SECON Freight Logistics marked its 50th anniversary with a recent gala dinner at Encore in the Melbourne suburb of St Kilda.
The event also marked the launch of a new book recounting the company’s history and a video announcing plans for the future.
The night’s MC, Kevin Halpin from the Victorian Transport Association, welcomed Secon management, suppliers, customers, partners and others, including Secon’s first client, John Knox of Australian Sheepskin Enterprises, who still trades with Secon today.
Stories and laughs flowed in the room and on stage, as guests celebrated the achievements of the family business started by Maurie Considine with Jim Seide in 1969, which has steadily grown.
Centrepiece of the night was a panel discussion between Maurie Considine, Secon managing director Brendon Considine and CEO Steve Nailer, moderated by Phil Lovel AM, former executive director and CEO of the VTA.
The trio reflected on the highlights and challenges of Secon’s first 50 years and their insights as to where the industry is now heading.
Steve Nailer introduced a new video detailing Secon’s initiatives to ahead in logistics during the next decade. These include fuel-efficient trucks, two major new depots, a new IT system and Ship2Shelf Strategy.
“There has been one consistent word we found that unites everything we do with everyone we engage with: ‘Happiness’,” Mr Nailer said.
“So we are reshaping our business strategy and culture by ensuring everyone in our supply chain is happy – be that your customer’s dock manager, your staff or anyone in the community.”
This new era of Secon started as the dream of Terry Considine, who was Secon CEO until his sudden passing in 2014.
“It was Terry’s dream, and we are now living his legacy,” said Brendon Considine. “Watching this become reality is my dream.”
The event closed by officially launching It’s In Our Blood, Maurie Considine’s memoir of the ups and downs of his time building the Secon business. Several industries luminaries were spotted stopping by Maurie’s table for an autograph on their way home.
