Home-grown rural champion
Kurt Woods is one of the best examples of how far love for one’s job can lead. He won the Business Champion Award at the 2023 Hay Business Excellence Awards.
His nomination read, “with hard work and dedication Kurt has reinvented Elders Hay Rural Supplies Business.
“He has increased turnover from $1.7 million to approximately $35 million in the space of three years, to become one of Australia's leading rural supplies businesses.
“His product knowledge, leadership and business skills and service are impeccable. Under Kurt's guidance, five new permanent positions have been created for locals at Elders Hay.”
Yes, you read that right. Thirty-five million dollars. Five new positions for locals.
Kurt is Rural Product Manager at Elders Hay.
Kurt began his working career at O’Brien’s Fertilisers in Hay, and then ventured to Melbourne to become a greenkeeper, before returning to Hay and finding the job he was very obviously meant for.
When his astounding nomination was mentioned to Kurt, he was very humble.
“A lot of farmers have made large expansions, and that therefore generated a lot of new business over the years.
“A lot of passion commitment and pride goes into these jobs, especially in Agriculture. There are no set hours in the day, no 8 to 5 hours. It can be and often is a seven day a week job.”
When asked how the stupendous increase in turn over happened, he had a simple, heart-warming reply.
“I love my job, but more importantly, I have a strong passion for my clients and the company that I work for. I don’t see it as a job, but a long-term career.
“None of this would have been at all possible without the loyal trusting clients and the immensely supporting team at Elders.
“There have been a lot of slogs, and a great deal of on farm work with clients, helping and organising stock line operations.”
When asked where he sees his future leading, he was very emphatic.
“I intend on remaining in the role for as long as I can. I love Hay. I think that we have some of the best farmers to deal with, and while they are here, I am here,” Kurt said.
“That is what makes the job so enjoyable and satisfying, the people you deal with.”
Endearingly unassuming, he was grateful but surprised to be recognised.
“I was shocked to be nominated, let alone win. It is nice to be recognised for hard work, even though I am definitely not the type of person that goes looking for awards,” he said.
“I like to cruise in the background, and ensure that my clients are sorted.”
Kurt, you would have to be every employer’s dream. Quiet, stoic, hardworking and producing indescribable results, all for the love of your job. You are indeed a champion for your company and your town. Congratulations.
Kurt Woods was crowned Hay’s Business Champion Award at the 2023 Hay Business Excellence Awards.
Image: supplied.
