Darren joined the Gutter-Vac family in 2022, but his connection to the brand runs much deeper. Inspired by his son Andrew, who operates Gutter-Vac Yarra Ranges, Manningham, Knox, and Berwick, Darren saw first-hand the opportunities Gutter-Vac offers. Her thought it sounded like a great job that would suit his customer service skills. Furthermore, it “didn’t appear terribly physical for a 60-year-old,” Darren explains.
After years of watching his family succeed, Darren decided to take the leap and start his own franchise in Cranbourne. His motivation was clear: to build a business that combines earning potential with flexibility, while delivering exceptional service to customers. “The biggest opportunity for me is the earning capability, working with my son and brother, and making a customer’s day,” Darren says.
Gutter cleaning can be challenging, and Darren has face some tough jobs. “The most difficult job would be a three-storey hospital, with a hostel shaped like an octopus at the back,” he recalls. “It took all of 70 metres of hose and we had quite a few obstacles for a height-challenged guy like me.” But with his Gutter-Vac training and height accreditation from Ballantyne Safety, he knew he could tackle the job. Everyday is different in the life of a Gutter-Vac technician.
Outside of work, Darren’s story is full of surprises. He has done ballroom dancing, appeared in TV commercials and music videos, and even completed his family tree back to the 1800s at just 17 years old—long before ancestry websites existed. He has lived in the same house on and off for 51 years and once sold a family heirloom, an 1800s banjo with a hand-carved African American face, to a museum for $10,000. Darren also collects 1970s minibikes and motorbikes and drives a classic 1970 Buick Custom Convertible with a 455 cubic inch motor.
His favourite music spans generations, from Don McLean and the Bee Gees to Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran. When it comes to food, Darren loves coffee, chocolate, steak and chips—and even fairy bread. His favourite films include It’s a Wonderful Life, Gran Torino, The Notebook and Fast and Furious. Outside of work, Darren enjoys property investment and spending time with his family.
Moving forward, Darren is focused on growing his business and creating opportunities for others. “I’m looking forward to spending time with my family and increasing the size of my business to employ more people,” he says. His passion for customer service and commitment to excellence make Gutter-Vac Cranbourne a trusted choice for homeowners and businesses alike.
Why Choose Gutter-Vac Cranbourne?
With advanced vacuum technology and a dedication to quality, Gutter-Vac Cranbourne provides professional gutter cleaning services that protect your property from water damage and maintain roof health. Whether it’s a residential home or a large commercial building, Darren and his team ensure your gutters are clean, safe and functioning properly.
Request your free quote today for expert service you can rely on.
