Categories: Press Releases

The extended agreement strengthens the distribution of advanced condensing unit solutions across Australia and New Zealand.

April 2026 – Beijer Ref and Copeland, a global leader in compression technologies and controls solutions, and have announced an extension of their exclusivity agreement for the distribution of Copeland ZX condensing units across Australia and New Zealand.

The agreement encompasses distribution through Beijer Ref businesses, including Beijer Ref Australia, Kirby HVAC&R, Patton NZ and SCM Ref Australia, further strengthening a long-standing relationship between the organisations.

Exclusivity applies to all ZX condensing units manufactured in Asia and extends to the HLR (Horizontal Receiver Scroll Unit), as well as parts unique to the ZX platform. The agreement reinforces a shared commitment to delivering high-quality, compliant and future-ready refrigeration solutions to the ANZ market.

The Copeland ZX condensing unit range is designed for applications including convenience stores, cold rooms, food service and specialty retail, where space, noise and regulatory compliance are critical. The platform combines Copeland scroll compressor reliability with advanced electronic controls and dedicated A2L safety architecture, supporting the transition to lower-global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants.

Shannon Lovett, country manager, Australia and New Zealand for Copeland, commented:

“This agreement builds on a strong and successful partnership with Beijer Ref. By combining our innovative ZX platform with Beijer Ref’s extensive distribution network, we are well positioned to support customers across Australia and New Zealand with reliable, efficient and future-ready refrigeration solutions.”

Brett Hedge, general manager of Beijer Ref Australia, commented:

“We are pleased to strengthen our collaboration with Copeland in Australia and New Zealand through this exclusive agreement. It reinforces our commitment to providing customers with access to leading technologies and a comprehensive product portfolio, supported by local expertise and service.”

Beijer Ref Australia and Kirby HVAC&R networks span more than 70 branches across Australia, while Patton NZ provides nationwide coverage throughout New Zealand—ensuring strong local availability, technical support and customer service.

As part of the Gas2Go® Refrigerant Stewardship Program, we will offer a rebate for your recovered HFC Refrigerant.

A negotiated price based on refrigerant type and volume will be inclusive of the $3/kg Refrigerant Reclaim Australia (RRA) contractor rebate and will be subject to verification weighing and testing at our Gas2Go® Bankstown refrigerant plant.

The payment will be paid as credit to your trading account within 30 days from confirmation of the refrigerant test results.

Terms and Conditions:

1. The cylinder must be a Gas2Go® supplied clean pump-down cylinder.
2. Each cylinder must contain a minimum of 10kgs to qualify for the buyback rebate.
3. The refrigerant product returned must be above 99% purity.
4. All returns less than 10kgs and below 99% purity will not qualify for buyback and will only be paid the $3/kg RRA contractor rebate.
5. The pump-down cylinder will be credited if the qualified cylinder is brought for buyback purposes.
6. Products surrendered by the customer will become the property of Beijer Ref Holdings Australia Pty Ltd (T/A Beijer Ref Support).
7. All cylinders need to be verified weighed and tested at our Gas2Go® Bankstown refrigerant plant.

Register your interest

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Gas2Go® is dedicated to working with you on the responsible stewardship of refrigerants.

If you require any additional information or assistance, please contact your nearest Kirby branch.

The Kirby Apprentice Fund has successfully delivered its 2026 CO2 Training Scholarship Program. Through this initiative, the Kirby Apprentice Fund and Kirby HVAC&R have now proudly supported the upskilling of more than 100 apprentices across the industry in CO2 Safety and CO2 System Repair and Service, in partnership with SCM REF Australia, Superior Training Centre (RTO ID 41122 | CRICOS Provider 03591C) and Beijer Ref Academy.

Reaching the milestone of more than 100 apprentices trained is a significant achievement for both the Kirby Apprentice Fund and the broader HVAC&R industry, says Kirby Marketing Manager, Elizabeth Paparo;

“As CO2 technology continues to become more widely adopted across commercial refrigeration applications, building a pipeline of technicians with the skills and confidence to work safely and effectively with these systems is critical. By investing in apprentice training today, the program is helping to support the future growth of CO2 technology and ensuring the industry has the capability to meet increasing demand in the years ahead.”

Kirby congratulates the following employers for supporting their apprentices to attend the program: Australian Refrigeration Services, Faircloth & Reynolds, Frigtech Services WA, Mackie Electric & Refrigeration, Nexus Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning, Peak Group Services, RS Air and Refrigeration, Southern Air Refrigeration and Air Conditioning, Specialised Refrigeration Services, Tritech Refrigeration, TVHi, Van Eerde Airconditioning and Refrigeration, and Woolworths Supermarkets.

Kirby also extends sincere thanks to Appion Tools, Copeland, Danfoss and Sauermann Australasia for their involvement in the program and for sharing their expertise with participating apprentices.

12 February 2026

As of 1 January 2026, Australia’s HFC import quota was further reduced by 19%.

The total quota for 2026–27 is now set at 4.25 million tonnes CO₂-equivalent, representing nearly a 50% reduction from the original baseline. The phasedown will continue to step down progressively, reaching an 85% reduction by 2036.

In the second half of 2025, we began to see a decisive market shift away from certain high global warming potential refrigerants but the current demand for high GWP refrigerants is not sustainable. This transition must continue and accelerate if our industry is to successfully manage the quota restrictions.

What this means for you:

• High-GWP refrigerants are likely to have reduced availability through the wholesale network
• Price volatility is likely to continue, particularly for legacy blends and high-GWP refrigerants
• It has become even more important to start transitioning to lower GWP refrigerants
• Refrigerant stewardship programs are available to customers where assistance is required on large system replacements

As part of managing the phasedown responsibly, we wish to advise that certain refrigerants have reached, or are approaching, end-of-life availability within our Gas2Go refrigerant range.

The following refrigerants have been, or will be, phased out: R507, R407F, R438A, R422D

Refrigerants that are likely to see constrained supply throughout and beyond 2026: R404A, R410A, R407C

What can be done:

We strongly encourage contractors and end users to begin planning the transition to lower-GWP alternatives to ensure long-term supply security and regulatory compliance.

Consider what investments need to be made by your clients to move to newer equipment using lower GWP refrigerant, reducing cost of ownership for end users.

To support this, we are pleased to be able to provide a Refrigerant Stewardship Program that is available to all Gas2Go customers. Information on our Refrigerant Stewardship Program is available here (https://gas2go.com.au/refrigerant-buy-back-offer/).

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Round 7 of the Kirby Apprentice Fund (KAF) CO₂ Training Scholarship is now open for applications. The scholarship program continues Kirby’s commitment to supporting the next generation of refrigeration professionals by investing in specialised CO₂ training and capability development across the industry.

The KAF CO₂ Training Scholarship is designed to help apprentices build critical skills in natural refrigerants, supporting safer, more sustainable refrigeration practices. Successful applicants will gain access to structured training that enhances both technical knowledge and long-term career opportunities in a rapidly evolving HVAC&R landscape.

The program for 2026 will take place 7-9 April 2026, at the Beijer Ref Headquarters in Sydney. The CO2 Safety and CO2 Repair and Service Systems training will be conducted by SCM REF AU and certified by Superior Training Centre Pty Ltd (RTO ID Number 41122).

Eligible apprentices are encouraged to apply now, as places are limited. Full details, eligibility criteria and the application form can be found here: Download the Application Form.

Or click here to submit your Expression of Interest; https://offers.kirbyhvacr.com.au/kaf-scholarship-application/

Kirby HVAC Partners from across Australia have recently returned from the 2025 Incentive Trip, with Vietnam playing host to an unforgettable adventure.

From the lively streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the historic Cu Chi Tunnels and the scenic Mekong Delta, the itinerary was packed with culture, history, and plenty of fun. Guests enjoyed rooftop dining, bustling market shopping, and some of the best food Vietnam has to offer.

Highlights included a full day exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels, and Vespa bike tours through the city – a favourite for most of the group. Others took part in cooking classes, city cycle tours, or enjoyed downtime by the rooftop pool. A speed-boat ride, transfers via army jeeps and a scenic dinner cruise with a traditional lion dance performance were also included.

The Incentive Trip is our way of recognising and rewarding Kirby HVAC Partners who achieve their sales targets. It’s a chance to step away from business for a few days, enjoy new experiences, and celebrate the hard work and loyalty of our customers.

With the 2025 trip wrapped up, the tally is already underway for 2026. If you’d like to join us on the next adventure, speak with your Kirby representative about how we can work together to reach the qualifying targets.

Step into the future of hot water heating with Gree!

Introducing the Gree Inverter Hot Water Heat Pump, a revolution in energy-efficient hot water solutions. Designed for both residential and commercial use, this advanced system delivers hot water up to 70°C without the need for a booster element, thanks to cutting-edge inverter technology and the environmentally friendly R290 refrigerant.

With a COP of 5.41, it produces 2.3kW of heating using just 0.426kW of input power, delivering up to 70% energy savings. Available in 200L and 270L tank sizes, both units are built for durability, featuring a crystal titanium enamel-coated tank that has been tested for 1080 hours of acid resistance and corrosion protection.

The unit features a dedicated inverter compressor, external microchannel heat exchanger, and Wi-Fi programmable control for maximum convenience and performance. Quiet (44dB), weather-resistant, and easy to install outdoors, it’s the perfect upgrade from traditional gas systems.

Backed by Gree Australia’s 6-year parts and labour warranty, the Gree Inverter Hot Water Heat Pump is where innovation meets reliability.

The Kirby Apprentice Fund has successfully delivered Round 6 of its CO₂ Training Scholarship Program, equipping a full class of 20 fourth-year apprentices with nationally recognised accreditation in CO₂ Safety and CO₂ System Repair and Service (UEERA0006 and UEERA0066).

Participants undertook award-winning, industry-leading training at the Beijer Ref Academy, delivered by SCM REF AU, certified by Superior Training Centre and further enriched by product and controls training from Appion, Supercool Group, Danfoss and Copeland.

Apprentices praised the course for its quality and impact:

“Extremely beneficial course. Great equipment, company providing insight. Very knowledgeable teachers and a great learning environment.” – M. Stitz, Alpine Refrigeration

“All the instructors were very knowledgeable and passionate which made the learning experience very easy and enjoyable. Thank you team!” – M. Mutkins, ARA Mechanical

Special acknowledgement goes to the participating employers who supported their apprentices through this upskilling initiative, including Value Added Engineering QLD, Specific Refrigeration and Mechanical Services VIC, Woolworths, Elite Refrigeration QLD, Premiair Pty Ltd VIC, Ultra Refrigeration NSW, TSR Refrigeration QLD, Award Refrigeration NSW, Control Air SA, Matthew Bedelph TAS, Thermal Care QLD, Mackie Electric & Refrigeration NSW, Sims Refrigeration SA and NT, TVHi NSW, O’Connors SA, Alpine Refrigeration QLD, and ARA Mechanical Services Pty Ltd NSW.

In 2025 alone, 40 HVACR apprentices have benefited from this scholarship program, made possible through the generous support of Kirby HVACR, ARBS Education and Research Foundation, ARC, Woolworths, Supercool Group, Danfoss, and Copeland.

Established in 2019, the Kirby Apprentice Fund was created to provide apprentices with tool support, training, and development opportunities they need to succeed. Since then, it has become a cornerstone investment in the next generation of HVACR professionals, helping to close the CO2 technology skills gap and ensuring a strong and capable workforce for the future.

Kirby HVACR and Beijer Ref remain committed to growing the program into 2026 and beyond. All HVACR apprentices are encouraged to register at kirbyhvacr.com.au to take full advantage of the opportunities offered by the Fund.

Thanks to the Kirby Apprentice Fund, another group of 4th-year apprentices will undertake certified CO₂ training at the Beijer Ref Academy this September.

This initiative represents the second round of training scholarships for 2025, proudly sponsored by the ARBS Education and Research Foundation, together with the Australian Refrigeration Council, Woolworths, Supercool Group, Sauermann, Danfoss, and Copeland.

Industry interest from 4th-year apprentices has once again been outstanding, with all applicants demonstrating a strong commitment to upskilling and achieving accreditation in natural refrigerant technology. Twenty (20) scholarships have been awarded across NSW, VIC, TAS, NT, and SA.

While the scholarship provides extensive support for both apprentices and employers, we also acknowledge and congratulate the participating employers for their additional investment of time and resources beyond the scholarship coverage.

By the end of 2025, a total of 40 apprentices will have completed their training and achieved national accreditation in CO₂ Safety and CO₂ System Repair and Service. This program, delivered in collaboration with Superior Training Centre (RTO ID: 41122), is making a tangible contribution to addressing the industry’s skills gap in the safe handling and servicing of CO₂ systems.

Not only does this initiative enhance individual career development, but it also strengthens businesses across the sector, as apprentices return with advanced knowledge and skills to share with their colleagues.

Congratulations to the following apprentices.

R.Sutton Woolworths Facilities Management, NSW
J.Booth Woolworths 360, VIC
J.Abela Value Added Engineering NQ, QLD
T.Thompson Specific Refrigeration and Mechanical Services, VIC
A.Chand Woolworths, NSW
A.Kumar Elite Refrigeration, QLD
A.Burnell Premiair Pty Ltd, VIC
M.Durand Ultra Refrigeration, NSW
J.Hughes TSR Refrigeration, QLD
L.Haggerly Award Refrigeration, NSW
S.DeWilde Control Air, SA
M.Crawford Matthew Bedelph, TAS
O.Lepp Thermal Care, QLD
M.Perry Mackie Electric & Refrigeration, NSW
J.Burgess Sims Refrigeration, NT
T.Riordan TVH, NSW
A.Book O’Connors
L.Sims Sims Refrigeration, SA
M.Stitz Alpine Refrigeration, QLD
M.Mutkins ARA Mechanical Services, NSW

18/08/2025

To our valued customers,

As part of our ongoing commitment through the Refrigerant Stewardship Program, we wish to inform you of important updates regarding the availability of certain refrigerants. Some refrigerants are now reaching end-of-life status or are becoming increasingly supply-constrained. Specifically:

• Limited Supply: R507, R407F, R438A
• Nearly Exhausted: R422D

Once our current stock of these refrigerants is depleted, we will no longer be able to support their use.

In addition, due to a further 19% reduction in the national refrigerant import quota effective 1st January 2026, high-GWP refrigerants such as R404A may become increasingly difficult to source throughout the year, depending on demand.

We strongly urge contractors and end users to plan for the transition to lower-GWP alternatives. It is critical that:

• No new systems are designed using R404A or R507
• All new systems are specified with lower-GWP refrigerants in line with current environmental and regulatory expectations

For detailed information on suitable alternatives and available products, please visit:
https://gas2go.com.au/products/

We appreciate your continued support and look forward to assisting you with sustainable and compliant refrigeration solutions.

Best regards,

Louie Delinicolis

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