Remembering Wessel Benson — he wore his crown excellently
At the beginning of 2008 I was fresh out of university and applied for an advertised vacancy at the Fish River Sun.
I went on to be appointed to a full-time position by Wessel Benson (Mr B, as he was affectionately known by his staff and colleagues).
Being hired by Mr B turned out to be so much more than just a paying job, and by joining “The Fish” team I was ushered into a chapter of my life that still stands out as one of the richest in life-lessons, with careerdefining opportunities, mentorship, incredible experiences, laughter and friendship. At face-value Mr B had a serious and intimidating demeanour, but I quickly learned that behind all of that, he also had the softest heart and a wicked sense of humour.
He had the capacity to burst into fits of belly laughter that would echo through the passages of the admin offices, and he never missed out on an opportunity to pull a prank or share a joke whenever he could.
But nothing came close to the love he had for his family.
I came to know a leader who knew exactly what he wanted, but who was willing to guide every staff member along their own unique path to realise their visions and talent.
He valued one’s input and ideas, and he granted everyone the freedom to be creative, authentic, and absolutely themselves (so long as they did everything in accordance with his high levels of excellence).
As I observed him managing different situations and the dynamics that exist in the hotel industry, he would often turn to me and say, “Heavy is the head that wears the crown”.
But that never stopped him from wearing his crown as leader of the Fish River Sun so professionally and so well. This is an example and reminder that I carry with me in all that I do.
Mr B always sought to create opportunities for staff to learn and grow, and just in watching him work one was able to absorb pearls of wisdom and see the rewards of commitment and hard work in action.
Mr B was passionate about creating an environment in which every staff member felt valued and at home (this was evident in that so many former colleagues would return often to visit him as a friend).
I recall when Mr B was the chair of the then Sunshine Coast Marketing Association, and I had the privilege of participating in his passion for sharing his expert experience and marketing ideas with all the other establishment managers.
He believed excellence in hospitality and tourism was a collaborative effort between all the key stakeholders and hospitality products in a region.
Mr B was also dedicated to the communities that we served and supported, and he believed in the importance of giving back. Many charity fundraising events, golf days, and CSI projects were born in his time.
In remembering Mr B, I reflect on the traits of a wonderful man gone too soon, a generous and sincere mentor, a leader, a nature enthusiast, a perfectionist, an activist for tourism, a family man, and a friend. RIP Mr B, and sincere condolences to the Benson family.