A force to be reckoned with
Business acumen and diligent staff have created a profitable enterprise that also plays an important role in the community.
If you receive Connect by post, chances are that Sean Dawes from Marketforce Mail and Finishing Services at Capalaba in Brisbane had a hand in getting the magazine from us to you.
Marketforce employee Sean Dawes is helping drive the company's progress.
Sean, a trainee forklift driver, is one of 18 people with a disability who are responsible for thousands of magazines such as Connect arriving in mailboxes across the state on time and intact.
Marketforce, which has more than 75 regular customers including Disability Services Queensland, the Queensland Department of Communities, Queensland Rail and the Australian Taxation Office, celebrated 25 years in operation in 2006.
Manager Forbes Strachan says his team is increasing production each year and with the introduction of high-tech machinery, the business is going from strength to strength.
Last year the business recorded its best-ever profit and will relocate to new purpose-built premises early this year. The additional space will allow for the purchase of extra equipment to give Marketforce an edge on handling high volumes of work.
"We are proud of our high standards and our staff," Forbes says. "You couldn't ask for a better bunch of people. They all receive full award wages and conditions, work in a friendly environment and are valued as individuals. So it's not surprising that staff turnover is very low. People see it as a job for life."
Each month the team gathers for a family-style meal to acknowledge its achievements.
The three-course feasts have become a highlight of the working year and Forbes says it is a great way to recognise staff for their efforts.
Mail sorter Vicki Knight eagerly looks forward to her team's celebratory lunches. "I can't wait," she says.
Marketforce is one of a number of services run by the Horizon Foundation, an organisation that creates education, employment and recreational opportunities for more than 1000 people with a disability in Brisbane and the Gold Coast.
"Given the opportunity, we can all make a valued contribution to the community that we live in, regardless of differences or ability"
Started in 1981 by a group of parents wanting a better future for their children, the Horizon Foundation offers post-school options, life skills training, community access and recreation for adults with a disability, and job placement and support. It is also a registered training organisation offering certificate courses in first aid, IT and business studies.
Horizon Executive Director Joe Gamblin says the organisation's goal is to provide worthwhile work for fair wages.
"We have been an industry leader for the past 10 years in paying real wages based on productivity to people with a disability," Joe says.
"We believe that all individuals seek out meaning in their lives and want to do things that matter. Given the opportunity, we can all make a valued contribution to the community that we live in, regardless of differences or ability."
For more information, visit www.horizoninc.org
Last updated November 2007