Steve Kulmar – Retail Oasis

What’s your favourite place on the Northern Beaches?
North Steyne, nicest part of the beach.

Is there something about you that would surprise people?
I am a long time practiser of yoga.

What’s something everyone should do at least once?
Complete a long distance walk.

It’s Sunday afternoon, where do we find you?
In Manly, somewhere.

If you were down to your last $50 what would you spend it on?
A really nice glass of wine.

Business

How did Retail Oasis happen?  How long have you been operating?
I created Idea Works almost 28 years ago, a retail marketing agency. Retail Oasis was then established and is now 14 years old.

Best business experience?
I consulted Myer for 12 months internally, successfully developing and implementing strategies designed to improve their business.

If you weren’t doing this, what would you be doing?
Farming Olives.

Best part of your job or most enjoyable part of your job?
Interacting with clients.

Most stressful part of your job?
Consulting in early Covid was challenging.

What’s the best part of working on the Northern Beaches?
Walking to work. I live at one end of the beach and I work at the other end. I’ve got the best of both worlds.

Personal

What would you rate 10/10?
Walking down Manly Beach in the morning.

What is the best advice you’ve received?
If you can’t make a decision, don’t feel as though you have to.

Greatest strength?
Persistence

Greatest weakness?
Taking on too much.

Does anything scare you?
I have raced 18 Sydney to Hobarts. In 1998 our yacht capsized during the night. It was definitely one of the scariest moments of my life.

What’s your most treasured possession?
John Firth-Smith painting at home.

What’s your idea of absolute happiness?
Living between Manly and The Hunter Valley.

Which two famous people would you choose to be stuck in a lift with?
Pablo Picasso & Orson Wells

How do you switch off?
Walking, yoga, swimming.

What’s your guilty pleasure?
Enjoying fine wine.

Who’s your personal hero?
My wife Libby.

If you were an animal, what would you be?
A leopard.

How would you like to be remembered?
A thoughtful and considered husband.

If we could ask you one more question, what would it be and what’s your answer?
Do you have political interests? I am a big believer in the Independents.