Ararat business Custom Toy Haulers is the latest in the region to receive a $2500 kick start grant from Ararat Rural City Council.

Custom Toy Haulers designs and builds custom trailers and camper vans tailored for transporting motorcycles, go karts, mountain bikes and other recreational equipment.

Owner Mark Walker has operated the business from his home shed for years, building a reputation for quality craftsmanship and practical design.

He expanded into new premises at McGibbony Street, Ararat, and is making the business full time with demand increasing.

He said Custom Toy Haulers serviced clients across Australia, with recent orders delivered to Sydney and the New South Wales North Coast.

Council chief executive Tim Harrison said the kick start grant would assist Mr Walker in purchasing additional tools to support production and meet growing demand.

Dr Harrison said the grant reflected the council’s commitment to supporting local enterprise.

“Mark’s transition from a home-based operation to a dedicated workshop is exactly the kind of growth we want to encourage in Ararat,” he 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.”

The council’s kick start grant program provides financial assistance to new and expanding businesses, supporting economic development and job creation across the region.

To find out more or apply, people can visit www.ararat.vic.gov.au/community/grants-and-funding/kick-start-grants.

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