Paul Fabris - North West Hose and Fittings P/L (VIC)

From the outset, I wanted to be a police officer, but I soon realised that being on the tools was my true path.

I began my working life at a hire company as an apprentice Fitter and Turner, later moving into a maintenance fitter role in the workshop. I stayed there for 11.5 years, working on a wide variety of machinery. That experience shaped the way I approach work today  the company had a strong work ethic, and it became a big part of my development. Eventually, the business was purchased by a multinational organisation, and the culture changed. Suddenly, you were just a number.

During my time there, Steelbro Australia  a Hydraulink Distributor  often used the hire company for work. One day, they mentioned they were looking for fitters. In 1994, I left the hire company and joined Steelbro Australia in the fluid power department.

After six months, I was asked if I’d consider moving into the hose and fittings side of the business. At first, I wasn’t keen  I imagined fixing punctures all day  but after learning more about the broader responsibilities, including sales, I agreed to try it for six months. If it didn’t suit me, I could return to my previous role. I never went back.

In 1996, Steelbro asked if I’d be interested in buying their mobile side of the business. After discussing it with my accountant and my customers, who all said they’d continue to support me, I agreed. That was the beginning of North West Hose and Fittings P/L, and Steelbro Australia became my supplier.

In about 2000, Steelbro sold the wholesale side of the business, and Hydraulink Melbourne became my primary supplier. Later, Hydraulink NZ purchased Aus Power in Sydney, improving their footprint and stock availability in Australia. In 2016, Hydraulink Australia acquired

Hydraulink Melbourne, and through that transition, they inherited North West Hose and Fittings P/L as a customer. Hydraulink has continued to grow in Melbourne ever since.

Hydraulink feels like a family  from Noel and Lee right down through the organisation. At conferences, you’ll always find the leadership team genuinely engaging with partners and customers. They make time for everyone.

My business philosophy is simple: no nonsense, be honest, and treat customers the way you want to be treated. That approach has earned me loyal customers  many of whom have been with me since day one, more than 25 years ago.

For a one-man operation, I’m proud of what I’ve built. Every day is different, every location is different, and along the way I’ve made many lifelong friends. Sharing information, talking with peers, and helping one another goes a long way in this industry.

I’ve also been fortunate to have a very understanding wife by my side throughout this journey. Being on call 24/7 for 30 years isn’t easy, and her support has meant everything.

Also, my beautiful wife Lynette has been my wing woman through it all.