Honouring the past, building the future.
LAYING THE FOUNDATIONS
TFX celebrated our 20th year in business in 2022, and we were reminded of the history that has brought us to this milestone. Not just recent history, but the pathways forged long ago that ultimately lead to TFX as it’s known today.
While the Clark family are the modern day names associated with the business and rise of Timberfix, as it was known until 2023 ahead of changing the name to TFX, it all began in the late 19th Century, with Mr William Slattery, Great, Great Grandfather of TFX General Manager, Wayne Clark & Director Nelson Clark.
William Slattery was born in the Oberon district in 1855 and came to Lithgow in 1882. He worked at Macarthur’s sawmill at Oakey Park for 4 years. Later he became interested in a sawmill in association with Mr E Goss, eventually securing full possession of the business.
Slattery Sawmill continued for some years and then around 1921 he took in his son in law, Arthur Williams, as a partner and the mill became known as Slattery & Williams. Later it became known as Slattery & Henderson, which continued until around 1958. It was situated near where the Lithgow Workmen’s Club (the oldest registered club in NSW) is now located.
William Slattery became Treasurer of the Lithgow Workmen’s Club in 1893 and held this position until 1945. He was President of the Lithgow Hospital for 20 years and served as an alderman on the Lithgow Municipal Council for 25 years. William died in 1946 aged 90.
This fascinating image dates back to 1890, testimony to the experience TFX has in the industry. For all your hardware, fasteners & site supplies needs, you can turn to TFX with confidence, knowing that we've been around for a while, and know a thing or two.
WHO WE ARE TODAY
TFX is one of the most trusted resellers of high-quality construction and hardware supplies across Sydney and greater NSW.
Construction supplies are at the heart of our business. We are a supplier of stainless steel, galvanised and zinc fasteners, which include nuts, bolts and nails.
We also carry a wide range of adhesives, epoxy products, degreasers, masonry anchors and safety signage, all of which are designed to make construction processes faster and easier. We know the market’s demands and ensure our online construction products meet customer requirements.
TFX is a family business of 3rd generation builders who are passionate about construction
TFX understands service. Highly flexible and adaptable, our team offers excellent customer care and are more than happy to help with customers’ construction needs. We can provide advice on the most suitable construction solutions so the purchasers can make informed decisions.
We are known for our quick shipping times, making sure our customers have what they need, when they need it.
Top-quality products, great customer service and fast delivery, all at competitive rates.
We are proud to be based locally in Lithgow, with a hard-working and helpful staff who continue to drive the business forward after all these years.
WE SUPPORT AUSTRALIAN MADE
SERVICE IS THE KEY
Customer service is key to our success. This comes in many forms, whether from the live phone sales, our site visits or the industry renowned next morning express delivery service we offer daily.
Our trucks leave in the early hours of the morning, travelling to Sydney and surrounds Monday to Friday, making deliveries direct to the construction site, so construction can commence when workers arrive.
Our system allows customers to place an order up until 5pm and have those items delivered the next morning.
In this way, we help save our customers time, money and hassle by removing the need to leave their site, waste time in shops and paying retail prices for retail quantities.
We send a fleet of trucks to the metro areas daily, and have a large scale freighter for large products and bulk deliveries.
Back in the office, a team of dedicated and knowledgeable sales staff speak with customers all day on the phone, taking orders, helping with enquiries and smoothing over any issues.
We have a full staff on site to take care of every aspect of the daily running of the business, from finances, stock purchasing, order picking and packing, dispatch preparation, drivers, and a management team that oversees the whole company.
In addition to our local staff, we also employ Sydney based Sales Representatives, who visit construction sites everyday, speaking with customers, ensuring their needs are met, and bringing on board new customers to grow our sales.
While we essentially have the same goal everyday, no two days are the same at TFX, and regardless of which area you happen to work in, there is always plenty of activity and new challenges to handle, all of which we work together to bring about the best possible outcome for our customers and TFX.
Simply place your order by 5pm
& we’ll deliver direct to your site the next morning!
GETTING THE WORD OUT
In this day and age, even the most well run company needs exposure to survive and succeed. Competition is always a click away, and with that in mind, TFX is always mindful of the latest trends in terms of marketing.
At its core, marketing is the art of promotion via advertising, exposure and activity across the many mediums now afforded.
TFX maintains an active presence across social media, covering the most applicable platforms for our market (Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram and Google).
We also promote our brand via EDM (Electronic Direct Mail) blasts twice weekly, our own website, and a number of hard copy printed mediums including regualr flyers, a bi-monthly 4 page publication “DID YOU KNOW?” and our 373 page product catalogue.
TFX also uses passive advertising through our branded vehicle presence, including a wrapped Sales Representative car which is seen across Sydney daily, and our bulk freighter truck, which features a 13,7m
branded trailer curtain carrying our brand and eagle icon.
In addition, we have an extensive range of branded products, including stock, packaging and custom attire all of which promote our brand in the market daily to our core customer base.
Of all the items we use to help promote our brand, there remains one constant product that is renowned with TFX...our cookies. The famous TFX cookies are an instant association in our market and come in 2 flavours. Choc Chip Shortbread and Choc Jamz. Our customers receive a box of cookies with each sale, and are a welcome gift on site. We also have a line of lollies, which are often handed out in person by our Sales Reps during visits, as a thankyou for their time and once again, are always received with a smile.
These complimentary lines are a tremendous positive brand excercise and coupled with our excellent customer service values, help to build loyal relationships.
We brand our packaging where possible, which makes our presence on sites readily identifiable
Branded products help to engage and encourage repeat orders
The Edition 8 373 page product catalogue is our primary selling
TFX (Timberfix), is a company that is not only shaping the landscape of construction as a supplier to the Sydney construction industry, but also offers valuable opportunities for young individuals to carve out successful careers. In this breakdown, we delve into why TFX is considered as a stepping stone into the construction industry and offer advice on making a mark in this thriving sector.
A Gateway to the Construction Industry
TFX is more than just a company, it’s a gateway to the vibrant world of construction. With a reputation for excellence and a commitment to quality, as a supplier of hardware, fasteners and site supplies, TFX stands as a beacon of opportunity for those eager to contribute to the built environment. Whether your interests lie in architecture, engineering, project management, or hands-on craftsmanship, TFX offers a spectrum of roles that cater to a wide range of skills and aspirations, which represents a great steeping stone into the sector.
Guidance and Mentorship
Entering the construction industry as a school leaver can be overwhelming, but with TFX, you’re not alone. The company’s dedication to nurturing talent extends to providing guidance and mentorship to young individuals who are new to the sector. From learning the ropes of construction materials supply, to understanding industry best practices, TFX invests in your growth, ensuring that you’re well-equipped to succeed in your chosen path.
Hands-On Learning
One of the most valuable aspects of starting your career with TFX is the hands-on learning experience. The construction industry thrives on practical knowledge and skills, and TFX provides ample opportunities to work behind the scenes, being involved with the supply chian to varying scales of projectss, from residential, restoration and remediation, high rise, through to major civil, roadworks and infrastructure investments.
Diverse Range of Roles
The construction industry is a tapestry woven from various disciplines, and TFX recognizes this diversity. From carpentry and masonry to electrical work and project management, TFX offers a plethora of product ranges we supply to the industry, which cater to different sectors of the field.
Embracing Innovation
Construction is an industry that continues to evolve with technology and innovation. TFX is at the forefront of this evolution, incorporating modern techniques and tools to enhance efficiency and quality. Joining TFX means you’re not just entering a traditional field, you’re becoming part of an industry that embraces innovation and welcomes fresh ideas. A perfect fit for the creative and curious minds of school leavers.
Advice for Aspiring Construction Professionals
For Lithgow’s school leavers considering a career in construction through TFX, here are a few pieces of advice to help you thrive:
Stay Curious: Construction is a diverse field with endless opportunities to learn. Stay curious, ask questions, and take the initiative to learn new skills.
Network: Building relationships within the industry can open doors to new opportunities. Attend industry events, workshops, and connect with professionals both inside and outside of TFX.
Embrace Challenges: Construction can be challenging, but each challenge is an opportunity to grow. Embrace them with a positive attitude and a determination to overcome obstacles.
Continuous Learning: The construction industry is always evolving. Stay updated with the latest trends, techniques, and technologies to remain competitive.
Show Initiative: Don’t be afraid to take on new responsibilities and showcase your initiative. Employers value employees who are proactive and eager to contribute.
TFX stands as an excellent starting point for Lithgow’s school leavers aiming to make their mark in the construction industry. With its diverse opportunities, mentorship, hands-on experience, and commitment to innovation, TFX offers a pathway to a fulfilling and successful career in this ever-evolving field. As you embark on this exciting journey, remember to stay curious, proactive, and ready to embrace the challenges and rewards that the construction industry has to offer. Your future in construction starts with TFX.
