Mustang drives away victorious

Husband and wife duo Shayne and Lisa Cunningham have won the Tourism Category at this year’s Geelong Small Business Awards.

Their boutique tour company Mustang & Co. was recognised on May 17 at the event held at GMBHA Stadium.

In its third year, Mustang & Co. have gone from strength to strength providing tours of the Great Ocean Road, Geelong and Bellarine Winery region and the Otways. They have mini buses and people movers for larger groups and the pride of the fleet is the 1966 red Mustang convertible.

“We were really thrilled to collect the award. Operating a small business as a husband and wife team takes a lot of dedication and hard work. We felt the award recognised all the efforts and all the special ways that we look after our tour bookings,” Ms Cunningham said.

“If it is a birthday surprise or an anniversary celebration we provide a personalised card. We take photos of the groups so they have memories to keep and share, we provide a small gift bag with brochures and information on the tourist venues and attractions.

“The reviews that people have written on our Facebook page make us so proud. Every tour has a different story and the one thing that stands out is our ability to make people happy.”

Ms Cunningham said it was always Shayne’s dream to own a classic car, so when he turned 50 received a gorgeous vintage Mustang which he fondly calls “Betty” (after Betty Boop).

“Shayne now has his dream car and his dream job. There is so much pleasure taking people on a surprise birthday tour, a first time visit to the region, or celebrating a wedding anniversary.”

She said Mustang & Co. is the first small business the couple have operated and reflects their high standards.

“We strive for excellence and go out of our way to provide the full VIP treatment. Now we can proudly display our trophy as winners of the best business in the Tourism Category.”