THE Governor of Queensland, Dr JeannetteYoung,officiallyopened the Normanton Hospital, built by Hutchies’ Toowoomba team, led by Sean Lees, to service the Gulf Savannah region.
The Gulf Savannah is a vast, rugged region in far northwestern Queensland, often referred to as the Outback by the Sea.
Attended by First Nations Elders, local community members and leaders, and staff from the North West Hospital and Health Service (NWHHS), the ceremony marked the opening of the modern, purpose-built facility designed to meet the growing health needs of the region.
Representing a significant investment in rural health, the new facility features state-of-theart clinical spaces, expanded services, and a culturally inclusive environment that reflects the spirit and identity of the local community.
The hospital includes a fully equipped emergency department, 18 inpatient beds, private consul-
tation rooms, a dental surgery, a pharmacy, x-ray services, and an ambulance bay.
It also features shaded verandahs designed for the Gulf cli-
mate, with a renal dialysis unit planned to open this year to provide life-saving treatment closer to home.
Governor Young told guests she
had always been a passionate advocate for health and improving health outcomes.
• Continued on Page 2
Governor’s opening ceremony for hospital to serve the Gulf Savannah Veterans at breakup
HUTCHIES' veterans received special invitations to attend the Toowong office Christmas break-up party and RSVPs indicated they were keen to party on in the traditional way.
Although retired, the veterans remain important members of the Hutchies’ family and have plenty of experience to pass on to the younger ones.
• More on P. 2; 14-17.
Governor of Queensland Dr Jeannette Young conducts the official opening of the Normanton Hospital accompanied by (from left) Gkuthaarn Elders, Dianne Millwood and Richie Bee, and NWHHS deputy chair, Eleanor Milligan.
From left, (back row) Paul DeJong (COTY 1995), Mick Dodd, Ronald Pearse; (middle) Mike Tickner (COTY 1991), Russell Fryer (COTY 2010), Jack Hutchinson Jnr, Nev Doughan, Ian Partridge; (front) Wayne Cullen, Barry Butterworth (COTY 1996), Louis Levinson, Trevor Atkinson, Ron Niven (COTY 1989), Al Gundy, Jack Hutchinson Snr, Trevor Bruiners.
HUTCHIES is lucky enough to be founded in Queensland, which will be the epicentre of the infrastructure development that the 2032 Olympics will bring.
It’s a once-in-a-generation opportunity for most of us, and one not to be taken for granted.
As we start to see the Games delivery body release plans for the venues, it is becoming clearer that, while the outcomes will be game-changing for many parts of the state, there is an immense volume of work to get through.
It will need levels of commitment and production from our sector beyond those we have ever been asked to provide before.
Hutchies will play its part in helping to deliver some of this work, along with continuing to service our long-term, loyal clients to deliver the homes, shops, schools, commercial and industrial spaces that will be needed in all parts of our growing country.
That loyalty to our clients is underpinned by the loyalty of so many of Hutchies’ people and long-term supply partners.
• • •
Our end-of-year break-up parties were in full swing around the country as we closed out 2025 with many receiving acknowledgement of service with the company, including a 30-year award for TonyDoyle in Cairns, a 25-year award for Jeff Miller in Brisbane, and 13 others who reached the 20-year milestone.
We also had many of our retired Hutchies’ veterans attend the break-up in Brisbane, and they will continue to gather regularly to stay in touch over the years to come, since their success with us during their working lives.
Also announced on the day was the Constructor of the Year award, which has been running since 1988.
Winners have come from all parts of the business, but mostly site managers, as they are our most influential people in the
From the Managing Director
positive outcomes of our construction projects.
Murray Emmerson, our Coolangatta construction team leader, won the coveted COTY for 2025.
We are incredibly proud of what Murray has achieved in his 15-year tenure at Huchies and, in particular, over the past few years during which he has reshaped the workbook for his team on the Gold Coast and Northern NSW – home to many of our people.
Though an individual award, Murray will naturally see this as a representation of the quality of the people in his team more broadly.
We thank him and all of our Hutchies’ people for their efforts and look forward to 2026 being a year of growth.
–
Healthcare in the Outback
She said, during her 16 years as Queensland’s chief health officer, she did all she could to support the health of Queenslanders wherever they lived.
“That commitment has continued into my current role, and I made a public pledge, when I was sworn in, to encourage a healthy and active Queensland, and to
visit every public hospital throughout my term,” she said.
“Queensland has no fewer than 124 hospitals and multipurpose health centres and, while visiting all of them over a five-year period has certainly been a logistical challenge in some of our state’s most remote and hard-to-reach areas, it’s also been an incredibly rewarding experience.”
Governor Young acknowledged
the work being done by the NWHHS to ensure the people of the vast region had access to health services when and where they needed them.
FOOTNOTE: Governor Young’s visit continued a tradition of vice-regal concern for healthcare set more than 130 years ago.
Field Marshall Sir Henry Wylie Norman, the state’s seventh Governor, visited the Norman-
ton Hospital in 1892.
In a journey that took more than a month, Sir Henry and his party travelled from Cairns to Normanton by government steamship and returned overland via Croydon and Georgetown by horse-drawn buggy, camping out several nights to rest the horses. But times change, and on Governor Young’s visit, staff were not required to pitch tents or water horses.
Russell Fryer (COTY 2010)
Aerial view of the Normanton Hospital.
• Cont’d from Page 1
Permanent parking spot for Rock ’n’ Roll George’s FX Holden
ROCK ’n’ Roll George’s famous 1952 FX Holden has found a permanent reserved parking spot in Hutchies’ Toowong office foyer.
The FX had a temporary gig with the Queensland Museum, but now has its permanent home.
Chairman Scott Hutchinson said the FX was an important part of Brisbane’s social history and it would be on permanent display in the Toowong foyer.
Rock ’n’ Roll George was a famous identity in Brisbane from the 1950s to the 1980s, driving around the inner city streets playing loud rock and roll music on the car radio.
When George Kiprios died in 2009, Hutchies bought the car from his family to save it from the wreckers.
Hutchies customised another Holden FX as a working replica of George’s car, which is used for community events and charity work.
The replica recently had top billing in an exhibition at the Queensland State Library entitled ‘Driven’, which traced the role of cars in the state’s history. – See Page 25.
Old council chamber repurposed into a vibrant
HUTCHIES teamedupwithSunshineCoastCouncil to turn the old council chamber into a vibrant new community hub.
The Sunshine Coast team worked with the council, local subbies, and local businesses to create a stunning visual addition to the tourist strip of Caloundra.
By repurposing an existing building, the project reflected the council’s commitment to sustainability and smart urban renewal.
The refurbished building, known as Library+Caloundra, now houses a modern public library on the ground and first floors, with council administration offices across the second level.
Hosting storytime sessions to tech workshops, the new library is designed as a welcoming space for all ages and backgrounds, and offers free access to resources, programs and services that support learning, digital inclusion and social connection.
Sarah Hewlett of Wilson Architects said Hutchies’ team had been absolutely outstanding.
“From start to finish, the level of communication, teamwork, and mutual respect shown by everyone has been exceptional,” said Sarah.
“It was one of those rare projects where the builder–architect relationship felt genuinely supportive and solution-focused, and that made all the difference.”
• See more in Feedback, Page 22.
community asset
The
George’s original FX Holden is on permanent display after being craned into position in Hutchies’ Toowong foyer. The installation includes a history board on George’s famous car and his life. (PHOTO: Brooke Wilson)
newly refurbished Sunshine Coast Council’s Library+ is a new addition to the tourist strip.
Skin cancer plan to protect team members and subbies
A NATIONAL strategy to detect skin cancer on work sites is being developed by Hutchies to protect the health of team members and subcontractors.
The initiative follows an Australian Skin Cancer Foundation mobile skin check clinic at Hutchies’ Yatala yard, which revealed 31 suspicious lesions from 57 full-body skin checks.
Hutchies is working with the Australian Skin Cancer Foundation to deliver more mobile clinics to Hutchies’ sites.
Support for the national initiative will be under the leadership of national health and safety manager, Jimmy Andersen.
Jimmy has called on Hutchies’ safety managers nationally to champion the initiative and iden-
tify opportunities to roll out a campaign across the network.
Construction workers can spend long hours outdoors in tough Australian conditions, and with busy schedules, it is easy to put off routine health checks. Team onsite skin checks will make it easier to detect any skin cancers early.
Following the Yatala visit, the mobile clinic found: 11 suspicious lesions, including three potential basal cell carcinomas (BCCs), which are non-melanoma skin cancers, but can be aggressive if not detected early; 20 actinic keratoses (AK), considered a precancerous lesion that can develop into squamous cell carcinomas (SCC); and two potential melanomas.
Boathouse to expand facilities at east coast boating safe haven
SHELLHARBOUR City Council has awarded the contract for the Shellharbour Boathouse to Hutchies, which will lead construction of the facility in partnership with the council.
The contract is for the design and construction of a multi-building marine facility, to include dry boat storage for vessels up to 10 metres in length; large and small boat maintenance facilities, workshops, retail, and office spaces to support marine and tourism businesses; and car parking.
At 50 nautical miles south of Sydney Harbour and 30 nautical miles north of Jervis Bay, Shellharbour is a safe haven for coastal cruisers.
Currently, Shellharbour Marina features 270 marina berths, fuelling, dry storage, vessel lifting, charter boat operations, a public boat ramp, a marine services centre, and a variety of commercial services.
The adjacent Boathouse is expected to be completed in 2027 and will provide chandlery, boat haul-out, hardstand, boat maintenance facilities, along with a 75-tonne marine straddle carrier with an 8.8-metre beam for vessels up to 30 metres.
The project has been jointly funded by Shellharbour City Council and the NSW government.
Announcement of the start of construction of the Shellharbour Boathouse by Hutchies, from left, Chris Homer and Wayde Peterson, from Shellharbour City Council, and Hutchies’ John Koumoukelis.
Hutchies is working with the Australian Skin Cancer Foundation to deliver more mobile clinics to Hutchies’ sites.
Music venue know-how welcome for Gympie Civic Centre revival
GYMPIE Council has awarded Hutchies an $18.5 million contract to refurbish the Gympie Civic Centre, which was damaged in the 2022 floods and has since remained derelict.
Announcement of Hutchies’ contract was welcomed by the local arts community.
Gympie arts identity, Cindy Vogels, told The Pineapple news outlet that the refurbishment tender win by Hutchies was an exciting development for the region.
“Scott Hutchinson’s long-standing commitment to live original music in south-east Queensland is well known and his advocacy has shaped some of the most vibrant cultural venues in the state,” said Cindy.
“To have a company with such a deep proven belief in the value of creative communities leading this project gives our local artists, musicians and audiences enormous confidence.
“It signals the renewed civic centre will not only be a building upgrade but also a
purposeful cultural investment, one that places live performance, community storytelling, and contemporary arts at the heart of Gympie’s future.”
Gympie mayor, Glen Hartwig, told The Pineapple that mould damage and building deterioration had required specialist assess-
ment, testing, and remediation planning.
He said, despite setbacks, the council was forging ahead and working with a community reference group to deliver a great facility for Gympie.
Work is underway on the centre, with completion scheduled for late 2027.
New principal partner agreement will propel rowing into the future
HUTCHIES has signed on as Rowing Queensland’s principal partner for the next three years.
The partnership brings together two Queensland organisations with a shared commitment to community, teamwork, and skill development.
Hutchies will support programs, events, and workforce initiatives across the state, helping to grow participation and strengthen
pathways from grassroots to elite.
Rowing Queensland CEO, Anthea O’Loughlin, said the timing could not be better with athletes preparing for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games and investment underway in infrastructure to support the sport.
Hutchies’ managing director, Russell Fryer, said Rowing Queensland and Hutchies shared a strong community spirit and a commitment
to developing skills that last a lifetime.
“We are proud to support a sport that values teamwork, resilience, and safety, qualities that matter on the water and on our projects,” he said.
The partnership runs through to the end of the 2028 season and will help deliver longterm planning for rowing in Queensland, creating new opportunities for athletes, clubs, and regional communities.
Hutchies has begun work on the flood-damaged Gympie Civic Centre.
Celebrating the new partnership (from left) Hutchies’ director, Ben Young; Rowing Queensland’s CEO, Anthea O’Loughlin; Jack Hutchinson Snr; Toowong rowers, Tiggy Wake and Joseph Petrie-Repar; and Rowing Queensland’s chair, Simon Daly.
Jack Jnr’s view on the state of the city
JACK Hutchinson Jnr was a guest speaker at the State of the City 2025 event held in November at theEmporiumHotelinSouthBrisbane.
The event was a collaboration between the Brisbane Economic Development Agency and the American Chamber of Commerce in Australia (AmCham) to review Brisbane’s economic potential and what it means for the city’s relationship with the USA.
Quay Street changing the cityscape
50 Quay Street's level 31 will have a recreation area, with landscaping and a pool, offering residents a private retreat with panoramic views of the city.
HUTCHIES’ 50 Quay Street projectischangingquickly,andso is the Brisbane inner city skyline because of its rapid progress. This new Build-to-Rent project for Cedar Pacific is positioned between Coronation Drive and Quay Street, overlooking the Brisbane River. The 32-storey tower will house
475 apartments, offering a variety of living spaces, including 75 studio, 75 one-bedroom, 175 one-bedroom plus multi-purpose room, 125 two-bedroom, and 25
three-bedroom apartments. Ground floor to the fourth level will be dedicated to shared resident amenities, a café, and parking for 257 vehicles.
Rubbing shoulders with visiting dignitaries at the State of the City 2025 event (from left) Brenden Brien of Win Win Outcomes; Prime Minister Anthony Albanese; US President Donald Trump; Hutchies’ Natalie Coe; Australia’s Ambassador to the USA, Dr Kevin Rudd; and Jack Jnr.
Green Square a school by day and community hub by night
THE Hutchies-built Green Square Public School and Community Spaces project is now complete – a first-of-its-kind in Sydney’s inner south.
The facility sets a new benchmark for integrating education with community infrastructure within one precinct.
Located on the former Royal South Sydney Hospital site, it is a school by day and a community hub by night – a shared space for learning and living.
By day, the facility operates as a contemporary school, with 24 modern classrooms, a library, a canteen, staff amenities, a covered outdoor learning area, play spaces, a rooftop playground, and outdoor seating.
After hours and on weekends, the ground floor transforms into a vibrant community hub.
Locals can access the space until 10 pm for events, recreation, cultural activities, and gatherings.
Delivered in partnership with School Infrastructure NSW and the City of Sydney, this four-storey facility, designed by BVN, accommodates up to 600 students.
The ground floor of the school includes four multi-purpose halls available for hire, a versatile games court, and a striking Indigenous mural titled ‘The Belly of the Feast’ by Archibald Prize-winning artist, Blak Douglas, curated by Caroline Comino.
Centres prepare plumbing trade for sustainable future
IN December, the first sod was officially turned on a new Plumbing Industry Climate Action Centre (PICAC)inGlenwood,NewSouthWales–apurposebuilt training hub for the plumbing industry.
Glenwood is the third PICAC project Hutchies has supported across Australia, following Narre Warren and Beenleigh – highlighting an ongoing relationship with PICAC and its commitment to the plumbing industry in preparing trades for a greener and environmentally sustainable future.
The centre will deliver advanced facilities for skills development in sustainable plumbing practices, water efficiency, and climate action technologies.
Turning the sod for the new PICAC in Glenwood (from left) NSW Minister for Finance, Domestic Manufacturing and Government Procurement and Natural Resources, Courtney Houssos; NSW Premier Chris Minns; Plumbing And Pipe Trades Employees Union NSW secretary, Theo Samartzopoulos, Mark Buttigieg MLC; and PICAC CEO, Shayne La Combre. Photo: Homepix Photography
Archibald winner Blak Douglas performs at the official opening of Green Square Public School and Community Spaces.
Childcare with a view
HUTCHIES partnered with long-standing client, Onefin, todeliverPlaîsEarlyLearning in 34 weeks.
With views of the Brisbane city skyline from Old Cleveland Road, the Camp Hill centre features three levels of innovative spaces, including a rooftop playground, water play, a hopscotch track, and areas that encourage imaginative play and curiositydriven learning.
Hutchies provided full design and construction services to align with the philosophy behind Plaîs, which focuses on creating meaningful experiences and learning through play, exploration, and connection.
LEFT: Plaîs Early Learning centre in Camp Hill, with the Brisbane CBD in the background.
Tassie’s spirit makes Movember winner
HUTCHIES’Tassieteamhasonce again shown what community spirit can achieve.
Thanks to the incredible support of subcontractors, suppliers, and partners, the team raised $24,291 during the 2025 Movember campaign.
conversations … a simple chat can change a life.
Hutchies’ site foreman, Joey McAuley (pictured), said the team had a blast during Movember and was already planning bigger things for 2026.
As well as fundraising, Movember is about supporting men’s health and starting
A special shout-out to Master Builders Tasmania and Hutchies’ subbies and suppliers who provided prizes that kept the excitement high and the tickets selling fast.
“Thank you to everyone who helped make this event such a success. Together, we’re making a real impact,” said Joey.
New fire and rescue station for the Darling Downs region
HUTCHIES’ Toowoomba team worked with the Queensland Fire Department (QFD) and QBuild to deliver a new fire andrescuestationfortheregionatDrayton.
Completed seven weeks ahead of schedule and under budget, the $5
million facility boosts emergency response in the region and includes a modern engine bay with six motorised roller doors with access for up to three fire trucks, a separate vehicle storage shed, an outdoor training area, and a
ladder drill platform.
Interiors include modern, wellappointed amenities and on-duty accommodation facilities.
The project has received glowing feedback from the QFD.
Hutchies has completed work on the new Drayton Fire and Rescue Station.
Exhibition Quarter topped out
EXHIBITION Quarter, a Build-to-Rent tower under construction by Hutchies at BowenHills,Brisbane,topped out late last year.
The development will bring 443 apartments across 37 levels to the suburb, just minutes from the CBD.
Ergon depots power Outback
HUTCHIES has completed upgrades andenhancementsatthreeexistingremote central Queensland Ergon Energy depots – Barcaldine, Blackall and Longreach.
Lord Mayor’s salute to Help Enterprises
HELP Enterprises won the Hutchinson Builders-sponsored Social Enterprise Award in the 2025 Brisbane Lord Mayor’s Business Awards.
Help Enterprises has more than 50 years of experience helping people with disabilities lead fulfilling and independent lives. It offers a network of assistance from employment services and job skills training to commercial offerings, including horticulture, manufacturing, and catering.
Hutchies is proud to back the energy network that powers the state and to support essential infrastructure in regional and outback Queensland.
Ergon Energy depot in central Queensland’s Barcaldine.
Help Enterprises team at the Lord Mayor’s Business Awards presentation. From left, Jack Hutchinson Jnr, Help CEO Steve Wyborn, Help’s head of program delivery and compliance, Susan Yigitcanlar, and Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner.
Bathroom refurbs for O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat villa precinct
HUTCHIES’ site manager, Joe Newrick, andcontractadministrator,MurrayDamro, took time out for some sightseeing at O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat, where they have been working on bathroom refurbishments in the villa precinct.
The project was delivered over eight months, and Joe lived on site during construction to ensure deadlines were met and hand-overs ran smoothly.
O’Reillys, in UNESCO World Heritagelisted Lamington National Park, is surrounded by 20,000 hectares of subtropical rainforest.
Hutchies and the O’Reilly family have had a working relationship for many decades.
The aircraft on display at O’Reilly’s is a replica of the Stinson airliner that mysteriously disappeared in 1937 during a flight from Brisbane to Sydney, with two pilots and five passengers onboard.
It was found in thick rainforest on the Lamington Plateau by Bernard O’Reilly, an experienced bushman and founder of O’Reilly’s, who later led the rescue team to retrieve the two survivors.
The publicity surrounding the Stinson’s puzzling disappearance and Bernard’s remarkable discovery made international headlines and put the O’Reilly property on the world map.
Global recognition for Maryborough Fire Station
HUTCHIES’ Queensland Fire and Emergency Services’ Maryborough Fire Station project has won the Built by Nature Public Infrastructure award – a global celebration of sustainable timber construction.
Australia’s first cross-laminated timber (CLT) fire station also made
its screen debut in a new David Attenborough-narrated documentary, ‘Our Future: Built by Nature (2025)’, celebrating timber innovation. The project showcases sustainable design, exposed timber structures, and a carbon-neutral outcome – saving 1,742 tonnes of CO2.
Hutchies’ Joe Newrick and Murray Damro took time out for some sightseeing at O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat.
Maryborough Fire Station was delivered by Hutchies with Hyne Timber, XLam, Baber Studio, Bligh Tanner, and the University of Queensland.
RIGHT: Members of Hutchies’ Southport team were among those who attended the NAWIC Queensland Awards held in November at The Star Brisbane. NAWIC (National Association of Women in Construction) celebrated 30 years in 2025. From left, Maire McBirney, Scott Hutchinson, Maddison Moss, Sophia
and
Tyler-Battaglia, with his Sir Manuel Hornibrook Medallion, is with Matt Palmer, the AIB QLD Chapter president (left) and Hutchies’ managing director, Russell Fryer (COTY 2010).
Dean wins AIB’s prestigious award
HUTCHIES’ DeanTyler-Battaglia is the recipient of the Sir Manuel Hornibrook Medallion by the Australian Institute of Building –Queensland Chapter.
This award recognises excellence and achievements by construction management students across Queensland, both academically and professionally.
Dean said balancing full-time
work and study alongside his other commitments had been a real challenge.
“I owe a huge thanks to everyone who has supported me along the way, not only my wonderful fiancé, Chelsea Bath, but also my team at Hutchies, my mentors at Queensland University of Technology, and my friends at QUT Construct.”
NAWIC Qld
Hutchie joins the team
EARLY last year, Hutchies’ site manager on the Melbourne data centre project, Dexter Bissett, lost his longtime four-legged best mate, which he had since he was an apprentice “many moons ago”.
Dexter has himself a new mate, a blue heeler pup, as he writes, “What’s a builder without a dog?”
Best of all, he has named the little guy ‘Hutchie’.
LEFT: Dex and Hutchie on site
Dean
Bailey
Jye Bailey.
Team Casey hosted a table at the NAWIC Victoria 2025 Awards for Excellence presentation function. Shown on the night are (from left) Georgie Laverick, Jo Nicholls,
Lisa Ramondetta, Josie Ko (all from Hutchies’ team Casey); Emma Tyler and Catherine Middlemiss (Sacred Heart College, Geelong); Caitlin See (SEMZ Project Management); Linda Tivendale (Deakin University); Lauren Corless (SEMZ Project Management); and Donna Payne (PMDL McGlashan Everist Architects).
in Melbourne.
Summer school a gateway to careers in construction
HUTCHIES’ Cadet Summer School for 2025/26isover,helpingtolaunchyoungpeople into a career in construction.
The paid eight-week program kicked off in December, giving uni students and emerging professionals a jump start to their Hutchies’ careers.
At the end of the program, suitable cadets are offered a place in Hutchies’ cadetship –starting immediately.
Led by Hutchies’ experts, the program is packed with real, practical content drawn from more than a century of hands-on experience.
Each session is engaging, relevant, and focused on the day-to-day skills that matter on site and in the office.
It involves morning workshops on estimating, contracts, and safety; afternoon rotations with Hutchies’ project teams; site visits to more than 30 live projects across Southeast
Queensland; and expert guidance from Hutchies’ industry leaders.
Thank you to Harry White (COTY 2004), Warren Belford, and all Hutchies’ team members who take time out of their busy days to share knowledge, mentor, and inspire the next generation of builders.
The aim is to mould new minds into the best future contract administrators, project managers, estimators, design managers, and team leaders.
St Brendan’s College Yeppoon
HUTCHIES’ team on the St Brendan’s College project in Yeppoon coordinated a couple of complicated night-time concrete pours during construction of the campus’s new industrial technology and innovation centre.
Site manager, Steve Schultz, said the concrete pours culminated in a major milestone for the project.
“It just goes to show what a small community of local concrete subcontractors can achieve when they work together,” Steve said.
Open day at Minty’s Building
HUTCHIES’ Hobartofficeparticipated in Open House Hobart 2025, run by the AustralianInstituteofArchitectsin November last year.
More than 80 people toured Hutchies’ office in the heritage “Minty’s Building” in inner-city Argyle Street.
Built in 1930, the building was the former home of sheetmetal workers, J Minty & Co, until Hutchies bought the building in 2016 and later renovated it into bright openplan offices with views of Mt Wellington.
Hutchies' Cadet Summer School cohort for 2025/26.
Cairns mental health unit a winner
HUTCHIES has taken out the MasterBuildersFarNorthQueensland 2025 Project of the Year for theCairnsHospitalMentalHealth Unit.
The team worked with hospital staff to create a prototype room that shaped the build.
Despite heavy rain, a cyclone, and building next to a live hospital, Hutchies delivered the three-level, 53-bed facility with a quality finish.
Three trophies in Master Builders state awards
HUTCHIES’ projects collected three awards in the 2025 Master BuildersQueenslandHousingand Construction Awards.
Regional winners from across Queensland came together to celebrate the best builds in the state.
Hutchies’ awards were the following:
• Hungry Jack’s Gracemere –Retail Facilities up to $5 million.
• The Verge Stage 3 – Community Accommodation.
• Venue, Ipswich – Commercial Refurbishment/Renovation over $30 million.
From hospitality and retirement living, through to strategic urban renewal of a city centre, each successful project reflected Hutchies’ commitment to building places that play significant roles in the community.
Students in work readiness workshop at Esprit site visit
THE Esprit site at Rainbow Beach on the Gold Coast hosted students from Banora Point High School on a site visit and work readiness workshop as part of Hutchies’ ongoing collaboration with the New South Wales Department of Education’s Regional Industry Education Partnerships program.
Site manager, Cavill Lollback, did an excellent job escorting the students around the site and answering questions.
Warren Belford also facilitated a discussion with some subbies and with Hutchies’ site foreman, William Miller, about his career, including his apprenticeship and career pathway within Hutchies.
The team, (from left) Illiana Whipper, Doug Whipper, Josh McLean, Jake Anderson, Jane White and Leanne Nixon.
Hutchies' Warren Belford (rear) guides staff and students from Banora Point High School on a site visit to Esprit.
Celebrations mark milestones
MORE than 300 guests turned up for the Toowong break-up day, including plenty of Hutchies’ veterans.
This year, 136 team members marked major service milestones, with 60 at 10 years, 31 at 15 years, 13 at 20 years, one at 25 years, and one at 30 years.
Service awards
5 YEARS
Robert Alford
Glen Bennett
Josh Brown
Dylan Buttifant
Kyle Byrnes
Anthony Carbry
Aaron Casey
Shelby Creenaune
Gordon Dalziell
Michael Douglass
Luke Hanna
Ross Hawley
Jackson Holmes
Rachel Hutchinson
Henry Johnstone
Vitaly Kaakoush
Dean Kurtz
James Martin
Ben Mitchell
Hanson Paul
Marc-Dimitri Pelo
Francis Planas
Amy Rafter
Alex Rametta
Traditionally, the recipient of Hutchies’ annual Constructor of the Year award is also announced across the company network via a video link on annual break-up day.
Nominations for the coveted COTY award are open to anyone who has been at Hutchies for more than five years, and votes
are accepted from any team member across the network who has been with Hutchies for more than 12 months.
Most of Hutchies’ offices and yards across Australia closed on December 19 for a well-earned break and started returning on January 5.
Team members from across the entire national network received long service awards. They are:
Jacob Rowe
Jack Scott
Joanne Simpson
Blake Skidmore
Jai Smith
Joe Sollis
Monica Stipancic
Wayne Thompson
Mark Unnasch
Annabelle Watts
Ricky Wear
10 YEARS
John Atkinson
Duncan Bain
Robin Bennedick
Michael Brotherstone
Luke Churchin
Jamie Coe
Grant Collyer
Evelyn de Jesus
Robert Doyle
Peter Fenton
Damian Foote
Benjamin Franklin
Patrick Frazer
Mace Griffin
Jacob Hanna
Noah Harkins
Zachary Harris
Blake Hodgins
Gareth Hodgins
Alec Hutchinson
Jack Hutchinson Jnr
Lochlan Johnson
Leigh Jordan
Thomas Jungnitsch
Jodie Kelly
Jason Kidd
Josephine Ko
Kathy Kong
Jon Mann
Joshua Mazoletti
Stacey McCracken
Michael McKechnie
Mitchell McMahon
Leigh Munro
Gavin Musk
Desmier Nairn
Waisea Nakalevu
Philip Neil
Bernie Nolan
Josh O’Connor
Rodney Pearce
David Plunkett
Matt Preston-Smith
Chan Ramakrishnan
Arnold Revitt
Ivan Ristic
Jesse Rollings
Salvatore Senese
Avi Singh
Matthew Smith
Amelia Sutton
Rebecca Sutton
Jarrod Taylor
Gilbert Town
Harleigh Venables
Nicolas Weisbach
Hilton Wells
Trinity Wharehinga
Christopher Williams
Jason Winwood
15 YEARS
John Adis
Gregory Birnie
Mitchell Bohringer
Gareth Bremner
Justin Chee
Scott Cracknell
Anthony Cuic
Murray Emmerson
Gregory Fleming
Nathan Geisler
Serdar Gundogar
Stephen Haugh
John Henderson
Steven Hodgins
Glenn Howard
Ian Hutton
Brendan Kavanagh
Jack Keily
Lachlan Kiely
Jamie Mifsud
Joe Newrick
John Parker
Duy Phan
Heath Robinson
Andrew Rowland
Sarah Smith
Alfred Spence
Timothy Todd Benjamen Turnbull
Steve Williams
Natale Zappia
20 YEARS
Shaun Beck
Nathaniel Creedy
Greg Crittall
Joshua Darby
Shane Hanna
Melissa Henderson
Robert Karleusa
Shane Kay
Christopher Lanigan
Kevin Mueller
Jerrymie Noble
Giancarlo Pozzebon
Paul Wilson
25 YEARS
Jeffery Miller
30 YEARS
Tony Doyle
2025 Constructor of the Year ~ Murray Emmerson ~
HUTCHIES’ Constructor of the Year (COTY)for2025wasannouncedas Murray Emmerson, team leader for Coolangatta.
Murray started as a cadet in 2010 and has grown into a respected local leader who works with energy and heart.
He has led dozens of Hutchies’ projects in Queensland and New South Wales, across various sectors, including residential, community, education, and health.
Director, Paul Hart (COTY 2005), said Murray’s COTY award was well deserved and the culmination of 15 years of loyal service to Hutchies.
“Murray’s rise through the ranks of Hutchies has been astonishing to watch,” Paul said.
“It’s still a bit of a blur, but as the Cooly team leader, Murray has managed to look after the Cooly team, keep his clients happy, and somehow manage to attend every possible social event on offer.
“Congrats to Murray and big thanks to his wife, Di, and kids, Lakey and Zepplin.”
~ Suggestion of the Year ~
JOINT winners of the Suggestion of the Year were AlecZajacek and Tim Thompson.
Both suggested bringing back the popular Hutchies’ Canterbury rugby
shorts. Their wish has been granted, and the shorts are now back available in the Hutchies’ shop. Alec and Tim won Apple Watches for their efforts.
Olympic Games break-up
DIRECTOR
Owen
Valmadre’s crew from accounts and payroll decided break-up day was an ideal time for some inter-departmental competition billed as Hutchies’ Olympics.
Both blue and green teams wore customised shirts emblazoned with Owen’s face and faced off in a fiercely fought program competing across 11 events including chair racing, tug-of-war, nerf gun shooting, egg toss, and long darts.
The green team, led by Claire Hays from accounts payable, won the day from the Owen-led blue team. No doubt blue team will be out for revenge in 2026.
Murray Emmerson ... COTY 2025 winner.
Jack Hutchinson Jnr and managing director, Russell Fryer (COTY 2010), present the Constructor of the Year award for 2025 to Murray Emmerson in absentia.
Jeff Miller (25 years’ service recipient) with Jack Hutchinson Snr.
Enjoying the show are Hutchies’ Lu Yin and children, Alison Wang and Leah Wang.
Christmas Spectacular at the Fort
HUTCHIES’ familymemberswereamongtheaudienceforaChristmas Spectacular show at The Fort.
The annual festive variety show at The Fortitude Music Hall celebrates the holiday season with a dazzling showcase of Christmas songs, dance, circus acts, and magic.
Hobart has its senior moment
HUTCHIES’ Tassie team in Hobart (picturedbelow)celebrated end-of-year and break-up day on the green at North Hobart Bowls Club.
Fittingly, the dress code for the themed day was “senior citizen” and, obviously, some team members raided elderly rellies’ wardrobes for their outfits.
As well as bowling a few ends on the green, the day included lunch and drinks and the handing out of service awards.
Nathan Aver – Tassie’s Apprentice/ Cadet of the Year for 2025.
Matt Hutchinson (left) receives his Tassie Employee of the Year award from team leader, Nick Silcox.
Santa hits Newcastle – Southport team members in Newcastle discuss with Santa who has been good during 2025. From top left (clockwise around Santa) Scott Cracknell, Red Russell, Adam Read, Lachlan Griffiths, Blake Skidmore and Maya Mazlin.
get
TOOWONG’S socialclub’sannualfamilyChristmas celebration is Hutchies’ kids’ favourite time oftheyear,withtheusualbigdayoutatWhiteWater World and Dreamworld with a visit from Santa, gifts for all, a big barbecue lunch, and rides.
Hijinks at Cooly
Emily and Angus Falconer are all grins as they sneak a seat on Santa’s chair.
Paul David (left) and Cade Witham.
From left, Andy Becconsall, Andrew Goller and Kevin Woodage.
Susana Francisco (left) and Anne Rodriguez.
From left, Mark Croce, Will Thurston and Harry White (COTY 2004).
From left, Maggie Wilson, Andrew Gillespie, Josh Chau and Terrence Hutchinson.
Leighton Stock (left) and Alan Gscheidle.
Cooly team’s Christmas party was a fun-filled affair to mark the end of a busy year. From left, Chris Wisbey, John Barrett, Ramon Peron, Brad Christensen and James Thompson. John assures us he was not being molested but merely “hoisted” because he had worn his Budgies in case the crew went for a swim.
SOME ofthecrewfromJamieWashington’steam got up close and a little too personal with Santa. Jamie writes, “Not sure what Paddy is doing to Santa, but he doesn’t look too happy!”
From left, Zach Hinchliffe, Patrick Dallimore and Sam Preston. Team Washo
up close with Santa
Richmond River High Campus
Job Description: Construction of a new floodresilient school on a greenfield site.
Hutchies’ Team Leader: ..........Murray Emmerson (COTY 2025)
Job Description: Replacement of major electrical infrastructure and upgrades to communications systems and associated building works within the Centre.
Hutchies’ Site Managers:........Giancarlo Pozzebon; Michael Gattera
Architect Firm:........................DesignInc
Structural Engineering: ...........WSP
Civil Engineering:....................WSP
Client:.....................................Queensland Health
Hutchies is undertaking refurbishment works at the Bourke Police Station in far north-western New South Wales.
Eight-team cycling challenge ride delivers help for AEIOU and Icon
The memento of the successful joint effort project now hangs on the
of the DHPW offices in Albert Street, Brisbane.
Only one hang-up on this project
LATE last year, Hutchies completed construction of the new Youth Remand Centre in Wacol, in outer western Brisbane. To mark the occasion, Hutchies’ project manager, Russell Suereth (right), presented a framed image of the completed project to Nathan Cook, from the Department of Housing and Public Works (DHPW).
HUTCHIES’ team members were among those who took part in the 2025 Hutchinson Builders’ Challenge Ride, a one-day cycling event with teams each riding 250 kilometres to raise $250,000 in support of the AEIOU Foundation and the Icon Cancer Foundation.
Eight teams of six riders undertook the ride at the Nundah Crit track (Albert Bishop Park and Criterium Circuit).
Food trucks, raffles, a live auction and children’s activities also ran throughout the event.
Teams which took part were AEIOU, Collective, Heidelberg Materials, Berlesimo Formwork, Hutchies Modular, Hutchinson Builders, Icon Allsorts and ICONic Pedalers.
The AEIOU Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation established in 2005 dedicated to providing life-changing early intervention for children with autism.
The Icon Cancer Foundation (ICF) was founded more than 30 years ago to support cancer research and offer hope to patients living with cancer.
Recognition for top guns
HUTCHIES’ team leaders from north Queensland, Cairns’ Kyle Hare and Townsville’s Aaron Ohl, were presented with custom jerseys from the North Queensland Cowboys’ End of Year Review event held late last year. Hutchies is a major partner of the Cowboys.
Community ice bath for riders. They are, from left, Jamie Coe, Luke Roberts (SDF Electrical), Russell Fryer (COTY 2010), and Vince Corry (Blades Project Services).
Participants in the 2025 Hutchinson Builders’ Challenge Ride.
Kyle Hare (left) and Aaron Ohl pose proudly with their custom jerseys.
wall
John Ellis is hoping this photo of himself stripping down to his Hutchies’ Budgies in the icy snowfields is enough to score him a bottle of tequila.
BELOW: Recently retired training manager, Peter Forsingdal, climbed Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, Africa’s highest point and the world's highest free-standing mountain at 5895 metres. Peter posed at the summit in his Hutchies’ Statim Yaga shorts to prove he made it.
TRAVELLING UNDIES &BUDGIES
Katie Birnie, daughter of contract administrator, Greg Birnie, was a fine sight to see standing on a corner in Winslow Arizona, in her Hutchies’ Statim Yaga
Joey Cassin sent in this mystery trio in Hutchies’ Budgies. A prize for anyone who can identify the mystery pieces of meat.
shorts.
HATCHED
Paul Erasmus and Nina Calvet married on November 29, and the couple’s French bulldog, Stitch, was an important member of the wedding party. It was a big end to the year, with Paul also accepted to Hutchies’ Cadet Summer School program.
OBITUARY
Mal Ashford (COTY 1998)
11/02/1940 ~ 19/01/2026
By Managing Director, Russell Fryer (COTY 2010)
“ONE of Hutchies’ greats recently passedawayontheGoldCoastatthe age of 85.
Mal Ashford won the Constructor of the Year award in 1998, earned during the construction of one of our largest ever projects at the time on the University of Queensland’s Ipswich Campus.
I had the honour of Mal’s site management for many of my early projects at Hutchies and, like others before me, learnt much from Mal.
The librarians at Griffith University learnt several new swear words, with Mal able to effortlessly use the same one as an adjective, noun and verb often in one sentence.
But not least was his resilience and no-nonsense approach, enormous personality and sense of fun.
Cracking into a few muddies he had caught during the week for Friday (or any) afternoon drinks
with the site full of his mates gave him fuel for that broad and mischievous grin. Mal retired in December 2009.
We will miss him and his barrelling laugh and remember to stay grounded for fear of his ire. We love you Mal.”
Tanner Jenkyns, son of Jesee Jenkyns from the Hobart team, rugged up for the Tassie weather.
Mal on the job in 1999 at Griffith University’s Mount Gravatt campus.
ON behalf of our family, we’d like to express our heartfelt thanks to Hutchies for your generous sponsorshipsupportingAidan,Lachlan, and myself as we represent MulgraveMagicBasketballClubonthe Junior Advanced Training Squad (JATS) USA Tour.
Your support has made an incredibledifference–helpingcover the costs of travel and training for what will be a life-changing experience.
Both boys have trained relentlessly to earn their spots on the team, and as their mum and Tour Manager, I couldn’t be prouder to see them take this next step with Hutchies behind them.
Lachlan, who is autistic, has found basketball to be a place where he truly shines – building confidence, leadership, and friendships through the game.
As captain of the U16 representative team and junior varsity team travelling to America, his resilience and determination inspire everyone around him.
Aidan is following his own impressive path in basketball – not onlyasastrongcompetitorbutalso as a dedicated referee and assistant coach who gives back to the sport he loves.
Together, they’ll represent not just their club, but also the values of hardwork,teamwork,andcommunity that Hutchies embodies.
Thank you once again for your belief in local families and young athletes.
Yourgenerosityhascreatedatrue partnership – one that allows us to proudly represent Hutchies on the world stage.
Together, we’re turning opportunitiesintoexperiencesthatwillstay with us for a lifetime.
Warm regards,
• • •
Nicole Doyle
THANK you so much for allowing ustoincludeRock’n’RollGeorge’s car as part of our Driven opening day celebration.
It was such a privilege to have yourbeautifulcaraspartofourcar show, and a big thrill for me to be able to drive it.
Thanks again!
FEEDBACK
Dominic Miller
Producer, Creative Production State Library of Queensland
• • •
WE would like say a big thank you to Hutchinson Builders for sponsoring Elijahs Hero’s Autism Awareness men's team in the Palm Island Christmas Cup.
The men played two games against Loyla Morgan Memorial team, Mount Bentley team and Cape York team.
Great talent across Queensland travelled to Palm Island to support
this carnival and community.
ZechariahandIwereinterviewed by ABC news for the story about Elijahs Hero’s Autism Awareness and I did thank our major sponsor Hutchinson Builders for their support.
We are looking forward to 2026 Palm Island Christmas Cup.
Christine Hero Specialist Support Services Qld Victim Connect Case Management and Shield
• • •
I RECENTLY had a scare and had to be admitted to hospital and I had my procedure in the cardiac theatre that Hutchies’ team delivered.
You may feel like you are simply going to work each day, and it’s another job completed, but in all credit to you for delivering such modern facilities, coupled with the professionals Queensland Health has in its Townsville ranks.
You’renotjustgoingtowork,you are delivering much-needed lifesaving facilities for our community, so please take on board your achievements in doing a fantastic job,andI’moneproudandgrateful Hutchies’ site supervisor.
Darren Bozsan Site supervisor Hutchies
•
I EXTEND my sincere thanks and congratulationstotheentireproject team (Sacred Heart College Geelong), in particular SEMZ, Hutchies, and PMDL-McGlashan Everist, also to the many consultants and countless contractors.
The final result is truly magnificent, and we at the college are incredibly impressed with the quality and outcome of the build.
We appreciate all the hard work that has gone into delivering such an outstanding project for the college.
Well done, everyone!
Kindest regards,
Catherine Middlemiss Leader of Business Operations
Sacred Heart College Geelong
• • • THANKS to the crew working at Newport Living floor replacement.
We were delighted with the quality of the work, the great communication and execution and the clean-up.
Just terrific. All your staff are so friendly and polite.
Well done.
Doug and Lynn Forsyth
• • • ON behalf of the Board of Trustees
and the community of Brisbane Girls Grammar School, I extend our deepest gratitude to Hutchinson Builders for the exceptional professionalism and dedication demonstratedthroughoutthedelivery of our new Junior School.
Your team’s commitment went far beyond expectations and has leftalastingimpressiononallofus.
We also extend our appreciation to all the behind-the-scenes contributors at Hutchies, from Health and Safety to so many others.
The seamless delivery of this project is a testament to the expertise and hard work of all.
Working with the Hutchies’ team was a wonderful experience for all involved and we are all so very proud of our new Junior School.
Yours sincerely,
Ms Jacinda Euler Welsh Principal
I WANT to take a moment to provide some positive feedback now that the Caloundra project is almost complete.
Your team has been absolutely outstanding and has made this project such an enjoyable and collaborative experience. From start to finish, the level of communication, teamwork, and mutual respect shown by everyone has been exceptional.
It’sbeenoneofthoserareprojects where the builder–architect relationship felt genuinely supportive and solution-focused, and that made all the difference.
Brandon has been excellent to work with – approachable, professional, and always proactive in resolving queries quickly.
He maintained great communication between the site and design teams and showed a strong understanding of design intent while balancing buildability and program needs.
Mitch has been absolutely brilliant to work with.
He’s approachable, hands-on, andalwayswillingtocollaborateto find practical solutions that still respect the design intent.
His responsiveness has been exceptional – no matter how busy thingswereonsite,healwaysmade time to address queries quickly and thoughtfully.
We really appreciated how much heworkedwithusasarchitects,not just alongside us, ensuring decisions were made efficiently and constructively.
His communication and leadership through the CA phase
made a huge difference and helped keep everything running smoothly and positively.
Cooper also deserves a mention. It’s been great seeing his enthusiasmandgrowththroughout the project.
He showed a strong willingness to learn and was always willing to help.
It’s been really encouraging to see someone so engaged and committed to developing his skills on site.
Your site team – including Lyle, Scott, Luke, and everyone working behind the scenes – have also been outstanding.
Their openness, professionalism, and attention to detail have been fantastic, and they were all so easy and friendly to work with.
Asarchitects,it’snotoftenwefeel so genuinely welcomed and included on site, but your team made it an absolute pleasure.
The end result really speaks for itself – it’s a testament to the hard work,communication,andpositive culture your team brings to every aspect of the build.
I truly wish more projects could runlikethisoneandreallyhopewe have the opportunity to work together again in the near future.
All the best,
Sarah Hewlett Wilson Architects
• • •
JUST wanted to say thanks again for supporting another year of the songwriter program at Brisbane Boys’ College.
The boys are getting better all the time and they bloody love having this as part of their school life.
Darren Middleton • • •
TRIDENT spentthedayatAirlock Studios yesterday recording their winning song (in the BBC songwriter event).
The boys got heaps out of the recording process.
Ihavejustreceivedtheroughmix and it sounds great.
We will send you a copy of the final mix.
Thanks again for all you do to make this happen for the students.
Regards
Theo Kotzas Head of Performance Music and Head of Strings Brisbane Boys’ College • • •
THANKS for the massive hours, the hard work, and all the magic you’ve been creating.
The school is looking absolutely fantastic because of you.
We appreciate you!
Kell & Staff Wollumbin High School
Triple Z 50th birthday gig
of Hutchies’
enjoyed ZED50 – an all-day gig and 50th birthday
Aaron steps into role for charity
HUTCHIES’ Townsville team leader, Aaron Ohl, took part in a CEO Walk in My Shoes, a 24-hour immersive experiencehostedbyRonaldMcDonald House Charities.
Business leaders swap corporate life for the day-to-day realities faced by families staying at Ronald McDonald House.
From cooking and cleaning to offering emotional support, the events are a way to build empathy and understanding and raise funds.
Touch football podium finish
CAMERON White, son of Hutchies’ Dean White, played the end-of-season game with the Hutchies-sponsored Logan City
Lions Touch Footy competition. Cameron’s U14s team lost only one match for the season and came in second place.
In the mosh with Metallica
HUTCHIES’ national workplace health and safety manager, Jimmy Andersen (rear), and mate, Murray ‘Muzza’ Emmerson (COTY 2025), threw safety to the wind when they dived into the mosh pit during the Metallica concert. Jimmy blames their derring-do on the number of “rockstar drinks” (JD and Cokes) the two had consumed in the lead-up to the main act.
SHFC bring home the hardware
HUTCHIES TasmaniasponsorstheSouthHobartFootballClub,which last year completed a historic double by winning both the Lakoseljac Cup and the Pre-Season Cup, and claimed the 2025 National Premier League title with a dominant, consistent season.
Hutchies-sponsored members of the South Hobart Football Club are pictured showing off the hardware from the 2025 season.
Some
crew
bash for 4ZZZ Radio – held at the Roma Street Parklands. From left, Dave Duran, Leah Williams, Scott Hutchinson and Rick Wallace.
Jack rapped over city council breach
A SEARCH of Brisbane City Council archives revealed Jack Hutchinson (I), Hutchies’founder,ranfouloftheBrisbaneCityCounciladministrationwhen he constructed a block of Mediterranean-style shops and flats in Red Hill in 1940 without planning or building approval.
Jack also recycled demolition timber, steel, and bricks for much of the project’s construction— most of it from Brisbane’s old Town Hall, which Hutchies demolished during construction of a new shopping arcade and adjacent Woolworths store.
The saga dealing with the council proved he was a bit naughty, but his persistence eventually paid off!
One of the flats became Jack’s home, and chairman Scott remembers the building, which he visited regularly as a child.
The construction stood the test of time, and today the heritage-listed building can be seen on the corner of Musgrave Road and Confederate Street in Red Hill.
Max Sydney’s table tennis champion
Heritage-listed Red Hill flats built by Jack Hutchinson (I).
Team John Berlese (COTY 2006) took advantage of the Melbourne Cup RDO for their traditional weekend away. Kicking back on Moreton Island, (from left) Jye Woods, Matt Jonker, Glenn Walker, Riaan Velvick, Luke Hinds, Tristan Christopher, Pearse Twamley, Daniel Sierant and Anthony Stevens.
Sydney’s hotly contested Rosebery office table tennis competition was won in 2025 by Max Elmes. Max (pictured right) shows his prowess facing off against Amir Maglajlic.
George’s Holden stars in the story of how cars shaped Qld
HUTCHIES’ replica of Rock ’n’ Roll George’s FX Holden had a starring role in the State Library of Queensland’s summer exhibition, Driven, which explored the role of cars in shaping Queensland’s people and places.
The two-month show coincided with the 125th anniversary of the first internal combustion vehicle to arrive in Queensland.
As part of the opening weekend in December, the library’s attractions included a slot car track modelled on Archerfield Speedway, a mock drive-in movie theatre in the atrium (car seats and popcorn included), and a specialty car show on the promenade that featured Hutchies’ replica.
Driven ran from December 6 to February 8.
Age champion makes history in mountain marathon
HUTCHIES’ Jackson ‘Jacko’ Munn, apprentice carpenter from Mitch Grimmer’s team, has made history as the youngest person to compete in and complete the gruelling Coast to Kosciuszko Ultra Marathon –one of Australia’s toughest endurance races.
The 240-kilometre Coast to Kosci, from Twofold Bay, near Eden, in southern New South Wales, to Charlotte Pass via the summit of Mt Kosciuszko, took Jacko 42 hours and 10 minutes.
The Ultra demands not only physical strength but also serious mental resilience, and runners must complete their attempt in under 46 hours.
Buckets of fun for Melbourne Cup
Hutchies’ replica of Rock ’n’ Roll George’s car was a popular attraction at Driven.
(IMAGE: Wai Ling Leung, State Library of Queensland)
Toowong’s traditional Melbourne Cup festivities feature copious amounts of KFC teamed with flowing French champagne. Getting into the mood of the afternoon, Jamie Coe (left) and Scott Hutchinson.
Jackson ‘Jacko’ Munn with race directors, Mickey Campbell (left) and Greg Wallace.
Ladies’ lunch
MORE than 140 women from across the Hutchies’ network came together for the annual Ladies’ Lunch held late last year at
Joint celebration on Sunny Coast
HUTCHIES’ Sunny Coast crew had lunch with Sunshine Coast Councilteammemberstocelebrate both the end of the year and the successful completion of the Caloundralibrary/administration building job. The combined break-up was held at the Matso’s Brewery, which was built by Hutchies in 2023, and all had a great time
with some good food and cold beers.
Hutchies’ team members included Lyle Ellis, Brandon Tonkin, Scott Borghardt, Mitch Cahill, Rob Morrison, Hayden Willis, Leo Deboer, and Luke Starbuck.
Sunshine Coast Council staffers included Brian Dale, Cameron Yin, and Ben Wallis.
Hutchies-built MOBO in South Brisbane. As usual, the only males welcomed were Scott and Jack Jnr.
Teams join forces for Maggie fun
HUTCHIES’ teams in Townsville andCairnsjoinedforcesforacombined social club men’s weekend away on Magnetic Island. From sharing good food, a few drinks, and plenty of laughs, to soaking up the island’s laid-back
charm, it was all about connection and camaraderie.
Thanks to everyone who made the trip such a success, including team leaders, Aaron Ohl (Townsville) and Kyle Hare (Cairns).
THE Hutchies-sponsored Brock Paine race team had some tough rounds this season but finished off the year on a high at Winton Raceway, Victoria, with a round win in the Hi-Tec Oils Super Series TA-2 racing.
Keith Robinson, Hutchies’ site foreman and racing team member, said Brock and his team thanked Hutchies for their much-needed and valued support.
“Without Hutchies, we would not be where we are today,” said Keith.
Helping hand at Burleigh Bears
HUTCHIES’ Shane Tyson met up with The Bear, the Burleigh Bears’ mascot, while on the job at the clubhouse extension project.
The Burleigh Bears were the 2025 Hostplus Cup premiers and The Bear let Shane hold the all-important trophy.
Titans Golf Day is now legendary
HUTCHIES’ contract administrators from the Cooly team attended the Gold Coast Titans’ 2025 Golf Day at the Parkwood International Golf Course.
Organised as a fun day for rugby league fans and corporate groups, the event included four-person Ambrose sessions with on-course drinks, prizes, and a post-round function. From left, Sam
JackJumpers win in great style
More than 20 of the Tassie social club members attended the Tasmania JackJumpers NBL game at My State Bank Arena in Hobart last October. Pictured are some of the team members who enjoyed watching a great win by Tassie against the Sydney Kings 86-70.
Ultra teamwork on Kosciuszko destroyer
HUTCHIES’ Coolangattacadetcontractadministrator, Mackenzie Branch, recently completed 157 kilometres of the gruelling 161-kilometre Ultra-Trail Kosciuszko KosciMiler event, which includes 4,710 plus metres of elevation gain. The KosciMiler is a UTMB Worlds Series 100-mile event. His 34-hour effort took him to the highest point in Australia.
Team leader Murray Emmerson (COTY 2025) went along to support him, as well as Macca’s dad, James, and Hutchies’ friend/client, Adam Lacey.
RIGHT: From left, Murray Emmerson, James Branch, Mackenzie Branch and Adam Lacey.
Schimke, Hugh Norman, rugby league legend Wally Lewis, Jesse O’Neill and Shane Slape.
