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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
That business didn’t continue but the experience revealed a gap in the market for affordable web design, particularly for small local operators.<\/p>\n
So at just 16, he launched Surf Coast Studios, aiming to give small businesses better access to a professional online presence.<\/p>\n
Now 17, Toby has quickly built momentum.<\/p>\n
“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.<\/p>\n
In just eight months, he has developed a portfolio spanning medical centres, martial arts providers, charter services and cleaning businesses \u2013 a mix that reflects both demand and his willingness to work across industries.<\/p>\n
Toby believes a strong digital presence is no longer optional for small operators.<\/p>\n
“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.<\/p>\n
Surf Coast Studios offers website design alongside logo creation, branding, website hosting and ongoing maintenance, with a focus on accessibility and quick turnaround times.<\/p>\n
Building strong relationships with clients has also been central to the business as it grows.<\/p>\n
“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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Despite those ambitions, he said his focus will remain on supporting smaller operators and helping level the playing field for local businesses.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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 […]<\/p>\n