Congrates Russell to an amazing career

Last Friday, we celebrated the end of another year, but also recognised

someone who has been a cornerstone of M&M Autopak for a long time. Someone I’ve had the privilege of knowing — and working alongside — for 28 years: Mr Russell Teale.

Russell and I first worked together back in Shepparton, Victoria, installing a firelighters plant. And while the job itself went smoothly, the real highlight — the moment forever etched in my memory — was seeing Russell dancing on the bar at 1.30 in the morning, belting out “Slice of Heaven” by Dave Dobbyn. That was the day I learned two things:

1. Russell is John Travolta's double.

2. He is, without question, a proud wannabe New Zealander.

Over the years, Russell’s career has been filled with moments that perfectly capture who he is — adaptable, calm under pressure, and incredibly capable.

Let me share a few highlights — the ones that sum Russ up better than any CV ever could:

1. His very first job for us was to drive a dive boat while we laid a pipeline on the seabed of Pittwater. I’ll let Russ fill you in on the details — and trust me, there are details — but let’s say it was a job that required equal parts skill, nerve, and the ability to hold onto your breakfast.

2. The first fabrication job I ever gave him was drawn — very professionally — on an A4 piece of paper. What I didn’t notice was that the project was 13 metres long… and our old workshop was only 6 metres. Most people would have walked away. Russ just adapted, got on with it, and delivered. That was the moment I knew: This is a bloke I can work with. The “can-do” attitude wasn’t something he talked about — it was just what he did.

3. Russ has completed projects all over Australia and New Zealand — and yes, we will mention the $5,000 phone bill from NZ. A heroic effort.Differently, a company record.

4. His projects have ranged from full factory relocations and complex pharmaceutical machinery builds, right through to the massive installation of the baggage handling system at Western Sydney Airport. This project spanned 24 months and kilometres of conveyors. And through it all, Russ has been steady, reliable, unflappable — the person you want in charge when things get difficult.

What was originally meant to be a temporary role — two years, maybe — became nine years as our General Manager here in Sydney. Nine years of leadership, commitment, humour, late nights, early mornings, and keeping this business ticking.

Now, after 15 years with M&M Autopak, Russell is transitioning into semi-retirement, returning next year for three days a week in a technical role. And honestly — we’re very glad he’s not disappearing completely. His knowledge, his approach, and his presence have shaped this business more than he realises.

Russell — you’ve been a mate, a leader, a problem solver, a mentor, and the keeper of more stories than we could ever fit into one speech.

As a small gesture of our appreciation — and in recognition of your time, leadership, and dedication — it only seems appropriate to present you with this timepiece, a reminder of your years with M&M Autopak and the impact you’ve had on all of us.

Please join me in raising a glass to Russell Teale, for the past 15 years and for the next chapter ahead.