Dataflex

As published in the CANBERRA TIMES: Canberra’s home-grown IT sector received a boost yesterday when local firm Dataflex opened its new $800,000 logistic and distribution centre in Fyshwick.

The 25-year-old company has a history of philanthropy towards the local region, according to University of Canberra Chancellor John Mackay, prompting him to accept an invitation to open the new centre. ”The reasons I accepted to do this today is I’m very committed to the local community and Dataflex, for its size, punches well above its weight when it comes to giving back,” Mr Mackay said.

”[Dataflex managing director] Brian [Evans] was doorknocked by some surf lifesaving kids to raise money for their club in Broulee.

”Brian said, ‘Well, you don’t need to knock on too many more doors, because I’m going to buy you the boat.”’

Mr Evans said he founded the company about 25 years ago on a $30,000 loan from his mother-in-law. Since then it has grown to employ more than 30 people and boasts among its clients the Department of Defence and NSW Police.

Describing himself as a ”socialist capitalist,” Mr Evans said his relationship with Canberra dates back to 1969.

After he left the public service IT sector in 1982, Mr Evans established Dataflex and has since used the profits to notch up an impressive list of philanthropic projects, including support of CareFlight, Mission Australia, Starlight Children’s Foundation and the Sydney Children’s Hospital.