From humble beginnings to a leading security provider, Reef Security Whitsundays has built a strong reputation based on trust, teamwork and genuine care for both clients and crew.
The business was founded by Tom Rimene and Andrew Sheedy, who recognised a clear need for something better in the local security industry. “I saw a clear gap in the market, and I started up the business,” he says.
What began with Tom and Andrew as a solo team soon had to grow due to contract obligations. “We hired three more, and then we actually got a break from another company asking if we could supply guards and said, ‘Yes, we can.’ We had 72 hours to find 15 guards!”
Reef Security is now overseen by two owners, Tom himself and Andrew, and supports up to 65 regular staff, with numbers reaching 120 when including casual and on-call guards. The team provides security for venues, private functions, outdoor entertainment, gaming and more. “We are fitted out with four-wheel drives; we can go deep into the bush if needed. No pitch too big, no jobs too small.”
Tom says some of the most memorable moments in his career have come from proving people wrong. “The most memorable moments for me are when we can fulfill big jobs when doubted.”
While names are kept confidential, Reef Security has provided services for some very high-profile clients. “Look, I won’t mention any celebrities, obviously, because of privacy and confidentiality, but we’ve worked for some very big names from the States.”
“We’ve done security on Daydream Island for Jimmy Barnes and Diesel, for example.”
Andrew is a qualified trainer and assessor, which allows the business to offer in-house certification. “We can actually put people through their first aid licenses, as well as their security licenses,” Tom explained.
When asked what makes his team different, Tom says, “We work as a brother-sisterhood. We don’t work individually. We work as a big team… we’re all family.”
On the topic of conflict resolution, Tom explains, “Protocols that we have to take... obviously you’ve got to talk to people nicely. If that doesn’t work, then you call for backup… everything just refers to QPS.”
Technology also sets Reef Security apart. “We’re the only company in the area that uses QR codes for digital reporting and rostering etc.”
“Companies can also access their own portal through this, so they can see their day-to-day guards on a regular basis.”
And why should people book with Reef Security? “We’re an honest company. We’re compliant. The communication is obviously the best all-around and we are reliable.”
At the end of the day, Tom says it best: “Security… it’s not about being big, buff, muscly, or strong. It is about being welcoming. Greeting people is an important one. That’s part of the full training that we do. Customer service is huge for us.”
https://reefsecurity.com.au/