Please give a brief description of your business and the services you offer
Founded by Gordon Bennett and his partner Peta Simmons, Bennetts Steel is one of the largest privately owned retail steel companies on the NSW Mid North Coast. The Bennett family have lived in the area for many generations, having a strong affiliation with the timber, transport and farming industries over the years. This has given Bennetts Steel the competitive advantage over other steel retailers in our area.
Gordon’s daughter, Shiree Bennett joined the business in 2014, allowing Gordon and Peta to enjoy their retirement without selling their pride and joy. Keeping the family legacy, Shiree now solely oversees the business and works alongside a dynamic team of men and women.
Located in Wauchope on a site of over 3 acres, we offer steel solutions for anyone from the DIY handyman, builders and landscapers, local Councils and major construction and infrastructure organisations. Our services include steel cutting, folding, bending and fabrication plus CNC plasma cutting.
We specialise in bespoke steel fabrication for the home, business and community. We have a design team to help create steel sculptures and art, decorative screens, firepits, unique letterboxes, property signage, landscaping projects and really anything you can think of made with steel. Our business has built it’s success on delivering quality products, expertise and outstanding customer service.
Our staff made up of trainees and apprentices through to those with many years of experience in the steel industry. Having had the opportunity to work with communities both local and state wide, assisting with steel projects, memorials and infrastructure, has given Bennetts Steel the chance to showcase their skills and services to many.
How many years have you been in business?
Bennetts Steel was opened in 1991, under the same family.
How many staff do you have working in your business?
11
Tell us something fun about your workplace!
Bennetts Steel are more than just a steel yard! Our culture has always been to strive to provide the best experience for our customers, where they can walk in and be greeted at reception, walk through our steel sheds with the assistance of one of our “Bennetts Boys” where you can hand select steel products and have steel cut to size on the spot.
In addition to our regular steel supplies and services, we specialise in custom and personalised steel items and absolutely love collaborating with people to create unique bespoke projects. Everyday we get to design, create, build and fabricate exciting steel projects. We have a design team to help create decorative screens, steel sculptures, one-of-a-kind steel art, fire pits, decorative firewood storage, unique letterboxes, property signage, landscaping products and so much more.
We also offer a team lunch every Thursday with the entire staff, where either Shiree Bennett will cook up a storm in the Bennetts Steel kitchen or offer a takeaway option to support other local businesses, which brings our team together in a much more social environment to help build team bonding.
What advice would you have for a new business?
Fostering a positive workplace culture! Create a safe and inclusive working environment by offering an open-door policy where everyone can speak openly about any matters at any time. Make time to chat with employees individually on a more personable level. Be flexible with requests of the staff to help prioritise their work-life balance. Protect my staff from unsafe practices and harassment. Explore what motivates your staff and offer collaborations.
What is something about your business that people might not know?
Bennetts Steel have been involved in many community projects which you may or may not have seen around Wauchope and surrounding towns. Bennetts Steel has a deep understanding of the importance of community development, and has been involved in various initiatives, enhancing the area in more ways than one.
Through collaborations with local artists and craftsmen, we have contributed to the creation of stunning steel art and sculptures that grace public spaces, parks, and streets. These artistic installations not only add aesthetic value to the area but also serve as a source of inspiration and pride for the community. War memorial sculptures, decorative bike stands, steel art and totems, signage and fish cleaning tables are all examples of the work we have created for our local community.
As well as assisting beautify our local area with sculptures, Bennetts Steel has played a pivotal role in providing expertise in structural steelwork in safety and infrastructure. From bridges and walkways to support beams and framework.
What is your favourite thing about living and working in the Wauchope and Hinterland community?
Wauchope has the most incredible community spirit, especially in times of need. The Wauchope community is known for its old-fashioned, country hospitality. Whether you’re drawn to the agricultural way of life or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Wauchope really is a country paradise.
Why are you a Wauchope Chamber member?
Bennetts Steel proudly stands as an active member of the Wauchope Chamber, to show our support and commitment to our local community. As a business, we believe in the power of collaboration and the importance of supporting initiatives that foster growth and prosperity in Wauchope.
Contact Bennetts Steel today: steel@bennettsteel.com.au or 6585 2851
