TONY:

I first met Peter Sitzler in the early 1980s in Alice Springs.

He and his brother Paul were well respected builders in Alice Springs, which always had a very strong community spirit.

One of my memories is of constructing the Catholic church, which still stands strong and proud today.

The financial crash of 1987 followed by the 1989 pilots’ strike were especially tough in the Territory.

In the late eighties, I approached Peter to see if he was interested in buying a 50 percent share in a construction camp in Katherine. We struck a deal and the camp was relocated to Yulara for the expansion of what was then Yulara, now known as Ayers Rock Resort. The camp was then relocated to Kings Canyon for the construction of the Kings Canyon Resort.

Peter’s death in 1992 was a huge shock to Libby and I personally, not to mention the impact for his family, our town and the business community.

Those early years laid the foundation for our long-lasting valued partnership with Sitzler over more than 40 years. We feel alignment of our cultures – people, performance and delivery of quality projects) –underpins the longevity of our relationships.

There was a recognition of the uniqueness of the Northern Territory and a shared commitment to strengthening the community in which we live, work and play.

Sitzler Bros have been renowned for construction of multi-storey buildings and major projects throughout Australia. During their history in the NT, we have been involved in supply of a variety of transportable building solutions for medical housing, defence force contracts and remote construction camps, offices and ancillary buildings. These projects have had their challenges due to client requirements and remote locations, but working collaboratively we have achieved joint success.

LIBBY:

When I reflect on my early years in Alice Springs, Peter and Paul Sitzler were like the “parents” of the town, particularly the business world, which was dynamic until the financial crash.

They welcomed and mentored our youth and great optimism.

They were exemplars on how to do business – always with a social and community conscience and being an integral part of the community.

I remember their gentle eyes and their steely determination. Their open heartedness and warm recognition meant so much to me as a bright-eyed 25 year old.

I watched with awe as young Michael navigated the giant step up and his quiet courage and commitment to uphold the Sitzler reputation and build on the success laid down by his father and uncle. TQ

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