Brushing with the top end

Not that managing director of SAGE Sean Hersee doesn’t have the pedigree.

The fifth-generation painter son of well known Newcastle Master painter John Hersee, Sean worked two years as a sole trader before forming SAGE, which runs a team of 12 focused on high-end finish work in the residential sector.

SAGE is nominated in the Sub-Contractor of the Year category.

 “It’s the first year in the competition for us. I formed my business in 2012 and we’ve entered as part of a rebranding process that started last year  after rapidly developing a large client base,” Sean said.

“We do  a lot of high-end jobs for quality businesses so we’re hoping that a win will earn us recognition from those high-end builders and cement our reputation for quality work.”

SAGE’s entry revolves around jobs done with Ferris Building (a full townhouse interior renovation in Newcastle), Tynan Building (a beachside renovation in Merewether) and GTS Constructions (a large seven-bedroom, two-storey brand new house in classic style at New Lambton).

“You don’t necessarily think when you start a job that this might be an award winner, but if that comes down the track as a result of a commitment to quality, then that’s a bonus,” Sean said. 

“The Awards are a serious examination of your credentials. 

“Qualified people   assess the job and the finishes. It’s a full test of your people and skills and a win adds value to your reputation.”

Sean said running a team of 12 painters is very team based.

“We run it like a ship. We have a great crew and no one can back off, everyone has job to do,” he said.

Sean believes in training up to two apprentices a year so it helps build the industries great standards

“A win will help grow our brand and prove we’re the real deal. We’re aiming to be recognised as Newcastle’s No.1 residential painting team.”