Waverley Industries’ dominance of the Social Enterprise category in the Casey Cardinia Business Awards continues in 2018 with a fourth consecutive win.
Director and chief executive Frank Cresia said he had the “best job in Australia“ and put the business’s extraordinary success down to its people.
“Our success is our people,“ Mr Cresia said.
“That’s our essence and our growth – people with disabilities.
“I have the best employees who are our champions.“
Waverley Industries is a not-for-profit organisation enhancing the lives of people with disabilities by offering them meaningful employment in a supported environment. Waverley Industries provides skills and experience in packaging and assembly, hospitality and catering, storage and warehouse, woodwork or gardening.
It commenced operations in November 1984 with the aim of providing employment opportunities for people with special needs, in particular adults with an intellectual disability.
The business employs more than 270 people at its Notting Hill site and at its packaging factory in Star Crescent, Hallam.
Waverley Industries opened its 4000-square metre factory in Hallam in 2016, creating 40 jobs for people with disabilities.
Mr Cresia said the expansion enabled the business to develop its accredited training programs to neighbouring special schools.
Across its Hallam and Notting Hill locations, workers specialise in packaging solutions, assembly work, manufacturing, mail outs and catering.
Mr Cresia said that Waverley Industries was proud to play an important role in the lives of its employees.
“Their work enriches their lives and builds their self-esteem, knowing that they are producing things that we, as a community, need,” he said.
Testimonials on the company’s website point to motivated and happy workforce.
“I like making new friends and learning new skills,“ said David Kingma, a catering apprentice.
“Waverley Industries has given me the chance and are supporting me in my apprenticeship in Commercial Cookery. I feel really good that I am learning and contributing.“
Jenny Waugh said she loves working at Waverley Industries because the people there are always happy.
“I love coming to work every day. It makes me feel independent because I contribute to the community,“ Jenny said.
