the larger rides are now headed to the Brisbane EKKA which opens on 7 August until 16 August 2008.

The north run of shows has been good with most operators reporting very good operating revenue at Townsville and Cairns and even to some extent, the Mackay show.

There is much doubt about Mackay show next year with the show ground being sold and a new venue to be built, once again the value of the showground land has been too appealing.

We extend our congratulations to the Cairns show committee for the excellent marketing and quality of their event this year. It is great to see so much community support for their local show.

The northern territory shows are also well underway, however, the price of fuel is having a huge impact on financial return, as operators pay over $2.10 per litre in areas.

There are a few issues bubbling away with the machinery departments looking at a Construction Industry card for every one employed in the amusement industry.

There has not been any consultation and our workplace injury statistic just don't portray us as dangerous yet they feel we need another impost on our operations.

AALARA is discussing this issue with the Regulators Forum committee and will advise when an answer is received.

The draft code for Design and Construction of amusement devices is out for public comment and we need to review this and make comments as it effects every new device in our industry. Closing date for comment is the 8th August 2008.

Phil Durkin

Chair, Amusement Rides & Transportables Committee