Tell us about Buckaroo.
Buckaroo is a legacy business, now in its 53rd year of operation. We’ve grown, shrunk, and grown again during this time. We manufacture premium products for professional tradespeople and are committed to everything it takes to be a proudly Aussie made offering. We have a rich and colourful history and being family owned, we’ve survived all the trials and tribulations that comes with that. We are very proud to be who we are.
What inspired you to start Buckaroo?
Buckaroo began in South Africa, my late Dad Ken sought a safe life for his very young family and fled the country during apartheid and headed for the unknowns of Australia. Here he set up shop and continued to trade as a bespoke leather worker. I joined the business at an important junction, almost 25 years ago, when we diversified into tool belts to fill a big gap in the market. Quality tool belts just weren’t available and we bust out onto the scene with a very high quality and novel product. Today we remain female owned, family values driven and focus heavily on innovation and getting to know our customers’ needs. We are very good relationship builders, that’s what it’s all about.
Tell us about your career and background.
In my late teens I studied fashion design and then moved into industrial design. I joined Buckaroo when I was 18. I was always ambitious but didn’t think these ambitions would ever live within my then, in my mind, very daggy family business. I’ve learnt everything the hard way. When my Dad died over a decade ago and I committed to growing the business and the brand even thou go if had no formal training in how to do that. But I was so passionate and gung-ho and I made many important mistakes. But those struggles all ultimately led to quick learning and confidence.
Describe a typical work day for you.
I’m a mum of five and take that job very seriously! But I am also the Buckaroo brand custodian. I am surrounded by incredibly talented and knowledgeable people who run the day-to-day operations and I’m so grateful that I have the time and space to ensure our brand stays true and is protected. It’s a real privilege to be able to share my family’s story. Today I also use my learnings to help other people, women in particular, navigate the cutthroat world of both the construction and manufacturing industries. I’m also a vocal advocate for diversity in both the workplace and in brand development. I also use our platform to foster the arts and creativity in our local Community.
What advice do you have for those wanting to start a business?
I live by the reality that tomorrow is not guaranteed. It drives me to see risk as a natural part of this short time we have here on earth. So if your gut tells you to do something then do it and don’t hesitate. The worst that can happen is it won’t work out, but the learnings that come with that are priceless. And then imagine it does work out! How amazing. Also strongly advise undertaking a personal inventory to work out your strengths and limitations as a person and leader. I think it’s critical to know and accept who you are before jumping into anything new.
What’s next for you, and Buckaroo?
The Buckaroo business is all about building our brand and cementing our rightful place as a quality Australian made export. We deserve all the success that we’ve achieved and when nowhere near the tip of the iceberg. We are passionate and determined people behind the brand and right now we are reaffirming who we are and getting ready for our next phase of growth. It’s exciting and we are moving the dial! It’s a great place to be.
