2014 Business of the Year – Mainstream Aquaculture
Over the past twenty years the Wyndham Business Awards have showcased outstanding achievement in a diverse range of industries that has confirmed the quality, depth, passion and commitment of our business community.
It is therefore fitting that the twentieth winner of Business of the Year is a home grown, quiet achiever, driven by innovation and an undying belief in their product, their systems and their people.
Founded by Paul Harrison in 2001, Mainstream Aquaculture is a true jewel in the crown of our business community and following recent significant investment Wyndham City can proudly claim to be home to the largest barramundi hatchery in the world.
With a vision to be a “business for the future” one of the keys to the Mainstream story is the utilization of a geothermal water source, 300metres below their Werribee site that feeds into a fully enclosed advanced technology production system.
Congratulations to everyone at Mainstream Aquaculture, a highly innovative and sophisticated business supported by an exceptional management team and advanced working systems.
2014 Business Person of the Year – Chris Byrne, Westpoint Ford
Chris Byrne commenced work in the local car industry at the age of 18. In 1994 he took on the challenge of resurrecting a Ford Dealership in Hoppers Crossing which saw the birth Westpoint Ford, a brand that has grown to become one of the most recognised car dealership in Melbourne.
Chris leads and educates by example and takes great pride in surrounding himself with
like-minded staff and business partners.
What the judges said: Throughout his career, it seems that Chris has been unafraid of anything, especially new ideas, technology and change. He has a “never say die” attitude to business, combined with a healthy and responsive customer service philosophy and team approach.
He is humble about his amazing involvement in the community with a special focus on assisting at risk and homeless young people.
2014 Mayoral Award Winner – Cummins South Pacific
Cummins South Pacific are part of a global network that is the world’s largest independent manufacturer of diesel engines. Whilst it could be easy for many large firms to focus only on bottom line profit, Cummins focus is much broader.
The company’s Laverton North operation is a great corporate citizen for the people of Wyndham. Their many contributions to the community have included the donation of diesel engines to the Point Cook Secondary College Trade Training Centre and taking a lead role in the Young Ambassadors for Industry Program brokered by the WynBay Local Learning and Employment Network.
The company is also actively involved in the Beacon Foundation that aims to inspire and motivate students to choose positive pathways to employment. Eleven Cummins staff are actively engaged in the program as Beacon Ambassadors for the local area.
In 2014 the company employed five 1st Year Apprentices and their work experience program increased by 61%.
Wyndham is very fortunate to have a multi-national company like Cummins South Pacific committed to the future of our young people.