Clinton Gentle
Longford Plants Manager
IT has been an amazing 2023 for Esso Australia as we continue to build upon new and existing relationships with our Gippsland community. Our community plays an integral part to the success of our business and it’s great that we are strengthening these relationships and giving back to the community in any way we can.
Last month, I had the opportunity of attending a recognition event held by TAFE Gippsland, thanking Esso Australia for our contribution towards their ongoing scholarships program. ExxonMobil Australia Chair, Dylan Pugh, along with TAFE Gippsland’s chief executive, Laura Macpherson, presented scholarship awards to four recipients who will now be able to pursue their studies and further develop their skills thanks to our contribution. It’s a great feeling knowing that the scholarships are going to help students with costs such as placement accommodation and course fees and ultimately allow them to attain a rewarding career.
In July, we established a new partnership with the Aboriginal Literacy Foundation (ALF), helping to fund an online distance education program based at Bairnsdale Secondary College, for 10 Aboriginal students across the Gippsland region. I had the opportunity to meet with Tony Cree, chief executive of ALF, and Adam Patmore, former member of the Bairnsdale Secondary College Council, to discuss first-hand the positive impact this program has on current and future students. We look forward to growing this program and supporting more students in the near future.
This year marks a significant milestone for Esso Australia and the Lions Club of Sale as we celebrate 50 years of partnership together. Alongside our Gippsland Basin Joint Venture partner, Woodside Energy, we have proudly supported the Lions with its annual Christmas hampers donation helping families in need since its inception in 1974. Our relationship with the Lions is the longest running association any company has had with a not-for-profit in the area, and one that we are truly proud of! We will be celebrating this remarkable occasion at our upcoming Esso Community Festival in Sale. As we move towards the end of the year, I want to wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season with your family and loved ones.
As always if you have any questions, please reach out to me via communityANZ@exxonmobil.com
