KSS October eKourier 2023

FEATURE

PARTY LIKE IT'S 1973, THE EPIC 50-YEAR BASH

20 Years of Service: L to R: Presenters, Sam and Lara Kennard, Darren Marshall - COO, Maria Katselas - Camperdown.

2 023 has been a milestone year for the business. Not long passing 100 centres operating across Australia and New Zealand, 2023 marked 50 years since operations began. There would be few that don't already know the story of Neville Kennard seeing the idea on a trip to the USA and building his first spaces at Kennards Hire Moorebank, NSW in 1973. What many might not know is the cultural journey Sam has taken the business on since the 90’s and with that celebrating the success of the teams within the business each year at the Achievement Dinner. This year was something special with double the usual attendees from all over the country and New Zealand teams also flying in for the occasion. Held at Dockside Darling Harbour, it was the best evening everyone could hope for to celebrate our 50-year journey and achievements of the team.

With over 200 Team Members in attend- ance, the vibes were high, and we were all geared up to have a blast. The venue, decorated in Kennard's colours and banners was oh-so-gorgeous. Comedian Mick Meredith, kicked the evening off, setting the scene with his killer jokes and infectious energy. What made the whole evening so special and the reason we were all there, was the team's. The evening was an opportunity to recognise years of service for valuable people within the business. It's always touching to see so many of you pass your 5,10,15 years, or even 20 years and beyond with us. An amusing sign of the times and enduring nature of the business were the many jokes made by award recipi - ents about not being born or still in nappies when Neville kicked things off in 73’. Sam brought a personal touch to the evening with stories of the early years and times with his father. Another sign

of the times and equally memorable was the assistance provided to him on stage by his youngest daughter Lara to present awards to the attendee’s. A special moment for Sam was the opportunity to recognise Darren Marshall, COO and former SSAA Board Member for 20 years service. Many Team Members were recognised for their exceptional efforts across the business, not just in normal operations but equally stepping in during times of need. No surprises for those in attendance seeing Team Headquar - ters recognised for being the lifeline that they are in this day and age for teams at the front line. The Awards concluded with special merit awards for Team Members; we all know them as “FREEDOM” Awards and the Rookie of the Year Award which went to Sandy Hapgood of the Baringa QLD team.

Darryl Hodgson NSW Operations Manager

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9 Kennards Kourier Oct 2023