On Friday 8 May, business people, community leaders and educators gathered for the second STEPS breakfast featuring the nationally renowned rugby league coach Wayne Bennett.
After 21 years of coaching the Brisbane Broncos, the multi-premiership winning coach is now in charge of St George- Illawarra hence the change of shirt colour.
Besides engaging a wide range of people from the Townsville community, the breakfast, held at the stately Rydges Southbank Townsville, served several purposes for STEPS. The merger between Impact Employment and STEPS was announced, with many of Impact’s long-term employers present. The event also gave STEPS the opportunity to announce its 20th anniversary to the Townsville community.
At the end of the event John Conway, General Manager of Employment, launched STEPS Employer Equity Group, presenting well deserved inaugural memberships to The Outback Pie Co. and Serco Sodexo Defence Services.
Local radio personality Jude Hilberts hosted the event superbly. Milo Gaffney, Director of The Outback Pie Co., and last years Townsville Young Business Person of the Year, addressed the crowd, highlighting why he now employs 20 percent of his workforce from STEPS. His address was highly thoughtful and compelling.
Wayne Bennett spoke candidly on the subject of communication, and its importance within any team environment whether sporting or businesses. He also challenged those in attendance to forsake selfish attitudes and work together for a more inclusive society, including employing people with disability. His address was hard-hitting, but roundly applauded for its honesty.
Thank you to all those who contributed to the success of the morning.
