Ararat Rural City Council is pleased to announce that local entrepreneur Mark Walker, of Custom Toy Haulers, has been awarded a $2,500 Kick Start Grant to support the growth of his business.
Custom Toy Haulers designs and builds custom trailers and camper vans tailored for transporting motorcycles, go karts, mountain bikes, and other recreational equipment. Many of the trailers are fully enclosed, with some incorporating sleeping quarters, allowing users to travel and stay on site while participating in events.
Mr Walker has been operating from his home shed for several years, steadily building a reputation for quality craftsmanship and practical design. With demand increasing, he has now expanded into a new premises at McGibbony Street, Ararat, and is taking the business full time.
Custom Toy Haulers already services clients across Australia, with recent orders delivered to Sydney and the New South Wales North Coast. The Kick Start Grant will assist Mr Walker in purchasing additional tools to support production and meet growing demand.
Ararat Rural City Council CEO Dr Tim Harrison said the grant reflects Council's commitment to supporting local enterprise and helping businesses take the next step.
"Mark's transition from a home-based operation to a dedicated workshop is exactly the kind of growth we want to encourage in Ararat," Dr Harrison said.
"He has built a strong reputation through skill and persistence, and this investment will help him increase capacity, create opportunities, and continue attracting customers from across Australia to a business based right here in our municipality."
