A visit to the Fantech factory in Melbourne as a 17 year old remains a career highlight for Rhys Bennett. “Fantech founders Jack Pirie and Glen Harries were my hosts and I was blown away that two directors would spend time showing a junior from one of their agencies around,” Rhys said.

At the time Rhys was a trainee storeman with Douglas and Fraser, an engineering supply company and the Tasmanian agents for Fantech. That early meeting had a profound effect on the youngster and was the beginning of a 25 year relationship with Fantech.

In 2001 Rhys decided it was time for a change and formed his own company, Major Air, and it was no surprise that Fantech followed. Under his direction the company moved from Youngtown to South Launceston and established a Hobart office by purchasing Pacific Fans in February 2011. “We now have six staff and offer a statewide service specialising in the supply of dust and fume control equipment, ventilation and filtration,” Rhys said.

“I have enjoyed the long term relationship with Fantech who are always striving to do things better and provide high quality, high performance products.“