Each quarter, we interview one of our clients to get an insight into their business. This issue, we spoke to Shirley Jury, who runs a cleaning business in Roma.

When did your business commence?

My business started very small, and quite by accident! In March 2010 I was approached to look after some houses (and a shed) for a mining company in Roma. This led to an office client, and from there the work just rolled in.

What does your business do?

I provide residential upkeep and maintenance to a variety of residential and commercial properties supported by three contract helpers.

What makes your business successful?

It is quite simple - you need to do a good job. You need to be ‘unseen’ in the property. Reliability and flexibility (fitting in with clients’ needs and requests) are essential to ensuring a successful business with no complaints. This very simple system has led to repeat and new business simply through word of mouth.

What has been your biggest achievement to date?

In 1966, I became the first woman in a technical design office within the Queensland Government. I was the ‘experiment’! Originally a tracer, I worked my way up in this field. As was tradition at the time, I was fired from my Government job when I got married. A meeting with the commissioner informed me that changes were afoot and in October 1969 I then became the first married woman re-employed by the department.

What is one piece of advice you would give to someone starting up a business?

Satisfied customers grow your business.

How do you relax from the pressures of being in business?

Making the time to spend with family and looking after my grandchildren. I also love pottering in my garden.

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