Husband and wife team Donna and Mark Collis are part of the foundation at GMA. Known by all across the Port Gregory mine site, Mid-West region, and global GMA community, the pair have been family to those at work for almost half a century combined.

For Mark, his start at GMA was only intended to be a short one.

“Martin Taylor originally had three months' work for me when I started at GMA, on the floor as a Plant Hand,” Mark said.

As it turns out, Mark has celebrated his 20th year with GMA, working his way up to a Plant Leading Hand in a dedicated team of nine.

As Donna celebrated her 25-year milestone with GMA this year, CEO Grant Cox paid tribute to the many contributions she has made in every facet of the operation over the years.

"Donna embodies the company’s values in all aspects of her role,” he told guests at her celebration.

As supervisor of the Mid-West administration team, Donna credited her “amazing” staff for their support and their dedication to ensuring the smooth function of both sites over the years.

“Being part of the GMA family for 25 years, I’ve built so many lifelong friendships and feel lucky to have worked – and are still working with – so many wonderful people,” Donna said.

As the pair reminisced on their most memorable moment at GMA, Mark said “there are too many to mention, but mainly the great friendships that I have formed over the years.”

When Donna and Mark are not at work, they both enjoy spending their time with their grandkids and taking trips away in their caravan with good friends.

“We are both extremely grateful to GMA for the longevity of working life it has given us,” Donna concluded. “It has allowed us to meet and work with some wonderful people and enjoy the beautiful coastal lifestyle that we both love.”