More than 40 suppliers set up at trade day and charity auction

by Josie Dawson & Gen Maunder

It was a bustling week for JA Smith Solutions, from their much-anticipated Trade Day and Charity Auction to having a new pair of hands-on deck.

Crowds of fluoro shirts and safety wear flocked to The Crossing Theatre Riverside Room on Thursday, November 20, for the 2025 JA Smith Solutions Trade Show.

With over 40 trade suppliers representing 25 brands, set up at their stalls at the trade show, which wrapped around the room and out onto the balcony.

Networking, business and connectivity is what it was all about and managing director Justin Smith couldn’t agree more.

“It was a place to bring various industry end-user customers together to meet the people behind the brands that we back so proudly,” Justin said.

“Safety was a key message, as we all need to come home from work.”

After the action-packed week, I think it’s clear that Justin and the crew might need to hand the ropes over for a bit while in recovery as they recently have welcomed Harry.

Sixteen-year-old Harry Sky is a high school student from Tamworth, who came to Narrabri to complete his week of work experience at JA Smith Solutions.

“I was drawn to JA Smith Solutions because of the family connections between myself and the business and the type of work I could experience,” Harry said.

As well as enjoying the customer service, Harry is also interested in the industrial side of things, as he is studying Design and Technology at school.

“It is interesting seeing all the different suppliers that Justin has in store and the large variety of tools, machinery, appliances and accessories to choose from.

“Narrabri is a very friendly town, and I always enjoy it when I come back here from time to time.

“I’ll be working here for the week and I’m excited to see more of what JA Smith has to offer and teach me while I’m on placement.

“The team have all been really friendly and welcoming while I’m navigating myself to this new work environment away from school,” Harry said.

Justin Smith said he is happy to have Harry come join the team.

“We love the keen energy young people bring to the warehouse, as well as their clever technology smarts,” Justin said.

“It’s great to see them wanting to experience what we think is an advancing, sustainable, and exciting career choice.

“Hopefully Harry can go home from this week here with broad understanding on warehousing practices, customer service, presentation and marketing ideals.”