A legacy of dedication and growth

The fledgling business, known as Nalinga Steel & Roofing Supplies, quickly outgrew its modest start and by 1992, Kevin had secured a corner site previously occupied by a service station, marking the beginning of an era for the business at its current location.

“It was either expand or stop,” Kevin said.

“People always said to us, ‘What are you doing out there? You’re in the middle of nowhere.’ And I’d say, ‘We’re in the middle of everywhere’.”

This sentiment became the backbone of Nalinga Steel's operations, which serve an area within a 300-400 km radius.

The first warehouse was built in 1992, with expansions following soon after to accommodate the company’s growth.

By the early 2000s, Nalinga Steel had invested in heavy-duty machinery, including a large capacity saw and plasma cutter, to meet increasing demand.

“At the time, I thought if we could get that saw working one day a week, I’d be happy,” Kevin said.

“But it was working five days a week from the moment it was installed and hasn’t stopped since.”

This investment allowed Nalinga Steel to take on significant projects, such as a job requiring over 700 tonnes of material, delivered over several years.

These advancements solidified the company’s reputation for quality and reliability.

Kevin credits the company’s success to its dedicated team and loyal customers.

“Everyone we’ve ever dealt with has become a permanent customer,” he said.

“There’s a way of treating people that creates long-term relationships.

“We pride ourselves on good old-fashioned service here, and we like to make things as easy as possible for people.”

The close-knit culture extends to the staff, many of whom have been with the company for decades.

One notable team member, Chris Payne-Croston, has been part of the business since the mid-1990s, today, he manages the business.

Another employee, Terry Boston, Kevin has known personally for many years.

“We are like a big family,” Kevin said.

“Their experienced staff who focus on long-term business relationships and I am really proud of them all.

“Some of our customers are part of that family too.”

Nalinga Steel’s customers, some of whom have been clients for 40 years, are often invited to the company’s Christmas celebrations, further reinforcing the sense of community.

Over the years, the business has faced its share of challenges, including major floods in 1993 and subsequent years.

The office was rebuilt on higher ground to mitigate future risks, demonstrating Kevin’s resilience and foresight.

More recently, COVID-19 brought unexpected growth, and despite this boom, Kevin remained steadfast in his retirement, confident in the capable hands of his team.

Kevin retired around 10 years ago, marking the end of an era for the man who had dedicated nearly five decades to the steel industry.

Now, he spends his time pursuing other passions, including beekeeping — a hobby he’s maintained for nearly as long as his career in steel.

Reflecting on his journey, Kevin emphasised the importance of perseverance and believing in oneself.

“People said it couldn’t be done 40 years ago. But we backed ourselves, and it worked,” he said.

“We didn’t just build a business; we built a reputation, and that’s something no-one can take away.”

As Nalinga Steel celebrates 40 years, it stands as a testament to hard work, vision, and the enduring relationships that have made it a cornerstone of the community.

The company’s legacy is not just in steel and roofing supplies but in the trust it has earned with it’s customers over four decades.

“None of it would have been possible without the incredible support of our staff, customers and the community,” Kevin said.

“I can’t thank everyone enough for being part of our story.”