Glenn Murray, founder of the infamous Facebook group, The Plumber’s Crack has been recognised as one of five most talented plumbers in Australia at Rheem’s 2020 Aussie Plumbers’ Hidden Talents showcase.

The award showcase, hosted by Shane Jacobson, recognised Glenn for his impressive ukulele skills which only got better as he began playing in the shower. His victory followed up a second-place finish the year prior for his salsa dancing hidden talent.

“It’s so important that the existing plumber stereotype is challenged. Singing and salsa dancing probably aren’t talents associated with plumbers. I entered the showcase as a bit of fun, but also to deconstruct the notion that plumbers are one-dimensional ‘blokes’,” Glenn explains.

The Yarrawarra resident has 40 years’ experience as a plumber and has helped The Plumber’s Crack grow from the small platform it started off as to a 60,000 member staple for plumbers. While the group still serves its purpose as a way to stay connected with others, Glenn notes that its activity has evolved significantly, particularly in the current COVID-19 landscape.

“A career as a plumber can be isolating, at the best of times,” he says.

“Many plumbers operate in a team of one, so we often don’t have access to the same support system that comes with a normal nine to five job. In Coronavirus times, The Plumbers’ Crack group has provided a support network for industry professionals and helps to bring the plumbing community together for a laugh,” Glenn says.

Rheem Australia marketing director John Collignon says the initiative that celebrates plumbers and their talents, while also providing an avenue for the plumbing community to stay connected.

“We understand that there’s more than meets the eye with many plumbers out there, and want to give those in the industry a chance to showcase their unique talents,” he says.

“This year we had a singer, songwriter, artist, ukulele player and even PVC-pipe-xylophone players revealing their amazing talent and helping to keep spirits high.”