2025 MPAQ Board Announced at the AGM

On 18 November, MPAQ held its 125th Annual General Meeting event at the MPAQ office. The 2025 MPAQ Board, Meritorious Service Award recipients, and Milestone Members were presented on the day.

After the nominations held in September, the 2025 MPAQ Board were announced during the meeting:

• Kent Vickers - President
• Dennis Yarrow - Vice President
• Samuel Folan - Councillor
• Greg Greenwood - Councillor
• Nathan Parnaby - Councillor
• Daniel Parker - Councillor
• Sean Taylor - Treasurer
• Patrick Robertson - Trustee
• Bill Watson AM - Trustee

The principal activities of the Association during the year encompassed representing the interests of its members across all levels of government, delivering training programs, providing technical resources, and advancing the plumbing, gas, and services industry within the broader community.

The MPAQ Board comprises past presidents, specialists in maintenance and hot water, major contractors, experts in backflow and drainage, as well as pipe reliners and gas fitters. This diverse pool of expertise, knowledge, and regional representation at the board level equips the association to engage in meaningful discussions and effectively advocate for our members at all government levels.

John Salmon And Bob Kimlin Step Down From The Board

John Salmon has been a valued and dedicated member of the MPAQ Board, with a career in the plumbing industry spanning back to his apprenticeship in 1985. In 1991, he founded Salmon Plumbing Services and has since witnessed and contributed to the industry's evolution. Serving on the MPAQ Board from 2012, John has played key roles, including developing the Charge-Out Rate Calculator, serving as Treasurer, and chairing the SCRF. His efforts have elevated professional standards, promoted sustainability through initiatives such as the PVC Recycling Scheme, and ensured the value of plumbers is recognised. John’s long-standing commitment, leadership, and service to both MPAQ and the plumbing industry are exemplary, and we thank him for his dedication.

Bob Kimlin, a Life Member, Past President, and Trustee of MPAQ, began his plumbing apprenticeship in 1971 and established National Air Qld – Plumbing and Air Conditioning in 1999. Since 1980, he has been an active member of the Townsville Division, serving as Treasurer, Secretary, and Chairman. Bob joined the MPAQ Board in 1994, serving as President from 1996 to 1998 and again from 2002 to 2013, and was awarded Life Membership in 2014 in recognition of his outstanding leadership and contributions. Over the course of more than four decades, Bob has dedicated his time, knowledge, and passion to the Association and the broader plumbing industry, inspiring all with his unwavering commitment. He is also a proud father of three sons and celebrates his 70th birthday next week.

Meritorious Service Awards

Two outstanding members were presented with a Meritorious Service Award for their service to the industry and the Association. These men have dedicated their lives to the industry and continue to be shining examples of leadership, dedication, hard work, magnanimity, and excellence.

Joseph McCoy

Joe McCoy, from Redcliffe, has been an active and respected member of the Redcliffe Division for many years, serving as Chairman for seven consecutive terms from 1999 to 2006, Secretary from 1995 to 1997, and Social Director from 1997 to 1998. He played a key role in organising social events, division dinners, and attending numerous conferences, always fostering unity and engagement within the Association. A highly regarded tradesman and true ambassador for the industry, Joe has also been involved in gas licensing in the maritime sector, established his own charter business, and contributed nine years of service to Volunteer Marine Rescue Brisbane, including as Vice-President. Joe’s commitment, leadership, and community spirit make him an exemplary candidate for the Meritorious Service Award.

Darryl Flangan

Darryl Flanagan, from Toowoomba, has made significant contributions to MPAQ and the plumbing industry through his long-standing service in the Toowoomba Division as Chairman, Secretary, and Treasurer across multiple terms. He has actively supported events, including the 1989 State Conference, numerous division dinners alongside his wife Helen, and attended many industry conferences. Recognised for his expertise, Darryl has served as a Work Skills Judge and was a finalist in the Toowoomba Chronicle Tradesperson of the Year. A dedicated community member through the Rotary Club of Toowoomba South, Darryl’s commitment, leadership, and reputation as an ambassador for the industry make him a deserving recipient of the Meritorious Service Award.

Milestones

Don Shortis – 40 Year Milestone

Don Shortis, from Our Plumber, is being recognised for a 40-year milestone with MPAQ, having joined on 11 December 1985. This certificate honours his four decades of dedication to both the Association and the plumbing industry. A long-standing supporter and highly respected member of the plumbing community, Don has consistently shared his knowledge, offered support, and championed professionalism and quality in the trade. His commitment and contributions over the years are sincerely appreciated.