Arna Read

Hi, I’m Arna Read, GST and Office Coordinator here at MCCD, or as I like to call it, a ‘Jill of all Trades.’ My journey to this role comes from a diverse background—I have hands-on experience with dairy farming and grazing and spent 23 years as an office manager at a busy vet clinic, then managed a local mechanic’s office and a school office before finding my place here at MCCD.

I work closely with Bernie to ensure our office runs smoothly, and I’m often the first point of contact for our clients. My goal is to make sure their experience with us is top-notch. Together, we keep the diary up to date, make sure all work is logged in, and, of course, ensure the beer fridge is full! I’m also here to support our team, checking in to see if anyone needs help with their workload and stepping in wherever needed.

One of the things I’m proud to have been a part of is helping define the values that guide our company. With my farming background, I find it easy to relate to our farming clients, which allows me to complete their GSTs more efficiently since I understand the ins and outs of farming invoicing and products. I feel I have a good rapport with our clients and team because I’m easy to get along with and genuinely love helping people.

Communication is key in our office, and we all work well together, balancing hard work with a lot of laughs. One of my favorite memories is the mystery of the ‘Card’ prank—who was leaving those playing cards around the office? It still makes me chuckle. Mornings aren’t complete without my caramel cappuccino, and Bernie and I often have More FM playing in the background while we work. Thanks to my teenage sons, my Spotify playlist at home is a mix of everything from Country and Pop to Rap and Rock—anything could be playing at any given moment.

A memorable experience of mine was staying in a little ski village in Yosemite National Park. My friends and I were on the third floor, and one night we left the balcony screen door open because it was warm. We were startled awake by a noise and discovered three massive raccoons on our dining table, finishing our pizza and trying to drink our leftover drinks. It was both hilarious and terrifying since raccoons can be dangerous! They just strolled out and shimmied down the drainpipes like they owned the place. The next morning, we found out they were regular visitors—definitely an experience to remember.

If I could teleport anywhere right now, it would be to a beautiful beach where I’d be lounging and sipping on a cocktail. That’s my idea of paradise!