Around 70 people attended the opening of the new Elders premises at 20 Manuka Street in Winton last Thursday, with more apologies from others who could not make the grand occasion because of the recent heavy rains.
Linda Young opened proceedings at the ceremony, and Mayor Gavin Baskett and acting manager Richard Bright cut the ribbon – red of course.
Cr Baskett said that the investment in the building and in the staff was a very welcome boost to the shire.
Richard Bright told me later that it was not only the dollars spend on obtaining the building, but also the skill sets of the local and wider Elders team that was available in Winton.
New products in the Agri and Personal finance areas were also announced.
He said a major feature of the opening was the opportunity to speak directly with some of the Elders suppliers – Morrisey and Co from Jandowae, Gough Plastics from Townsville, the Tri-Solphen team, specialists from Dectomax and Flexolt, Gallagher, Waratah and more.
An outstanding feature of the opening to me was the support of Elders staff from throughout Queensland.
Kerry Patch from Insurance, Lisa Hewitt the general manager of Queensland and the Northern Territory, John McMahon Agri Finance Manager were among the guests who had travelled from the four corners of Queensland.
The Elders office was previously in Elderslie Street and long-time previous employee Robyn Stephens was invited to cut the cake.
The Elders hospitality was exceptional and the evening ended with a drawing of products in a lucky door raffle.
Ms Hewitt said that Elders was one of the oldest companies in Australia, with 185 years of service to rural life, and looked forward to a long and continuing involvement in Winton, and the opening of the new premises cemented this local relationship.
