This month the Chamber meet Jannah Baker and Jason Weir from Scallywag Fabrication, an aluminium manufacturing business producing a range of adventure, tradie, and lifestyle products tailored for regional Queensland. They specialise in aluminium-based trays, canopies, and 4x4 accessories designed to withstand the demands of the Australian outdoors.
Jason grew up in Bowen, often working on utes and boats to make them more functional for fishing, camping, and off-roading adventures. His partner, Mackay-born Jannah, shares the same passion for the outdoors and brings extensive business and innovation experience to their business.
Scallywag Fabrication launched in 2020, from tinkering that started on a small balcony in inner-city Brisbane and has grown into a fully operational manufacturing facility in Conway, the Whitsundays.
The manufacturing industry has always seen strong competition from overseas markets due to lower costs. However, COVID-19 has shifted consumer preferences towards Australian-made, locally sourced, high-quality products. In addition, they are seeing a push towards integrating advanced machinery and technology in smaller fabrication workshops requiring new skill and trade qualifications.
Scallywag Fabrication is excited to be part of these industry changes, proudly championing Australian-made products and supporting local talent.
They have embraced cutting-edge technology with tools like the Multicam CNC machine, allowing them to manufacture products with unparalleled precision and efficiency. Jason and Jannah are also exploring future technologies, including AI integration, robotic equipment, and the development of an Advanced Machinery Boilermaker qualification to equip the next generation of local tradespeople.
Scallywag Fabrication would also like to acknowledge the incredible support they’ve received from the local community. Implementing new technology and scaling a business in regional Queensland is no small feat, and they couldn’t have achieved what they have without the encouragement and shared expertise from their regional network.
They have recently been recognised by the Greater Whitsunday Alliance as a Change Champion for the region, highlighting their commitment to innovation and driving support the Whitsundays and beyond.
Jason and Jannah top tips for other business owners are:
· Fail forward: Every ‘failure’ is an opportunity to learn and grow. Embrace the setbacks, because persistence often turns them into success. Don’t give up!
· Support your local network: There’s no room for rivalry among small businesses in regional areas. By uplifting each other, we can all succeed together. We’re proud North Queenslanders and actively support North Queensland businesses.
· Invest in future skills: Stay up to date with the latest technology and automate repetitive tasks so you can focus on what truly matters. Embracing innovation today will pay off tomorrow.
The Chamber has given Scallywag Fabrication a supportive community where they can share challenges, gain insights, and know there’s always help available. Being part of this network makes it easier to follow their own advice on learning, supporting others, and growing as a business. Jannah is also a member of the Chamber Board.
Learn more about Scallywag Fabrication online at https://www.scallywagfabrication.com/
Jannah Baker and Jason Weir