Spotlight on… Tieri Lawn Mowing & Maintenance

Your name & role: Braxton Grimshaw, Owner 

How long have you been operating: 3 months 

Locations serviced: Tieri, with plans to expand down the track.

What gave you the idea to start your own business?
I’m very career driven; and it is satisfying to see the end result of a freshly mowed lawn. 

Tell us about the services you offer?
Lawn mowing, whipper snipping, yard clean ups and maintenance.

Do you have set rates or do they depend on the size of the job?
Every job is different, so it depends on what the client needs done.

Setting up a business is a huge achievement; what’s been your proudest moment so far? Hearing and seeing the feedback from customers and knowing that they’re happy with my work.

What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced?
Balancing school and homework and working in the afternoons. 

How do you balance running the business with school, activities, and spending time with friends and family?
I prioritise school firstly, then any time left after that is for work. As soon as I walk in the door from school, my work boots are on and I’m off. 

What’s the funniest or most memorable thing that has happened while you’ve been working?
I got a $20 tip from a job that I completed – that was very memorable!

Is there a local person who has inspired or encouraged you on this journey?
Kath and Karen from CTM LINKS have been a massive part of my journey, which I’m grateful for.

What have you learned about running a business that you didn’t expect?
To always finish the job you start, never leave something unfinished.

Has running a business changed how you think about money or work?
Yes, it has. I have learnt not to spend money on stupid things.

What’s your dream purchase with your business profits?
I am planning on saving up for a ride-on lawnmower with a trailer on it so I can get the whipper snipper around and make my job easier.

What advice do you have for others interested in starting their own business?
Never leave a person hanging; always do the job straight away and if you have a lot of customers, just take it day-by-day.

What hours are you available to work?
Monday to Friday, I usually get off the bus from school around 3:45pm, so I can be at a client’s house from around 4pm. On Saturdays and Sundays, I’m available from 7am – 6pm.

How can people contact you for more information or to book your services?
Just by phone for now. When I’m a bit older, I’ll create a Facebook page as well.