Wimpy’s Wodonga holds an important place within the TASCO network. Being one of our largest company run sites, Wimpy’s employs in excess of 20 local staff and provides essential services such as fuel, food and convenience items to locals and travellers alike as well as providing a place for transport operators to have a break, take a shower and enjoy a good meal at a good price.
Bringing back the “Wimpy’s” name was the next logical step for this site after seeing how often the location is referred to as “Wimpy’s” or “The Old Wimpy” on social media posts. This also tied in with a refresh of the sites façade and signage which has given it a whole new look and feel. Wimpy’s continues to show outstanding growth & resilience despite many other fuel retailers entering the local market. This is testament to the entire TASCO team at this location and the great value food and convenience items on offer. Confirmation that Wimpy’s really is part of the local community.
Our Retail department have set their sights on completing several site refurbishments throughout our network, beginning last year with Ouyen Roadhouse.
Due to its location on a busy highway, Ouyen is one of our busiest sites, for both food and fuel sales. Originally a BP, then Caltex and now Ampol, Ouyen Roadhouse was in need of an uplift both internally and externally. Customers are now welcomed by a fully refurbished store that provides a comfortable dine in option, large convenience offer along with a great range of food options.
Next time you’re on the road, call in and see Leeanne, Phil & the team at Ouyen Roadhouse or check out the full gallery below..
On the 8th – 10th of October our Annual TASCO Conference was held at the Amora Riverwalk Hotel in Richmond.
Melbourne Newport Terminal The conference began with TASCO’s Ampol Business Manager, Peter Moran taking a group on a tour of the Ampol Newport Terminal. An incredible experience for our staff to get first hand knowledge of the operational aspect of fuel transport and handling, prior to drivers collecting.
At the end of the tour, staff were then shown the Newport operations hub for Ron Finemore Transport. Scott Cooper from Ron Finemore Transport introduced staff to Cameron Kempson, Operations Planner for Ron Finemore Transport Bulk Liquids Division. Cameron’s responsibility is to effectively and efficiently plan and execute deliveries to fuel customers, utilising metro and regionally based fleet and drivers. He manages, monitors and maintains fuel leaves as per customers requirements, TASCO Petroleum included. Staff were amazed at Cameron’s skill and also the technology and knowledge he has at hand.
LEGO MASTERS
On conclusion of the Newport Terminal tour, all staff assembled in the conference room at the Amora Riverwalk for a team session, TASCO’s Lego Masters.
TASCO Lego Masters was a team building activity that challenged small groups in design thinking, problem solving, iterative learning, effective planning and rapid deployment of ideas. It is was enjoyable, engaging and specifically designed to enhance our staff connections and interactions with one another. A great afternoon with some fantastic creations by staff and the winners crowned.
Day one.
The conference commenced with presentations from external guest speakers and also internal staff presentations. Speaking to the group about all things finance was Joel George & Praveen Gounder from Commonwealth Bank, Danielle Jones from William Buck presented on superannuation and Dr Tim Driscoll from the Royal Flying Doctor Services spoke to the group about supportive conversations within the workplace.
After morning tea the group session panel commenced with internal speakers Steve Rose TASCO Carriers Manager and Jason Wells TASCO Lubricants & Marketing Manager joined by external guest speakers Kevin Rodda from Ron Finemore Transport and Peter Moran from Ampol to discuss all things wholesale, TASCO business and industry related. From the group session panel, internal presentations commence with internal training tips from Wayne Hatcher on our Octane accounting system which was then followed by a presentation from guest speaker Elle Lancaster from our Acacia Employee Assistance Program, addressing the group about the services all TASCO staff have access to as members of Acacia EAP.
After lunch the group then settled in for a presentation on all things retail with our Retail Director Mark Hughes and Retail Manager Pete Jessup. To compliment the retail focus, Kosta Soldatos from New Sunrise Group presented afterwards, going through each TASCO operated site and giving further information about what New Sunrise Group is currently working on. To conclude the day, Rob Watson and Donella Corbett from Ampol presented. Rob gave an update of Ampols projects they have been working on and insights on industry related topics. Donella then presented on a hot topic for many businesses, customer service.
That evening, staff and external guests and business partners were invited to TASCO’s annual Gala Evening that is held at a surprise location each year…
Gala Evening
Welcome to Crown! At approx 6.00pm guests arrived at one of Melbournes finest venues for our Gala Evening with the event being held in the incredible Horizon room at Crown Towers. Overlooking the city of Melbourne, Horizon provided an amazing backdrop to the night that followed, with great company, site awards with thanks to Ampol combined with our TASCO staff excellence awards were presented.
Presentations During the evening we farewelled Tony Prosser and thanked him for his service to TASCO Petroleum as he now enjoys retirement. There was many fond memories and words of appreciation, while a few laughs were also shared when reminiscing on Tony’s time with TASCO Petroleum since the acquisition of Barrett Petroleum in 2013. Next up for presentations was our annual Retail Site of the Year and our Depot Site of the Year.
We would like to congratulate the following: Retail site of the Year: St Arnaud Depot of the Year First Place: Benalla Depot of the Year Second Place: Mildura Depot of the Year Third Place: Bunnaloo
Staff Awards After the site awards it was then time for our Staff Excellence awards.
The staff excellence awards being: • Service Excellence • Business Innovation • Community Engagement • HSSE Champion
We encouraged all staff to get involved and make nominations via a nomination form that was sent out. Nominations were unlimited and all awards could be applied to both retail and wholesale aspects of our business, giving all staff within our network the opportunity to be recognised.
We would like to congratulate the following winners: • HSSE Champion: Benji Seers, Benalla Depot • Business Innovation: Ronan Ban & Emma Hamence, Mildura • Service Excellence: Drew May, Albury • Community Engagement: John Carra, Mildura
Once all formalities were complete, guests enjoyed their final course while taking in the incredible atmosphere and city views. Thank you to all who attended our Gala Evening. We look forward to 2025!
New Sunrise celebrated a significant milestone with Iceworks 2024, marking its first European conference.
The conference took place on the 2nd -6th September provided a dynamic platform for industry leaders, innovators, and partners to share insights, network, and explore the convenience landscape of London.
With over 350 delegates in attendance from across Australia, the event coined the “Royal Sunrise Family Gathering,” left all delegates meaningful connections, collaborations and magical experiences that will last a lifetime.
Day One | Opening Night
New Sunrise Brand and Marketing Manager, Andrew Cardinale opened the 16th annual iceworks conference and welcomed all attendees, reinforcing the ever-present family connection growing year on year.
The conference kicked off with a vibrant welcome function that set the tone for the week ahead. During the welcome night, delegates experienced the many gathered in a stunning venue, surrounded by famous London landmarks, themed food stations, engaging games like cricket, and even relaxation stations offering massages. This fun and casual event offered the perfect start to what would be a memorable week.
Day Two
Day two began with a business session opened by Vincent Cardinale, New Sunrise Operations Manager.
His message, “Be a voice, not an echo,” set the tone for the discussions to follow. Cardinale emphasized that retailers are the heartbeat of their communities, urging them to lead with purpose and originality.
Steve Cardinale, Managing Director of New Sunrise, took the stage next to share the company’s vision for the future. He celebrated New Sunrise’s recent achievement of being named AACS Retailer of the Year for the second consecutive year and highlighted the brand’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. He also outlined New Sunrise’s goal of becoming Australia’s preferred destination to eat, drink, and… pee.
Following Steve, New Sunrise leadership team, National Merchandise Manager Joe Alessi, Brand and Marketing Manager Andrew Cardinale and Operations Manager, Vincent Cardinale outlined key initiatives focused on enhancing the shopper experience, boosting visibility, and driving future growth. Keynote speakers Ed Evan and Emma John from Pret A Manger and Nigel Simpson from Greggs provided invaluable insights into the UK’s petrol and convenience retail sector.
Their presentations offered fresh perspectives for Australian retailers to adapt to their markets, making the global exchange of ideas a pivotal highlight of the event. The day also featured retailer success stories, showcasing strategies that have ensured the longevity and growth of their businesses.
Lively Engagement with Suppliers
The afternoon brought an exciting engagement session between retail operators and suppliers, where discussions on new product development (NPD), core rollouts, and promotions took place.
With an impressive £10,000 in cash prizes up for grabs, this session was not only informative but energizing. The day concluded with a relaxing and spirited dinner at 100 Wardour Street, supported by Asahi Beverages and Bega Group. British vibes filled the air as delegates danced the night away, feeling refreshed and ready for the days ahead.
Exploring London’s Retail Scene
On Day three, delegates experienced an in-market study tour supported by Suntory Oceania, offering delegates the opportunity to visit world renowned retail locations, including corporate and independent fuel stations, grab and go food outlets, grocery stores and iconic retail landmarks such as Harrods.
The tour gave a firsthand look into the retail workings of stores in this market, providing inspiration and practical ideas that delegates could bring back to their own businesses and markets.
Snowball Awards & Gala Dinner: A Royal Finale
The conference ended on a high note with the Snowball Awards and Gala Dinner, held at the prestigious Guildhall in London, which was built in 1440. The royal-themed night was a fitting close to the “Royal Sunrise Family Gathering,” celebrating outstanding achievements across the New Sunrise network.
Congratulations to St Arnaud!!
Congratulations to St Arnaud on their BACK TO BACK Passport to Profit Champion of the year award!!
St Arnaud won in 2023 and again this year in 2024, as result of Mel and teams hardwork and dedication to our site and company!
