Tammy O’Connor- KingKira Group
Tammy O'Connor is the founder of KingKira Group Pty Ltd, a Western Australia-based company specializing in industrial services, equipment hires, and innovative solutions for the mining and resources sector across the Pilbara region. Her inspiring journey and the achievements of her business, which emphasizes sustainable practices and supports the Aboriginal community, have earned her spot as a finalist for the 34th Annual Indigenous in Business Award.
Q: What inspired Tammy O'Connor to start KingKira Group?
A: Tammy was inspired to start KingKira Group to provide for her family and support her community. Having worked in various roles within the mining industry for many years, Tammy leveraged her extensive knowledge and experience to establish a business that could offer long-term benefits to her daughters and contribute positively to the Aboriginal community.
Q: How did KingKira Group initially overcome financial and industry challenges?
A: In the early stages, KingKira Group faced significant financial challenges, including difficulties in securing loans due to a lack of initial capital. The skepticism and doubts from industry peers, particularly about the viability of an Aboriginal business in a competitive sector, posed additional hurdles. However, Tammy's determination and strategic partnerships, such as the joint venture with ToxFree (Now Cleanway), helped overcome these obstacles. This partnership was crucial in establishing the credibility and operational foundation necessary for the company's future growth.
Q: What services does KingKira Group specialize in, and what makes them innovative?
A: KingKira Group specializes in a variety of services tailored to the mining and resources sector, including industrial services, equipment hire, labour hire, maintenance, and the innovative KingKira Booms. The company's innovation is best exemplified by the KingKira Booms, a robotic technology adaptation of the concrete placing boom, which has revolutionized the way shutdowns are prepared in the mining industry. This technology not only enhances efficiency but also significantly reduces the risks associated with manual labour in hazardous environments.
Q: What strategic goals does KingKira Group have for the future?
A: KingKira Group's strategic goals for the future are ambitious and centred on becoming the leading Aboriginal contractor in integrated site services. With plans to dominate the environmental services market in the Pilbara by 2027, the company aims to expand its services nationally. Key strategies include strengthening existing business lines, expanding into new service areas like Booms and Environmental Services, and fostering strong partnerships with major mining companies. This growth strategy is underpinned by a commitment to sustainability, community engagement, and innovation.
Tammy pictured with Joseph Assaf AO, Founder and Chairman of the EBA
Tammy pictured with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese
