The IBS Years
The Introduction to IBS Engineering Supplies
While running my own business, I was introduced to IBS Engineering Supplies when I installed their computerised payroll system. During my time there, I noticed they were double-handling their invoicing system and saw further potential for improvement in other areas. The owners asked me to analyse their business to identify what could be simplified and computerised, marking the beginning of a new stage in my life.
Transition to IBS Engineering Supplies
After my small business venture closed, IBS asked me to work for them on a part-time basis. Initially, I worked a few days a week, but this quickly turned into a full-time job, and then some. During these early days at IBS, I faced significant personal losses. I lost both of my dogs, one within a week of the other, and my old car also died, leading to a temporary loss of independence. My good friend Kathy, who also worked at IBS, kindly provided daily transportation.
Marmaduke and Mobility
I missed my dogs terribly, and it was Kathy who encouraged me to look for another Great Dane. Coincidentally, some people in El Arish were selling puppies. I borrowed a work ute and brought home a two-month-old Great Dane puppy named Marmaduke. He turned out to be a very faithful and loving pet, staying with me for over ten years until his passing in November 2002 from Leptospirosis, a disease prevalent in the tropics.
When I started working full-time, I used some of the extra money to lease a new Holden Barina 4-door Hatch. The business agreed to pay half of the monthly lease payment for five years. This restored my mobility and provided enough room in the back for Marmaduke.
Evolution of IBS Engineering Supplies
To save the owners on their annual taxation fees, I suggested they form a company. This would allow them to pay lower personal tax fees, with the company only paying tax on the remaining profit. In 1993, a company required at least two directors to operate. The eldest son became one director, but neither of the other two owners wanted the responsibility, so they offered me a directorship. I was honoured by this move, which cemented my future with the company.
The business continued to grow, necessitating numerous renovations to our rented premises. We even had to lease additional sheds and build a mezzanine floor for extra office space.
Community Involvement
During this period, I joined the Innisfail Chamber of Commerce, actively participating in their monthly meetings. Over the years, I held various positions, including Secretary, Treasurer, and eventually Vice President. In 2001, due to increased responsibilities at IBS and personal commitments, I reluctantly resigned from my Chamber roles.
A New Facility and Flood Challenges
In 1998, a large empty factory site on Edith Street was put up for sale. This site offered more space than our current location, with future development potential, and was located on the main street of Innisfail. I conducted the financial assessment and prepared a proposal for the bank, leading to our successful acquisition of the property. We moved into the new building at the end of 1998, and I finally had an office with windows and natural light. Things were looking up, and everyone was enthusiastic about the move.
However, in February 1999, we faced our first major flood. Innisfail was prone to major flooding and cyclones, but this flood was particularly severe, with over a meter of water inundating our new facility. The damage was extensive, but we quickly devised a strategy to mitigate future flood risks, including adjustable steel-legged desks to elevate equipment above flood levels.
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Floods, Innovations, and Personal Challenges
Over the next seven years, we endured several floods. As the company's designated "weatherman," I monitored conditions to decide when to elevate equipment. These late-night efforts often resulted in false alarms, but we were determined to protect our assets. Unfortunately, the physical demands of these tasks led to the development of four hernias, which would later cause significant health issues.
Despite these challenges, the company flourished. We developed and exported banana farm machinery invented by Bill, the eldest son. This innovation significantly contributed to our success.
The Ozzy-400 Bagging Machine
Early 1990 left and 2005 right
Personal Milestones and IBS Growth
On a personal note, I made four trips back to Holland between 1994 and 2003, with stopovers in Japan. Sadly, my mother passed away in 2002, so I did not see her on my 2003 trip. However, I cherished visits from my youngest brother Dick, his partner Ton, and my niece Jessica with her partner Sander.
Cyclone Larry and Its Aftermath
The next major event in the history of IBS was Cyclone Larry which struck Innisfail in the early hours of 20 March 2006. None of us were prepared for the disaster that followed. The day before we diligently lifted all the desks and prepared for the cyclone and the flood that would inevitably follow. Machinery was covered with plastic sheets and a flood wall was erected in the workshop where we placed most of our equipment. Little did we know of what was awaiting us the following morning.
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The Rise of IBS
We moved into the new building in 2007 with all the excitement of a young child starting a new school. Everything was new, the shop was stocked up and at last I had my very own computer room.
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The Decline of the Banana Industry and Early Retirement
By 2009, the banana industry was struggling, affecting our sales. The difficult decision was made to let go of a young office staff member who reminded me of myself. To avoid his termination, I opted for early retirement at the end of the year, concluding almost 20 years of service with IBS Engineering Supplies.
As I stepped into another new chapter of my life, I reflected on the resilience and growth that defined my time at IBS.
Thank you for joining me on my journey