O’Connors’ Bernie Teasdale (L) and Tom Hunt (R).
Shepparton strengthens with dairy and broadacre appointments
Leading farm machinery dealer O’Connors has welcomed two new staff members into their Shepparton sales team. Bernie Teasdale and Tom Hunt recently joined the company, bringing with them extensive dairy and broadacre experience, respectively.
The duo will work with the existing group of skilled professionals in the Shepparton Sales Team. According to O’Connors HR manager, Lisa Day, the appointments further strengthen the dealership’s ability to partner with producers to deliver solutions tailored to their business requirements.
“Both Tom and Bernie bring unique skills to our team and we know that will directly result in benefits to our customers,” said Lisa.
Responsible for the area stretching from Kyabram through to the Goulburn and Murray Valleys, Bernie’s local knowledge and history is a key strength.
“I’ve been here for the last 20 years, working in dairy genetics, livestock, rural real estate and farm machinery,” said Bernie, who lists enthusiasm and honesty as two of his key values. He’s also committed to delivering business improvements for his customers, particularly in the dairy industry.
“It’s going to be a tough year and input costs are a big drain. I’m keen to work with new and existing customers to find solutions that will help. For example, investing in equipment to do the job themselves, rather than relying on contactors. This can assist cash flow by spreading costs throughout the year and can eliminate stress associated with contactor availability,” said Bernie, who was first drawn to O’Connors due to their history of professionalism and growth.
Like Bernie, Tom was drawn to O’Connors’ reputation as a successful local business with a great culture.
“O’Connors is a well known brand and they have an excellent product with Case IH,” said Tom, adding, “It’s always looked like a great company to work for, and this new role provides an opportunity to advance my career and stay regionally.”
Tom grew up in agriculture with his family, and spent some time on cattle stations in northern Queensland before studying at Marcus Oldham. He came to O’Connors from Cargill, where he spent the last five years in supply chain and grain accumulation and marketing.
“I really enjoy talking to farmers and working out ways to support their business,” said Tom, echoing the sentiments of Bernie.
“Big opportunities for farmers can be found by getting outside the traditional selling/buying cycles. And this includes structuring the way they buy machinery,” said Tom, who added, “A lot of machinery is heavily discounted at the moment. Those who have planned ahead and are no longer season dependent are in a great position to take advantage of this.”
Tom will be focusing on broadacre sales in areas stretching from Tocumwal to Jerilderie, which is fitting given his experience in grain.
“O’Connors is proud of its reputation for delivering exceptional customer service and commitment, and we’re confident Bernie and Tom will add value to the Shepparton team and clients,” said Lisa.
“With six dealerships across south-east Australia, our unique position allows us to be an active member of our local communities while providing the reliability and professionalism that today’s farm businesses need. This provides real benefits to customers, such as the ability to quickly freight parts between dealerships to minimise downtime and the chance to draw upon experience and knowledge that has been built over O’Connors’ 54 years history,” concluded Lisa.