AN unwavering commitment to customers and community has been a beacon for Farmcraft Boonah for 15 years and has delivered a coveted gong.
Last month the Ross family-run Boonah Farmcraft was named the 2019 CRT Business Partner of the Year for Queensland, tacit acknowledgment their philosophy to be the best at what they do is offering up just rewards.
The award was announced at the CRT National Conference in Brisbane, as one of Australia's leading rural merchandise retailers celebrates 50 years of operation.
"I was overwhelmed and excited and it was amazing to get that recognition for all the hard work that is done," Alistair Ross said.
"To bring it home to the staff was great because it is a team effort and not only the branch but across the whole group because collectively we all work together. It is one company.
"The staff were overwhelmed, too. They could not believe it but I said this was to acknowledge their hard work, what you do for the community and within the store for our clients and our customers.
"We are a family business and the community is in our heart. We live in these communities and have a strong focus on treating everyone equally and with respect and trying to get the same good result."
The award has come 28 years and six outlets after Hugh Ross launched Farmcraft in Kalbar in 1992. He ran the business until 2008 before choosing to concentrate on other business interests and son Alistair took the reins. But the changeover at the top was not before Farmcraft joined the CRT buying group in 1993 and the acquisition of four more stores.
Farmcraft has been a force for charity, including raising $20,000 for the Dolly Everett Foundation and Dolly's Dream. Last year it contributed more than $42,000 to a string of community and sports events.
Queensland CRT state manager Mick Collings said Farmcraft Boonah was a standout entrant after meeting stringent criteria which ranged from store identify, customer and client support, community input to goods and services.
"Farmcraft Boonah has set a new standard in CRT store branding and the entire team should be incredibly proud of this achievement," Mr Collings said.
CRT general manager Greg O'Neil praised Farmcraft Boonah for its consistent effort servicing their community as well as the greater CRT network.
"This member has been one of the greatest advocates for CRT in Queensland," Mr O'Neil said.
"Alistair has developed very strong relationships with many members and is always prepared to go out of his way to help any other members at any time."
