A group of Ulladulla teenagers are making money doing the things they love.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Whether it’s creating soap and surfboard covers or making music, these kids are raking in the bucks by being innovative and hard-working.
While many of their friends are pounding the pavement hoping to pick up work flipping burgers or washing dishes over summer, these young entrepreneurs are set to boost their savings by selling their wares at local markets or entertaining the holiday crowds.
Ava del Tufo has begun making natural soaps and herbal teas, with her wares proving popular at her first Milton market stall last month.
The 15-year-old is saving for her first car and said she has had great feedback from customers about her produce.
“It’s been really great so far,” she said.
Ava is urging other teenagers to think about doing things they enjoy to make money.
“It’s really satisfying and I would encourage others to get out there and give it a go.”
Sarah Mudge has been making clothing and surfboard covers under her Wild Bandit fashion label.
The 16-year-old uses vintage fabric from op shops for her one-off creations and sells them to family and friends, as well as through her Instagram site.
“I can’t really keep up with the demand,” she said.
“I sew surfboard covers made to measure, not to make money, but more because it’s something I enjoy doing.
“I love sewing and surfing, so making the covers combines the two.”
Sarah said people needed to be creative and come up with and idea and “just go for it”.
“Definitely do something you love, get in early and line yourself up for the future,” she added.
“I would love to get into fashion design or marine biology.”
Members of the rock band Hard to Find, have been playing together for a year and have so far played one paying gig.
Vocalist, guitarist and pianist Maya Holstegge and her drummer brother Leon have teamed up with Lochie Havelka on bass and Daniel Nichols on lead guitar and have been playing regular gigs in the region.
While they can often be seen playing their pop and rock music during jam sessions at the Star Hotel in Milton, they were thrilled to be paid for a performance at the Mollymook Golf Club last month.
“It was different to a jam session,” Maya said, “it was a big step up for us.”
The band has secured more paying gigs at the golf club, Ulladulla Civic Centre and in Worrigee over summer.
“It’s great being able to do something you love and share it with others - and get paid,” Maya laughed.