Hay’s own irrigation experts Crightons Rural Engineering celebrates its third generation of family workers
With more than 40 specialised years in building, maintaining and supporting irrigation systems, the practice of Crightons Rural Engineering has aged like fine wine.
The business was founded by Frank and Rhonda Crighton in 1982, with Frank’s mechanically gifted mind and gentlemanly nature, combined with Rhonda’s drive, decision-making and ambitious energy helping Crightons to grow into the reliable company it is today.
In the face of emerging El Niño conditions in the early 2000s, Crightons sought out municipal, horticultural and commercial works, surviving the drought and growing the business against all odds. Now well into the 2020’s, Crightons has not only survived, but grown with the times. Frank and Rhonda’s children now stand beside him to keep the dream of a family business for the people alive.
“Work is Frank’s happy place and purpose; you can’t wipe the smile and pride off his face each day when he consistently turns up to work,” Frank and Rhonda’s daughter Keryl Crighton says.
“Frank always guided staff to get the best out of themselves, loved sharing his knowledge while giving them space to grow and learn in an encouraging environment.”
“He allowed people to build their confidence without judgement. Mistakes were always looked at as an opportunity to learn.”
With Frank’s son Jasen now managing Crightons, the NSW-based business has grown from two people working out of
a 100 square metre shed, to 31 members with a new 3,500 square metre facility and a 600 square metre office complex.
“As a result of Frank and Rhonda’s small, humble beginnings, Jasen has taken the business from four people to 31 and still moving,” Keryl says.
“Crightons has now become a major player in the irrigation industry Australia-wide. Jasen had the key, he had the perfect balance, belief, and vision. He analysed and worked hard to build a business with ethics, purpose, and real grit.”
“We really do it for the people.”
As organic development continued to thrive, Crighton’s management team has started to look towards scalability and its need to restructure as a result of continuous growth.
It was at this time that the third generation of the Crighton family became a part of the business, with Toby and Jock joining the team full-time and Hughie commencing a school-based apprentice- ship.
With Frank 89 years young, his passion for both his family and the business is written across the proud smile he greets life with.
“Relationships are the key in all aspects of life and business. Jasen has that gift, which he is now passing down to his children who are now learning and growing within the business,” Keryl says.
And what would a young man be without his toys – “Frank loves operating his 2.2.T digger,” Keryl adds with a satisfied smirk. “It’s his pride and joy!”