From Touring The Odoo Community In Australia to Building The Core of PJC, We Need to Talk...
| Ecosystem News, Community |
Written by, William McMahon - December, 30th, 2024
Well Odooers, I suppose a Happy New Year is in order. You might have noticed that in the last few weeks in the run up to Christmas, we have been a little bit quieter than usual, but there is a reason for it.
Wishing you a very purple 2025, Odooers! 💜
Nearly two years ago, we would never have expected how quickly and the vast amount of support that we obtained on LinkedIn. So firstly, a MASSIVE, thank you - but it has only pushed us further to continue building our communications. I'll be discussing a little more on this soon below, plus what we have been up to in the recent months. It's been a super exciting time for us, so we have been itching to share.
But to kick us off, I had the pleasure of going down under to Australia, reconnecting with old friends and meeting both existing and new Odoo Community members, exploring the potential for collaboration. While it was also a time to meet and hang with friends, it has been a great time to reflect on our adventure for the last years and ultimately plan on the next steps for our expansion.
And I apologise in advance, as this article might be a little longer than usual, there is well, quite a lot to cover. Even more than usual, when talking about Odoo.
Introducing The Purple Juice Co
Some of you might know me as Gravitai, others might know me from LinkedIn or us as 'Drinking The Purple Juice'. Since we started this journey, the support has been, just outstanding and we could not thank you enough.
We started this journey, with the main goal of educating the community of Odoo, to the best we could. Seeing the gap in the market, to have our viewpoint on the news which is being released and furthermore having our say on key topics and often discussions which we feel need to be further spoken about from an agnostic perspective.
With the support of the Odoo Community, we have become a force:
We Grown Huge In The Last Years
All through the support of the Odoo Community.
Monthly Readers
Yearly Impressions
Article Subscribers
Spent on Ads
And honestly, that is all down to the community and people within the wider Odoo Community who have supported us. So for those who have been on the journey with us so far, a massive thank you. For those who are just joining us. at this current point.
So what does this mean for LinkedIn and our Odoo/ERP readership and what can you expect from us in 2025?
- Increased, articles, documentation and content
- Further Odoo Community schemes
- Upcoming organised global events
- Community Writer and Ambassador pathways for PJC
- Opportunities for the Odoo Community to push products/ideas
- An agnostic hub for users, owners and Odoo buyers
- A platform for us to continue to grow
Ultimately, we aim to support the fantastic work that other organisations in the Odoo Community aim to continue to push such as The OCA, and the effort they are making to put their stance on technical governance.
For now, read more about our story to learn how we aim to support the Odoo Community and continue to push full steam ahead.
Our Story at The Purple Juice Co.
Learn more about how, we aim to put our stance on the Odoo Community and support both new and existing users to the platform.
Why Australia?
If you're expecting the usual travelogue about sandy beaches and all those touristy snapshots, this isn't that kind of story. Instead, I had the chance to revisit a place close to my heart and where my tech career began in the year 2000 across Australia. Of course, adding a little bit of purple magic into the journey and meeting Odoo.
Fresh out of school at 19, I packed my bags and embarked on a gap year filled with warm weather, entrepreneurial escapades, and the irresistible charm of Brisbane - one of the world's most liveable cities.
It wasn't just Brisbane, that I had the pleasure of re-visiting as I also ventured down to the Sydney area taking in the sites of famous landmarks and walking in the steps of those pathways which I might have been before. Source: The Purple Juice Co.
The gap year wasn't just a rite of passage - it became a launching pad for my career in web/cloud technology and for becoming a key leading expert in Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, which at that time in 2000, was rarely heard of. While others were backpacking through hostels, I was fortunate enough to work remotely even at that time and live on the Brisbane River. Immersing myself in vibrant city life and water adventures. It left an incredible mark on myself, fostering friendships and professional connections that have still lasted to this day.
Fast forward 24 years, and I found myself back in Brisbane, reconnecting with those memories, friends and colleagues. But this time, I was in a new investigative mode. Could Brisbane and Australia as a whole be the next big frontier for Odoo? Purple Juice even? What's the local appetite for Accounting Systems and ERP solutions, and how can we position the market in a much better position to make an impact? These questions drove me across the continent to find those answers.
Slip! Slop! Slap! The Essentials
First however, a little blast from the past.
If you grew up in Australia during the 80s, the iconic jingle "Slip! Slop! Slap!" is most likely etched into your mind. A cheerful seagull named Sid, dressed in board shorts, a t-shirt, and a hat, danced across television screens delivering one of the most effective public health messages in Australian history. Created by the Anti-Cancer Council of Victoria (now Cancer Council Victoria), this campaign taught Aussies how to protect their skin at a time when skin cancer rates were climbing rapidly.
It wasn't just a catchy tune; it was a marketing masterpiece. Sid's charm and the simplicity of the message didn't just educate - it resonated a lot with Australians, embedding itself into the culture and influencing the behaviour of generations. As someone with a passion for marketing, I can't help but admire the genius behind it.
The combination of a critically important message, an unforgettable delivery and a character that captured hearts is the kind of inspiration I always want to aspire to. What I am trying to say, is that I hope that this replicates back into The Purple Juice Co and also supporting Odoo in their journey to build new bridges and capture further markets.
If we can craft campaigns that resonate with audiences and drive meaningful action, even half as effectively as Sid the Seagull, then we will be happy with that impact. One day, I hope to replicate that same level of cultural resonance in our work, well minus the feathers of course.
So for a pasty-skinned Irishman like me, the advice from Sid the Seagull resonated deeply. When travelling in Australia, there's no escaping the powerful UV rays. So yes, I took the message to heart: Slip on a shirt, Slop on sunscreen and Slap on a hat.
Settling In Down Under
Upon arriving in Australia in November, I was greeted by a "mild" 38°C day. My first instinct wasn't to hit the beaches or the landmarks - it was to find a mall. Why? Nothing beats the sweet, cooling embrace of air conditioning when you are melting like a candle in the sun.
The first stop? Redbank Plaza, which is a quintessential Aussie mall and a gateway to everyday life down under. It was here that I managed to then indulge in a true slice of Australian culture. Forget the tourist traps; the real heart of Australia lies in shopping malls, to see cultural brands like BigW, Williams, The Reject Shop, Coles, Bunnings and Lowes.
As you can expect, at this stage - I was a little jet lagged to say the least. But as I said, there is nothing like cold Australian mall air conditioning. Source: The Purple Juice Co.
Sid's advice served me well, and so did the essentials I picked up that day, if you're also planning a trip to Australia, please don't underestimate the sun - and while it's both glorious, it is also relentless. Take it from me and also Sid: Slip, Slop and Slap your way across an Aussie adventure.
Unfortunately, for someone deeply invested in all things purple (you know, branding is life), I was dismayed to find that UV shirts in the purple colour were nowhere to be found. Instead, I had to settle for a bright orange colour that seemed surprisingly popular.
Less so orange here, of course - but you can see the purpose. Source: The Purple Juice Co.
Now, with myself being Irish, sporting an eye-catching orange shirt, I did quickly become the subject of good-natured ribbing. It seems that in Australia a bright orange shirt does not scream "sun safety" and it more bellows "hard yakka hero, ready to dig in!" Who know I'd be mistaken at the time for a tradie?
Despite the jokes, the UV shirt was a lifesaver. It kept me comfortable, protected and well, noticeable. Let's just say that if there is ever a good demand for purple UV shirts in Australia, I might have found a very niche business idea. Until then, I will take the orange and embrace the banter.
It's Not The Crocs You Need to Worry About, It's The Sharks
I think it is easy to say that I have a new found respect for the Brisbane River. Our history is complicated. She claimed not one but two pairs of sunglasses and, for her pièce de résistance, granted me three cracked ribs during an ill-advised jet ski adventure many years ago. So, on this return trip, I decided to take a slightly safer approach: kayaking.
This time around, I was joined by my good mate, Matt for a paddle up river to celebrate his 50th Birthday. Now, "leisurely" might be a stretch, as this is Australia after all, where the wildlife (and waterways) are always plotting your demise. The Brisbane River is home to an estimated 3,000 Bull Sharks, earning it a spot in Australia's top ten 'drowning hotspots," according to Royal Life Saving Australia. Comforting, right?
Still, I was assured we'd be perfectly safe and we launched our kayaks at Savages Crossing, a serene spot perfect for escaping city life. Source: The Purple Juice Co.
Surrounded by nature, its a picturesque setting for paddling, fishing, or just pretending you're not in a predator's potential backyard.
Queenslanders have a knack for surviving in a wild array of threats - from ants, crocs, sharks, snakes, and spiders... even drop bears. And yet the average Queenslander adopts the lifestyle of "go with the flow, bro" which seems to get them through it.
At the end of the day, our Kayak adventure was blissfully uneventful - no bull sharks, no injuries, just good company and the beauty of the river. Maybe just maybe, I've finally made peace with Brisbane's infamous waterway and we can remain civil in the future.
From Utes to CityCats
When it comes to getting around in Australia, the options are as diverse as the landscapes. From rugged Utes to sleek CityCats, I experienced them all during my time in Brisbane. Each mode of transport had its quirks—because in Australia, even getting from A to B feels like it should come with a guide and a disclaimer for unexpected entertainment!
My friend, Matt's Ute, almost as trusty as him. Source: The Purple Juice Co.
This fare reduction has had a massive impact on the state, saving public transport users over $110 million and significantly boosting ridership.
For me, it meant I could cheaply travel (proper backpacker experience) tip-to-tip on the Queensland rail network from Rosewood to Gympie North and all the way back to the Gold Coast. Even the Airtrain to and from Brisbane’s airport was a steal at just $10.95.
My favourite way to travel, though, has to be the Brisbane CityCat services. These sleek, fast ferries connect much of the city along the river. Back in 2000, I used to commute to work via the CityCat, and the nostalgia hit hard as I boarded again this time around. There's something magical about seeing the city from the water—perhaps it’s the tranquillity of the river or the ever-present lure of life by its banks.
A CityCat in it's natural habitat. Source: The Purple Juice Co.
For short-distance travel, I gave Beam eBikes and scooters a try - which were in purple! (other brands and colours also available). They were great fun, but at $10 or more for a quick ride, they can't compete with 50-cent train fares, or the London Boris Bikes. And let’s be honest - if I'm paying that much, I'd rather not be the one putting in most of the effort!
Music Festivals to Sunshine
Queensland doesn’t need a typical visitor guide—it’s already got one, delivered in true Queensland style: Australian hip-hop rap by Evil Eddie. His track "Queensland" is the ultimate crash course for anyone daring to enter the Sunshine State.
With lyrics like “every creature in our habitat has venom or teeth” and “we got cyclones ripping up our houses and pubs,” it’s part warning, part invitation, and entirely Queensland. Give it a listen and see if you’re ready to brave the land where the streets might be hot, but they’ve got nothing on a Queensland summer!
With my musical palate primed, my first festival in Queensland this time around was the aptly named "Hotter Than Hell Tour"—and it lived up to its billing in every way. The line up was a nostalgic nod to the Aussie alternative rock, featuring Regurgitator, a legendary Brisbane band formed in 1993, and Jebediah, hailing from Perth.
And if anyone asks, I'm just scouting for bands at OXP 25. Source: The Purple Juice Co.
The crowd was pretty electric and the energy was contagious. It's hard not to feel inspired when you're surrounded by fellow rockers, swaying to the beat under the super hot blazing Queensland sun.
While my trip did involve the fair share of rock and roll, it wasn't all about headbanging and guitar solos. To showcase the true range of my music taste, I headed North to Maleny Music Festival. Nestled in the lush hinterland of the Sunshine Coast, which is a family friendly, three day festival at the charming Maleny Showgrounds.
A small chance to take in the local music culture once again. Source: The Purple Juice Co.
The Maleny Music Festival has earned a reputation as a cosy precursor to the grander Woodford Folk Festival, with may acts using it as a warm up stage. A great setting for music lovers who prefer to avoid the huge crowds but still want a taste of sunshine. From Indie to Blues, there was something for everyone. I even found myself at a given time under a tree sipping a locally brewed coffee thinking "damn, I just can't get that song out of my head." It was indeed, pretty catchy.
If you ever find yourself in Queensland, my advice is simple: immerse yourself in the local music scene. There's always something happening, from intimate gigs at pubs to full-blown festivals. And who knows? You might just discover your new favourite band—or at the very least, make a memory that lasts a lifetime.
I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!
My next steps took me to the stunning Mary River. A group of us set out for a weekend of camping, fishing, and even learning to crack a whip—a true Aussie adventure!
For those brits, reading this, you will be very familiar with the concept of 'I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!' and for those who are not, a whole bunch of celebrities are dropped into the Australian jungle for several weeks, all for the purpose of a some reality TV.
Now, I’d love to regale you with tales of roughing it under the stars, but in truth, my celebrity status as an Irish visitor meant I got to stay in my mate's luxury shipping container. Complete with a bed and a few key creature comforts, it was more glamping than camping. But hey, isn't that what all celebrities do?
Despite the relative luxury, the weekend was a much-needed break. If anyone also has the chance to just switch off their mobile phone... do it. Source: The Purple Juice Co.
It was a time to reconnect with old friends, enjoy great conversations, and take in the tranquillity of the outback.
We may not have had modern conveniences, but we had the true essentials: friendship, rice, beans, beer, and a trusty fishing rod. Source: The Purple Juice Co.
As the fire crackled and the stars lit up the outback sky, I found myself reflecting on just how much life has evolved over the past 24 years. From the early 2000s, when the concept of smartphones was still a distant dream, to today, an entire business can be managed remotely from Australia seamlessly through a suite of Odoo apps in the palm of your hand. It's remarkable how stepping away from technology and embracing life's simplest moments can bring such profound clarity.
One of my favourite pictures from the trip. Source: The Purple Juice Co.
Fishing has a way of really testing your patience like no other activity—especially when most of your efforts reel in catfish and turtles, which are about as exciting as finding a soggy sock on your hook. Still, the belief that the next cast might bring in something.
Our persistence eventually paid off, though perhaps not in the way I’d imagined. The "catch of the day" went to Matt, who heroically dove into the river to retrieve his runaway rod. The prize? Not the big fish or shark I’d been envisioning, but something marginally more respectable (and less slimy) than a catfish. Sustainability wins, I suppose—but I’m still waiting for my Hemingway moment!
Matt's big catch which stunned us all. Source: The Purple Juice Co.
The Mary River may not have had the cameras or critters of I’m a Celebrity, but it was an unforgettable adventure that perfectly balanced relaxation with just the right amount of chaos and mischief. If this is outback living, I could definitely get used to it.
Time For Some Odooing
The next leg of my Australian tour took me from Gympie North —the northernmost station on Queensland's rail network-all the way to Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast. This five-hour train ride was an adventure in itself, made even better by the astonishing price: just 50 cents (or 25p for my friends back in the UK). It's not every day you can traverse such a vast distance for pocket change!
A warm welcome at the Odoo office, mixed with some overdue Halloween decorations that had been left out of course. Source: The Purple Juice Co.
I have to give out a few shoutouts to the Odoo team and how well I was treated, and also shown around the sticks.
Upon arriving, I was greeted with a true Aussie welcome from Kelian Buitendijk (Director of Odoo Australia), Lionel Willems (Head of Services - Odoo Australia) and Josiah East (Indirect Channel Sales Manager). Over a coffee and conversation, we discussed Odoo's rapid growth in the Australian market and the pressing need for further experienced Odoo Partners in the region.
Odoo officially opened its first Australian office in January 2023, at the time strategically choosing the Gold Coast for its thriving tech scene, proximity to universities, and, let’s be honest, the unbeatable lifestyle. This expansion reflects Odoo's commitment to supporting small and, of course, medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) as they further navigate digital transformation and the complications around it.
Thanks for the accommodation again guys! Source: The Purple Juice Co.
The Gold Coast was a natural choice for Odoo's Australian operations and headquarters. Not only is it emerging as a hub for technology and innovation, but its proximity to universities ensures a steady pipeline of talented graduates. Since opening, Odoo has already hired 20 local employees, and it plans to grow significantly in the years ahead.
"Our mission is to help SMEs in their journey to digitalisation and improve their day-to-day operations. We want to offer employees a place where they can combine career growth with the best of the Australian lifestyle."
A feeling of that 'Australian lifestyle' which Kelian discussed above, as this was the view from my apartment on the Gold Coast for a couple of days. Source: The Purple Juice Co.
The Gold Coast office represents a pivotal moment for Odoo’s efforts in the region. With a localized focus on payroll, accounting, and further compliance with Australian tax regulations, Odoo is well-positioned to meet the specific needs of Australian SMEs.
The company's recent milestones speak for themselves:
- 77% growth in billing for Australia in 2022
- A 62% increase in Odoo Enterprise users in Oceania
- A staggering 151% growth in leads as of August 2023
Odoo is also rolling out new features which are tailored to the local market, including open banking, payroll integration, and superannuation management. These innovations are designed to streamline operations for businesses and help them stay competitive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
The discussions with Kelian and Lionel highlighted the vast opportunities for Odoo and its partners in Australia. With 15% of Odoo's Asia-Pacific customers already based here, the Gold Coast office will play a crucial role in enhancing support for local businesses.
And yes before anyone asks, table tennis is still a staple in AUS. Source: The Purple Juice Co.
It's an extremely exciting time for Odoo and Australia and look forward to catching up with the team in the future.
Getting to Know Odoo Neighbours
During my travels across Australia, I had the privilege of meeting many Odoo customers, partners, and community members to hear first hand about their experiences with Odoo. These conversations provided invaluable insights into how Odoo is perceived and adopted in the region—and it was clear that listening to customers is key to success.
While Odoo's brand awareness in Australia still lags behind more key established names like Xero and MYOB, significant progress has been made since the opening of the Gold Coast office and with the help of passionate advocates across the country (not to mention a bit of help from the Purple Juice community).
I have to give a massive mention to All Purpose Coatings Pty Ltd (APC) in Bundamba, Brisbane. Warmly further welcomed by Christopher and Charmaine Ashford. APC is a key national family-owned company specialising in high and premium protective floor coatings across the residential, commercial, industrial, and government sectors.
Their Bundamba manufacturing plant produces an impressive range of epoxies, urethanes, polyaspartics, flakes, and related coating products. Source: The Purple Juice Co.
These form the backbone of their decorative, protective, and long-term flooring solutions, which are distributed widely across Australia and the South Pacific additionally.
APC has been an Odoo advocate since Version 7, and their commitment to the platform is nothing short of inspiring. Having migrated away from SAP to Odoo, Chris and his team have fully embraced the software as the backbone of their business operations. What’s really particularly impressive is Chris’s technical expertise and hands-on approach to then expanding Odoo’s adoption across every area of APC’s operations.
Despite challenges in finding a trusted and reliable Odoo partner, APC persevered, demonstrating a remarkable testament to their business acumen and resilience.
Myself, Chris and Charmaine at All Purpose Coatings. Source: The Purple Juice Co.
Listening to your customers is vital. Conversations like the ones I had with APC and others teach us what truly works, what needs improvement, and how we can better support the Odoo community. Stories like APC’s reaffirm my belief in the power of Odoo and its ability to revolutionize businesses, no matter the industry or location.
Chris and Charmaine, thank you for sharing your journey—it’s one that deserves to be celebrated.
Making Friends Down Under
While venturing into new markets, one of the most vital things you can do is build relationships within the Odoo Community. While it's natural to view each other as competitors, the true value in this ecosystem comes from collaboration.
Successful partnerships share knowledge and experiences and support one another in delivering exceptional Odoo solutions, ensuring that the end-user of the Odoo platform is successful and desires to advocate the platform (and your expertise as a partner).
Myself and the brilliant Jeri Wambeek of WAO Group. Source: The Purple Juice Co.
Throughout my journey, I've been fortunate enough to be recognized as a subject matter expert in ERP systems and Odoo through Purple Juice. This recognition has led to numerous opportunities to connect with business owners, Odoo partners, and solution providers, allowing me to build meaningful relationships and expand my network. It's through this community that I've had the pleasure of meeting some incredible Odoo partners who are making a difference in the market.
Taco Technologies is a standout example of an Odoo partner that thrives on collaboration and holistic solutions.
Catching up with Jonathan Milne from Taco Technologies. Source: The Purple Juice Co.
Based in Sydney, Taco Technologies works across various sectors, including universities, public workspaces, and large corporations. Their service offerings are extensive, including scoping, design, training, implementation, and ongoing support.
Catching up with Chris White from OLaunch. Source: The Purple Juice Co.
Chris and the team at OLaunch have carved a unique niche in the Odoo ecosystem, focusing on empowering Odoo partners with the tools they need to deliver exceptional projects. Based in Sydney, OLaunch provides an array of innovative solutions designed to tackle the most challenging aspects of Odoo implementations and make them effortless.
Keep Chris and OLaunch in your mind, as we will be catching up with them soon on the products they provide, here on PJC.
What I always advise is you are out and about and travelling, make the best effort to meet the community. I have known these guys for nearly over a year, all though the passion of Odoo. The true power of a building community and the strength it contains.
Standing In The Footsteps of Giants
As someone who thrives on being a disruptor, I couldn't resist the said opportunity to step into the lion's den—the iconic Salesforce Tower in Sydney—while proudly donning my Odoo baseball cap.
We've been operating in the Salesforce world at Gravitai for a over a decade and our reputation as a highly regarded Salesforce Partner still remains steadfast, but I was there to draw inspiration from Salesforce's incredible journey of growth and the dominance of its community and ecosystem in Australia. One to look up to, regarding their reign.
Having been closely involved in the Salesforce story, myself during the time of being a key Principle Architect for Salesforce in London, it's always good to relate back between each platform on the market and provide an agnostic view. Source: The Purple Juice Co.
Even from an Odoo to Salesforce side. Each platform has its unique value propositions, and the Salesforce story is undeniably remarkable. Its towering presence, both literally and figuratively, is something I admire as we work to build a similarly strong foundation for our Odoo story. I sense maybe a comparative article coming soon on them both.
While I don't expect to see Fabien Pinckaers commissioning riverfront skyscrapers in Sydney anytime soon, the idea of such visibility is awe-inspiring, and look forward to seeing what Odoo has in store.
The highlife of Sydney, with Salesforce Tower. Source: The Purple Juice Co.
Of course, my visit wasn't all about taunting Salesforce. It was wonderful to catch up with old friends and colleagues from my Salesforce days. Their warm welcome reminded me of the incredible journey we shared and the foundation it laid for where I am today.
Out of respect—and perhaps to avoid stirring the pot—I won't name names, but some photographs below. After all, I wouldn't want to tempt anyone into swapping their Salesforce blue for Odoo purple!
Extra points for any Odooer who can name this mascot. Source: The Purple Juice Co.
As I left Salesforce Tower, I couldn't help but feel inspired by the heights they've reached and the communities they've built. Their story is a testament to what's possible with the right vision, innovation, and partnerships. We're drawing on this legacy as we chart our own path with Odoo while staying grounded in its unique strengths and flexibility.
The footsteps of giants leave an indelible mark, and walking in them isn't about mimicry—it's about finding your own stride, learning from the best, and blazing your own trail.
McMahons Point, But Not Always Right of Course
While my last name is McMahon, I am not related to the former Prime Minister, also named William McMahon. Upon my first entry into the Country in 2000, Australian Border Force quickly, quizzed me regarding if I was of relation. With a smile, I answered, “Nope—but if the name comes with a VIP queue, I'll gladly pretend!"
While he had some notable achievements, his short tenure and further struggles to rally his party or connect with the public have left his legacy somewhat mixed. In historical rankings of Australian prime ministers, he’s often placed toward the lower end of the spectrum (perhaps he should have introduced 50-cent train fares!).
That said, history has a way of reinterpreting legacies over time, and there's always room for a fresh perspective on his contributions, particularly in areas like economic and environmental policy. As for the McMahon name, I'm proud to bring a renewed energy, passion, and drive to it—one shaped by the entrepreneurial spirit and innovation of Purple Juice. So, maybe I will become a future Prime Minister of Odoo?
On my travels to Sydney, I had the chance to spend some long-overdue quality time with my father, who emigrated to Australia in 1997 and then accommodated my first trip Down Under in 2000.
Now a proud Irish-Australian, my Dad and I embarked on a campervan journey from Brisbane to Sydney, covering a causal 1104 kilometres which is a short drive by Aussie standards. Source: The Purple Juice Co.
For those looking to travel on a budget, I can't recommend Coseats enough. They're a campervan relocation marketplace, offering rentals for as little as $1/day. There are some time constraints, but if you're flexible and up for an adventure, it's a fantastic, cost-effective way to explore Australia. They also promise to refund the booking fee, fi I mention them in this article specifically. :)
When we reached Sydney, where better to stay than McMahons Point, which is a suburb that sounds tailor-made for me? Perched on the harbour with stunning views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Luna Park, it quickly became my favourite spot in my Australian Tour. Falling head over heels in love with Sydney all over again.
A little view from McMahons point. Source: The Purple Juice Co.
The city exudes a unique energy, blending its iconic waterfront views with a vibrant, bustling atmosphere. Surprisingly, I found the cost of living comparable to London, which made it feel comfortably familiar while still offering something entirely its own.
Beyond the picturesque views and lively streets, this leg of my journey was deeply personal. Spending time with my Dad, reflecting on our shared experiences, and exploring the country he calls home was profoundly meaningful. The journey from Brisbane to Sydney wasn't just about the kilometres—it was about the connection, memories, and a chance to appreciate the incredible opportunities life offers.
The famous landmark of the Sydney Opera House. Source: The Purple Juice Co.
Sydney left a lasting impression, and McMahons Point will forever feel like my little corner of this vast and beautiful city. Whether you're travelling for adventure, connection, or simply to take in the sights, Sydney is a destination that delivers on every front—and if you're a McMahon, well, you've got a namesake spot waiting for you.
Until Next Time, Australia...
As my journey across Australia comes to an end, it feels less like a goodbye and more like a “I'll be seeing you again soon.” While Australia is undeniably a long way from home, this trip reminded me why I fell in love with Brisbane all those years ago. It was this city, with its charm and vibrancy, that became my stepping stone into the world of business—a world that has now grown into the empire I stand with today.
This trip was so much more than just a journey through a country; it was a journey through time, memories and relationships. From the beaches of the Gold Coast to the lush Hinterlands of Maleny, from visiting the Odoo office to paddling down the Brisbane River, every moment was a reminder of the incredible opportunities this land offers.
Catching up with some familiar faces in Australia. Source: The Purple Juice Co.
Meeting both remarkable people for the first time, including customers of Odoo, partners and friends.
Looking back to my youth and how times have changed, but people remain the exact same. Great times with some great people, by your side. Source: The Purple Juice Co.
I explored new business opportunities, learned from others' successes, and had the privilege of rekindling friendships and family bonds as though no time had passed since.
Over 24 years, since I have been back to Australia and it baffles me how we have remained such good friends given the distance. But like any good ERP system, once you have a bond and see the good times, it is hard not to turn back. Source: The Purple Juice Co.
A massive shoutout to Matt, as well. Matt's loyalty runs deep—he's the kind of friend you want on your side - he puts relationships first and is always ready for action at a moment's notice, and unshakably calm when life throws its curveballs. He's not just a friend; he's a reminder of what steadfast friendship looks like, no matter the miles or the years between us. True friendship at it's core.
Encore, Encore!
Much like the song’s tribute to Queensland’s beauty and spirit, this journey has been a love letter to everything that makes Australia unforgettable: the camaraderie of friends, the thrill of the unknown, and the endless opportunities for discovery.
Australia, you've left me singing your tune. But this is far from the final act—it’s just an interlude before the next adventure. Until then, as the song says and goes, “When I dream of Queensland, I'll dream of you."
FAQs
Want to learn more about Odoo? Check out some of our community FAQs.
The Purple Juice Co is an Odoo hub dedicated to the Community, with the aim of building knowledge, and further discussing topics within the wider Odoo Ecosystem.
Odoo is an open-source ERP suite of key business management tools that can be used to help organisations manage their entire operations in one single system.
Yes, Odoo is prevalent in the APAC region with several offices including Australia. Odoo has over 17 offices spread across the globe.
The Author
Support and meet the author of this article.
William McMahon
Founder of The Purple Juice Co.
With over 25+ years in the technology sector, having further worked directly at Salesforce & Dell, William is one of the most experienced in the field of CRM and ERP.