Background
Operations in the area are prone to both heavy wet seasons and extended droughts. Prior to the Hawkins becoming a client in 2019 they had been on the receiving end of adverse weather conditions in the form of an extended multi season drought followed by a monsoon. The result of these events was the loss of cattle and production capacity, inhibiting the family from doing what they do best, producing quality Australian beef.
Forvis Mazars and the Hawkins Family
Given their challenging circumstances, Charlie and Jackie Hawkins were referred to Owen Dingle and the Financial Advisory team at Forvis Mazars. The initial goal being to assist in gaining the funding required to rebuild the operation. Initial conversations with local consultants had left the family doubtful that they would be eligible for either of the government supported RIC and QRIDA loans. Achieving the funding required did not come without its challenges with a complex security structure and the need for multiple parties to work collaboratively.
The process included:
- Meetings with the incumbent bank, QRIDA and RIC;
- Preparation of specialist financial models;
- Creation of business strategy, involving a negotiated three-way partnership between the incumbent bank, QRIDA and RIC;
- Settlement process;
- Post deal, ongoing reporting
Throughout the process the Hawkins further engaged Forvis Mazars to assist with their accounting and tax needs. The major drawcard for the Hawkins when choosing a firm was the breadth of accounting expertise, with services including business advisory, superannuation, tax, outsourcing services and human resources consulting. The Hawkins benefit from regular preparation of management reports, budget to actual variance reporting, forecasting and monthly face to face meetings.
Having been in business for over 50 years, the family’s legacy rests in the hands of Charlie and Jackie’s three sons, Bill, Clint, and Dan, and their families. Forvis Mazars looks forward to continuing to support the Hawkins family towards a prosperous and expansive future.
Charlie Hawkins
Owner, HC Pastoral Company
The team at Forvis Mazars have been a real partner for our business. Their knowledge of the finance market in both conventional Banking and Government Support agencies meant that the path to success was achieved through perseverance and guidance. The accounting and tax support from Tim Mouritz and Donavin Van Rooyen means that Jackie has been able to step back from the books and our financials are now completed in the first half of the financial year. With the support of Forvis Mazars we’re always on top of our financial position which is invaluable for our family, business and financiers. Now we have the financial platform set to continue to grow our business for the next generation.
