QUEENSLAND'S GERMAN CONNECTIONS - PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE

War refugee turned international master builder

The company has won many awards, including the Queensland Master Builders’ Association Award (Logan Entertainment Centre) in 2003, and in 2008 the QMBA Project of the Year Award (Mackay Whitsunday Region) for the Jilalan Locomotive Commissioning Shed and Underfloor Wheel Lathe Facility. In 2001 Walter was the first recipient of the Outstanding Achievement in the Building and Construction Industry (Brisbane Region) Award of the Queensland Master Builders’ Association. In 2010 the company expanded a subsidiary group, Sommer and Staff Mining Services, providing infrastructure in mining operations and supplying specialist equipment. Its clients include some of the largest mining companies operating in Queensland such as Rio Tinto Coal, Anglo Coal and Xstrata Coal. An alliance with Sustainable fosters design and construction based on sustainable and environmentally friendly design options. Walter receives the Order of Australia from Her Excellency Governor-General Quentin Bryce ac cvo in 2005. A company operating in such diversified areas of the state and overseas requires exceptional leadership, demands a truly ‘hands-on attitude’ and a flat company structure which delivers close management of each project including regular site visits by senior staff. This philosophy ensures that Sommer & Staff consistently receives accolades for the quality of its finished projects (whether as builder or manager), from peers within the industry, from our venture partners, and from our eminently satisfied clients. Remote area work is a challenging niche market in which Sommer & Staff has specialised since its formation. Delivering outstanding work in difficult conditions, in hard-to-reach locations, in logistically challenging places, are the types of projects which are the hallmark of Sommer and Staff. We pride ourselves on our team and we like to do business the way it suits our clients best. What can we do for you? C all us on +61 (0)7 3376 7544 or visit: sommer.com.au

Walter Sommer remains Executive Chairman of the company he founded in 1974. He has not only built up and managed a highly successful company, he has made a huge contribution to the whole Queensland building and construction industry, and has served on many industry committees. Known and respected for his honesty and integrity, he maintains his passion for training and skill development, which he regards as the key to the future of the industry. His achievements have been recognised beyond the industry in which he plays so prominent a role. In 2005 he was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) “for service to the building and construction industry through the development of industry based training programs.” In 2007 the Queensland University of Technology inducted him into its Hall of Fame with the QUT Distinguished Constructor Award. Proud family photo: Walter, Isobel and their daughters in the gardens of Yarralumla after the OAM presentation.

Sommer & Staff

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