Meatworkers ‘kick goals’ for positive multicultural relations

A major Queensland meat processing company and its employees are showing how a culturally diverse workforce can work and play together n a harmonious way.

Australian owned Teys Brothers – the second largest beef processing company in the country – will be staging its own soccer “world cup” this Sunday (8 June) when four teams representing Australia, Brazil, Vietnam and a combined African team will take part in matches at the Beenleigh football club.

The workers, their families and friends will challenge each other in two soccer finals which will see Australia take on Brazil in the major grand final (12pm) and Vietnam play Africa in the minor grand final (10am).

The migrant workers are a mix of permanent, humanitarian entrants and temporary work visas holders.

Minister for Multicultural Affairs Lindy Nelson-Carr has congratulated the company for taking a lead in fostering harmonious relations between its culturally diverse workforce.

“Teys Bros has gone to extensive efforts to ensure these workers are assisted to integrate not only into the workforce, but also in their local community,” Ms Nelson-Carr said.

“I am pleased to be presenting the inaugural Multicultural Affairs Queensland Cups to the grand final winners this weekend.

“Some might think managing a workforce with four or five cultural groups would be a challenge however Teys and its workforce are to be commended for showing it’s not only possible but an enriching thing for all of us.

“Australian workers at Teys are great role models to the rest of the community, with their welcoming, open and inclusive outlook.

“I congratulate all concerned with this event.”



Where: Beenleigh Football Club
When: Sunday 8th June
Times: Minor Grand Final Vietnam vs. Combined African side. 10am
Major Grand Final Australia vs. Brazil 12pm



MEDIA CONTACTS:
Minister Nelson-Carr’s Office: Alexia Deegan 0400 767 490, 3235 4280
Teys Bros: Shane Gee, General Manager Operations, 0438 111395