How We Got Here
The Family Story
In 1990, our journey began when our father noticed the need for better playgrounds during a drive in Brisbane. This sparked the inception of Megatoy.
We relocated Megatoy, along with the family, to Bundaberg in late 1993 and went on to become the leading playground supplier in Australia. We sold to Councils, Schools and Major fast food chains nationally such as McDonalds and Hungry Jacks until it was sold to the global playground company, Kompan, in 2008.
In the meantime, I was given the opportunity in 2006 to take a very small section of the outdoor furniture items from Megatoy (a table setting, a park seat and a Bench) to see if this could be a venture of its own. Shortly after starting out my brother Harvey jumped on board to handle the production and packing of the orders, and our sisters came along once they completed their schooling to help the sales and admin. It would be fair to say we had a lot of energy but not much know how. We started ringing schools, growing our data base, and designing new products along the way to break into the Council market.
Over the years, following a couple of name changes and rebrands we have become what is now GX Outdoors. From starting with the endtrails of Megatoy, GX Outdoors now serves Councils and Architects all over Australia and have become industry leading experts on park infrastructure.
Martin Rowland, Managing Director GX Outdoors
Meet Our Leadership Team
Expect More Agility
Behind our innovative products and exceptional service, there’s a passionate team driving our vision.
MANAGING DIRECTOR
Martin Rowland
MANAGING DIRECTOR
Martin Rowland
Martin Rowland founded GX Outdoors in 2006 and has managed various roles within the company since. He has 18 years of experience in the open space industry, with a proven track record of leading large complex projects such as the commercial playground division for Hungry Jacks in his previous role at Megatoy as design manager.
Martin is currently the Managing Director, working closely with the leadership team to monitor company performance, delivering strategic guidance, and driving organisational change. He has been instrumental in positioning GX Outdoors as leaders in the parks and open space sector.
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Michael McManus
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CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Michael McManus
Michael McManus has worked with Grillex since 2018 as the Chief Financial Officer. His key responsibilities at Grillex involve financial analysis and reporting, forecasting, planning and budgeting, as well as identifying, predicting and mitigating financial risks for the company.
His previous work has taken him to Melbourne and Hong Kong in various roles such as operations manager and CFO in the alternative investment industry.
HEAD OF FINANCE & ADMIN
Sharon Munro
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HEAD OF FINANCE & ADMIN
Sharon Munro
Sharon Munro has over 21 years of experience in Administration and Accounting, with 6 of those years at Grillex in the role of Executive Assistant. She has worked in a wide range of fields, including agricultural, engineering and transport.
As an Executive Assistant at Grillex, Sharon maintains databases and produces reporting for the leadership team while working closely with internal and external colleagues to ensure efficient workflow procedures. She has also implemented ERP and lead teams to obtain HSEQ certification.
HEAD OF MARKETING
Braden Rowland
HEAD OF MARKETING
Braden Rowland
Braden Rowland, a valued stakeholder at Grillex, contributes extensive experience to our team. Collaborating closely with leadership, he plays a pivotal role in enhancing company performance and driving strategic market growth.
Braden diligently aligns Grillex's marketing strategies with our core values, reinforcing our position as a prominent leader in the parks and open space sector
HEAD OF SALES
Matthew Richardson
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HEAD OF SALES
Matthew Richardson
Matthew Richardson joined the Grillex team in 2020 with 11 years of experience in the park infrastructure industry. His past work has given him opportunities to partner with major construction companies and international architects to deliver some of Australia’s most iconic open spaces including Barangaroo Reserve, Darling Harbour Redevelopment and Cato Square.
Matthew supports the sales team, ensuring they have the tools and skills required to hit and exceed national sales budgets and achieve GP and growth targets for the company.
HEAD OF PEOPLE & CULTURE
Marika Kelly
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HEAD OF PEOPLE & CULTURE
Marika Kelly
Marika Kelly is dedicated to fostering a positive culture and mindset within the Grillex team. As the Head of People & Culture, she empowers all members to pursue growth and excellence.
Through regular check-ins, Marika ensures individual progress, contributing to the overall motivation and cohesion of the team.
HEAD OF INNOVATION
Wesley Kirk
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HEAD OF INNOVATION
Wesley Kirk
With extensive experience in the construction industry, Wesley Kirk brings a wealth of background knowledge to his role in researching and developing new innovations for councils and architects.
As the Head of R&D at Grillex, he consistently elevates our products and services, ensuring continuous improvement and innovation.
Who We Work With
Expect More Collaboration
Australian Councils
We create high-quality, low-maintenance spaces on time and budget. Our expert team is always on hand to provide quick advice and fast delivery.
450
Architects & Builders
We customise outdoor products to your specific needs, allowing you to create beautiful, functional spaces. Our people work with you, tailoring our extensive range to achieve exceptional outcomes.
2,000
Commitment to Sustainability
An Integrated Approach
Australian Made Products
All GX Outdoors products are manufactured using materials and electrical components that are 100% Australian made – eliminating the need for foreign import and transportation.
Manufacturing & Operations
In addition to utilising renewable energy to power our premises as well as reducing our carbon footprint, GX Outdoors promotes power-saving and lean manufacturing within the business.
Sustainable Development Goals
We observe the Global Goals as the blueprint to how we can help achieve a better and more sustainable future for all. They address the global challenges we face.
Certifications & Compliance
GX Outdoors operates in accordance with Environmental and Sustainability Policies and ensures al products align with Australian standards and regulations.
Community Partnerships
Expect More Generosity
We’re proud to partner with organisations that are dedicated to improving the lives of others.
Our ambition is to create meaningful, sustainable partnerships by actively supporting initiatives that align with our company’s vision.
