Gerrbik Laundry Services stands as a beacon of community-focused entrepreneurship, proudly holding the title of Australia’s first Indigenous-owned commercial laundry.
Established in 1979 by Robert Stewart and later acquired by his daughter Nicole Stewart a decade ago, Gerrbik has evolved into a powerhouse of cleanliness and efficiency, servicing major global clients including Qantas, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, and United Airlines. With operations spanning three state-of-the-art facilities in Tullamarine, Melbourne, Gerrbik Laundry is a leader in the industry, cleaning millions of items each year with impeccable precision and reliability.
Nicole Stewart: Visionary Leadership and Community Impact
At the heart of Gerrbik’s success is Nicole Stewart, whose visionary leadership and unwavering commitment have redefined the company’s impact on both the industry and the community. Nicole took the reins of the family business with a clear mission: to not only continue the legacy of excellence established by her father but to also infuse it with her own values of inclusivity and social responsibility. Under her stewardship, Gerrbik has transformed into more than just a commercial laundry service; it has become a catalyst for change and empowerment.
Nicole’s approach to leadership is deeply rooted in creating opportunities for others. She has built a supportive work environment that offers flexible employment opportunities, particularly benefiting women and those with varying skill levels. Nicole’s dedication to fostering diversity is evident in Gerrbik’s workforce, where a significant percentage of employees are women and 10% identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander. Her personal commitment extends beyond business operations; Nicole actively supports community initiatives by donating a portion of profits and products to organizations such as Djirra, which provides vital support to Indigenous women and children affected by family violence in Melbourne.
Enhancing Sustainability
Nicole Stewart’s vision for sustainability is equally impactful. Gerrbik’s proactive approach to environmental stewardship includes repurposing and redistributing redundant stock, such as first-class airline blankets, to homeless shelters and other charitable organisations. This initiative not only addresses immediate needs but also helps reduce waste, contributing to a more sustainable and responsible approach to business.
Nicole’s role extends beyond her company; she is also a mentor to other aspiring entrepreneurs, sharing her expertise and encouraging the next generation of business leaders. FAC’s investment not only supports Gerrbik Laundry’s growth but also aligns with Nicole’s broader mission to create lasting change and empower others.
Strategic Growth and Support
In March 2024, FAC’s Investment Committee recognized the transformative potential of Nicole Stewart’s leadership and approved financing for new commercial laundry equipment. This support will enable the company to acquire state-of-the-art equipment, enhancing operational efficiency and scalability. With this support, we expect to see another 30 or more years from Gerrbik’s impressive business success to continue to provide the essential services this business provides for people and corporations.
Watch our interview with Gerrbik below or to learn more about their its business activities, visit their website: Home – Gerrbik Laundry
