That was message from Courtney and Brett Carroll after they became the new owners of the Stihl Shop Seymour
Courtney is the daughter of former owners Mick and Donna Fulton and is looking forward to running the business with husband Brett and children Jack and Lana.
“We’ve seen how much Mum and Dad have enjoyed working in the business for 26 years and how successful they have been,” Courtney said.
“We moved from Lakes Entrance and we’re really keen to take on a new challenge and continue their good work.
“Business ownership is a bit daunting but with Mum and Dad’s guidance we’re confident we can take the things into the future while maintaining their high standard of service.
“Aside from the faces, very little is changing. All the staff are staying on and we will offer everything locals know and love about the business.”
While they are taking a step back from the business, the Fultons said they wouldn’t be disappearing.
“It’s unfortunate the pandemic has got in the way of the handover. We would have liked to have made it a bit of an event,” Mrs Fulton said.
“But we’ll still be around to chat to all the locals and help out while Courtney and Brett find their feet.”
Mrs Fulton said ownership of the business had given them plenty of challenges but was a rewarding experience.
“Operating during the drought was difficult. Everyone was doing it tough, and it was tough to keep it together,” she said.
“It’s been a similar situation during COVID. But we’ve made it through with the support of our wonderful staff and customers.
“We owe a big thanks to all the staff that have helped us through the years. We definitely couldn’t have done it without them.
“We also want to thank our customers for their support. We really enjoyed building a customer base and being relied on by locals to get their important jobs done.
“We’re very grateful for our time and very excited to see Courtney and Brett take the business forward.”