Chatting to the Magnet at his gym, the Eden Gym & Squash owner and personal trainer’s eyes light up as he explains his approach to business - an approach that has seen him nominated for 'best customer service by an individual', for the 2014 Excellence in Eden Business Awards.

The man known to many as ‘Patty’ is no ordinary business owner – for him, this line of work is about much more.

“Customer service is very important, but to me, the big thing is the ability to build a strong rapport with customers and to see their goals and targets met,” he said.

“Customer service is ongoing, particularly in my industry – it’s not just a brief thing that happens over the counter.

“Having people look forward to each visit is a great motivation for me – 80 per cent of what I do is about encouraging people to come here and make them feel comfortable.

“It’s the most uplifting thing to see someone realise that they can be the person they want to be – you see that flame being lit and it’s just wonderful motivation for me.”

Patrick has been in Eden for five years, having come to the town via Hamilton Island and a 20-year stint in Brisbane.

He also works as a personal trainer, and says Eden has come a long way since 2009.

“When I got here, quite a few people weren’t sure what a personal trainer was, or what a personal trainer could do for them,” he said.

“But once people worked out my intention to try and improve the health and fitness of the town, I’ve been pretty well accepted.

“We have a terrible obesity rate in Australia, so for me it’s not about money.

“I’m a health and fitness professional, and I think that to call yourself that, your motivation has to be getting people up and moving.”

Patrick’s reach extends far beyond the variety of workout activities and squash competitions on offer in his gym.

He organises the annual fun run for cancer, helps physiotherapy patients with their rehabilitation, and works with the local schools and Campbell Page to improve young peoples’ health and fitness.

Until the South East Women and Children’s Services (SEWACS) disbanded in Eden, he also offered his gym to at-risk women, free of charge.

“I do put in a fair bit of time without asking for any money – I think if I didn’t do that I wouldn’t be a health and fitness professional,” he said.

“People sometimes look at me and say, ‘Patty, you’re crazy – you’re never going to make any money.

“But for me, it’s not about money – if I get more people up and moving, I’m sure I will make more money, but I don’t care if they don’t come to the gym, just as long as they’re being healthy and active in some way.”

Nominations for all six categories close on Monday, November 17 at 5pm, ahead of the black tie gala presentation night at Jigamy Farm on Saturday, December 6.

Download a nomination form by clicking here, or pick one up from the Magnet office or a local business.

All forms must be returned to the Magnet prior to the closing date.