Business partners Karla Way McPhail and Peter McPhail and Shane and Renee Jackson are avid philanthropists renowned for their business acumen. Since they started their first business together over 15 years ago, these four Central Queensland locals have built an impressive portfolio of philanthropic and business achievements, culminating in the formation of The Real Group.

Karla Way McPhail, successful Yeppoon businesswoman and CEO, is a founding partner of The Real Group and a living example of our philosophy. Whether in the workplace giving businesses and individuals the tools to prosper or out in the community supporting victims of domestic violence and other causes, Karla embodies The Real Group’s philosophy of people first, always.

In 2012, she was named a Telstra Business Woman of the Year in recognition of her business skills and extensive contribution to the community.

In addition to supporting charities financially, Karla McPhail strongly fosters corporate responsibility amongst The Real Group’s workforce. Leading by example, Karla is a tireless volunteer at many community events, often MCs fundraisers, acts as an auctioneer, speaks at schools and at forums such as the Queensland Mining Expo, Women in Mining panels and Mining Women Support Group evenings. Karla also encourages non-profit organisations to use the Coal Train facilities at zero cost.

With Karla at the helm, The Real Group fosters workplaces where people feel supported and are encouraged, in turn, to support their communities. Each of our more than 300 employees know the businesses they work for give back: it’s a part of each company’s business model and it’s something everyone we hire and work with believes in. Our staff regularly participate in fundraising activities. The culture of The Real Group means that staff are always keen to donate their time to help, whether it be on Anzac Day handing out programs, running a bake sale, or helping the Coast Guard in their training exercises.