What Being a Family Business Means to Us
Recently, Contemporary Catering was honoured to receive the Australia and New Zealand National Family Business Award for 2026.
While we're incredibly proud of the recognition, the award also gave us an opportunity to reflect on what being a family business really means, not just to us, but to the people we work alongside every day.
For more than 30 years, we've had the privilege of preparing meals for residents and guests across aged care and hospitality. Over that time, our business has grown, but the values we were founded on haven't changed.
Being family owned isn't simply part of our history, it's something that shapes the way we make decisions, support our team and build relationships with our clients.
It's About Relationships
One of the things we're most grateful for is the long-standing relationships we've built over the years.
Many of our clients have partnered with us for years, and many of our team members have been part of the Contemporary Catering family for just as long. Those relationships have been built on trust, open communication and a shared commitment to providing the best possible dining experience.
We believe the best partnerships come from listening, understanding what matters most and working together over the long term.
We Never Stop Learning
Thirty-three years in hospitality has taught us a great deal, but it has also taught us that there is always more to learn.
The food service industry continues to evolve, particularly in aged care, and we're committed to evolving with it. Whether that's improving nutrition, embracing new technology or finding better ways to support our clients, we're always looking for opportunities to improve while staying true to the values that have guided us from the beginning.
Every Meal Matters
Food plays an important role in people's lives, particularly in aged care.
A meal can provide comfort, create conversation, bring back memories or simply brighten someone's day. It's something we never take for granted.
Our team understands that behind every plate is a person, and that perspective influences everything we do from menu planning and food preparation through to service delivery.
Proud of Where We've Come From
Receiving the Family Business Award is something we're incredibly thankful for, but it's also a recognition that belongs to many people.
It belongs to our dedicated team, whose passion and professionalism are at the heart of our business every day.
It belongs to our clients, who continue to place their trust in us.
And it belongs to the family values that have shaped Contemporary Catering from the very beginning.
Looking Ahead
As we look to the future, our mission remains the same as it was more than three decades ago - Great food, prepared to high standards, by people who care.
We're proud to be a family business, and even more grateful for the people who have allowed us to remain one.
“For us, this business has always been about people. Every meal we serve and every partnership we build reflects our family values. We’re proud to stand alongside our clients as more than a provider, but as a trusted part of their team.”
Neil and Steven Shankly - Contemporary Catering
If you’re looking for a catering partner that feels more like an extension of your team, and less like a vendor we’d love to talk.