QnA with Repost’s John Cruz

John Cruz is one of our original employees here at Repost, starting back when we only had one machine and a small crew. Now as foreman, John ensures the safety of our team and the quality control of our posts. Let’s find out a little more about him.

How is the ‘24 year going for you?

So far, 2024 is not letting me down. This year gave me so many opportunities and a lot of happiness. I got the chance to see my family, finally being with them after a very long time was really rewarding. To be able to provide for them and give them a more comfortable life means a lot to me. I hope to continue to do this for many years ahead.

What drew you to Repost?

I joined the Repost team through a referral from a friend. I love working outside, and also the fact that I have worked in the vineyard before, I knew that the work at Repost was a perfect combination of the two. It is a great team here, everyone works so hard and has fun too.

What role do you play in Repost?

I work as a foreman in Repost. I train and supervise all staff and new workers to work safely with the machines such as hydraulic press, drop saw, pointer, strapping equipment and tractor. I also track the quality control of the production line. Most importantly, I always make sure the health and safety of the team is being met.

You are one of the first employees so have seen the company grow, has it changed much?

A lot. When I first entered this job, we worked with just one machine, with the help of only four labourers. Now, we have four processing machines and eleven hardworking workers. It’s very uplifting to see many enquiries from different companies finally seeing Repost and supporting the work that we do.

I feel proud to watch this company grow and be a part of the team; everyone understand why we are here and the purpose of it, so it breeds a good work environment and work ethic in the team.

You go to multiple vineyards, what feedback to you get from Wine Managers about what the Repost team does?

I don’t get the chance to talk with wine managers very often, but every time we are asked to go back and finish another work for a vineyard, I already know our team is doing our job well otherwise they wouldn’t ask us back! sometimes we see them doing tours past us and we know they must be proud to showcase what we do for there waste stockpiles by repurposing this resource for a second life cycle.

I get stopped at petrol station in our branded cars; people tells us that our work is “a brilliant idea” which makes me very proud to be part of this team/company.

What is your favourite product Repost sells and why?

The 1.8m quarter round post because it is the most in demand and sells the most. I find it really rewarding knowing they are going to farmers all around the country, every now and again Liam and Dansy show us feedback and it makes this job so rewarding to know it is making a difference to so many.

Do you prefer processing fence posts or battens?

I prefer processing the fence posts because it needs to be worked outside which I love, whereas battens require work inside a close shed.

What's a fun fact about you or Repost that people may not know?

A fun fact about me in my job here is that I’m turning 51 soon but I’m still capable of working in this type of work, heavy lifting and such, which most people don’t expect as we get older. Repost keeps me fit and healthy.

I also love playing pool and the Repost team have a basketball team, we do pretty well and its a great time outside of work; while building internal friendships we can then bring into work too.