Young founder bridging digital gap

AT an age when most teenagers are still figuring out their first job, Ocean Grove’s Toby is already running a growing business, built from a problem he encountered himself.

After trying to have a website developed for an earlier venture, Toby was surprised by the cost and decided to teach himself the craft instead.

That business didn’t continue but the experience revealed a gap in the market for affordable web design, particularly for small local operators.

So at just 16, he launched Surf Coast Studios, aiming to give small businesses better access to a professional online presence.

Now 17, Toby has quickly built momentum.

“I had tried so many business models and lost hundreds but the moment I came up with the idea for Surf Coast Studios I instantly knew it was the one,” Toby said.

In just eight months, he has developed a portfolio spanning medical centres, martial arts providers, charter services and cleaning businesses – a mix that reflects both demand and his willingness to work across industries.

Toby believes a strong digital presence is no longer optional for small operators.

“I believe it’s vital small local businesses have professional looking and working websites as it’s generally the introduction point for new customers with everyone online these days,” he said.

Surf Coast Studios offers website design alongside logo creation, branding, website hosting and ongoing maintenance, with a focus on accessibility and quick turnaround times.

Building strong relationships with clients has also been central to the business as it grows.

“I love helping out the local businesses and find it fascinating learning about all the different models that are being built right here on the Surf Coast,” Toby said.

Looking ahead, Toby plans to expand into a broader marketing agency, incorporating social media and advertising services. It is a field he is already well versed in.

Despite those ambitions, he said his focus will remain on supporting smaller operators and helping level the playing field for local businesses.