When Greg Brown started working at Mitre 10 in October 1990, he had no idea it would be his home away from home for the next 33 years.
In July this year, Greg’s last day at Mitre 10 will signal the beginning of a new era as he goes into retirement.
Prior to working for Mitre 10, Greg had worked as a car detailer and in spare parts in the motor industry, at times running his own business.
In December 1991 he became a full time employee, working in the Trade Department and delivering goods.
He was working for Huebner Toyota when Mitre 10 purchased the Dyna delivery truck and fondly remembers driving it from Acacia Ridge to Mitre 10 to deliver the vehicle.
He enjoyed driving the truck and doing deliveries, with current Mitre 10 Manager, Clint Spence, saying Greg was a careful and loyal employee.
He was initially hired by Phil Tarlinton who was the Manager at the time, as a casual delivery driver.
“He’s seen some changes within the store,” said Clint.
“We’ve added on and built on and improved our site and he’s been a big part of it.”
“He’s very loyal and enthusiastic.”
“He’s got his customer following and he will be missed.”
Several years ago, Greg had an accident that stopped him from working for months.
He had been timekeeping at rodeos and campdrafts for 13 years.
As the most experienced person on site at Apple Tree Creek Rodeo, Greg was covering for the stopwatch operator, placing him in the arena for the first time.
“Normally I was timekeeping above the chute, but that day I was filling in for someone else.”
Greg was hit by a bull, fracturing several ribs, some in two places; knocking him into an Ironbark post and fracturing his skull.
It was two months before he was able to return to work on light duties.
The injuries meant he was unable to continue with deliveries for Mitre 10, so he continued with the company in the Harware Department.
Greg still loves campdrafting and has recently become involved with the Beaudesert Campdraft.
Another of Greg’s interests is lawn bowls.
He is a member of Beaudesert Bowls Club and Rathdowney Bowls Club.
He also organises the Mitre 10 team for the Mercantile competition at the Beaudesert Bowls Club on a Wednesday night, something he will continue after he retires.
“That will still happen I think, we just won’t see him on a day to day basis,” said Clint.
Greg has enjoyed the team effort at Mitre 10 and has made many friends, remembering Janice Pellinkhof and Rex Rogers who were working at Mitre 10 when he first started.
Although he will be missed by customers and staff alike, he is looking forward to pursuing his hobbies and travelling with his wife, Fiona.
“I’ve met a lot of people I would never have met if I wasn’t working here – reps, customers, staff. I’ve really enjoyed the time here.”
Mitre 10 staff will celebrate Greg’s retirement at a private function on 5 August.
