Kevin’s Activ role celebrated

One million bottles of Pure Wine Drops, a Dunsborough-based business, have been bottled by Activ South West.

On December 20, a surprise celebration was held at Activ’s industrial premise for supported worker, Kevin Donnelly, who has been on the bottling machine since day one of production.

Prior to the arrangement with Pure Wine Drops, Activ’s operations in Busselton were in danger of being moved to Bunbury.

Local support, prompted by then Vasse MLA Troy Buswell, the City of Busselton and Pure Wine Drops James and Sandra Pennington helped ensure its survival.

Mr Pennington said Kevin had played a crucial role in the success of the company

“He is always on the machine and it really has become his baby,” he said.

“Before this, he had been finding it difficult to find a role that was a suitable fit and he wasn’t overly confident.

“Now, every time I see him he is so happy, I can hear my name echoing through the workshop when  pull up with more stock – he always overestimates how much we need because he never wants to run out.”

Activ employs 1000 people with disabilities throughout WA.

In the South West roles include property care for the City of Busselton, work in the timber industry, stamping soaps and removing wine labels. 

Mayor Grant Henley and Vasse MP Libby Mettam both attended the celebration.

Mr Henley said it was fantastic to have retained the facility in Busselton and the workers role in the community was appreciated by all.

“You are some of the best workers in town,” he said.

“We see the pride you take in helping Busselton to look its best.

“We are really proud to help enable you to achieve.”

Ms Mettam, had also experienced first-hand the work ethic of the Activ team, who she employed to assist her in the lead up to the election.

“We know in the healthiest communities everyone is involved and engaged,” she said.

“You’ve been a great contribution to our local workforce and our wine industry and to making Busselton a bigger, better and more vibrant place.”