Brenden, Amy, Maryanne, Sarah and Ken.
The McKay family began their Harden Bearing Service in Murrumburrah in what was Bob Smith Engineering Works in July 1995. Entering their 25th year in business in what has been their Harden premises has seen expansion whilst maintaining the family influence.
Ken McKay with roots to the historical aspects of Murrumburrah had much variety in his formative years. After a stint of hay carting Ken did a 4 year apprenticeship which set him up well for his future endeavours. After working at Ron Reid’s garage, truck driving, farm work as well as time with Fearnes as a mechanic it could be said that the staff at Harden Bearings and Hardware have a good understanding of all things rural, mechanical, building etc.
In 1995 Ken and Maryanne McKay found the winning formula after they bought Harden Engineering from Bob Smith in Murrumburrah. After extensive renovations to the building, which was originally used to build horse-drawn coaches and sulkies, the family opened Harden Bearing Service. Brenden, after studying, would help in the holidays before he joined the team seven years later in 2002. Within a decade the company was looking to expand, and made an offer for Murrumburrah Rural in Station Street.
In 2006 Harden Bearing Service moved to its current site, with all three children Brenden, Sarah, Amy and son-in-law Steven working at the shop. The benefit for the family was having five grandchildren around as they are very family-oriented.
After the move to Harden the staff increased to 5 and they now employ 7 including the timber supplies and the mechanical area.
Their motto of “One call gets it all” still applies and they are particularly grateful for the support of the twin towns and they value their clients tremendously. Brenden says that they have enjoyed building relationships with clients and will continue to strive for continued personal service.
The McKays have contributed much to the twin towns over the years and we congratulate them on their achievements.
