Don't Miss This Unique Opportunity: The Art of Locksmithing with Aaron at the Rare Trades Centre

The Locksmithing Workshop at the Rare Trades Centre in Ballarat, Victoria is an incredible hands-on experience scheduled for November 8, 2025. It’s being led by Aaron, a genuinely passionate and skilled artisan in the trade. I've had the pleasure of meeting Aaron, and I can tell you he's not only a great guy but also deeply committed to preserving these traditional skills.

This isn’t your typical modern security seminar; it's a deep dive into the historical art of lock making. The workshop will focus on techniques from the early 1800s, where participants will learn to craft a brass padlock and key from scratch.

In our field, we work with cutting-edge technology every day, from digital locks to high-security systems. But before all of that, a locksmith's skill was defined by their ability to work with their hands and master the mechanical intricacies of their craft. This workshop is a chance to connect with that past, to appreciate the precision and patience that was required to create something as fundamental as a lock.

The artisan-led class will guide attendees through the process of shaping metal, cutting tumblers, and ensuring every piece fits perfectly. It’s an opportunity to gain a new appreciation for the foundations of our trade and to learn skills that are becoming increasingly rare.

If you're a fellow locksmith, a hobbyist, or just someone who loves history and craftsmanship, this event looks to be an amazing experience. While I'll be stuck in Canberra, I highly encourage anyone with the time to make the trip to Ballarat and immerse themselves in this fascinating trade. Don't miss out on this chance to unlock some history!

Who is going to... the Security Exhibition & Conference in Sydney?

Get ready for the big event! The Security Exhibition & Conference is on from August 27th to 29th at ICC Sydney, and as someone who's passionate about all things security, I wish I could attend. It will be a fantastic chance to see what's new and to catch up with other people in the industry.

While you'll find the big players you know and trust, like ASSA ABLOY (which includes brands like Lockwood) and Allegion, there are also smaller, upcoming suppliers. They often bring innovative, new ideas to the market. The event has a dedicated "Start Up Zone" for new businesses, and I think that's where some of the most interesting and creative solutions might be showcased.

For those of you in the locks, safes, and hardware space, this is a must-attend. From cutting-edge access control to the latest in physical security, this exhibition provides an invaluable opportunity to stay ahead of the curve.

Best,

Tony Steward

As an enthusiastic reporter for my website, I'm thrilled to share some fantastic news about an event that promises to be a highlight of the year for our industry!

The Master Locksmiths Association of Australasia (MLAA) is gearing up for its 2025 National Conference, and it's shaping up to be an unmissable event. The conference will be held at the elegant Fullerton Hotel in Sydney from September 12-13, 2025. It's the perfect opportunity to see the latest and greatest innovations in our field.

One of the most exciting aspects is that LSC will be there, showcasing their newest product innovations. They are even bringing international visitors from their major partners, which means we'll get a firsthand look at some of the best and most advanced products from around the world.

The excitement doesn't stop with the conference itself. The celebration continues on Saturday, September 13, with the Gala Dinner & Awards Night at the iconic Sydney Town Hall. From 6:00 PM to midnight, we'll be able to celebrate the incredible achievements of our industry. It's going to be a night of fun, networking, and recognition, complete with a live DJ to keep the energy high.

This conference is a chance to connect with peers, learn about the future of our trade, and celebrate our collective success. I'm already looking forward to it, and I encourage everyone to look into the early bird registration details on the MLAA website. It's going to be a truly spectacular event!

Multiple news reports from outlets like 9News, 7NEWS, and Yahoo News have recently highlighted how scammers are still targeting Australians.¹ The key takeaway is that these dodgy operators are using very similar tactics to the ones we've seen before.

Here's a quick summary of what's been in the news:

• The Bait: Scammers are using online search ads to lure in customers, often with unbelievably low call-out fees, sometimes as cheap as $29.
• The Switch: Once they arrive, they'll often claim the job is more complicated than expected and will demand hundreds, or even thousands, of dollars. One recent report detailed a renter who was charged over $1200 for a simple lockout.
• The Culprits: Many of these scammers are not legitimate, qualified tradespeople. Law enforcement and industry groups say they are often linked to overseas criminal networks that are raking in millions of dollars by ripping off Australians.

The message from the experts is clear: it's crucial to be vigilant, especially in an emergency. The best advice from the Master Locksmiths Association is to always use a trusted, reputable business.

My advice to you is simple: if you ever need a locksmith, be cautious. Get a quote before any work starts and make sure they have a real physical address and plenty of legitimate reviews. And remember, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Stay safe out there!