How to describe Rhona Walker, CEO of Solution RED? Unique! Original! Unfiltered! The divine Ms W is the sum of all parts but most importantly she been an amazing supporter of PJSE for more than 25 years and when she sits down for a coffee with Peter you just know it’s going to be interesting.
Peter: How do you take your coffee?
Rhona:
Skinny latte and my coffee day goes like this –
- 6.45am at home & 8.00am at home – both of these are decaf
- 10.00am latte and that’s the last for the day
- After 10.15am it’s a wine somewhere in the day!
Peter: Only you can say that Rhona and I know you’re not joking! How long has Solution RED been around and what is your background?
Rhona:
I’m not sure my memory goes back that far! In 1986 I started as the part time receptionist at Blackmore AV and then moved onto Staging Connections. After 6 years it was Intercity that became Gearhouse. In 2001 Solution RED was born from a group of people who lost their jobs at Gearhouse and wanted to remain together in the industry.
Peter: How did you come up with the name Solution RED?
Rhona:
Over a cask of wine and a pizza. We had to have a solution and the red was from the fire in our belly to do well. 15 years later – we are still going!
Peter: What are some of the new things happening at Solution RED at the moment?
Rhona:
Our business is like everyone’s – constantly changing. We have become more unique and streamlined compared to when we started. We work with clients where we are everything to them and we reflect their brand and style. All of our team are involved with every event and we do about 400 events a year, so it keeps us busy!
Peter: What are some of your proudest moments/highlights while being Managing Director at Solution RED?
Rhona:
There are lots. Surviving 15 years is at the top of the list most definitely! Also helping to provide the foundation and training for people who now have their own business in the industry and are doing very well – many of them started at Solution RED. My five years chairing MEA and winning many awards along the way are certainly up there too. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed all of these and many more.
Peter: Why is Melbourne such a great city to host major events?
Rhona:
Mainly because we have a can do attitude that other cities don’t. We do things as a team with all the key players coming together in the interest of what’s best for the city. I also like the way our regional areas are developing more events as that continues to show the value of events for our economy.
Peter: What is your favourite event to attend in Melbourne?
Rhona:
I’m not a real sports fan but I love the AFL Grand Final and think the build up to the Spring Racing Carnival makes this city come alive. I also enjoy many exhibitions we attract, such as the recent David Bowie one.
Peter: Who are some of your most admired Melburnians?
Rhona:
People who are able to create something out of a tragic situation are those I really admire. Rosie Batty is a wonderful example of this and I am continually amazed at what she has been able to achieve. Before we complain about so many things in our lives, we should stop and think about what she, and others, have had to go through.
Peter: Would you queue to get into a top Melbourne restaurant?
Rhona:
No, I don’t queue so they will just have to survive without me!
Peter: What are your favourite restaurants?
Rhona:
I can’t separate Mr Piccolo in Kensington and La Luna in Carlton. Besides the great food, it’s nice to go somewhere where they say “Hi Rhona”. Somehow I think I go there a lot!
Peter: Finally, if you could be anyone for a day, who would it be and why?
Rhona:
I have admired and followed Geraldine Cox, the founder of Sunrise Cambodia, for many years. To support families as a whole in favour of institutionalizing children is the way forward. Taking the time to seek out the families of trafficked children and bring them home, supporting them by providing education and health services. Never giving up no matter how many obstacles are in the way. Oh to walk in her shoes.
Peter: I always love catching up with someone who has been around as long as me – and I must say you’re looking even better than me! Everyone at PJSE loves working with you and the team at Solution Red, so here’s to the next 25 years!!
