The Annual Report 2024

"Everything you can imagine is real" - Pablo Picasso

We have now completed our 23rd year of operations as the ARA Group. It has been an extraordinary journey for our employees and our shareholders and for the work we have done for our customers.

I love the quote by Pablo Picasso “Everything you can imagine is real.” It would not be honest of me to say I dreamt I could be on a team that started with a blank piece of paper and 23 years later helped to build a business of ARA’s magnitude. ARA is now doing close to $1 billion worth of business. ARA has been profitable for every one of those 23 years. And, best of all, ARA has more than 400 employees owning the company for whom they work.

I acknowledge I dreamt of what we have accomplished, but where we are today as a company is beyond my initial dreams. I did imagine we could create a great company with creative ideas and focus on executing well and bringing that creativity to life.

As I consider the last financial year, and the past 23 years of the ARA Group, I think of the consistency of the Group and the creativity used to develop and grow this company. As long as we all work together, focus on our jobs, do our best for our customers and each other, we will be Here for You. Here for Good.

 
Operating results

Financial year 2024 has been a solid year of operating results. Both revenue and EBITDA increased from the prior year. Revenue grew 9% from $885 million to $969 million. EBITDA grew 12% from $67 million to $75 million. 2024 represented the ninth year in a row of record EBITDA results. The prospects are strong for ongoing growth as the backlog of confirmed orders on 30 June 2024 was $438 million, up from $421 million one year ago. Organic growth in 2024 was 2% whilst the growth from acquisitions was 7%.

Acquisitions

We completed eight acquisitions during the 2024 financial year. The following is a summary of the businesses, services and products acquired.

  • Fire protection business in central New South Wales
  • Insurance building and repair business in Sydney
  • Fire product distribution and pipe fabrication business in Sydney
  • Electrical test and tag service business on the east coast of Australia
  • Commercial and industrial sign design, fabrication and installation business in New Zealand
  • Insurance building and repair business south of Sydney
  • Safety equipment distribution business in Melbourne
  • Fire product distribution business in Perth
Our People

I want to thank my esteemed teammates of the ARA Senior Management Team. One of the most significant competitive differentiators of the ARA Group compared to our competitors is the consistency of the composition of the ARA Senior Management Team.

Most importantly, thank you to all the ARA workforce. Your dedication to your job and the work you do for our customers is what sustains the ARA Group. You are truly valued, and ARA would not be in the strong position we find ourselves without all of you.

 

Note: All amounts contained in this letter are before the application of AASB16 Leases.

What is a Bullet Series Cantilever Gate?

The ultimate guide to the Bullet Series Cantilever gate and why they’re an ideal choice for your commercial property.

When it comes to enhancing the security of your property, choosing the right gate is crucial. Cantilever gate systems are becoming increasingly popular for commercial and industrial properties, due to their smooth operation, durability and minimal maintenance requirements. In this blog, we detail what cantilever gates are, the benefits, safety features, and why they might be the best fit for your commercial property. 

Cantilever Gate, What is a cantilever gate, cantilever gate systemWhat is a Cantilever Gate?

A cantilever gate is a type of sliding gate that operates without the need for a ground mounted track system. Instead, these gates are made slightly longer than the opening width and supported by rollers mounted onto a post either side, allowing it to slide open and closed whilst remaining supported and counterbalanced off the ground. This ensures the gate remains operational even with challenges such as unsealed driveways prone to debris buildup or uneven ground. 

What are the benefits of a Bullet Series Cantilever Gate? 

Durable and Secure 

Bullet Series gates are manufactured from heavy-duty steel and aluminium, which makes them extremely durable and tamper-resistant, providing an ideal solution for securing properties from unauthorised entry. 

Low Maintenance and Safe 

Cantilever gates have no tracks installed in the ground, which means there is no risk of buildup of debris, or derailing resulting in injury or damage. These gates are completely suspended off the ground!  

These gates are extremely low maintenance, only needing to be lubricated and serviced once per year. 

High Speed!

These gates can operate at some seriously quick speeds. Operating at up to 2m/s depending on your requirements, making this cantilever gate a serious contender in the market today.

Smooth Operation 

Without the ground track, these gates offer smooth and reliable operation. As mentioned above, this is beneficial in those environments where debris could affect movement along a track system. 

Versatile 

These gates can be customised to fit a large variety of applications and tailored to meet your specific needs and aesthetic preferences. 

Space Saving 

Cantilever gates do not require large clearances to operate like swing gates for instance.  They slide along the fence line, making them perfect for properties with space limitations or those properties where maximising the usable area is crucial. 

What are the safety features of a Bullet Series Cantilever Gate? 

Dor-Gate Cantilever Gates are equipped with a variety of safety features to prevent accidents and enhance security for your premises such as our Bullet Series high speed cantilever gate. Let’s look at these features below:

Safety Sensors

Preventing accidents is key which is why these gates have been designed to include photo beams, vehicle loops and traffic signals to ensure obstacles are detected, preventing the gate from closing on vehicles or pedestrians.

Pedestrian Opening

Our gates have the option to add a pedestrian feature which opens 1 metre to allow pedestrian access only.

Seamless Integration

Our gates are easily integrated into your existing access control systems. Talk to us today for further information.

Back-up Power

A 24 VDC Battery Backup is an excellent feature ensuring secure access even with mains failure.

Speed

The Darte Series operates at a slower speed of up to 800mm/s while our Bullet Series high speed gate can operate at speeds of up to 2m/s. The rapid operation of these gates ensures enhanced efficiency, security, and reduced wait times making them the perfect choice for high-traffic environments.

 

Cantilever Gate, Bullet Series, cantilever gate system, cantilever gates

The Bullet Series gates provide the first line of defense for any commercial or industrial property. These gates are designed to offer superior protection and safety, preventing unauthorised access, 24 hours a day. 

Dor-Gate Access Systems know that every property is different, which is why we work closely with you to design and install your gates to suit your specific requirements.

Ready to learn more about how these gates could benefit your property? 

Contact our friendly team today.

SPECIALISTS
Get Specialist Advice
Here for you. Here for good.

Share this article
cantilever gate, cantilever gates, High Speed Gate, cantilever sliding gate
Cantilever Gates

What are TRU-DOCK™️ Automated Loading Pods?

TRU-DOCK™️ Automated Loading Pods are a leading-edge solution to increase productivity, enhance safety and streamline dock loading processes. Incorporating a wide range of Metalbilt’s door products. These pods are designed for ease-of-access, high turnaround, and complete environmental control for high volume container loading and unloading.

Let’s take a closer look at what makes Metalbilt’s TRU-DOCK™️ Automated Loading Pod (ALP) stand out and how they are changing the game in the industry.

High Volume Container Loading

TRU-DOCK™️ Automated Loading Pods have been designed to assist in high volume container loading and unloading. This means that they are capable of handling large container quantities of many types, allowing for fast turnaround and increased productivity, ensuring improved efficiency within the business.

Complete Environmental Control

TRU-DOCK™️ Automated Loading Pods provide complete environmental control for many types of containers. Sensitive cargo can be loaded and unloaded in optimal conditions reducing risks of damage, ensuring quality standards are maintained. Businesses can now have peace of mind knowing their cargo is being handled with absolute care.

Enhanced Safety Performance

Safety is and should be a top priority in any industry, especially in shipping and logistics. Metalbilt’s TRU-DOCK™️ Automated Loading Pods are designed with safety at the forefront, offering a range of features that ensure enhanced safety performance. From integrated safety systems to ease of access and use for workers. TRU-DOCK™️ Automated Loading Pods ensure loading operations can be carried out safely and efficiently.

All-Weather Loading Environment

One of the key features of an ALP is their ability to provide a loading environment free from the elements. Meaning that loading operation can continue even in inclement weather conditions, reducing the downtime of workers this ensures deadlines are met. TRU-DOCK™ Automated Loading Pods are now a valuable and vital asset for those businesses operating in diverse climates, year-round.

Impressive Innovation

TRU-DOCK™️ Automated Loading Pods incorporate an impressive range of innovations, revolutionising the traditional loading dock by integrating advanced technology to automate many of the tasks traditionally performed manually. 

From fully automated programmable logic controllers (PLC) with touch screen HMI capabilities to a hydraulic 15000kg-rated dock leveller, these pods are quite literally designed to enhance the safety within the workplace and the efficiency at every step of the loading process. 

TRU-DOCK™ Automated Loading Pods are a game-changer in the world of container loading. With their focus on high-volume loading, enhanced safety performance, all-weather capability, and complete environmental control, TRU-DOCK™ Automated Loading Pods are revolutionising the way businesses handle their loading operations. 

If you’re looking to streamline your container loading operations and enhance safety performance, TRU-DOCK™ Automated Loading Pods are the solution.

SPECIALISTS
Get Specialist Advice
Here for you. Here for good.

Share this article
TRU-DOCK™ Automated Loading Pods,Container loading systems, Container loading equipment, Container Loading Shelter, dock loading systems
TRU-DOCK™ Automated Loading Pods

6 benefits of PVC Strip Curtains in the Workplace

PVC curtains are versatile and durable, typically used to separate different areas. These can be used anywhere you see fit. Let’s look at the top 6 benefits of using PVC Strip Curtains.

Energy Efficiency and Temperature Control

These curtains work as a barrier to help maintain a consistent, desired temperature in different areas of your workplace. PVC curtains are extremely useful between cold storage environments and warmer workspaces. Not only do they help separate those areas but also help to reduce energy consumption from loss of heated or cooled air resulting in lower power bills.

Noise Reduction

PVC Strip Curtains help to create a sound barrier between workspaces, reducing noise levels. For example, an open office in a manufacturing warehouse would benefit from one of these, creating a more comfortable area of work. Our TRU-STRIP™️ PVC Strip Curtains reduce noise levels by up to 35db.

Dust and Pest Control

Strip curtains are an effective barrier against airborne pollutants such as dust, and other intrusive contaminants from spreading into areas where hygiene and cleanliness is crucial, such as food preparation areas and medical facilities. Additionally, these curtains help deter unwanted pests such as rodents and insects from areas particularly important in food processing areas, storage facilities and where hygiene is critical.

Versatile

As mentioned above, these curtains are an extremely versatile product with the ability to be customised to your requirements such as size, colour, thickness, and tailored to fit any space you see fit.

Cost Effective Solution

Compared to other options on the market, PVC Strip Curtains are inexpensive and offer long-term savings through reduced energy bills with little to no maintenance.

Installation and Maintenance

Installing Strip Curtains is a straightforward process and requires very little downtime. They’re also extremely easy to clean and maintain, ensuring they remain an effective and functional solution. TRU-STRIP™️ PVC Strip Curtains are supplied as a kitset for ease of delivery and installation.

PVC Strip Curtains offer benefits that make them an excellent addition to any workplace or space that you see fit. They provide solutions to common problems experienced in the workplace from energy efficiency and temperature control to noise reduction and pest control. Strip curtains help to create a more efficient and comfortable work environment.

To enquire or find out more, give us a call.

SPECIALISTS
Get Specialist Advice
Here for you. Here for good.

Share this article
Forklift driving through PVC Strip Curtains, strip curtains
TRU-STRIP™ PVC Strip Curtains

The Benefits of Preventative Maintenance

The Benefits of Preventative Maintenance

Preventative maintenance is the routine inspection and servicing of equipment to prevent unexpected failures and costly downtime for businesses. Unlike reactive maintenance, which addresses issues after they occur, preventative maintenance is proactive, focusing on preventing problems before they arise. Maintaining your Metalbilt door is crucial to ensuring its reliable operation and keeping its warranty valid.

Below are the benefits of preventative maintenance:

Cost Savings:

Completing regular maintenance on your docks and doors reduces the need for unexpected, expensive repairs and extends their lifespan. Identifying potential issues early on can save companies high costs associated with these breakdowns.

Downtime Reduction:

Planning scheduled maintenance means equipment is serviced without disrupting production. These shutdowns minimise unexpected downtime, which has a significant impact on productivity and profitability.

Increased Safety for Employees:

Well-maintained equipment is safer to operate. Regular checks can prevent workplace accidents caused by faulty equipment, ensuring the safety of your employees.

Improved Efficiency: 

Equipment in optimal condition performs better and more efficiently. Preventative maintenance ensures that equipment operates at peak performance, which can lead to increased productivity.

Asset Management:

Regular maintenance helps track the performance and condition of equipment. By having a certified door technician perform scheduled maintenance, they can not only fix any issues that arise but also identify the root cause of the fault and provide solutions to prevent these problems in the future.

Metalbilt is equipped with the tools and expertise to maintain high standards of operational reliability. Our services are designed to cater to the unique needs of a range of industries, ensuring that all equipment meets safety and performance standards. We are committed to delivering the highest quality of service.

Preventative maintenance is not just a task—it is an investment in the future of your business. With Metalbilt your equipment is in capable hands, maximising its efficiency and extending its lifespan.

SPECIALISTS
Get Specialist Advice
Here for you. Here for good.

Share this article

When should I involve Metalbilt in my project?

Establishing a strong foundation from the start is crucial to ensure your project runs smoothly throughout the entire project. Planning and addressing these key stages early on means you can set clear objectives, allocate your resources efficiently and foresee any potential challenges along the way.

Below are the crucial stages and how Metalbilt can help you navigate them.

Planning and Design Phase: 

Engaging a Metalbilt Sales and Project Manager in the early stages of your planning and design phase allows for a collaborative approach with your architect to consider the best solutions for your project. Our expertise ensures that all potential options are explored, including those you may never have considered, allowing for more efficient and effective design outcomes.

Budgeting and Cost Estimation: 

Remaining transparent is vital for your budgeting process, enabling you to allocate resources efficiently and avoiding unexpected expenses. Detailed cost estimations help you to plan financially, ensuring your project remains on track and within budget.

Site Assessment and Measurements: 

Before finalising your design plans, it’s essential that a thorough site assessment is conducted. Our team will gather precise measurements guaranteeing the chosen doors fit perfectly and operate correctly in your intended space. Accurate site assessments prevent costly modifications and ensure the seamless integration of Metalbilt products into your design.

Pre-Construction Phase:

Our team works closely with your contractors to ensure all preparations are made for the installation of Metalbilt products. This proactive approach helps to avoid delays, ensuring that everything is in place for a smooth installation process.

Installation Scheduling:

Installation of a Metalbilt door typically occurs after all structural work is completed but before the final finishes. A Metalbilt installer will install the door within a timely manner and ensure that the door is fully operational prior to handover. This stage is critical to ensure the door integrates perfectly with the surrounding structure and functions as intended.

By partnering with a Metalbilt Sales and Project Manager early on and throughout the critical stages of your project, you can ensure a smooth integration of your chosen door, leading to a successful outcome. Our comprehensive approach to project management ensures that every detail is planned and executed, providing high-quality products and solutions.

If you need assistance with doors for your next project, get in touch with our team today.

SPECIALISTS
Get Specialist Advice
Here for you. Here for good.

Share this article