By Mikayla van Loon
Brothers and business partners Harry, 10, and David, 7, have exceeded their goal of donating to charity and funding a trip to visit family which began at Christmas last year.
The Mooroolbark duo launched their venture last December at the Kids Stocking Stuffer Market in Officer, selling handpainted garden pets using donated fence palings no longer in use.
Initially starting with the single design of chickens, the business has grown, seeing interest come from people all across the country.
“They have continued to enjoy building their business over 2024 and have introduced a dog and cat alongside their initial chicken design,” mum Elise said.
They even offered limited editions throughout the year with a bunny for Easter, ghosts for Halloween and now a Come and Paint Ho Ho Ho hand paling for Christmas.
Hosting an event on Saturday 14 December, Harry and David will provide fence palings for a small fee where people can paint their own Christmas themed garden paling.
It’s a chance for others to join the fun and meet the boys at Summerhill Reserve in Mooroolbark between 9am and 10am.
The idea for the business venture began when Harry and David’s cousins moved interstate to Queensland and they wanted to be able to fund a trip to see them.
They achieved just that and more in less than a year.
“They have donated over $300 to charity and achieved their initial goal of saving up for a plane ticket to visit cousins in Queensland enjoying the 10-day holiday just last month over the Melbourne Cup weekend,” Elise said.
Donating to charity was always something Elise said was important to teach her children, so they could understand that giving to someone else can bring happiness and a smile.
“We’re always teaching them you have to give back because it helps people smile. It’s a good trait to have in life. You don’t just make money for yourself, you make money to give to others,” she said.
Elise’s one hope last year was that it was “not just a fleeting thing over Christmas” and it certainly wasn’t.
“Harry and David have posted My Garden Pets to WA, NSW and QLD so far. Their Garden Pets are becoming well known and loved as they bring colour and joy to people’s gardens,” she said.
“The boys have been well supported by Rob Thompson from Claws n Paws Pet Supplies in Kilsyth who stock the Garden Pets and offer regular business advice when Harry and David visit to restock.
“They have also been well supported by Lydia Cooper owner of a retro coffee van Cooperccino’s in Mooroolbark who has over 60 Garden Pets alongside her fence which families have purchased and named to enjoy when they are there playing at the Summerhill Park.”
To join Harry and David on Saturday, go to trybooking.com/events/landing/1331714 to book a spot or find My Garden Pet on Facebook to either follow Harry and David’s journey or to place an order.
“It’s something they love and enjoy…and hopefully, My Garden Pet goes and makes a whole heap of people’s gardens and people really happy.”
