What I See with Peter Fiorenza: Local business success stories prove from little things big things can grow

Inspirational people are gold. In this case, I refer to individuals who do something extraordinary. And it’s even more inspirational when it happens in your own backyard. I reckon I’ve known Peter (Jock) Campbell for at least 15 years. I first really got to know Jock when I served with him as a director on the Great Northern Football League board. Jock was an “old school” stickler for rules and protocol. I suppose that’s why he had the portfolio of constitution. But he also demonstrated a fair and reasonable mind and disposition that endeared him to many. That’s why, I believe Jock was so successful in business. Recently, he and his wife Glenys, sold their very successful business, Geraldton Party Hire, a business that had tiny beginnings, but grew into a huge venture. From Carnarvon down to Jurien Bay and everywhere in between, Jock and his team have provided everything needed for entertaining. From weddings to corporate shows, marquees to chairs, tables, cutlery, cups and plates, jukeboxes, stages and plenty more. There would not be an event in the Mid West that did not call on the expertise of Geraldton Party Hire. In the past few weeks, Jock and Glenys have sold the business and moved into well-deserved retirement. I often go along to support functions co-ordinated by the Mid West Chamber of Commerce and Industry. These are a great get-together of local businesses, with each function being hosted by someone different. This time around, one of the hosts was Dongara Marine, the operation that owns those massive sheds behind Fisherman’s Harbour. Dongara Marine have been in the boat building game for some time under the direction of fisher become boatbuilder, John Fitzhardinge. I don’t know John, but I do know of him and his impressive imprint on these industries. A few years ago, after working with young tradesman Rohan Warr for a period, he decided to expand his business and move operations to Geraldton. Rohan has had an interest in boat building that spans back to his time as a student at Aquinas College. In his leaving year, Rohan won the construction award with a metal dingy. The saying “from little things big things grow” is certainly the best way to describe Rohan’s impressive rise in the industry. Along with wife Jacky he is today a partner in Dongara Marine and holds the position of managing director. The business now produces an average of 10 vessels a year, making it one of the biggest of its type in the State. And the best part, both Rohan and Jock are proud Mid West products. Peter Fiorenza hosts Sports Shed Saturday (9am-noon) and Fiorenza on Sunday (10am-noon) on Radio MAMA