Sharpe Bros at Broken Hill
Sharpe Bros are pleased to be involved with the Western Division Councils NSW Annual Conference at the Broken Hill Civic Centre.
The Conference is the platform for councillors and general managers from all Councils in the Western Region of NSW to gather to discuss current and emerging issues facing their Councils. The Conference attracts over 100 delegates from across 13 Shire Councils in Western NSW.
Sharpe Bros has invested millions of dollars designing and building award-winning technologies for road maintenance and their solutions are used by councils and government agencies across the state to make roads safer, stronger and longer lasting.
Flood Busters
Joint Managing Director Michael Sharpe
Sharpe Bros quick response road maintenance teams will be hard at work making roads safer across many parts of the state over the coming weeks.
The floods and heavy rain have wreaked havoc on local and state road networks and now pose a significant danger to motorists. Sharpe Bros are transporting equipment to the most urgent locations.
Using the specialised Sidewinder and Flexipaver machinery, Sharpe Bros can quickly replace damaged road edges and patch water damaged sections without having to replace the whole road. This ensures minimal disruption to traffic and returns roads to a state of good repair quicker than traditional road maintenance processes.
Michael Sharpe said the quick turn around time was proving to be of particular benefit to local Councils who are busy with the devastating heavy rains and flooding.
A job that would normally take at least a week can be completed in a day at a much lower cost.
Sharpe Bros support The Red Shield Appeal
Sharpe Bros was pleased to host the regional meeting of the Red Shield Appeal at the Sharpe Family Office. The Sharpe Family have a long association with the Salvation Army.
Peninsula Red Shield Appeal Chairman, Richard Sharpe said "The Salvation Army spends $4 million annually on providing services to the Central Coast. We thank the people of the Peninsula who have contributed so generously to the Red Shield Appeal. We do not take it for granted, and without this support The Salvation Army would not be able to continue their wide range of social and community services, assisting those who are disadvantaged in our society.
Resurfacing Improvement Workshop at Coffs Harbour
Sharpe Bros were pleased to be involved with the resurfacing improvement workshop hosted by Roads and Maritime Services at Coffs Harbour. The workshop brought together the various Councils, Contractors and interest groups involved in resurfacing and maintenance of roads in the northern regions of New South Wales and covered innovations, efficiency, value for money and improvement in processes.
Joint Managing Director, Hayden Sharpe said the workshop was an opportunity to discuss the benefits of working together as a united team to achieve significant cost savings, support local jobs and improve the roads in the northern regions. The Sharpe brothers have invested in some of the world’s most modern road repair technologies and have developed new methods to improve inefficient and outdated road repair processes to provide customers with better results for a lower price.
Sharpe Bros meet with Deputy Prime Minister
L-R Hayden and Michael Sharpe with Deputy Prime Minister - Wayne Swan and Member for Robertson - Deborah O'Neill MP.
Hayden and Michael Sharpe met with Federal Treasurer and Deputy Prime Minister of Australia, Wayne Swan during a business event at Terrigal hosted by the Chamber of Commerce and Federal Member for Robertson, Deborah O'Neill MP.
Bitumen Rescue
To all the people from around Australia who have sent us some wonderful messages, thanks from all the team at Sharpe Bros.
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I do not know you, but was touched by your generosity regarding the elderly lady who was featured on A Current Affair last night regarding her driveway. It brought a tear to my eye and a feeling of great affection and appreciation that your company could give of its time and machinery to help out someone in need.
I hope that the publicity this item generated will flow on to you. I, for one, would choose your company over another, if only because your hearts are in the right place in this callous world we usually encounter today.
Barbara, Gympie
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Well done guys, you are one of the good guys and clearly remind us of the kindness of strangers. Thank you!
Leonie, DRIVER NT
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Well done Boys for helping that lady with her driveway very Australian of you.
Dave, Goorambat
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Hi, just watched ACA and wanted to say that what you did for the old lady was just absolutely fantastic. So often all we see is the horror and greed stories and here are three good looking (well that is what the lady said!!!) men doing something for nothing for someone they do not even know. People like you restore faith in humanity and I applaud your generosity and goodness.
Trish
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Wow just watched aca & was impressed at what your company did for that lady in the story. it's good to see that some people still have a kind heart. WELL DONE!
Melita
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Congratulations to you all for offering to help someone out, and doing a job well done, it is great to see people like yourselves step up on behalf of others.
I hope you get a lot of work out of you consideration.
Colin
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My name is Kate and I have just seen a story about you very kindly helping an elderly lady on ACA.
We have just recently moved into our house and we have about half a km of drive way that we want layed within the next 12 months.
As soon as we are ready to have this done, I would like to contact you again for a quote. Thank you again for your kind gesture towards this elderly lady that we saw on the tv.
Kate
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After seeing the wonderfull act of humanity being the resealing of the elderly ladies driveway I can only hope your business goes from strength to strength
Barb & Trev
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I just saw A Current Affair,what your company did for the elderly lady, fixing her driveway, was terrific. It's a pity more companies don't follow your example of compassion and generosity.
John
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It's REALLY reassuring to me when I see stories like the one I just witnessed on ACA. Poor lady, I thought last week - then the smile/lift you delivered to her in good will was priceless. Well done!!!
Adrian, Victoria
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I just saw the ACA show on the old lady who's driveway your company fixed - really good to see.
Jane, Sydney
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You have done every Australian proud that there are still such gentlemen in the business world.
I really hope the fact that you put yourselves out there and helped an elderly lady has paid dividends for you in promoting your business.
Once again... A very big congratulations and a pat on the back to you guys!
I will remember this story for a long time, and be assured that you people will be the first I call when my driveway needs attention,...
Dave
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Just wanted to say how great it was to see your team jumping in and helping that lady in the story on ACA today. I saw the story last week and felt ashamed that people could do that to the elderly – so well done to you and I hope that it brings much business for the future.
When I next need some bitumen I will remember the name.
Narelle
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Well Done Sharpe Brothers
Its really nice to see that there are still nice people in the world
Barry, East Keilor, Victoria
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Just to let you know I watched the story on A Current Affair.
Please let the boys know that what they did is greatly appreciated by ALL decent Australians.
It is great to know that there are good blokes still out there, and if I ever need any work done, I will be making sure that your company does it.
I have an 85 year old mother and we have lived in this fine country all our lives – it is indeed very unfortunate that there are dropkicks out there who will do this to anyone, let alone an elderly lady.
Just let the boys know that they are all Champions!
I am certain that I speak for many, many people.
Bill, Willoughby
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Premier at Art Gallery of New South Wales
Michael Sharpe with Premier of NSW - Barry O'Farrell
Michael Sharpe recently attended the opening of the John Kaldor Family Collection and the New Contemporary Galleries at the Art Gallery of New South Wales. One of Australia’s most passionate collectors of contemporary art, John Kaldor has given his extensive collection to the Gallery.
Officially opened by the Premier of NSW - Barry O'Farrell, the Collection is valued at more than $35 million and with this extraordinary gift of over 200 works by some of the most important artists of our time, the Art Gallery of New South Wales now holds Australia's most comprehensive representation of contemporary art from the 1960s to the present day.
Western Regions Council Conference
Innovative services across the Western Regions, partnering with local councils for improved infrastructure services.
Sharpe Bros were pleased to sponsor the Western Division Councils of New South Wales Annual Conference at Brewarrina. The theme for the conference was In Front – Outback.
Western Division Councils face many challenges and barriers in the delivery of services and infrastructure to their diverse communities. The annual conference affords an excellent opportunity to come together in a spirit of friendship to support each other and develop strategies for the provision of services.
To see some of the projects in action, click here - www.sharpebros.com.au/casestudies
Sharpe Bros deliver breakthrough results
L-R: Joint Managing Directors - Richard, Michael and Hayden Sharpe.
The Sharpe family is celebrating 60 years of business in the construction industry, and as a new decade begins it’s easy to fall into the habit of talking about the “good old days.” However, at Sharpe Bros, it’s much more interesting and fun to think about the exciting possibilities for the future, the good new days filled with new challenges and new opportunities to roll up our sleeves and get the job done.
Sharpe Bros continues to make “bold moves” as a customer-focused business committed to doing things differently in an industry traditionally resistant to change. We have built long-standing relationships with Councils and State Road Authorities and we work with Public and Private companies like Seymour White, SJ Higgins and Lend Lease along with many Builders, Industrial and Commercial owners and a wide range of Infrastructure Managers. A large proportion of Sharpe Bros work is repeat business, which reflects the enduring relationships we have with our customers.
The economy, while tough for many, has also forced everyone to figure out new ways to do more with less. The motivation for all project team members to increase efficiency has never been greater and the industry is rising to the occasion with the adoption of alternative delivery methods, new processes and emerging technologies.
As one of Australia's leading road companies, Sharpe Bros continues to grow with industry leading services and innovations. Joint Managing Directors Michael, Richard and Hayden Sharpe can see exciting times ahead for the industry as new challenges bring new opportunities and while there is no crystal ball to predict the future, one thing is crystal clear: The Team at Sharpe Bros are looking forward to the “good new days” and enhancing performance to continue to deliver breakthrough results.
Infrastructure services for school playgrounds
Sharpe Bros have been busy providing repairs and maintenance services to a range of school sporting and community facilities across Sydney and the Hunter Regions.
Our Customers include the Department of Education, the National Parks and Wildlife Service and a wide range of Pre Schools, Universities, Private Schools & Colleges, Sporting Clubs and Retirement Villages.
Sharpe Bros are proud to play an integral part in the future of sporting and community facilities across the regions.
Sharpe Bros help the Mens Shed
Photo - Men's Shed president John Welland with Michael Sharpe, Richard Sharpe, Laurie Maher and Hayden Sharpe.
The success of Mens Sheds on the Central Coast continues to grow. At the Gosford Mens Shed, access points were needed to ensure the centre was safe and user-friendly and Sharpe Bros pitched in to help.
The company’s road maintenance machines were all out repairing roads across the state, so staff picked up their shovels and did the work by hand, donating their services and materials, worth about $1500.
Coast Shelter executive officer Laurie Maher said the assistance came at a time when the Men’s Shed was growing.
“Sharpe Bros is well known for supporting the community in all areas and always assists in any way it can.”
The shed was formed under a partnership of Gosford Council, Coast Shelter and Gosford City Rotary Club.
“Helping the community is an integral part of our business operation,” Sharpe Bros Joint Managing Director Michael Sharpe said. "As we grow and expand our technologies and services as the third generation of Sharpe companies, my brothers and I continue our grandfather and father’s philosophy of providing support to community groups.”
The shed allows men to contribute to the community, learn and share skills and make friends.
Family Business Strength
Richard Sharpe
Richard Sharpe has been appointed to the New South Wales Board of Family Business Australia.
Family Business Australia is the peak body for family and private business in Australia.
Many family businesses share characteristics that set them apart from other enterprises. Broadly defined, family business is the dominant business form in Australia, accounting for around two thirds of all businesses operating in the country.
And while most family businesses are relatively small affairs, a select group of privately held family companies are major players in key sectors of the economy.
It is no exaggeration to suggest that family business is a vital contributor to the overall health of the national economy.
Safer Roads Ahead
Photo - Michael Sharpe on site in the Central West. Photo by Brian Wood, Western Advocate.
Roads across the State have been made safer by Sharpe Bros partnering with local councils.
The team at Sharpe Bros is always looking for new and improved ways of doing things. Whether it is tinkering with a piece of machinery to produce a smoother surface or creating partnerships with key clients to allow for further growth, Sharpe Bros is a forward-looking company which prides itself on being innovative across the board.
The Sharpe brothers have invested in some of the world’s most modern road repair technology and are continually making improvements or building their own machinery in their own workshop, which is well resourced with highly trained staff and equipment.
The most successful innovations in the famous green fleet were borne out of the need to improve inefficient and outdated road repair processes to provide customers with better results for a lower price.
The company has invested millions of dollars to produce the award-winning Sidewinder train of equipment, which provides fast and cost-effective road edge repair with minimum disturbance to road users and the Flexipaver machines, which use the unique Adjustable Patching process to save customers time, materials and maintenance costs.
Driving Family Business to Success
L – R Hayden Sharpe, ACT Convenor -Kylie Kovac, CEO of Family Business Australia - Phillipa Taylor, Richard Sharpe
Hayden and Richard Sharpe were special guest speakers at the 2010 Family Business Australia Conference held in Canberra.
Following a successful presentation at the FBA National Conference in Queensland, the Sharpe brothers were invited to share their experiences with members in the Australian Capital Territory.
A family owned business that can trace its roots back over three generations and 60 years, the Sharpe brothers have remained faithful to their commitment to produce unparalleled service based on a rich legacy of family business with exceptional pride of workmanship, complemented by a strong management team determined to operate the company’s assets in an efficient manner.
Sharpe Bros’ ongoing commitment to being a leader in the roads industry, a good corporate citizen and a company dedicated to occupational health and safety has been recognised with a number of awards over the past few years.
The company is a proud winner of the Gosford City Australia Day Award for Business of the Year, the NSW Family Business of the Year Award, the Central Coast Manufacturer’s Award for Innovation, the National Safe Work Australia Award for Best Practice and the WorkCover NSW Award for Best Practice. Sharpe Bros has a proud history of offering support to a number of community organisations including schools, fire brigades, charity organisations and fundraising committees. Sharpe Bros has a longstanding partnership with the Gosford Regional Gallery which currently involves a five-year $25,000 sponsorship of the annual Sharpe Bros Art Prizes.
Positive experience with Sharpe Bros. Annual Survey
As one of Australia's leading road companies, Sharpe Bros has a strong sense of purpose. As multi-award winners and with robust management systems, Sharpe Bros. combines traditional quality practices and extensive experience with a take charge, roll up your sleeves attitude.
If you're not keeping score, its just practice. This is true for customer satisfaction and employee satisfaction as well. Each year, Sharpe Bros evaluates customer and employee satisfaction through a confidential survey conducted by a third party.
Survey results are broken down by individual categories, such as management practices, quality control and client services.
The results are shared and discussed company-wide and lead to the Sharpe Bros. Annual Strategy Review which enables the national growth of the company. The Board of Directors of Sharpe Bros believes in creating an environment for continuous improvement, learning and action.
Navigating Sharpe Bros
The Sharpe Bros website now has even more information.
- Detailed Case Studies and Testimonials about Sharpe Bros can now be found on the Case Studies page.
- You will find many of the media articles about Sharpe Bros all around Australia on the National Print Media Articles page.
- The latest Registered Trademarks have now been added to the Sharpe Bros Intellectual Property Library, and can be viewed on the Patents and Trademarks page.
- The Safety Bro website has been updated at www.safetybro.com.au, while the Sharpe Bros Art Prize site, our community website for artists Australia-wide, has been completely revamped at www.artprize.biz.
Faces of Gosford
Richard, Hayden and Michael Sharpe as photographed by Keith Lincoln Cook.
Seven Central Coast Artists worked over a two week residency to develop art work for the Faces of Gosford Exhibition.
The Residency was for artists whose practice encompasses either or both photography or photographically documented site-specific installation. The selected artists included Documentary Photographer, Victoria Grant and Installation Artist, Catherine Stanley.
Photographer, Keith Lincoln Cook exhibited a series of photographic pieces including a portrait of Michael, Richard and Hayden Sharpe.
The artists individually interpreted and responded to the theme - Faces of Gosford to explore the Gosford CBD, its people, places, past, present and future.
Roadworks and artworks combine at the Sharpe Bros Roadworkers Art Prize
Sharpe Bros team members judging the works
Cr Vicki Scott & Cr Jeff Strickson of Gosford City Council with Hayden & Michael Sharpe
Hayden Sharpe with the “Sharpe Bros Art Judges"
A team of road repair and maintenance specialists from Sharpe Bros, took time out from their busy roadworks schedule to judge hundreds of artworks in the Sharpe Bros Roadworkers Prize at the Gosford Regional Gallery today.
Sharpe Bros Joint Managing Director, Michael Sharpe, announced the winning entry as, ‘My Sweet Lord’, an ink-on-paper work by Alysha Nosworthy, which depicts an image of George Harrison comprised of the lyrics from famous Beatles tunes.
The complex piece, which was a popular choice among visitors to the Gallery in the lead up to the prize, uses words of different sizes, intensity and tonal range rather than traditional hatching techniques.
Michael Sharpe said while the finalists did include a semi-nude painting which caught the eye of the judges, the roadwork crew selected the winning artwork for its intricate artistic composition and popular-culture appeal.
“It’s a clever piece and the guys were impressed by the considerable time, effort and talent that would have been required during its production,” Mr Sharpe said.
The annual Roadworkers Art Prize was held during Safe Work Australia Week, with Joint Managing Directors and Safety Ambassadors, Michael, Richard and Hayden Sharpe using the event as an opportunity to encourage businesses to take up the fight against workplace death and injury.
Michael Sharpe said Safe Work Australia Week provided an important opportunity to remind staff and other workplaces that rest and recreation, along with a sense of community and an enjoyable work environment, all play an important role in maintaining safety in the workplace.
“Over 135,000 Australians are seriously injured at work every year and more than 260 die as a result of work-related injuries. The tragedy is that many of these injuries can be prevented through the adoption of safer work practices.”
The family run Sharpe Bros company has a long history of community involvement through donations, partnerships, volunteering and sponsorships and has been making a positive and meaningful contribution to the community for almost 60 years.
Significant Men of the Central Coast
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Richard, Michael and Hayden Sharpe
A new book by Margaret Hardy titled Significant Men of The Central Coast was recently launched at Gosford. The book includes articles about Gosford Mayor - Chris Holstein, Photographic Artist - Ken Duncan, State Member for Terrigal - Chris Hartcher MP, Child Psychologist - Dr John Irvine, Entertainer - Chris King, Wyong Mayor - Bob Graham and Ron Sharpe OAM. There are men featured for their involvement in Education, Sport & Music, Indigenous Services, Agriculture, Business, Trade Unions and the Arts among others.
Michael, Richard and Hayden Sharpe are mentioned for their involvement in providing support to community groups through donations, partnerships, volunteering and community sponsorships. "In particular, the Sharpe brothers are supporters of Apex, Rotary and various chambers of commerce. With their investment in new technologies, new machinery and innovative safety programs, Sharpe Bros has provided employment opportunities for local people. They also entered into a $25,000 sponsorship arrangement with the Gosford Regional Gallery at East Gosford which includes an 'Emerging Young Artists Prize', 'The Sharpe Bros Art Prize' and 'The Sharpe Bros Road Workers Prize'. This much valued support gives incentive to the Artists and the Gallery."
Margaret states that "Each man has strengthened our community with their endeavors to achieve improvements to the quality of life in our society". "The characters of the men in this book were often formed in their early years by examples set by their own parents, their experiences or by their belonging to an organisation with similar values to their own."... "Every man in this book has enjoyed being part of his community or profession where he has been able to help others. Without volunteers and people with vision, our world would be less embracing."
TV News – Sharpe Bros Fixing North Coast Roads
Sharpe Bros fleet of Sidewinder machines can pave road base, gravels or hotmix asphalt in one layer or multiple layers. Detailed Case Studies for various projects are available by contacting office@sharpebros.com.au.
Sharpe Bros continues support for young artists
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Michael and Hayden Sharpe with Member for The Entrance Grant McBride MP
Richard Sharpe with Wyong Chamber of Commerce CEO - Kevin Faulks and Mayor of Gosford - Cr Chris Holstein
The Sharpe brothers with Artist - Ben Ali Ong
Awards for young artists aged 18 to 30 years were presented recently at the “Emerging” exhibition at Gosford Regional Gallery.
Gallery Curator, Tim Braham said the competition was designed to support and promote the work of young artists in New South Wales who find that opportunities to gain wide scale exposure in a mainstream setting are few and far between.
The Friends of the Gallery Emerging Artists’ prize went to Edward Duncan from Kempsey.
The event was sponsored again this year by road maintenance company, Sharpe Bros, whose $2,000 prize went to Sydney photographic artist Ben Ali Ong, for a work the judge found to be “fresh and intriguing”.
In presenting the prize to Ben Ali Ong, Joint Managing Director of Sharpe Bros, Michael Sharpe, said “As a company in a world of grey and black, with bitumen, asphalt and roads as our canvas, we are delighted to be involved with the art world which brings so much colour into our lives.
“We are very proud to share our success with our local community and to be involved with this award, which provides Australian artists with greater opportunities for career development and exposure for their work,” said Mr Sharpe.
While donations are down across the globe as the financial crisis takes its toll, Mr Sharpe said the company – a family-run civil contracting and road maintenance group – had pledged to continue its support of the Gosford Regional Gallery with sponsorship of several art prizes until 2012.
“It is important that successful businesses continue to support local community organisations which will start to feel the pinch as sponsorship dollars dry up during difficult economic times,” Mr Sharpe said.
Gosford Regional Gallery Curator, Tim Braham, said the financial support provided has helped discover a number of talented artists over the past three years through the Sharpe Bros Emerging Young Artists Prize, the Sharpe Bros Roadworkers Prize and the Sharpe Bros Art Prize for Photography.
“Sharpe Bros’ commitment has ensured talented artists are recognised and given the opportunity to succeed in their careers. The 2007 winner of the Emerging Artist Prize, Izabel Pluta, has held impressive exhibitions in Newcastle and Fremantle and is now lecturing in photography at the National Art School and the College of Fine Arts University of New South Wales.
Central West TV News
For more info on Sharpe Bros fleet of Flexipaver machines click here.
Invent! 2009
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Invent! 2009 was a great success, with new patent pending innovations, trademark developments and improved processes through team and individual discussions. Invent! is part of the Sharpe Bros Intellectual Property Development Program, a two week, company wide program of invention, ideas and innovations.
Past inventions have included the Sidewinder technologies for repairing road edges and innovations include the design and construction of low loaders which are able to transport the Sharpe Bros fleet with better plant utilisation and improved safety.
The Sharpe Bros commitment to continuous improvement has developed such advancements as the multi award winning Safety Bro program and investments in the community such as the Sharpe Bros Art Prizes.
The event coincides with the annual review of the Sharpe Bros Management Systems which enable the company and the people of Sharpe Bros to develop and grow.
Implemented innovations include the building and racing of billy carts (green of course) for family and friends at community events, the engineering of computer software programs for estimating and workshop operations, the purchase of software applications for use on the company's Blackberry phones, improvements to the company's website with video footage of operations, new equipment for workshop operations and the Sharpe Bros branding strategy.
Australia Day Honours for Sharpe Bros
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L-R Michael Sharpe, Hon John Della Bosca MLC, Richard Sharpe, Member for Robertson Belinda Neal.
The strong sense of community spirit that drives the successful Sharpe Bros family business was honoured at this year’s Gosford City Australia Day Community Awards.
Sharpe Bros, a Gosford-based road maintenance company which repairs roads across New South Wales, was named Business of the Year at the special awards ceremony held at the Central Coast Leagues Club on Friday 23 January 2009.
Joint Managing Directors and brothers, Michael, Richard and Hayden Sharpe were commended for their involvement with various community groups including Apex, Rotary and a number of Chambers of Commerce across the Central Coast.
The company was congratulated for their contribution to local business and industry with their investment in new machinery which utilises environmentally beneficial technologies, and has led to the employment and training of local people.
Michael Sharpe said as the third generation of Sharpe companies, the brothers continued the philosophy of providing support to community groups through donations, sponsorships and volunteering.
“We offer materials and services free of charge to schools, fire stations, and other community facilities, whilst remaining a successful and profitable business,” Mr Sharpe said.
Sharpe Bros has invested millions of dollars designing and building award-winning technologies in their Gosford workshop and their solutions are used by councils and government agencies across the state to make roads safer, stronger and longer lasting.
The company’s uniquely Australian innovations include the Sidewinder train of equipment, which provides fast and cost effective road edge repair, and the Flexipaver adjustable patching process, which takes the guess work out of fixing asphalt pavements.
Sharpe Bros meet with Premier of New South Wales
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L-R Member for Wyong David Harris MP, Michael Sharpe, Premier of NSW Nathan Rees, Richard Sharpe.
Richard and Michael Sharpe met with Premier Nathan Rees and Member for Wyong, David Harris MP, during a NSW Government Community Cabinet meeting held on the Central Coast.
Sharpe Bros talk about Sidewinder on ABC Radio
This is a radio news audio file - please adjust your volume as required.
Sharpe Bros talks local business with State Cabinet
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Michael Sharpe with NSW Minister for Roads Michael Daley MP
Representing the Sharpe Bros company, Joint Managing Director Michael Sharpe met with State Government Ministers and other local business leaders during a meeting aimed at identifying and advancing economic opportunities on the Central Coast.
The Central Coast Regional Cabinet Business Forum at Mingara followed a Cabinet meeting in Gosford, giving the region's business community an opportunity to discuss a wide range of issues with the NSW Government.
Sharpe Bros. is a leader in the roads industry, developing and providing viable solutions and technologies to improve the quality and safety of Local and State Government road networks.
Sharpe Bros is a multi-award winning company with a heritage of community service. The people of Sharpe Bros. are committed to making a positive and meaningful contribution to the Community. Sharpe Bros. continues to provide support to Community groups through donations, partnerships, volunteering and community sponsorships.
Sharpe Bros spread the word in Victoria
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Health, safety and the environment continue to be a focus for those involved with the construction, maintenance and operation of asphalt and bituminous surfaced pavements. In Victoria at the Flexible Pavements Industry Conference, Michael Sharpe outlined to delegates the Sharpe Bros Multi Award Winning "Safety Bro" campaign. VicRoads Major Projects Division, presented an overview of best practices for construction safety developed in Victoria and WorkCover Victoria discussed what directions are likely to be taken shortly with new legislative changes in the OHS area. Delegates were encouraged to maximise industry improvement through `learning from experiences' and the introduction of practical outcomes in the workplace.
Safety Commissioner shines spotlight on Sharpe Bros during Safe Work Week
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Left: Federal Safety Commissioner – Helen Marshall inspecting the winning artwork “Windows of Portent” by Mike Worrell”. Right: Chris Henson and Treena Stewart from WorkCover.
Sharpe Bros selected team members with Federal Safety Commissioner Helen Marshall
Joint Managing Directors of Sharpe Bros, Michael, Richard and Hayden Sharpe, who were recently named Safe Work Ambassadors for the Australian Safety and Compensation Council, held the Roadworkers Prize during Safe Work Week to remind businesses in the construction industry of the importance of safe work practices.
Michael Sharpe said rest and recreation, along with a sense of community and an enjoyable work environment, all played an important role in maintaining safety in the workplace.
The Sharpe Bros crew took a well earned break from their busy road maintenance schedule to select the winner – Windows of Portent by Mike Worrall.
Federal Safety Commissioner, Helen Marshall, attended the event at the Gosford Regional Gallery to launch a Federal Government best practice case study which looks at the Sharpe Bros safety awareness program, Safety Bro.
“Sharpe family companies have a history spanning nearly 60 years and three generations without a serious reportable injury or workplace fatality. This is a strong record for any company in the construction industry which in 2006-07 had a fatality rate twice as high as the ‘all industries’ rate,” Ms Marshall said.
“The Safety Bro program, which won the National Safe Work Award for Best Workplace Health and Safety Practices in Small Business, shows other businesses that simple programs can be effective with the right attitude and strong leadership.”
Sharpe Bros Feature in Western Australia
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Sharpe Bros. is a leader in the roads industry, developing and providing viable solutions and technologies to improve the quality and safety of Local and State Government road networks throughout Australia. Taking the Initiative to Develop Innovative Solutions, Sharpe Bros won the Best Workplace Health and Safety Practices prize at the National Safe Work Awards. Presenting at the Total Safety Conference in Perth, Sharpe Bros described how they created a mascot named Safety Bro to promote occupational health and safety around their worksites.
Safety Bro is a fun character with a strong visual presence to promote work place safety and has become an integral member of the team. Sharpe Bros discussed the development of the initiative and the successful use of marketing and IT channels to support Safety Bro. Delegates explored:
- How the Safety Bro initiative came about
- The impact of Safety Bro’s ubiquitous presence eg. on safety induction handbooks, work sheets, coffee mugs, message boards, in the board room and in the lunch rooms and plastered on stickers.
- How Sharpe Brothers have effectively utilised technology, media and social networking tools to encourage safe work practices and reinforce the ‘What would Safety Bro think?’ motto
Discussing the Western Australia experience at work sites were delegates from John Holland Group, Curtin University of Technology and Abigroup along with Stan Sexton - Corporate Manager Safety - Public Transport Authority WA, Michael Leeks - OSH Manager - Main Roads Western Australia, and Nina Lyhne - WorkSafe Commissioner - Commission for Occupational Safety and Health, Western Australia.
Safety Ambassadors for Safe Work Australia Week
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Michael, Richard and Hayden Sharpe have been named as Ambassadors for Safe Work Australia Week.
The 19th to the 25th of October is Safe Work Australia Week. It is time to take stock of safety issues, recognise achievements and get involved in activities around the country.
We’re proud to announce that our award-winning safety mascot, Safety Bro, is also getting into the act, with a special edition Safe Work Australia Week vest, hat and sign.
Safety Bro, our usually-green mascot, reflects the strong spirit of mateship in the company and is constantly used to reinforce safety messages. Safety Bro is everyone’s mate. Safe Work Australia Week Safety Bro will be featured on his own website at www.safetybro.com.au and will be displayed prominently around the office.
Safe Work Australia Week reminds us that we need to be constantly vigilant about workplace safety.
One of the most important reasons for being vigilant is that workplace accidents not only affect the individual involved but everyone around them. Their mother, father, friend, workmate, child: workplace safety may save the life of someone close to you.
In your workplace there are many ways to recognise Safe Work Australia Week:
- reward those people in your workplace who are doing a great job in relation to workplace safety
- have a morning tea, bbq or afternoon tea and discussing safety issues
- put up a suggestion box or safety notice board for people to have their say, or
- conduct a safety audit and discuss the findings.
Here at Sharpe Bros, we believe that recreation and rest are important components of occupational safety. We will be holding our annual Roadworkers Prize, in association with the Gosford Art Gallery, to coincide with Safe Work Australia Week. A safety themed BBQ will also be held in conjunction with the Roadworkers Prize.
The Art Prize gives the Sharpe Bros crew an opportunity to take a break from the job and take on the role of art critic in deciding the winner of the Sharpe Bros sponsored Roadworkers Prize.
We are proud to be Safe Work Australia Week Safety Ambassadors as we recognise that safe work practices are not just a concern for the construction industry but for all businesses, large and small, across all industries.
Let's work together to make safety a priority in everyone's minds.
For more information on the Federal Governments Safe Work Australia Week go to www.ascc.gov.au
Safety is everyone's business.
Gold Gold Gold for Olympic Fundraising Effort
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Michael Richard and Hayden Sharpe with Olympians Martin Kelly, John Konrads and Rocky Gattellari.
The Gala Event to raise funds for Australian Olympians was a great success. Over 30 Olympians were special guests including Gold Medalist John Konrads, Champion Boxer Rocky Gattellari and Judo star Martin Kelly who enjoyed a night of great dining and entertainment.
The Australian Olympic Team Fund Committee was made up of prominent sporting and business leaders including Chairman – Kerry Ruffles, Edgar Adams, Horst Endrulat, Peter Reynolds, Shane Alvisio, Paul Barnes, Tim Cullen, John Taylor, Simon Earthrowl and Michael Sharpe.
The Sharpe Bros team was honoured to support Australian athletes travelling to the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.
Chairman Kerry Ruffles invited guests to “join in this historical dining event as we rally together to support our local Olympians and celebrate their passage to the world’s centre stage. Representing your country and your community remains one of the highest accolades bestowed upon an Australian.”
Legendary sporting commentator Norman May, who is considered the enthusiastic voice of the Olympics for many Australians, was a special guest speaker at the event. Mr May was the first to bring swimming into our lounge rooms and introduced us to some of Australia’s greatest swimmers – from Dawn Fraser and Murray Rose in the 1960s, to Shane Gould in Munich, Tracey Wickham in Edmonton, and latter days stars such as Susie O’Neill, Ian Thorpe and Grant Hackett. Many of his calls, such as ‘Gold Gold to Australia, Gold’ at the Moscow Olympics, have been as memorable as the performances themselves.
Sharpe Bros inducted into the Paul Harris Society
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L-R Bruce Allen – Rotary Foundation , the Sharpe Brothers and Monica Saville – District Governor
Rotary President Richard Sharpe
Sharpe Bros has been inducted into the Paul Harris Society.
Acknowledging Sharpe Bros efforts, Rotary Foundation spokesperson Terry Davies said “Your contribution to the Rotary Foundation supports our goal of advancing international understanding, goodwill and peace. Your participation in the Paul Harris Society is an especially meaningful and significant commitment”
The Paul Harris Society is named after Paul P.Harris, founder of Rotary International.
Paul Harris Society contributions to The Rotary Foundation support a wide range of humanitarian grants and educational programs that enable Rotarians to bring hope and promote international understanding throughout the world.
The Rotary Foundation is a not-for-profit corporation that supports the efforts of Rotary International to achieve world understanding and peace through international humanitarian, educational, and cultural exchange programs. It is supported solely by voluntary contributions from Rotarians and friends of the Foundation who share its vision of a better world.
The Foundation was created in 1917 by Rotary International's sixth president, Arch C. Klumph, as an endowment fund for Rotary "to do good in the world." It has grown from an initial contribution of US$26.50 only to more than US$55 million.
Sharpe Bros wins Innovation Award
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L-R Hayden Sharpe, Member for Terrigal Chris Hartcher, Michael Sharpe, Richard Sharpe.
The Member for Terrigal, Chris Hartcher MP has congratulated Sharpe Bros for the Innovation Award won for the Sidewinder technology.
Diversity and ingenuity were celebrated at the 6th annual Central Coast Manufacturers Association Innovation Awards held recently at Terrigal’s Crowne Plaza.
Sharpe Bros were recognised for the award winning Sidewinder technology which provides fast and cost effective road edge repair.
The company is a leader in the roads industry and when it comes to widening roads, Sharpe Bros has the leading edge.
Hotmix asphalt has been found to provide a strong road edge quickly and efficiently. A job which would normally take at least a week, from digging up the road to the final bitumen sealing, can be completed in a day at a much lower cost.
The Sidewinder technology can also pave road base and recycled gravels.
Wider road edges mean safer roads for motorists. The Federal Office of Road Safety has found that when traffic lanes are widened by just one metre, the rate of head-on and run-off road crashes can fall by 20 per cent.
To see the Sidewinder technology in action, visit www.sharpebros.com.au/video.
Sharpe Bros wins NSW Family Business of the Year Award
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(L-R) David Koch, Beavan Elliot - ANZ Bank, Hayden, Richard and Michael Sharpe, Terry Rowney – Family Business Australia
The company was congratulated on the important contribution it makes to the community, and the close relationships the managers have with their employees.
As an award winner, Sharpe Bros demonstrated a solid record of financial performance and stability, respect within its field, commitment to the ideas of family business and good corporate citizenship through community involvement.
Sharpe Bros wins prestigious national safety award
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L-R Hayden Sharpe, Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations Julia Gillard, Richard Sharpe, Member for Robertson Belinda Neal, Michael Sharpe.
Sharpe Bros has taken out the “Best Workplace Health and Safety Practices in Small Business” prize in the 2008 National Safe Work Awards.
After winning the NSW WorkCover Award for Best Practices in Workplace Health and Safety, Sharpe Bros. has gone on to win the National Award.
The Award was presented by Deputy Prime Minister, The Hon. Julia Gillard MP to brothers Michael, Richard and Hayden Sharpe at a ceremony in the Great Hall of Parliament House, Canberra, on Monday 28 April, coinciding with international activities for World Day for Safety and Health at Work.
The family owned business developed an innovative response to complacency in the workplace by creating a playful green mascot – Safety Bro - to promote occupational health and safety around their worksites.
Sharpe Bros. spokesperson, Michael Sharpe, said the original idea developed from the iconic Big Brother character from George Orwell’s novel ‘Nineteen eighty-four’ who is always watching and ever-present.
“Unlike the oppressive Big Brother, however, Safety Bro is a nice guy and soon became everybody’s best mate. Safety Bro has become an integral member of the team and has inspired renewed enthusiasm for safety issues,” Mr Sharpe said.
“Safety Bro stickers are plastered all over our worksites and machines, we send his safety messages in regular text messages and OHS announcements, and he even has his own website and MySpace page.
“Safety Bro’s encouraging messages about safe work practices such as ‘What would Safety Bro think?’ have become favourite catch-cries for our staff.”
The National Safe Work Australia Awards, organised by the Australian Safety and Compensation Council, are the premier national OHS awards in Australia. The Awards promote continuous improvement in OHS by recognising excellence at the government, organisational and individual level.
Chairman of the Australian Safety and Compensation Council, Mr Bill Scales, said Sharpe Bros had created a great concept and had shown terrific initiative resulting in an improvement in the safety culture of the business.
“Sharpe Bros successfully utilised marketing and information technology channels making a fun and easily integrated concept accessible at a range of different levels,” Mr Scales said.
The innovative and interactive Safety Bro program is now available to other companies looking to reinvigorate concern for safety in their workplaces.
Further information about Safety Bro can be found at www.safetybro.com.au.
Sustainability - Business Connect article from the NSW Business Chamber
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Why dig up the whole road, when you can repair just the damaged areas with minimum disruption to the environment, residents and motorists.
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Central Coast Geared for Growth
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Left: Mr Hugh McKay, Westpac Senior Economist. Middle: The team from Westpac Business Banking Centre. Right: Celebrating the Opening, Hayden Sharpe with Manager Brad Coxon.
Opening a new Business Banking Centre at Erina, on the Central Coast, reflects Westpac’s confidence in the region according to local Westpac Commercial Manager, Gerard O’Hearn. The new Westpac Banking Centre was officially opened by the Sharpe Family who have been customers of Westpac for more than 40 years. The opening was also attended by Tim Harrington, Westpac’s General Manager for Commercial and Regional Banking along with Mr Hugh McKay, Westpac’s International Economist.
Thanking the Sharpe Family, Mr O’Hearn said “As a token of our appreciation for the time and effort you put in to making the opening a superb experience for our guests, Westpac has made a donation to the Salvation Army. On behalf of Westpac I would like to extend our sincere thanks to the Sharpe Group of Companies for taking the time to officially open the Erina Westpac Business Banking Centre.”
"Safety Bro" Program wins Workcover award
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L-R Anny Slater, Parliamentary Secretary for Industrial Relations, Virginia Judge MP, Michael Sharpe, WorkCover CEO, Jon Blackwell and Hayden Sharpe.
Sharpe Bros."Safety Bro" Program is the Workcover NSW State Winner for the Best Workplace Health and Safety Practices in Small Business.
The WorkCover NSW Safe Work Awards were held on the 25th October 2007 at the Homebush Convention Centre, with more than 450 guests attending the inaugural black tie gala dinner.
Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Industrial Relations, Virginia Judge MP, presented the awards at the fourth annual Safe Work Awards at Homebush Bay.
There were a record 111 entries with 17 finalists in this year’s awards from which six recipients were announced in front of over 450 people.
The annual awards showcase innovation and excellence and recognise best practice by highlighting industry achievement in workplace safety and Ms Judge said it was encouraging to see such a high standard of entries with ingenious solutions developed by employers and workers as part of their commitment to create safer workplaces.
Award winners were chosen following a rigorous judging process, by a panel made up of WorkCover representatives, Unions, Employer Groups and Specialist OHS bodies.
Safety Bro is a champion of safety in the workplace who encourages important safety and injury prevention through a fun and effective way of saying, “Safety Bro is working with you” and “What would Safety Bro think?” A range of stickers are prominently displayed around worksites. Safety Bro also has a dedicated website and MySpace page, which are used to issue regular text messages and OHS announcements.
Judges Comments - This is a great small business application of an awareness campaign, involving their staff in the development, gaining ownership by the workers and involving their families through the web and events that encourage further safety awareness. This is an innovative response to complacency in the workplace, while maintaining genuine enthusiasm and a family business feel through integration of safety into their work.
Sidewinder TV news
The official launch of Sharpe Bros. Sidewinder technologies.
Sidewinder launch day
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L-R Michael, Hayden & Richard Sharpe
Michael Daley with Member for Gosford Marie Andrews
NSW Parliamentary Secretary for Roads Michael Daley MP
Federal Roads Minister Jim Lloyd inspecting Sidewinder
The New South Wales Parliamentary Secretary for Roads, Michael Daley MP, officially launched the latest Sidewinder technologies from Sharpe Bros in Gosford on Friday 20th July 2007.
Guests included Member for Gosford, Marie Andrews MP, Member for Terrigal, Chris Hartcher MP, Kevin Redmond from the NRMA and the Federal Roads Minister, Jim Lloyd MP.
Decaying road edges that result in narrowed pavements and hazardous edge drop-offs have for a long time posed a danger to motorists. According to the Federal Office of Road Safety, when traffic lanes are widened by just one metre, the rate of head on and run-off-road crashes can fall by 20%.
The Sharpe Bros. Patented and Patent pending Sidewinder technologies provide unique processes which extend the life of the pavement without the need to dig up large sections of road or cause major disruptions to traffic.
The Sidewinder process involves using a profiler machine which cuts a neat one metre wide trench at 100mm depth along the road edge without the need to dig up a wider section of road. This is followed by the purpose built machinery for pouring hotmix asphalt into the excavated trench. The hot-mix asphalt has been found to provide a strong road edge quickly and efficiently. Jobs which would normally take at least a week, from digging up the road, to the final bitumen sealing, can be completed in a day at a much lower cost.
When greater depth is required, the profiler can excavate to 300mm and the road edge can be rebuilt using gravel, road base, or even recycled materials to make the base at the road edge stronger.
Road works to support art works with $25,000 donation
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The Sharpe Brothers with L-R Member for Wyong - David Harris MP, Member for Gosford - Marie Andrews MP & Kevin Faulks - Wyong Chamber of Commerce
Artists on the Central Coast will receive a significant boost through a major donation made by a local company.Famous for their green colour, Gosford civil contracting and road maintenance company, Sharpe Bros announced on 11th May 2007 that they would continue their proud association with the Gosford Regional Gallery, pledging $25,000 over five years to support Australian artists.
Speaking at a Gala event held at the Gallery, Joint Managing Director of the company, Michael Sharpe, said the funding would secure sponsorship of the Sharpe Bros Art Prize, the Sharpe Bros Roadworkers Prize and the Sharpe Bros Emerging Young Artist Prize until 2012.
“Road works and art works might seem like an odd pair, but our guys find it very rewarding to be able to support the Gosford Gallery, which is such an important cultural and educational resource for the Central Coast and the greater Australian art community,” Mr Sharpe said.
Gosford Regional Gallery Curator, Tim Braham, said the Friends of the Gallery and local artists were very grateful for the Sharpe Bros support.
“This funding will support the Gallery in showcasing the talents of emerging and established artists from across Australia, giving them a chance to gain public exposure and providing encouragement to pursue their passion,” Mr Braham said.
L-R Richard Sharpe, "Emerging" Winner Rosita Holmes, Michael Sharpe, Hon. Jim Lloyd MP Minister for Local Government, Territories and Roads, Hayden Sharpe
The family run Sharpe Bros company has a long history of community involvement through donations, partnerships, volunteering and sponsorships throughout the Central Coast area and has been making a positive and meaningful contribution to the community for more than 50 years.
Federal Member for Robertson and Minister for Local Government, Territories and Roads, Jim Lloyd, said it was encouraging to see a local company with such a sense of community spirit.
“I’ve seen the company’s equipment helping out in times of need such as during floods and bushfires. They’re there to lend a hand during the good times too, taking part in street parades and community clean up days,” Mr Lloyd said.
Mr Sharpe said he considered Sharpe Bros staff members were creative artists in their own right having used their natural talents to develop a unique set of award winning equipment to quickly and cost-effectively widen and repair road edges.
“We looked at the traditional methods of road repair, which were time consuming and costly, and thought there must be a better way. So, we went back to a blank canvas and came up with an innovative design and process that is now being used on roads across NSW," Mr Sharpe said.
Roadworkers Prize
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A team of 10 roadworkers have dusted off their work boots to select the winner of the 2007 Sharpe Bros Roadworkers Prize.
The winner of this year’s Roadworkers Prize is Huang He for his oil-on-canvas work, ‘Silent City’. Mr He is an internationally renowned artist, and is currently in China where he has been invited to work on public sculpture.
Roadworker Jason Hodge said he and his colleagues selected the artwork from the hundreds of entries because of the quality of the painting and because the image itself appealed to them.
“The streetscape depicts a six-lane highway during an unusually quiet moment. We’re always out fixing roads that are busy with traffic and noisy with machinery. It’s good to reflect on the stillness and peacefulness of the road in the painting,” Mr Hodge said.
Australian honours
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L-R Michael and Richard Sharpe, The Governor: Professor Marie Bashir AC, Ron Sharpe OAM, Hayden Sharpe
L-R Hayden Sharpe, Superintendent Bruce Lyons, Michael & Richard Sharpe, Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione
Richard, Hayden and Michael Sharpe were pleased to be with their father when he was appointed to the NSW State Committee of The Order of Australia Association. Ron Sharpe was awarded the Order of Australia Medal at Government House by the Governor, Professor Marie Bashir AC.