Hopping into History - Simpson Strong-Tie's Kangaroo Jack Celebrates 20 Years
February 20, 2025
To celebrate 20 years in the Pacific region, Simpson Strong-Tie (SST) introduced its very own mascot—Kangaroo Jack! Inspired by mascots like David (Pleasanton) and Brutus (Ohio), the team envisioned an Australian version symbolizing strength, resilience, and teamwork.
Greg Beard, husband of SST finance team member Narelle Beard, was chosen to bring this vision to life. Using Simpson products, he meticulously crafted Jack in the Sydney office foyer. Beginning with a wireframe, Greg skilfully assembled the sculpture piece by piece, using various connectors, fasteners, and anchors. Without any work drawings or diagrams, he relied on images to shape each part with precision.
The project took over three weeks of dedicated craftsmanship, resulting in an impressive 160cm tall, 60cm wide, and 200cm long sculpture weighing 50kg. The most challenging aspect was capturing facial expressions and shaping each piece to authentically reflect the Australian Grey Kangaroo.
This initiative embodies Simpson Strong-Tie’s ingenuity and innovation, demonstrating how the company’s products can be repurposed into artistic masterpieces. It highlights the problem-solving mindset and creativity that set SST apart.
A true team effort, the project was made possible by Greg’s artistry and patience, alongside Connor Leslie, who sourced materials, Rob Torres, who led the concept, and Narelle Beard, who assisted throughout. Jack now proudly stands as a testament to Simpson’s commitment to creativity, collaboration, and thinking outside the box.
Structural Connections
Unmatched Quality from the Truss to the Foundation
With nearly 60 years of field and R&D experience, Simpson Strong-Tie® timber connectors are manufactured to the industry's highest standards. From framing angles to straps to heavy-duty joist hangers, we offer the most diverse product line so that you have the right product for the job.
Simpson Strong-Tie® connectors offer unmatched quality with laboratory and field testing, and are backed by our uncompromising commitment to customer service. As the company that built the connector industry, you can count on Simpson Strong-Tie® to work closely with builders, engineers and building officials to deliver innovative, building code-compliant solutions to help build safer, stronger structures economically. Download the Structural Connectors Overview Flyer.
Timber Connectors
From testing to service to availability, everything we do is engineered to ensure your project's success. With every product, you know you are getting the quality, value, service and on-time delivery that we have built our reputation on for the past 60 years.
From straps and ties to joist hangers and much more, Simpson Strong-Tie® structural connectors increase the strength and safety of timber-frame structures. Each connector is unique to Simpson Strong-Tie and is designed for specific applications without the need to adapt metal plating to suit a connection.
Steel Frame Connectors
From fully tested and engineered connectors and clips Simpson Strong-Tie® provides comprehensive structural solutions for cold-formed steel construction. From steel-to-steel connections to full-scale lateral solutions and curtain wall connectors, we remain committed to developing new technology that helps to advance the cold-formed steel industry.
Find out how Simpson Strong-Tie timber connectors can help you build the right way every day. Download the Cold-Fromed Steel Construction Connectors Catalogue.
