Each session gets bigger and better. In 2012, Clipsal’s theme for the 500 contractors who gathered at the National Wine Centre was Fuel Your Business.

Special mystery guest was 1980 Formula One World Champion, Alan Jones who described the Clipsal 500 as “the best touring car event in the world.”

“People from overseas can’t believe how good it is here.”

Clipsal executive general manager Damien Cummins took to the stage and spoke of the company’s passion to help contractors take every opportunity that new technology brings.

“We are living in a digital world and that is why we are offering you so many solutions from NBN to the latest Android app of our trade product guide.”

Damien also spoke of the company’s direction to provide health and aged care solutions.

“Our population is aging and we know that this market is looking for ways to use technology to stay in their own homes longer. Together, we can deliver those solutions.”

Electric vehicle charging stations were another key strategy and he urged contractors to look at the diversity of options offered by both Clipsal and Schneider Electric that will be required for homes, work places and public areas.

Finally, Damien spoke of the emergence of non compliant product and urged contractors to support the now industry adopted “Don’t risk it campaign!”

“Non compliant product is unsafe product. We need to support and protect our industry.”

Guest speaker was Marketing guru John Lees who when not entertaining with his stand-up comedy, delivered simple but powerful key messages to the audience. “Always provide more than what is expected”, “Don’t ask permission to do your job” and “Help your clients to see ways of doing something better.”

Following the formalities Clipsal 500 Grid Girls led guests to product display areas featuring demonstrations of the new Modena and Strato switchplates, LED offerings, NBN enclosures and more. Business break-out sessions also took guests for more indepth product analysis.

Terrance Shen from Meinhardt, Melbourne said it was his second visit to the Clipsal business session and said he enjoyed the presentations and guest speaker.

“I like to keep up to date with new developments and I’m particularly interested in C-Bus and LED technology.”