Meet the team
Neil Glover
25 years with Shade ‘n’ Sails
Meet Neil, one of the original duo who created Shade ‘n’ Sails and a cornerstone of the company. With over 30 years of industry experience, Neil has done it all within the business and remains an indispensable part of the team. You’d think he’d be slowing down by now, but even open-heart surgery couldn’t keep him away from the action.
When Neil isn’t hard at work, he’s immersing himself in his passion projects. A true enthusiast of vintage cars and motorbikes, he loves getting his hands dirty and bringing old engines back to life. DIY projects are another favourite pastime, keeping him busy and engaged.
Family is central to Neil’s life. He cherishes the time spent with his four daughters and five grandkids, finding joy and fulfillment in their company. Whether he’s at work or play, Neil’s dedication and energy are truly inspiring, making him a vital and vibrant presence at Shade ‘n’ Sails.
Trevor Hocking
25 years with Shade ‘n’ Sails
Meet Trevor, the OG of Shade ‘n’ Sails. Yep, he’s been here since day one, helping build this ship from the ground up 25 years ago. As one of the original duo that kickstarted the whole shebang, Trevor’s got the kind of experience and know-how that only comes with time.
But don’t think he’s slowing down anytime soon. Nope, outside of work, Trevor’s still hustling like it’s 1999. When he’s not busy with the business, you’ll probably catch him… well, still at work. But hey, every now and then, he does manage to sneak in some “me time.” You’ll find him screaming his lungs out for the Melbourne Demons, pounding the pavement on a run, or crushing it on the bike (did we mention he’s tackled one full Ironman Triathlon and six half ironman triathlons? Yeah, he’s kind of a big deal).
With his dedication to Shade ‘n’ Sails and his passion for staying active, Trevor’s the epitome of work hard, play hard. And we wouldn’t have it any other way.
Murray Hocking
Operations Manager
13 years with Shade ‘n’ Sails
Introducing Murray, a cornerstone of Shade ‘n’ Sails for over 13 years. Starting as a sales rep and now leading the pack as our Operations Manager, Murray’s journey has been nothing short of inspiring. And here’s the kicker – His little brother is the one he answers to.
Despite spending over two decades in Melbourne, Murray made the bold move back to Ballarat to start his journey with Shade ‘n’ Sails – a decision he’ll tell you he’s “gladly” made.
Off-duty, Murray’s love for golf is undeniable – you’ll often find him on the green, perfecting his swing and soaking in the serenity. Despite occasional challenges, he’s also an avid runner, embracing the thrill of the track whenever his body allows. And when it comes to footy, Murray’s loyalty lies with the Hawks in the AFL.
But Murray’s athleticism extends far beyond the fairways and running tracks. He’s a true sporting champion, representing Australia in badminton at not one, not two, but three Commonwealth Games (1994, 1998, and 2002) and the Olympics in 1996. That’s an achievement few can boast!
Murray’s blend of experience, loyalty, and sporting prowess makes him an indispensable part of our team. Whether he’s strategising in the boardroom or sinking a putt on the green, Murray’s commitment to excellence is unwavering.
Nick Mall
Business Development
3 years with Shade ‘n’ Sails
Meet Nick, a veteran in the shade industry with a remarkable 25-year career. After spending 22 years supplying materials to the shade industry, Nick made the exciting transition to join Shade ‘n’ Sails three years ago. Now, he enjoys seeing projects from the beginning, through the manufacturing stages and to their successful completion.
Nick’s journey with Shade ‘n’ Sails is a testament to his enduring dedication and adaptability. From his first visit 25 years ago, when the business operated out of a garage (back when Trevor still had hair), to today’s thriving enterprise, Nick has witnessed and contributed to the company’s incredible growth.
Outside of work, Nick has a range of interests that keep him engaged and entertained. He enjoys the competitive yet friendly sport of darts. Spending time with family and friends, often over delicious meals, is a priority for him. Recently, he has taken up woodturning as a hobby—watch out, trees! In his downtime, Nick enjoys relaxing with good food and a moderate amount of whisky.
With his extensive experience, passion for the industry, and vibrant personal interests, Nick is a valued and dynamic member of the Shade ‘n’ Sails team.
Nathan Moore
3 ½ years at Shade ‘n’ Sails
Meet Nathan, a dedicated sales representative at Shade ‘n’ Sails for the past 3.5 years. Nathan thrives on the opportunity to get out and meet new people, helping them find the perfect shade sail or blind solutions for their needs. His enthusiasm for connecting with clients and providing top-notch service is evident in every interaction.
Outside of work, Nathan is all about family and fun. Whether it’s camping, beach trips, a night out in Melbourne, or an interstate adventure, he loves creating memorable experiences with his loved ones. A passionate Collingwood supporter, you’ll find him cheering on his team with unwavering loyalty.
Nathan’s athletic prowess spans multiple sports, from AFL football and squash to badminton. These days, golf has captured his interest. While he modestly admits he’s not great at it, he thoroughly enjoys hitting the links with friends.
Socializing with friends is another of Nathan’s favorite pastimes, whether it’s a casual outing or a lively night out. He’s also an avid movie watcher, music lover, and concertgoer, always on the lookout for the next great film, album, or live show.
With his friendly demeanor, diverse interests, and passion for his work, Nathan brings a vibrant energy to the Shade ‘n’ Sails team, making every day an opportunity for new connections and great service
Karleen Cuthbertson
Sales Representative
18 months at Shade ‘n’ Sails
Meet Karleen, a dynamic member of our Shade ‘n’ Sails sales team for the past 1.5 years. With a passion for adventure and a knack for connecting with customers, Karleen brings energy and enthusiasm to everything she does.
When she’s not helping clients find the perfect shade solutions, Karleen is hitting the trails. An avid hiker, she’s completed the grueling Serra Terror trek four times, conquering 80 kilometers in just two days. Her love for the outdoors also extends to cycling, where she enjoys exploring new routes and staying active.
Karleen’s culinary skills are equally impressive. She delights in cooking and baking, always on the lookout for new recipes to try and gourmet foods to savor. After over 20 years at Sovereign Hill, where she donned an 1850s costume every day, Karleen has an eye for detail and a flair for the dramatic.
Despite her claim of being “boring,” Karleen’s life is anything but. From her adventurous hikes and culinary experiments to her unique historical experiences, she brings a vibrant and exciting presence to our team. We’re thrilled to have her as part of Shade ‘n’ Sails, where her passion and dedication shine through in everything she does.
Jo Hocking
Office Manager
4 years at Shade ‘n’ Sails
Meet Jo, the heart and soul of Shade ‘n’ Sails, holding it all together as our dedicated Office Manager for the past four years. With a career spanning various office-based roles in recruitment, retail, and hospitality, she’s the go-to person for all things organizational. Jo’s penchant for processes might annoy some, but it’s what keeps our ship sailing smoothly.
Beyond the office walls, Jo’s world revolves around her three kids and their myriad of sports activities. While sewing dance costumes might not be her chosen hobby, she dedicates countless hours to ensuring her daughter shines on stage. And when she’s not on mom duty, you’ll likely find Jo indulging in her love for breakfast outings or getting lost in the pages of a good book during her rare moments of downtime.
But here’s the dream: if Jo ever hits the jackpot, you can bet she’ll be jetting off to attend all the tennis grand slams in one glorious year. Until then, she’ll continue to be the backbone of our team, balancing work, family, and her passions with unwavering grace.
Kerryn Webb
Administration
4 years at Shade ‘n’ Sails
Meet Kerryn, a key member of Shade ‘n’ Sails’ administration team for nearly four years. But her role goes beyond just keeping things organized – Kerryn is a vibrant force of positivity and adventure.
An avid traveller with a lengthy bucket list, Kerryn is always planning her next getaway to explore new destinations and cultures. When she’s not jet-setting, you’ll find her cherishing precious moments with her family and friends, whipping up delicious meals in the kitchen, diving into a captivating book, or getting crafty with crochet and photography projects.
But Kerryn’s love for adventure doesn’t stop there – she’s also a caravan enthusiast, embracing the freedom of the open road on her travels. And let’s not forget her two ‘grown up’ daughters and two very spoiled dogs who add joy and laughter to her life.
One of Kerryn’s most unforgettable experiences? Spending New Year’s Eve 1995 flying over Antarctica, where she witnessed the rare and mesmerizing sight of the sun setting and rising simultaneously, a moment that remains etched in her memory.
With her passion for exploration, creativity, and love for her loved ones, Kerryn brings warmth and positivity to both her work and personal life, making her an invaluable member of our team.
Rebecca Langley
Administration
2 years at Shade ‘n’ Sails
Meet Rebecca, the friendly voice you’ll likely hear when you give Shade ‘n’ Sails a ring. With two years under her belt in administration, she’s the backbone of our communication hub. But don’t let her desk job fool you – Rebecca’s a powerhouse of energy and passion outside of work.
A lover of all things active, Rebecca recently completed the Gold Coast half marathon in July, showcasing her dedication and perseverance. You’ll also find her dominating the netball court, pounding the pavement on a run, or carving through the water on skis. With a background in exercise physiology, she’s not just passionate about staying active – she’s knowledgeable too.
At home, Rebecca’s furry friends keep her on her toes. Whether she’s grooming her pet horse or taking her dog for a stroll, she’s always surrounded by love. Rebecca’s enthusiasm for life is infectious, and she brings that same energy to everything she does at Shade ‘n’ Sails.
Claire O’Keefe
Accounts
2 years at Shade ‘n’ Sails
Introducing Claire, the numbers whiz of Shade ‘n’ Sails, who’s been crunching numbers in our accounts department for the past two years. But her journey to number-crunching brilliance has been anything but ordinary.
Originally from Australia, Claire embarked on a 15-year adventure across the pond, soaking in the sights and sounds of the UK before returning to her roots. And she’s no stranger to pushing her limits – in 2015, she conquered the iconic London Marathon, proving that she’s not afraid of a challenge.
But here’s where Claire’s story gets even more interesting – back in 1996, she dazzled the crowds as part of a performing group at Melbourne’s first Grand Prix, adding a touch of glamour to the racing scene.
When she’s not balancing the books or reminiscing about her performance days, Claire’s world revolves around her two little ones, aged 7 and 6. And in her downtime, you’ll often find her unwinding with her favourite true crime podcasts, experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, or getting creative with Lego flower bouquets.
With her diverse experiences, unwavering dedication, and creative spirit, Claire brings a unique perspective to our team, making her an invaluable asset both in and out of the office.
Brittney Wilson
Administration
13 years at Shade N Sails
Say hello to Brittney, our resident office guru who’s been rocking it at Shade ‘n’ Sails for a solid 13 years. She’s the one who keeps the ship sailing smoothly (pun totally intended) with her knack for organization and her friendly demeanor.
Recently, Brittney took a little hiatus to focus on her adorable duo, Bailey and Macy. But guess what? She’s back in action, gracing us with her presence two days a week. We missed her, and we’re stoked to have her back on board!
When she’s not wrangling paperwork or wrangling kiddos, Brittney’s all about the adrenaline rush. Skydiving, paragliding, parasailing, bungee jumping—you name it, she’s probably done it. And don’t even get her started on her love for travel. She’s been all over the globe, soaking up new experiences and making memories wherever she goes.
But it’s not all about the thrill-seeking for Brittney. She’s a family gal through and through, and there’s nothing she loves more than spending quality time with her loved ones. Oh, and let’s not forget her guilty pleasures: binge-watching TV shows and diving into a good book whenever she gets the chance.
With her bubbly personality and zest for life, Brittney brings a whole lot of positivity to the office (even if it’s only two days a week). We’re lucky to have her on the team!
Andrew Baker
Site Coordinator / Installer
19 years at Shade ‘n’ Sails
Meet Andrew, a dedicated member of the Shade ‘n’ Sails family for the past 19 years! Over the years, Andrew has contributed his expertise to many different parts of our manufacturing process, and he now excels as a skilled installer, ensuring every project meets our high standards.
Outside of work, Andrew is an outdoor enthusiast who loves camping and fishing, always ready for his next adventure. A passionate Melbourne Demons supporter, he jumps at the chance to attend games and cheer on his team.
Family is at the heart of Andrew’s life. He takes great pride in supporting his son at sporting matches, cheering from the sidelines with unwavering enthusiasm. And when he’s not on the sidelines, Andrew occasionally hits the basketball court himself to enjoy a social game and keep active.
With his extensive experience, love for the outdoors, and dedication to family, Andrew is an invaluable and vibrant member of the Shade ‘n’ Sails team.
Aaron Howlett
Site Supervisor
6 years at Shade ‘n’ Sails
Meet Aaron, a valued member of the Shade ‘n’ Sails team for the past six years. A joiner by trade, Aaron made the move to our company and quickly established himself as one of our head installers, bringing precision and expertise to every project.
Family-oriented, Aaron is deeply involved in supporting his kids in their various sports, cheering them on from the sidelines with pride and enthusiasm. He also loves hitting the open road for a good road trip or caravanning adventure, embracing the freedom and excitement of travel.
When he’s not working or on the road, Aaron enjoys the occasional game of golf and is an avid supporter of the Bombers. Watching them play is one of his favorite pastimes.
Aaron is known for his engaging and thought-provoking use of hypotheticals during group discussions, sparking lively conversations and encouraging creative thinking among his colleagues.
With his diverse skills, dedication to family, and passion for adventure, Aaron is an indispensable and dynamic member of the Shade ‘n’ Sails team.
Damon Sargent
Installer
10 years at Shade ‘n’ Sails
Meet Damon, a seasoned member of Shade ‘n’ Sails’ installation team, boasting an impressive 10-year tenure with us. With his wealth of experience and expertise, Damon plays a crucial role in ensuring our projects are executed with precision and excellence.
Off the clock, Damon’s passion for cricket runs deep – you’ll often find him on the pitch, swinging for the fences and enjoying the camaraderie of the game. And when footy season rolls around, there’s no doubt where his loyalties lie – he’s a staunch supporter of Essendon in the AFL, cheering them on with unwavering passion.
With his dedication to his craft and his love for sports, Damon embodies the spirit of teamwork and determination both on and off the field. He’s an invaluable asset to our team, and we’re fortunate to have him with us for the long haul.
Jesse Collins
Installer
6 months at Shade ‘n’ Sails
Meet Jesse, a dynamic addition to our Shade ‘n’ Sails installation team, where he has been making an impact for the past six months. With a strong work ethic and keen attention to detail, Jesse is dedicated to ensuring every installation is completed to the highest standard.
Outside of work, Jesse’s passion for the outdoors takes center stage. He loves camping, fishing, and four-wheel driving, always ready for his next adventure. Whether he’s casting a line or searching for the best camping spots, Jesse finds joy and relaxation in the great outdoors.
Family is at the core of Jesse’s life. He cherishes spending time with his three daughters, creating lasting memories through fun activities and shared experiences.
With his dedication to his craft, love for adventure, and devotion to his family, Jesse is a valuable and enthusiastic member of the Shade ‘n’ Sails team.
Greg Moore
Installer
4 months at Shade ‘n’ Sails
Meet Greg, one of the newest members of our Shade ‘n’ Sails installation team, having joined us earlier this year. Greg brings a fresh perspective and enthusiasm to his role, quickly becoming an integral part of our crew.
Outside of work, Greg’s adventurous spirit shines through. He loves motorbike riding, camping, and four-wheel driving, always on the lookout for his next outdoor adventure. Whether navigating rugged trails or setting up camp under the stars, Greg’s passion for the great outdoors is evident.
For Greg, family is paramount. He firmly believes that family is the most important aspect of life, and he dedicates his time and energy to ensuring they come first.
With his adventurous nature, dedication to family, and commitment to excellence, Greg is a valued addition to the Shade ‘n’ Sails team.
Kirsten Schultz
Factory Manager
16 years with Shade ‘n’ Sails
Introducing Kirsten, the powerhouse of Shade ‘n’ Sails’ manufacturing team. With an impressive tenure of 16 years, Kirsten started her career at Shade ‘n’ Sails at the young age of 19 and she’s climbed the ranks to become our esteemed Factory Manager, overseeing operations with skill and dedication.
But Kirsten’s passion extends far beyond the factory floor – she’s a lover of the great outdoors, often spending her weekends camping under the stars or tearing up the trails on her mountain bike. Yet, her heart belongs to her family and friends, and there’s nothing she enjoys more than catching up with them for a good laugh and some quality time.
Speaking of laughter, Kirsten’s infectious giggle is legendary – you can hear it echoing through the factory (or even down the street!) She’s the spirit of joy and camaraderie, bringing warmth and energy to every corner of our workplace.
Daniel Wilson
Blinds Manager
9 years at Shade ‘n’ Sails
Meet Daniel, your go-to guy for all things blinds at Shade ‘n’ Sails. But beyond the factory, Daniel’s all about his two kiddos, Bailey and Macy.
When he’s not hanging with the fam, you’ll catch him tearing up the trails on his mountain bike, reeling in the big ones while fishing, or soaking in nature on a camping trip. And let’s not forget his competitive streak – whether it’s in the great outdoors or on the gaming screen, Daniel’s always up for a challenge. Plus, he’s got a weakness for chocolate that’s borderline legendary.
Dylan Hocking
1 ½ years at Shade ‘n’ Sails
Meet Dylan, the rising star of our Shade ‘n’ Sails manufacturing team, who joined us straight out of school and has been making waves ever since. With a year and a half of experience under his belt, Dylan’s dedication and skill shine through in every shade sail he crafts.
Off the clock, Dylan’s passion for cricket is unmatched – he’s recently clinched his third premiership in a row, proving he’s a force to be reckoned with on the field. As a die-hard Melbourne Demons supporter in the AFL, he’s no stranger to the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat.
But Dylan’s love for adrenaline doesn’t stop there. He’s a mountain biking enthusiast, always seeking out the next thrilling trail to conquer. And if you’re ever in need of a challenge, just hand him a Rubik’s cube – he’ll have it solved in under a minute. Dylan’s competitive spirit and dedication make him an invaluable part of our team, both on and off the field.
Amy Whiting
Factory Hand
2 ½ years at Shade ‘n’ Sails
Meet Amy, a dynamic force at Shade ‘n’ Sails for the past 2 1/2 years. Specializing in our blind manufacturing area, Amy brings precision and dedication to every project she tackles.
Outside of work, Amy is a soccer star for Ballarat City in State League 1, where she shined in 2023, taking home both the Best & Fairest and Players’ Player awards. Her passion for soccer also saw her representing Australia in Argentina playing Futsal—an experience she’s incredibly proud of.
Amy’s love for animals is a big part of who she is. Despite having a soft spot for her dogs, she considers herself more of a cat person. She’s a passionate supporter of the Matildas and the Hawks, cheering them on with the same enthusiasm she brings to the soccer field.
With her blend of talent, dedication, and personality, Amy adds a vibrant energy to Shade ‘n’ Sails. Whether she’s crafting the perfect blind or scoring goals, Amy is a valued and dynamic member of our team.
Talk to our shade experts for helpful advice today
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