From a Pineapple Farm to Building Foundations: Kresten’s Journey in Construction

The Beginning:
My journey in the construction industry began back in my teenage years where I had the chance to  volunteer at Bucca Retreat when they were building the campsite and waterslide. Growing up on my parents pineapple farm not far from the site allowed me this opportunity.

School and Early Training:
Finding construction quite interesting, my parents encouraged me to enrol in a school based carpentry apprenticeship where I was fortunate enough to spend the school holidays gaining work experience with the Bundaberg Regional Council in the carpentry team. Following this, a full time carpentry apprenticeship through Jeff Lennox Builders PTY LTD/Hotondo Homes allowed me to formally become a carpenter and see firsthand the expectation of a quality build which Jeff Lennox set.

First Ventures and Experiences:
An opportunity to renovate a ‘fixer upper’ workers cottage while in my apprenticeship allowed me to test my developing skills. I could not have done it without support from my family and friends. I then had my ‘subbie’ years working for a few different builders as a sub-contract carpenter. The chance to build my own 2 bedroom home through one of these builders was really great as it gave me an insight into what goes into a build behind the scenes. 

Establishing a Business:
With an aim to learn about business, I started a carpentry and maintenance business in Rockhampton. This is where I got to learn some hard earned business skills regarding quoting, contracts, QBCC (Queensland Building and Construction Commission), insurance, invoicing, taxation, follow through and things that are essential to running a business. At the same time, I was studying a builders course through the Master Builders office in Rockhampton. I’ll always remember walking in and handing my builders license application form into the Rockhampton QBCC office. 

Returning Home:
Upon gaining my builders license, one of my friends told me ‘we have to see what you can do with it now’… my wife and I decided that if we were to set some roots, we wanted to do it in our hometown of Bundaberg. This is where we are now and God willing we will continue to serve the Bundaberg community for years to come… and see, ‘what we can do…’ 🙂 

Gratitude:
I thank our suppliers, business partners and customers from the last 3 years who have been essential in setting up the foundations of Ramage Building. Also the many people who have helped in the past 20 years.